What to Do in Istanbul in July
Istanbul in July can be hot, but it is also a wonderful time to enjoy the city by the water. If you plan your day well, you can make the most of summer with breezy coastlines, ferry rides, and relaxing neighborhoods. From Kadıköy to the Bosphorus and the Princes' Islands, there are several refreshing ways to experience Istanbul in the middle of summer.
Visit Kadıköy
You may start a summer day by drinking a cup of coffee in lovely cafes in Kadıköy, such as Montag Coffee Roasters. If you want to indulge yourself, you may have a Turkish breakfast at Nelipide Gurme and enjoy discovering local tastes.
Once you have your energy, it is time to walk on the seaside in Kadıköy and feel the refreshing breezes. When you reach the seaside in Moda, you should taste some ice cream or drink a glass of fresh lemonade in old patisseries. Besides, it may be a great idea to arrange a simple picnic by the seaside under the trees as you watch the sunset. At that point, you may be charmed by the colors of the Istanbul sky and be ready to take some fascinating pictures.
When night comes, you may go for dinner in a Turkish meyhane, where you can enjoy fresh fish and Turkish rakı in Kadıköy. Piraye Taş Plak Meyhanesi is one of them, and you can enjoy your dinner in its appealing atmosphere. After a nice dinner, you may continue the night in pubs in Kadıköy. You can find a nice place for your music taste. For instance, if you like jazz and blues, you may visit Shaft without hesitation.
If you want to balance your summer plans with classic sightseeing, you can also pair a relaxed day on the Asian side with landmarks such as Sultanahmet Square on another day.
Take a Tour on the Bosphorus
Taking a tour on the Bosphorus is a classic activity to enjoy being in Istanbul, and it feels even better on the hottest days of summer. You may get on one of the ferries in Eminönü or Kadıköy. Depending on their routes, these tours can last 2 or more hours, so you can decide according to your preference.
Even if you attended one of these tours before, there are still many options that differ in route and what they promise. For example, you may enjoy it more if you choose to attend a dinner and show cruise on the Bosphorus. In this way, you can watch the Istanbul sky from day into night and enjoy your time with entertaining shows. Besides, you can combine a cruise with sightseeing around the Golden Horn or choose a Bosphorus cruise with a city tour. Just be sure that taking a Bosphorus tour is one of the most pleasant ways to cool down during summer days.
To explore cruise options in more detail, you can check our guide to a Bosphorus Cruise. For current ferry information and official routes, it is also useful to review Şehir Hatları.
Visit the Princes' Islands
Princes' Islands are like an oasis in the middle of a desert in summer. You can get on ferries from Eminönü or Kadıköy to go to these islands. Each of them has its own beauty, yet Büyükada is the biggest and most popular one.
Before exploring Büyükada, you may have breakfast in one of the little cafes by the seaside. As you walk through the streets, you will see charming gardens and lovely houses. You may rent a bicycle, yet it may feel more exhausting than fun because there are many slopes and it is summer. Probably, it is better to walk slowly and feel the details along the way: cheerful bird songs, refreshing breezes, happy trees, sleepy cats, and more.
As you get closer to the top of the hill, the view becomes amazing, so be sure to take some photos. When you reach Aya Yorgi Church, you may be drawn to its fantastic atmosphere. You may rest in the garden of the church and be happy to know that going back to the seaside will be easier. If you want to plan this outing more carefully, you may also read our page on the Princes' Islands.
For broader background on the islands and their history, you can also take a look at Wikipedia.
Final Thoughts on Istanbul in July
Despite the hottest days of summer, if you know where to go to feel fresh, you can enjoy visiting Istanbul in July. With its charming cafes, patisseries, and walking line by the seaside, Kadıköy is one of the best places to spend a summer day and night. You can take a tour on the Bosphorus and enjoy lovely views of the city. You can visit the Princes' Islands, walk through their fascinating streets, and have a fantastic day there. Whenever and however you come, you are welcome.
To look for more about Istanbul, you may visit istanbul.com.
FAQ: Istanbul in July
Is July a good time to visit Istanbul?
Yes, July is a lively time to visit Istanbul, especially if you enjoy long days, seaside walks, and ferry rides. It can be hot, so many travelers prefer waterside districts such as Kadıköy, Bosphorus routes, and the Princes' Islands.
What are the best places to cool down in Istanbul in July?
Some of the best options are the Kadıköy and Moda seaside, a Bosphorus ferry or cruise, and the Princes' Islands. These places offer breezes, open views, and a more relaxed pace during the hottest part of the season.
Can you take a Bosphorus tour in July?
Yes, Bosphorus tours are one of the classic summer activities in Istanbul. You can usually join ferries from Eminönü or Kadıköy, and there are different route lengths depending on your schedule and preference.
Which Princes' Island is the most popular?
Büyükada is the biggest and most popular of the Princes' Islands. Visitors often go there for breakfast by the seaside, scenic walks, charming streets, and the uphill route toward Aya Yorgi Church.
