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Istanbul Itinerary: 3, 4, 5, or 7 Day Options

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Istanbul is a buzzing city with so much to see and do. As the once ancient capital of the Roman Empire, Constantinople, and the border between two continents, Europe and Asia, it’s a melting pot of history and diverse culture that cannot be found anywhere else on this planet.

While Istanbul is often visited as a stopover destination, being the largest transit hub in the world, anyone who just passes through this energetic city is really missing out.

From ancient landmarks to relaxing Turkish baths, serene nature, and world-class museums, there are tons of exciting attractions you could add to your Istanbul itinerary.

Whether you plan to stay for 3, 4, 5, or 7 days, these Istanbul itineraries will take you around some of the best sites in the city and tell you the best order in which to see them.

Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

• Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

• Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
• Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
• Historical Turkish Bath Experience
• Istanbul Food And Culture Tour

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

• Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
• Pera Palace Hotel
• Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)

How many days is sufficient in Istanbul?

This is the age-old question we get asked the most. The amount of time you spend in Istanbul is usually dictated by how much time you have to spare. 

You could easily spend a week here and not get bored. We even spent two weeks there and didn’t run out of things to do.

We would say the optimal amount of time to spend in Istanbul is between three and five days. You could see all the highlights in three days, but if you have more time on your side, allow an extra couple of days for relaxation and to soak in the culture of the city.

After all, you don’t want to spend your time rushing from place to place and not take in the atmosphere. If you have time on your side, take it slow, don’t rush, and spend some time wandering the streets and take it all in.

📚 Read More: A Complete Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale Itinerary!

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 3 Days

Most people visiting Istanbul only have a few days before they embark on a greater Turkey itinerary. After all, 3 days is the optimal amount of time to spend in the city.

Below is an Istanbul itinerary for 3 days, which takes you to all the top attractions and iconic landmarks in the city.

Day 1: Sultanahmet

Our itinerary begins in the enchanting city of Istanbul. This once capital of the Roman and Ottoman Empire, named then as Constantinople, is brimming with history and culture. It’s also the only city in the world to span two continents; Europe and Asia.

On the first day of your visit to Istanbul, you’re going to want to explore the neighborhood of Sultanahmet . This is where you’ll find the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

This day will do a lot of walking but it’s all within the same area, so you won’t need to travel far today, you’re going to see exactly why Istanbul is a city worth visiting .

Stop 1: The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the most beautiful work of architecture in Istanbul, so it makes sense to visit this attraction first. It was built between 1609- 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I. It became famous for its hand-painted blue tiles that you can see inside.

The mosque features more than 200 stained glass windows, as well as a stunning carved marble mihrab that’s worth checking out. It’s also the resting place of Sultan Ahmed I.

The Blue Mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and is one of Turkey’s most famous sites.

Stop 2: Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is just across the park from the Blue Mosque and is another one of the most important mosques in Turkey. It was built in 537 by the Roman Emperor Justinian. It was originally used as a cathedral for Constantinople, where it remained the largest Christian church in the Eastern Roman Empire for over 1000 years ago.

After Constantinople was seized by the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. It was a museum for a short time between 1935-2000 but was converted back into a mosque. It has some of the most stunning architecture, mosaics, and artistic coverings of all the mosques in the city.

Stop 3: Topkapi Palace

Around the corner from the Hagia Sophie is the Topkapi Palace. The palace was the former home of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Today, it is a large museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman era. Not all rooms are open to the public, but the most beautiful ones are. The Ottoman Imperial Harem and the treasury are the main reasons to visit this palace in Istanbul .

The Topkapi Palace was also declared a UNESCO site in 1985 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Stop 4: Basilica Cistern

During the Roman Empire, the Romans built several cisterns under the city as a water filtration system for the city’s palaces. The largest and best-preserved cistern in the city is the Basilica Cistern.

It is just 150 meters away from the Hagia Sophia, so it makes sense to see this historical landmark on the same day.

Stop 5: Istanbul Archeological Museums

The Istanbul Archeological Museums is a collection of three museums in the Sultanahmet district. They are made up of the Archeology Museum, The Ancient Orient Artifacts Museum, and the Tile Museum (Tile Kiosk).

They contain historic relics dating back to the early Ottoman period after it captured Constantinople from the Roman Empire.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Alexander Sarcophagus, which is the tomb of Alexander the Great, found in the Archeology Museum, and the Egyptian Grave with two coffins in the Ancient Orient Artifacts museum and the geometric tiles of the Tile Kiosk, one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Stop 6: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

Another one of the major landmarks in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar. It is the largest and oldest covered market in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. It began operating in 1455 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople.

The vibrant Grand Bazaar is the best place to pick up Turkish souvenirs , from Turkish delights, Turkish lamps, rugs, towels, and clothes.

Around the corner from Grand Bazaar is the Spice Bazaar. This is another souk market where you can shop for various teas and spices. The spices are said to help with certain medical conditions, from diabetes control to weight loss, and mood enhancers.

Stop 6: Evening Turkish Hamam

After all this walking around, you’re going to want to relax a little. We recommend finishing off the day in a Turkish Hamam, which is similar to a Roman Bath. It’s not just a public bathing space, but a spa where you can get massages and beauty treatments.

Located next to the Hagia Sophia is the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, which was built in the 16th century. It’s a little pricey, but if you’re going to enjoy a Turkish bath , you might as well go to an authentic one!

Day 2: Istanbul: Taksim

On the second day, we’re going to cross the Galata Bridge and explore the Kabataş neighborhood. This is still part of Europe, but also features many iconic attractions that should not be missed.

Stop 1: Galata Bridge

We’ll begin at Galata Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that crosses Istanbul’s Golden Horn channel. The bridge is famous because of the fishermen who cast their lines here, attracting hundreds of seagulls.

The bridge has two parts, the top part is where the cars cross the bridge and also where you’ll find the fishermen, and along the bottom part you’ll find many restaurants serving fresh seafood meals.

Stop 2: Galata Tower

Next, we’ll visit the iconic Galata Tower. By now you have probably noticed the tower in the skyline, given that it is the city’s watch tower.

It was built as a part of the Walls of Galata in 1348 by Roman Empire. The Galata Tower has had a tumultuous past, having caught fire in 1794 and 1831. It was also badly damaged in a storm in 1875.

