10 Best Things to Do in Winter in Istanbul
Winter in Istanbul is a magical experience. As the temperatures drop and the city’s energy slows, it becomes a completely different destination. The streets are quieter, the views are foggier, and the cozy indoor spots become the perfect escape. If you’re planning to visit Turkey in the winter, and you’re staying at a hostel in Istanbul, you’re in for a treat. Let me guide you through the top 10 things to do in Istanbul during winter—trust me, there’s plenty to keep you warm and entertained!
1. Sip Salep by the Bosphorus
Imagine this: You’re wrapped up in your warmest scarf, walking along the Bosphorus as the cool winter air brushes your cheeks. Suddenly, you smell the sweet scent of salep, a traditional Turkish winter drink made from orchid root and milk. Stop at one of the many stands along the water, grab a cup, and just soak in the view. The Bosphorus in winter has a moody charm, and sipping something warm as boats drift by makes it even more special.
If you’re staying at a hostel in Kadıköy, you can easily hop on a ferry to the European side and take this walk from Beşiktaş to Ortaköy. It’s a winter classic!
2. Explore the Grand Bazaar Without the Crowds
The Grand Bazaar is one of the busiest places in Istanbul, but in the winter months, the crowds thin out. This is your chance to wander through its maze of over 4,000 shops without bumping into tourists every few steps. The Bazaar is perfect for finding unique souvenirs, traditional Turkish goods, and even warm winter scarves to bring back to your hostel in Istanbul.
3. Warm Up with a Turkish Bath (Hamam)
One of the best ways to escape the winter chill is by indulging in a traditional Turkish bath. The heated marble slabs, warm water, and steam will make you forget about the cold outside. Hamams like Çemberlitaş or Süleymaniye offer a relaxing break after a day of sightseeing.
After a long, rejuvenating bath, there’s nothing better than heading back to your Turkey hostel for a cozy evening with fellow travelers, sharing stories of your experiences.
4. Visit the Blue Mosque in Peace
Winter is the perfect time to visit the iconic Blue Mosque. Without the high-season crowds, you can take your time marveling at the intricate tiles, high ceilings, and the serenity of this historical mosque. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have a much more peaceful experience.
Being a traveler, staying at a hostel in Istanbul like Hush Hostel makes it easy to reach Sultanahmet. It’s just a short ferry ride away, and you’ll feel like you have the city to yourself.
5. Discover Istanbul’s Museums
On those especially cold days, the warmth of Istanbul’s incredible museums is a great refuge. The Istanbul Modern offers a blend of Turkish and international contemporary art. Meanwhile, the Archaeological Museum is perfect for history buffs, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts provides insight into the country’s rich culture.
Many hostels, like Hush Hostel in Kadıköy, have maps and tips for getting around to these spots with ease. It’s one of the perks of staying in a well-connected hostel in Turkey.
6. Take a Ferry Ride at Sunset
One of the most breathtaking views you can get in Istanbul is from a ferry. In the winter, as the sun sets early, the golden light reflects off the Bosphorus and the city’s skyline, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. Grab a hot tea or Turkish coffee from the onboard café, find a seat outside, and enjoy the ride.
If you’re staying at Hush Hostel in Kadıköy, you’re just steps away from the ferry terminal. Trust me, the ferry ride is a daily ritual you’ll come to love.
7. Indulge in Turkish Comfort Food
When it’s cold outside, Turkish food hits the spot. Winter is the best time to try some hearty dishes like kuru fasulye (white bean stew), manti (Turkish dumplings), or a warm bowl of mercimek çorbası (lentil soup). Whether you’re in a cozy restaurant in Sultanahmet or a small local eatery near your hostel in Kadıköy, the flavors of Turkish winter food will warm you up from the inside out.
8. Visit the Basilica Cistern
A visit to the Basilica Cistern during winter is an otherworldly experience. This underground marvel is cool all year round, but in winter, the atmosphere is even more mystical. Walk along the dimly lit walkways, surrounded by towering columns and the soft drip of water. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Plus, if you’re staying at a nearby Istanbul hostel, you can easily make your way there on foot.
9. Join a Winter Event at Hush Hostel
If you’re looking for a hostel in Kadıköy with a bit of flair, Hush Hostel is the place to be. We host fun events year-round, and winter is no exception. From trivia nights to movie marathons in our cozy common area, there’s always something to do.
You can relax in the hostel’s garden, even in winter (we’ve got blankets!), or warm up with a hot drink while chatting with fellow travelers in the rooftop lounge. Hush Hostel brings people together, even in the colder months.
10. Experience Istanbul’s Winter Markets
If you’re visiting Istanbul in December, don’t miss the winter markets. While not as famous as those in Europe, Istanbul’s markets are full of charm. You can find handcrafted gifts, Turkish sweets, and warm clothing. The Kadıköy market is one of the best spots to visit if you’re staying in a hostel in Kadıköy—you can pick up snacks, gifts, and maybe even something to keep you warm on your travels.
Winter in Istanbul is a Cozy Dream
There’s no denying that Istanbul in winter is full of hidden gems. From sipping warm salep by the Bosphorus to enjoying the city’s quieter landmarks, you’ll find that this city never loses its charm—no matter the season. If you’re looking for a hostel in Istanbul that lets you experience the best of the city while providing a cozy, welcoming space to relax, Hush Hostel is the perfect spot.
Check us out at hushhostelistanbul.net or visit hushhostels.com for more information!
Stay warm, and see you soon in Istanbul!