The tower was renovated in the 1960s to look like the original but using concrete instead of wood. You can climb to the top of the tower and witness 360-degree panoramic views of the city. There is also a museum and exhibition hall in the tower.

Stop 3: Istiklal Street

Istiklal Street is the most famous street in Istanbul and is where you’ll find a blend of historic and modern. It was historically known as Grand Avenue of Pera, and is a pedestrian street made famous for its red tram that rides from one end to the other.

There are many high-street brands setting up shops here in the old buildings that were once apartments for the Romans. It’s a great place to pick up some street food or find a traditional Turkish restaurant down one of the side streets.

If you’re into nightlife, you’ll find vibrant bars in this area. There are also many things to do on Istiklal Street , including visiting some of the top museums in the city.

Stop 4: Pera Museum

The Pera Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It was established in 2005 and is home to a large selection of iconic works from renowned Turkish artists such as Osman Hamdi Bey, Cihat Burak, and Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu, as well as European artists such as Jean-Léon Gérôme and Jean-Baptiste van Mour.

The museum is a cutting-edge cultural space spanning over 5 floors and provides a fantastic space where history and art collide.

Pera has served as a hub for creative expression since it first opened its doors. Amongst its many fascinating collections, there is an art gallery hosting diverse works from across Turkey’s dynamic cultural heritage. Notable pieces include Orientalist paintings and rare photography pieces that explore the late 18th century through to modern-day times.

Stop 5: Bosphorus Cruise

If your legs are a little tired from all this walking, then a Bosphorus cruise is a great way to enjoy an afternoon or early evening.

The cruise takes you through Istanbul’s Golden Horn and out into the Bosphorus. It gives you a unique perspective of the city from the water, and it’s also the best way to see the palaces in Istanbul. Many of the palaces were built next to the water, and their beautiful decoration and architecture are best seen from the water.

You will see boats lined up on the waterfront in Eminönü, and there are plenty of cruises to choose from. They are all pretty much the same, but you do need to book your ticket in advance.

You can either head to the harbor early in the morning and book your ticket, or you can book your ticket online.

Day 3: The Asian Side

On the third day in Istanbul, you’re going to explore the Asian side. We’ll be visiting the largest mosque in Istanbul, the hip and vibrant area of Moda, and tasting delicious Istanbul street food .

Stop 1: Çamlıca Mosque

The first stop is Çamlıca Mosque, located at the top of Çamlıca Hill. To get here, you must first take the metro to Üsküdar and then change to the metro to Kısıklı. From here, you simply walk up the hill.

The Camlica Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and measures at 72 m (236 ft). The six minarets measure even higher to 107.1 m (351 ft). This stunning mosque is a sprawling complex large enough to house 63,000 worshipers at one time.

There’s also an art gallery, library, and conference hall. It was designed by two female architects, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, and was said to have cost $110 million USD to make.

Stop 2: Kadikoy

After spending time admiring the mosque, head over to the area of Kadikoy, one of the biggest attractions in Istanbul’s Anatolian side . Here you’ll find bustling markets and fishermen on the waterfront. This is the perfect place to sample some street food. We highly recommend the balık ekmek (fish sandwich).

Stop 3: Moda

After wandering the neighborhood of Kadikoy, head further south to Moda. This is a hipster neighborhood with street art, boutique stores, cool coffee shops, and a relaxing park.

Stop 4: Whirling Dervishes Show

If you went for an afternoon Bosphorus cruise, then you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a whirling dervishes show in the evening. This is a traditional Turkish dance where dancers look as though they are floating across the floor.

As well as being a dance, it’s an active meditation exercise, which originated from the Sufi tribes in the 13th century. This is one of our favorite things to do in Istanbul at night .

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 4 Days

If you have an extra day to spend, you might want to spend it doing something more relaxing. Not many people know this, but Istanbul is surrounded by serene nature, and you don’t have to go far to find it.

In our Istanbul 4 day itinerary, we would suggest following the itinerary for 3 days, and on the fourth day, visit the Princes Islands…

Day 4: Princes Islands

On the fourth day, you’ll need to allow a full day to explore the Princes Islands , or Adalar as they are referred to in Turkish. There are nine islands in total, but only four are inhabited. Each island was once used as an exile home for the rich, famous and powerful, including members of the royal family (hence the name, Princes Islands).

There are no cars on the islands and they can only be explored on foot or by bike. You will notice several examples of luxurious, stunning architecture and 19th-century mansions as you explore each of the islands.

To get to these unique islands in Turkey , you must take a ferry from Kabatas or Kadikoy. The ferry stops at Kınalıada, Burgazadası, Heybeliada, and finally Büyükada, or “Big Island” as it’s often referred to.

It takes 75 minutes to reach the last island, Buyukada, and ferries operate every hour – this gives you an hour to explore each island, so you need to plan your trip accordingly.

You may wish to pick two out of the four islands we mention below if you want a more leisurely day.

Be sure to check out the ferry times here .

Stop 1: Kınalıada, Princes Islands

The first stop is Kınalıada, the smallest island in the Princes Island archipelago. It’s the nearest island to mainland Istanbul and its history dates back to the ancient Greeks.

The name Kinaliada means “Henna Island” in Turkish, and it is so named because of the red-color land you see here. This is made by iron and copper deposits which were once mined here.

The first settlers on the island were the Greeks, who used the island as a place of exile from the Byzantine rulers. The most famous exile to live here was Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, who lived at the Monastery of the Transfiguration on Hristo Peak.

It won’t take you long to explore the small village on the island. Make sure to check out the former Greek Orthodox monastery, the Monastery of Christ, and wander along the small streets to check out the unique architecture. The old fire station and school are particularly beautiful.

After an hour, make your way back to the ferry pier to go on to the next island.

Stop 2: Burgazadası, Princes Islands

Burgazada, or Burgaz Adası, is the third largest in the group and was also an exile settlement for the Greeks. It was once called Antigoni, after Antigonus I Monophthalmus, father of one of the successors of Alexander the Great.

Antigoni built a fort on the island, which you can still see today. The island is small and has one single hill, so you can easily see all the main attractions in an hour.

Be sure to check out the Spanudis Mansion, which was the home to the famous Turkish short-story writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık. Then there is The Church of Iohannes Prodromos which was built in 1899. It was built on the site that was once a prison for St Methodius the Confessor, who was exiled here.

There are also a few monasteries to see, the Monastery of Hagios Georgios Garipi which was a refuge for White Russians fleeing the Russian Revolution, and the Monastery of the Transfiguration, which dates back to the Byzantine era.

Stop 3: Heybeliada, Princes Islands

The second largest island is Heybeliada, which was once used by the Turkish Navy. Each year, the island holds a few small open-air concerts in the summer, which attracts many visitors to the island.

Make sure to check out the Naval High School, which was founded in 1773 and has stunning architecture. It’s also the home of the only remaining Byzantine church on the island,  Kamariotissa , as well as the last church to be built before the conquest of Constantinople.

The grounds are where you’ll find the grave of Edward Barton, who was the second English Ambassador for Elizabeth I of England, who was sent to Constantinople and spent his last days on Heybeliada trying to escape the plague.

As with all the other islands, Heybeliada also has a monastery, named Hagios Georgios tou Kremnou, which was built in the 16th century. There are also the ruins of the Hagios Spyridon monastery which was built in the 19th century.

You can also visit the house of the second President of Turkey, Mavromatakis Köşkü, which is a museum, as well as several other beautiful 19th century mansions.

Stop 4: Büyükada, Princes Islands

The last island is the biggest island, Buyukada. If you only have time for one, make sure this is it. You can see many of the island’s notable landmarks, including the Merkez Eczanesi, a pharmacy from 1870, and the ruins of a villa where Trotsky lived during 1929-1933 on Hamlaci Street 4.

Since this island is much bigger than the rest, we recommend you rent a bike and cycle around the island, taking in the quietness and beauty of the island. See the Greek Orthodox Church, St. George Church, which sits on the highest point of the island with amazing views of the city.

Other notable landmarks on the island are the former Greek Orphanage, which was the largest wooden house in Europe.

You can also find a beach for swimming and relaxing on, as well as a huge green park. You could easily spend more than an hour here. Be sure to stay for sunset and try one of the top-rated restaurants on the waterfront.

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 5 Days

For those blessed with five full days in the city, you might be wanting to see more off-the-beaten-path places in Istanbul. On our fifth day, we are going to explore the Fener district.

This is home to Balat, the Jewish district of Istanbul. Here you get to see the diverse cultures of Istanbul and see a unique side of the city in its architecture, history, and general way of life.

If you’re looking for a 5 day Istanbul itinerary, we suggest following the itinerary above and adding the following stops on your fifth day…

Day 5: Fener District

The Fener District is where you’ll find the remnants of Istanbul’s Jewish Population. In the late 15th century, Sultan Bayezid II offered citizenship to the Jews fleeing the Inquisition in Spain and Africa, and most of the immigrants ended up here.

The Fener District is part of the  UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Areas of Istanbul . Fener has become a melting pot of culture, with ethnic minorities from places like Armenia, Bulgaria, and more.

The neighborhood also has a number of charming coffee shops and restaurants, as well as art galleries and boutique stores.

Stop 1: Balat District

Balat is the most famous neighborhood in Fener. It’s known for its colorful, narrow wooden houses and cobbled streets. Kiremit Caddesi (Kiremit Street), is the most famous place to find these buildings.

These pastel-colored buildings are some of the  most beautiful buildings in Istanbul . But this is not the only reason to visit Balat .

Nestled among the historic buildings and winding streets, are unique, cozy cafes, some of which are an artist’s playground, such as İncir Ağacı Kahvesi which is known for its umbrella installation and colorful huts where you can sip your coffee in.

You can also find many antique shops and vintage shops, if you enjoy thrift shopping. Be sure to check out the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, which you won’t miss as it’s a striking red building ontop of the hill.

Stop 2: Kariye Mosque

The Kariye Mosque, or The Chora Church as it’s also known, is one of the most historically significant mosques in Istanbul. It was built as a Greek Orthodox Church in the 4th century during the reign of Constantine the Great, at the time when the walls of Constantinople were being built.

It was part of a monastery complex outside the walls of the city and served as an Orthodox church until it was converted to a mosque in the 15th century by Ottoman Turks.

What makes this church unique is that it still has stunning mosaics depicting biblical stories and figures, some of which date back to the 14th century. It also hosts a number of incredible frescoes that showcase Ottoman artistry and engineering prowess.

The Kariye Mosque has been under renovation since 2005 and there has been no end date announced at present. We will update this guide as soon as we know of a re-opening date, and this is one site in Istanbul not to be missed.

Stop 3: The Walls of Constantinople

Have you ever wondered if the walls of Constantinople still stand? The answer is yes, but only in some areas. You can see the remains of the walls of Constantinople on Hoca Çakır Cd, this is where they are the most well-preserved.

The walls were built in the 4th century and were used as a defense against oncoming invasions, and they were withheld for many centuries before the great Mahmet II finally seized the city in 1453.

You can walk along the walls in some areas as well, which offer an incredible view of the Marmara Sea and the Golden Horn.

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 7 Days

For those who have a full week at their disposal, you have time to truly experience the diversity and uniqueness of the city, but now you might be after a bit of adventure.

So on our sixth and seventh day, we plan to take you to the theme parks and on a day trip outside the city.

If you’re looking for a 7 day Istanbul itinerary, follow the itineraries above and add the following stops to day 6 and 7…

Day 6: Theme Park Day

Istanbul is also home to several exciting theme parks. If you are travelling with kids, you might want to have a theme park day!

Stop 1: Vialand Theme Park

If you only have time for one park, it should be Vialand. There is so much to see and do here, you should spend a full day here.

Vialand Theme Park has something for everyone – from its rollercoaster rides and other thrilling attractions such as Parkour land, mall, and Disney-inspired palace, to its interactive theaters and kid-friendly carnival games.

It opened in 2013 and was the first shopping, entertainment, and living complex in the world that combines a Theme Park and a shopping mall.

The park is spread over a huge 600,000 meters squared and features the world’s 4th biggest rollercoaster, the Nefeskesen, which accelerates to 110 kilometers in just 3 seconds. Don’t miss the “Justice Tower”, which descends from 50 meters, as well as the 7-D movie theatre.

If you’re looking for thrills and entertainment, Vialand has something for even the pickiest traveler!

Stop 2: LEGOLAND

If you have time for another theme park, then we recommend LEGOLAND. You can get a taxi here from Vialand and be here within less than 15 minutes.

Legoland is the perfect place for both grown-ups and children looking for an unforgettable day out. There’s so much to explore – from massive models, three incredible rides, and interactive activities, to 10 LEgo-build areas and Lego workshops.

Open since 2015, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey within a few years. It not only offers lots of fun to kids but adults can also enjoy themselves playing with large building sets made from genuine Lego bricks.

No matter how old you are, you’ll be sure to find the perfect way to have some incredible fun at Legoland.

Day 7: Day Trip to the City of Troy (Çanakkale)

By now you must be feeling you’ve seen a lot of Istanbul and would like to explore some other parts of Turkey. Located four hours away by car is the ancient city of Canakkale, which is most famous for being where the ancient city of Troy once was.

Stop 1: Troy National Park

Perhaps the most famous thing about Çanakkale is the nearby ancient ruins of Troy, located in the Historic Troy National Park, which can be visited by guided tours or independently.

This legendary city served as an important historical battleground between Greeks and Trojans in the 8th century BC. Visitors can explore the remains of Troy or take a tour through its open-air museum featuring archaeological finds from Hellenistic and Roman eras. 

According to archaeologists, the City of Troy is only one of nine cities that was built on top of each other, so the findings you see here are that of several civilizations. The oldest city is said to have dated back to 3000 BC.

As well as being historical, it’s also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so take a moment to look out for several species of bird and wildlife that make this park their home.

Stop 2: Cimenlik Castle

The city of Çanakkale is also worth stopping off at, since it has some notable historical attractions, such as the Cimenlik Castle.

It was built in 1462 by Mehmet the Conqueror to protect the Ottoman Empire in the Dardanelles. Just right across the Dardanelles, visitors will also find Kilitbahir Castle, another fortress built around the same time.

Both of these castles are now museums and offer spectacular sea views.

Stop 3: Troy Horse

Many have heard the legend of the Fall of Troy , which has been passed down through Greek mythology for centuries. The story was also featured in Homer’s  Iliad .

If you don’t know the story, the Trojan War  went on for years, in which the Greeks tried to break through the walls of the City of Troy but were unable to breach them.

To trick the Romans on the other side, they built a wooden trojan horse and gave it to them as a gift. Little did the Romans know, the Greeks had waited inside the horse until nightfall, and then attacked the Romans as they slept. And thus the war was won.

To remember the story, head to the waterfront of Canakkale, where you can see the huge steel and fiberglass statue of the horse that was used in the 2004 movie “Troy.”

Extend to 10 Days Istanbul Itinerary

If you have fallen in love with the city and want to spend more time here, you could easily extend it to 10 or more days. 

If you’re looking for some ideas for how to spend 10 days, we recommend you fill your time taking some day trips to the cities near Istanbul . 

Bursa, Kumköy, or Şile are three cities we would recommend adding to your Istanbul itinerary. If you plan your visit right, you could even spend time at the beach in Şile if beaches are your thing.

There are also some beaches closer to Istanbul, which would be the perfect place to spend your days in the summer. 

Aside from that, I would spend time wandering the city, shopping for souvenirs, stopping off at traditional cafes , and gorging on street food. 

Explore some of the parks in Istanbul or check out the museums . There is so much to see and do, we know you’ll find something fun to fill in your time on a 10 day Istanbul trip.

Getting Around The City

Istanbul is a very walkable city, as long as you have some comfortable shoes on. We have purposely organized the stops in our itineraries to allow you to be able to walk from place to place, without the need for public transportation.

However, sometimes taking public transportation is necessary, especially if you plan to visit the theme parks or head over to the Fener district.

We have written a complete guide on public transportation in Istanbul for those who are visiting for the first time. Read about how to get around Istanbul here .

Tips for Visiting Istanbul

To help you have the best trip to Istanbul, here are a few words of advice:

• Go slow and don’t try to pack it all in. I know these itineraries are jam-packed, but you’re going to exhaust yourself trying to see every museum and mosque. Take time to just wander the streets and soak in the atmosphere as well.
• Get the Istanbul E-Pass, this is a tourist pass that gives you free entrance to many of the city’s top attractions. You can save up to 70% by using this card.
• Download Offline Google Maps or MapsMe, so you don’t need to rely on data.
• Pick up a Turkish sim card, but not from the airport. Turkcell is our preferred operator, but you can read more about it here.
• Dress modestly . This is a Muslim country and even though it’s hot, respectful attire should be worn at all time. Leave the hot pants at home, and bring light clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
• Bring a headscarf if you’re a woman. You will need to wear one when entering the mosques.
• Take out cash, as many places don’t accept credit cards.

Final Thoughts on Istanbul Itinerary

So there you have it, this is how you can spend your days in Istanbul, and as you can see, there is a LOT to see and do.

No matter how many days you plan to spend in Istanbul, we know you will have a great trip.

Do you have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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3 Days in Istanbul – Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Last Modified: January 22, 2024 //  by  Anda //   19 Comments

Some may argue that 3 days in Istanbul is hardly enough time to explore this great city in depth. And I agree. It’s impossible to exhaust all the dazzling array of things to do in Istanbul in just 72 hours. However, if you just want to see the main historical sites, this 3 days in Istanbul itinerary is just perfect for you.

Table of Contents

How to Spend 3 Days in Istanbul

Istanbul first impressions, istanbul itinerary day 1, istanbul itinerary day 2, istanbul itinerary – day 3, where to stay in istanbul for 3 days, getting around in istanbul, is istanbul safe to visit, a final note.

3 days may seem like very little time for a city like Istanbul. There is so much to see and do in this great city, that it may take months to explore every inch of it. Having said that, I don’t think there is a set amount of time that would be optimal for visiting the city.

Some people storm in and out of Istanbul in a day, others complain thirty days were insufficient. The length of your visit depends on your interests and what you really want to see in the city.

We’ve spent a little over two weeks in Istanbul when we traveled to Turkey , and still can’t say we have exhausted it. Visiting Istanbul is not only about the main attractions, it’s also about the small things. Like walking the streets aimlessly. Or trying the food in Istanbul . Or simply play with the street cats (which by the way, are many!)

If you have only 3 days in Istanbul, you can still visit the major sites and go home in awe of this place. No matter how long or how short your visit will be, I’m sure you’ll like Istanbul.

Istanbul is not an easy place to sum up. With its impressive mosques, ornate palaces and tumultuous bazaars, Istanbul is undeniably a very unique city. An interesting mix of Oriental and Western civilization where the former tends to overshadow the latter. 

The cosmopolitan modernity of Istanbul is more obvious in Beyoglu district, around Istiklal Caddesi street. This area is home to many foreign consulates and is very popular for its restaurants and nightlife.

3 DAYS IN ISTANBUL ITINERARY

Below is a suggested 3-day itinerary that you can follow if you want to see the main attractions in Istanbul. You may choose to see these sites in a different order, or even skip some of them.

First Day: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Grand Bazaar, Old Wall of Constantinople Second Day : Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene, Basilica Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, Chora Church Museum Third Day : Galata Bridge, Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus Boat Tour

Hagia Sophia              

Hagia Sophia  is Istanbul’s most famous monument. What makes it unique is its troubled and unusual history. Hagia Sophia started as a Christian church built by the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great in 325 AD.

Sadly, nothing remains today of the original church that burned down completely a hundred years later. Hagia Sophia went through many adversities before Emperor Justinian I built it in its present form in 537. 

The story says that after completing it, Justinian exclaimed: “Solomon, I have outdone thee!” And indeed, when seeing its grandeur, you can only agree that this is one of the most majestic churches ever built.

Hagia Sophia remained a functioning Christian church until 1453, when the Ottomans conquered Constantinople. Amazed by its beauty, Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror converted the church into his imperial mosque.

As the Islamic religion forbids the visual of human figures in mosques, he covered all the faces depicted in Hagia Sophia with plaster.

Hagia Sophia remained a mosque until 1934 when, under the Turkish president Kemal Atatürk, was secularized and turned into the Ayasofya Museum .

The Blue Mosque        

Just opposite the Hagia Sofia is the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. The Blue Mosque is the second most beautiful landmark in Istanbul. The mosque was built between 1609 – 1616, during the rule of Ahmed I.

The Sultan was determined to build a mosque that would surpass the Hagia Sophia (at the time the most respected mosque) and therefore he chose to build it opposite the Hagia Sophia. 

When you first look at the Blue Mosque you may wonder why do they it called blue when it’s not blue? But once you get inside and see the intricate tile design in all shades of blue, you understand why. 

At first glance, the Blue Mosque can indeed rival with Hagia Sophia. The elegant curves and grandiose domes and minarets make for a beautiful silhouette. But if you compare the interiors, the Blue Mosque isn’t as spectacular as Hagia Sophia.  

What sets the Blue Mosque apart are its six spearing minarets. The story says that Sultan Ahmed ordered a minaret made of gold. But the Turkish word for gold ( altin)  is very similar to number six ( alti), which confused the architect. He thought the sultan wanted six minarets and as such he built six, instead of just one made of gold.

Luckily, the Sultan liked the mistake as no other mosque in the world had six minarets. And so the architect didn’t have to pay with his dear life for this mistake.

Note:  Since the Blue Mosque is a functioning place of worship, a dress code is imposed. Men should wear long trousers, but can wear short-sleeved shirts. Women should cover their arms, legs and head.

The Hippodrome of Constantinople

Right next to the Blue Mosque is the Hippodrome, a large open-air square known dominated by two Egyptian obelisks. The Hippodrome was the sporting and social center of Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire. 

The construction of first Hippodrome dates back to the 3rd century and is attributed to the Emperor Septimius Severus. During the 4th century, Emperor Constantine the Great greatly enlarged the city. One of his major projects was the renovation of the Hippodrome.

Unfortunately, very little of this old structure remains today. Most of it was destroyed during the Crusades, in the early 13th century. The Hippodrome stopped being used and its spectacular monuments and art works were looted.

Today, 4 prominent monuments tower the hippodrome. At one end is the modern German fountain. The fountain was a gift from the German government in 1900 to commemorate the visit of Emperor Kaiser Whillem II to Istanbul. The other monuments are much older. They include the obelisk of Egyptian (nearly 3,500 years old), the old serpent column (2,500 years old) and the walled obelisk (about 1,100 years old).

The Grand Bazaar

If there is one thing that best reflects the spirit of Istanbul, that is the Grand Bazaar! This place is one of the world’s largest and liveliest markets, stretching over an area of 61 streets. A maze of alleys in which you can loose yourself for hours!

From stores, booths, workshops, and warehouses, to cafés, restaurants and exchange offices, you can find almost everything here. There is even a mosque, a police station and a post office in the Grand Bazaar, so one could righteously consider this place  a city within a city . 

Shopping at the Grand Bazaar is one of the best things to do in Istanbul. You can buy some of the best foods, deserts and spices here. The bazaar includes more than 4000 shops that attract hundreds of thousand of fascinated visitors every year.

The Grand Bazaar was founded over 500 years ago by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror. The reason for concentrating the trade in one place was to provide security against theft. The gates were always closed at night and the bazaar was patrolled by guards paid by the merchants.

Bazaar’s merchants were organized in guilds. Being accepted in a guild was possible only by co-optation, as the son of a deceased member or after paying a large amount of money to a member who wanted to retire.

The bazaar has a long and tumultuous history. It has witnessed many historical incidents, survived earthquakes and fires but came back to life again and again. The 1980s restoration returned the place to its old glory.

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is not only a shopping oasis, but also a very interesting cultural experience. A great opportunity to discover the people of Istanbul.

Old Wall of Constantinople

The Old Wall of Constantinople is a must-see in Istanbul. The Old Wall can be seen in different parts of the city. We saw these walls from the taxi, on the way to our hotel. Of course, we knew about them but weren’t sure we would have time to visit this part of town.

On our last day in Istanbul, we hired a taxi and came to explore them in more detail. I’m glad we did, because they are quite impressive! You can really understand the defense they provided once you get to see them.

When you see these thick fortified walls and their towers you understand how Constantinople resisted the attacks for so many centuries. These walls have managed to keep out the crusaders, Bulgars, Turks, Russians and many others. The walls are now but a reminder of the greatness of Constantinople, but also of the Ottoman Empire.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi palaces was the royal residence of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, one of the greatest Ottoman military leaders. He didn’t spare any expense for the construction and used the most expensive and rare materials he could find. Over the centuries, the sultans who followed added more pavilions to the palace. The final version measured 700,000 square meters and was home to 4000 people at some point.

Topkapi Palace was the official residence of the Ottoman sultans since Mehmet the Conqueror until the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid in 1853, who moved the court to the Dolmabahçe Palace. In 1924, after the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Topkapi became a museum. 

Arguably the most interesting part of the palace is the Harem, where the Sultan’s wives and their children lived. You can see how the Sultan family lived back in those days, and how the palace was a city within a city. 

There are very many other areas in the palace that are worth visiting, like the library, the museum and beautifully manicured gardens.

One of the things you shouldn’t miss when visiting the museum is the Spoonmaker’s Diamond.  This 86 carat diamond is the 5th biggest diamond of the world! The diamond  owes its name to a story that says that the fisherman who found it, swapped it at the market for three spoons, thinking it was glass.

The palace is definitely an interesting place to visit in Istanbul, although not my favorite one. The ticket line is huge no matter how early you arrive. Also, you have to pay extra to visit various sections of the palace. The good news is that except for the relics and jewelry, you can photograph almost everything else.

Hagia Irene (Eirene)      

Right outside Topkapi Palace you will find the beautiful church/museum of Hagia Irene (in translation the  Church of the Holy Peace) . This Greek Eastern Orthodox church dating back to the 4th century was the very first church built in Constantinople.

Despite the fact that the cross on top of the dome has been replaced by the crescent moon (the symbol of Islam) this church has never been converted into a mosque. 

When the Ottomans conquered Constantinople, Hagia Irene ended up enclosed by the outer walls of Topkapi Palace. The Sultan’s troops used the church as an arsenal until 1826 and later as a warehouse for military equipment. In 1726, during the reign of Sultan Ahmet III, the church became the National Military Museum.

Today Hagia Irene serves mainly as a venue for classical music performances, due to its extraordinary acoustic and impressive atmosphere.

The Basilica Cistern      

The Basilica Cistern is an ancient water reservoir built during the 5th century on the site of what used to be a famous basilica. Also known as the  Sunken Cistern,  the reservoir was built for the purpose of supplying water for the Great Palace.

The cistern’s roof is supported by 336 marble columns in Ionic and Corinthian styles. The columns that were recycled from an earlier pagan temple, made the cistern look a lot like a church. Hence the name  Basilica Cistern .

Among the columns there are two Medusa heads, one positioned upside down and the other tilted on the side. 

After fulfilling its function for many years, the cistern stopped being used and in time forgotten. In 1545 a Frenchman rediscovered the cistern after he began investigating the appearance of fresh fish in the wells of the houses above it.

Basilica Cistern is one of the hundreds of ancient cisterns hidden underneath the streets of Istanbul. Definitely the coolest spot in town during the hot summer months! 

Süleymaniye Mosque    

Although it’s the largest mosque and one of the best known landmarks of Istanbul, Süleymaniye Mosque is unfairly overshadowed by its famous sisters in Sultanahmet. The Mosque was built on the Third Hill on the Golden Horn at the order of Süleyman the Magnificent. It features four slender minarets and a large domed building in the style of Hagia Sophia.

Süleymaniye Mosque suffered many perils, among which a ravaging fire in 1660 and an earthquake in 1766. During World War I the courtyard functioned as a weapons depot and when some of the ammunition ignited, the mosque suffered another fire. In 1956 the mosque underwent its last restoration.

The main entrance to the mosque is from Professor Sıddık Sami Onar Caddesi. The buildings on this side are home to the Süleymaniye Library and some popular street-side restaurants that used to be teahouses. To the right of the main entrance is the cemetery, home to the octagonal tombs of Süleyman and his wife.  

Note: Since Süleymaniye is a functioning mosque, so there are dress requirements. Visitation is not possible during prayer times.   

Chora Church

Chances are you may have never heard of a church in Istanbul named Chora . Before traveling to Istanbul I had only read about it briefly in a magazine. But nothing you may read about Chora Church can prepare you for the revelation you’ll have when seeing it.

Although not as famous as its sister, Hagia Sophia, Chora Church is equally beautiful. And also like its sister, Chora Church suffered a crisis of identity, going from an Orthodox church, to a mosque and to a museum.

The church’s full name was the Church of the Holy Saviour in the Country  and it was built in the 4th century, as part of a monastery complex outside the city walls of Constantinople. Chora Church is one of the most beautiful examples of Byzantine architecture. But what sets it apart are the 50 fabulous mosaics dating back to the 14th century, most of which are still in excellent shape.     

The exterior of the church is rather modest compared with Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque. But once you step inside you won’t believe the splendor that surrounds you! Part of the church displays mosaics with scenes from the New Testament and the early life of Christ, while another part features beautifully colored frescoes. 

Chora Church is tucked away in the little-visited Edirnekapi District, which makes it difficult to reach. For more information on how to get to Chora Church , you can read my more detailed post about it.           

Galata Bridge

One of the most colorful places in Istanbul is Galata Bridge, which makes the connection between Beyoğlu and Eminönü. The bridge is constantly full of cars and pedestrians crossing in both directions.

The upper part of the bridge is a favorite spot for local fishermen trailing their lines into the waters below, surrounded by shrieking seagulls. Street vendors are also a fixture here selling everything, from fresh-baked simits (Turkish sesame pretzels) to Gucci replicas.

On the lower level of the bridge there is a bunch of restaurants and cafes that serve drinks and food all day and night. Galata Bridge is a nice to stroll if you want to see the local color . Or you can stop and enjoy a beer while watching the ferries crossing to and from Eminönü and Karaköy.

Galata Tower      

One of the most recognizable landmarks of Istanbul is Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower located in Galata quarter. The cylindrical tower rises 66 meters high and provides a superb panoramic view of the city. The tower was built in 1384 as Christea Turris (Tower of Christ) and was used for many centuries as an observation tower for spotting fires.

The access to Galata Tower is done by two elevators, but the lines are always long. We waited for a full hour! However, the view from the top was very rewarding.  

Taksim Square and Istiklal Caddesi

Start your 3rd day in Istanbul in Taksim Square, in the Beyoğlu district. This is the modern part of Istanbul, famous for its amazing restaurants and lively night clubs. From here you should make your way down İstiklal Caddesi, one of the most iconic and busiest streets in Istanbul.

This pedestrian avenue is the ideal place for shoppers, with famous Turkish and international brands at very affordable prices. There are countless places to shop around here, so walk around the many side streets lined up with small boutiques.

On Istiklal Caddesi you’ll notice quite a different atmosphere from the one you experienced in Sultanahmet. The street is full of tourists, street performers and food vendors. The entire area is a maze of restaurants, bistros, bars, fish markets, spice shops, flower shops, and much more! Don’t miss the cute, vintage tram that goes from Tünel to Taksim Square!

We’ve been here during the day and also returned in the evening for dinner, at one of the restaurants. Food was excellent and the atmosphere quite romantic.

The Dolmabahçe Palace      

Dolmabahçe is Turkey’s biggest and most extravagant palace and Istanbul’s first European-style palace. The Palace was commissioned in 1843 by Sultan Abdulmecit I, as a cover up for the declining Ottoman Empire. Therefore, to impress the world, he decorated the building lavishly with tons of gold and a large collection of Baccarat crystal chandeliers. 

The construction costed over five million Ottoman mecidiye gold coins, which would be the equivalent of around $1.8 billion dollars in today’s money.

The design is a mixture of Rococo, Neo-Classic and Baroque art. The palace stands on the European shore of the Bosphorus straight, in a beautiful garden. The visit will take you through the three main sections of the palace: the administrative apartments, the Ceremonial Hall, and Imperial Harem . 

The most impressive part of the Palace is Ceremonial Hall, where all the important state and religious ceremonies took place. This hall is absolutely huge, spreading over 2.000 square meters of area and and a 36 meters high ceiling.

A huge Hereke carpet adorns the Ceremonial Hall and a 4,5 tons crystal chandelier adorns the ceiling. The chandelier was a gift from  Queen Victoria of United Kingdom. It’s not every day that you can see so much opulence in one place.

If you have time, stroll through the beautiful gardens which right on the shore of the Bosphorus.

READ NEXT: The Cheapest (Yet Beautiful) Countries to Visit in Europe

Bosphorus Tour

One of the most exciting things to do in Istanbul is watch the city’s waterfront. The best way to do that is sail along the Bosphorus straight. The Bosphorus commuter ferry is one option.

The ferry goes north from Istanbul, up the Bosphorus, almost into the Black Sea, then back again. Along the way it stops at the small ports along the coast, letting you get off at whichever one you care to visit.

The tour lasts about 6 hours, but you don’t need to stay on the boat the entire time. Just hop on the ferry at Terminal 3 in Eminönü and go as long as you have time. You can get off at any of the stops, and then get back on the next boat with the same ticket.

There is also a shorter Bosphorus Cruise that lasts only two hours and goes from Eminönü to İstinye (and back). The cruise goes by a few small towns on the Asian side passing underneath both bridges in the meantime. The boat makes only one stop in Ortaköy to pick up more passengers.

This short cruise may be a better option if you only have 3 days in Istanbul. We took the long tour and stopped in one of the small villages across the bay to take a few pictures of Istanbul’s skyline.

Like in all my other European travel guides , I always recommend the most central location you can afford in a city. I can’t stress enough how important it is to be close to the tourist attractions, as well as have good restaurants, parks and shopping around. There are quite a few nice neighborhoods where you could rent a place for your 3-day stay in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is the historic district of Istanbul and the best area area to stay as a first time visitor. Most tourist attractions are located in Sultanahmet, so you can practically walk anywhere if you are in a decent physical condition.  There are also many great places to eat traditional Turkish food this district.

Beyoğlu is one of the good neighborhoods to stay on the European side of Istanbul. In Beyoğlu are some of the most popular areas of istanbul, like Taksim Square, Pera, Galata, the trendy Karakoy and the pedestrian Istiklal Caddesi, famous for its shops and fancy restaurants.

Şişli is an upscale neighborhoods where you’ll find the banks, businesses, and shopping malls in Istanbul. If you stay you will need to use public transportation to reach the attractions.

Staying on the the Asian side of the strait doesn’t seem like a good idea, especially when you only have a few days in Istanbul. Getting to the tourist sites from here presumes taking the ferry every day to cross the river.

Public transportation works great in Istanbul. It includes boats, subways, buses, trams and funiculars. We used mainly the tram and occasionally a cab. Taxis in Istanbul have a bad reputation of ripping people off, so one of the first things to check is if they use a meter.

To use all public transit in Istanbul you will need the magnetic card ( Istanbul Kart ). You find it in the small kiosks near all metro stations, piers, and also bus stations. Istanbul Kart is a prepaid and is rechargeable.

   • How to Travel Between Ataturk Airport and the City Center

Ataturk airport is only 25 km away from the city center. The cheapest way to get to the city center is by shuttle bus (33 TL each way). The fastest and most convenient way is by taxi. (about 54 TL to Sultanahmet and 67 TL to Taksim Square).

There is also a metro line that will take you from the Ataturk Airport close to Taksim Square, but this is probably the least convenient way to travel from the airport if you’re traveling with luggage.

If you asked me this question before 2015, I would have wholeheartedly answered “yes”! But since Istanbul has been the scene of a failed military coup and some devastating terrorist attacks. In the years following the attack, the U.S. State Department was advising its citizens against traveling to Turkey.

However, the two-year state of emergency is now over and travelers are slowly returning to Istanbul. Would I return to Istanbul? I most likely would, but not with a light heart.

My advice to any traveler to this part of the world would be to exercise caution. While most visits to Istanbul go uneventful, you should always be alert to your surroundings and remain vigilant in crowded places.

Even before 2015, walking through Istanbul was a little intimidating for me. While I didn’t feel unsafe in most places we visited, there were some parts of the city where I would have never ventured alone. And some of these streets were right in the heart of Istanbul, on the tourist route. I must say however that most tourist areas seemed safe enough, although not all of them looked necessarily inviting.

You may feel overwhelmed by the amount of information contained in this post. If this 3 day itinerary seems too busy for you, remember you can always select what you what to see when you are in Istanbul.

We like to think of Istanbul as the one city in the world that encompasses two cultures: Western and Oriental. But in reality, its real heart lies in the division of the two that manage to coexist in an illusionary balance. The fascination of this place derives precisely form its diversity and energetic rhythm.

DON’T MISS OUT! READ NOW:

• Useful Tips for Visiting Istanbul – All You Should Know for Having a Perfect Trip
• All About Hagia Sophia – Istanbul’s Most Controversial Monument
• Where to Eat Excellent in Istanbul Without Getting Ripped Off

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

April 1, 2024 at 4:52 am

One of the best blogs for Istanbul, very well structured and great tips. thank you.

April 1, 2024 at 2:45 pm

Thank you, Anja.

Roseanne Lorenzana

December 19, 2022 at 1:07 pm

This is a wonderful 3 day itinerary. Thank you for posting. If my accommodations were in the Old City, it seems that each day could be accomplished by walking … is my impression correct? Would this be safe to do as a solo female traveler – of course, with being alert to surroundings and vigilant? Thanks for the added information.

December 21, 2022 at 1:37 am

Istanbul is as safe as any other big city in the world, despite the fact that in the past couple of months there were a couple of incidents. But you had such unhappy occurrences in Paris as well, a few years ago. Of course, you’ll have to exercise caution and not walk alone in dark alleys or late at night. I’m sure you’ll have a lot of fun in Istanbul.

May 8, 2019 at 4:24 pm

I’ve never been to Istanbul but anyone I know that has been sings it’s praises highly. I guess it’s that mix of Asian and European influences. I’d love to go someday and I’ll use this itinerary and guide if I do. Great post, Anda!

Anda Galffy

May 8, 2019 at 11:17 pm

Thanks, Jill. Istanbul is definitely a must. You should go if you have a chance.

Manjulika Pramod

May 6, 2019 at 11:18 am

The palace looks great and ofcourse all other places. I have heard a lot about Turkey and I learned a lot through your post too. I would love to do the major attractions as well as walk on the streets aimlessly. I would keep a few extra days for exploring the restaurants, bistros, bars, fish markets, spice shops, flower shops and more.

May 6, 2019 at 9:36 am

Thank you for your very interesting tour around Istanbul, a place I haven’t visited however I certainly like the look of the architecture here it’s rather gorgeous. Some really pretty colours and certainly a history there.

Thanks for sharing and especially like the church photography in particular the Hagia Irene church and museum as it’s fairly subtle in design and you can really get an authentic feel of the history and charm.

May 6, 2019 at 3:20 am

I visited Istanbul a few years ago and must say was taken back with the amount of history and culture the city and country has to offer. A very detailed guide I must say with some of the highlights mentioned clearly like the blue Mosque and the souks. I loved the Topkapi museum which has so much of relics and artefacts. The culinary delights of this country are another thing I liked. Thanks for sharing a great post which will be very helpful for any first timer.

Shreya Saha

May 5, 2019 at 7:39 pm

This blog has all the information you need to plan visiting Istanbul. That’s a great and extensive list of places to visit there in three days and also I agree how important it is to choose the location of the accommodation when you are going there for just a few days to visit. I would love to check out all the places you have listed here and probably stay in sultanahmet so that I am close to the historical sites of the country. Thanks for the share.

May 5, 2019 at 9:12 am

I would love to visit Istanbul someday. My sister went there a couple of months ago and she said it was really wonderful. Your post made me want to visit it more. The details and structural design of the Blue Mosque are fascinating. I would love to see it up close. Thank you for sharing this itinerary. Saving this for future reference.

May 5, 2019 at 11:02 am

Hope you will, Clarice.

Sandy N Vyjay

May 5, 2019 at 8:03 am

This is a very interesting and informative post, especially for us as Istanbul appears high on our bucket list. It is a dream destination for us, an exotic place straight out of Arabian Nights. But there is so much to see and experience here. Places like the Blue Mosque are of course iconic, but the other mosques too are really exquisite. Your post is has a wealth of information that is going to be invaluable to the first time visitor.

May 5, 2019 at 8:44 am

Thank you, Sandy. If you decide to visit Istanbul, you should try to stay longer than just 3 days.

Nikki Godwin

May 5, 2019 at 7:29 am

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Istanbul and this itinerary just confirms that. It sounds like a really vibrant place to visit. I may have to consider a stopover there one day when I return from Tanzania (I currently live here and believe Turkish Airlines fly from here to London with a stop there). Thanks for such a comprehensive guide.

May 5, 2019 at 8:51 am

You are welcome, Nikki. Hope you’ll have a chance to visit this great city someday.

Sinjana Ghosh

May 4, 2019 at 12:21 pm

Wow this is absolutely beautiful. I have never seen so many beautiful mosques. The architecture is so brilliant, and I especially love the use of blues in the interiors. This is the perfect 3- day itinerary that I would love to follow when I visit Istanbul.

May 4, 2019 at 9:00 am

Oh my gosh those mosques are just gorgeous! Especially the Blue Mosque. I just love the intricate detail on the interior. I only wish that we preserved older historic buildings in the US the same way that they do in Europe.

Arnav Mathur

May 3, 2019 at 10:23 pm

This is such an amazing writeup Anda ! I had Istanbul on my radar ever since my friend explored this amazing city during her layover. But going through this write up in detail, has convinced me of one thing, that one day is definitely not enough even get a glimpse of Istanbul. I have Istanbul on the cards for this year, and I’ll make it a point to keep at least a week to explore.

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5 Days in Istanbul Itinerary & The Best Travel Guide

Last updated on April 6th, 2024 at 12:32 pm

Istanbul is one of our favourite cities in the world and this is why we’ve put so much love into this 5 days in Istanbul Itinerary and Guide you’re about to read. If you’re planning to see Istanbul in 5 days, in this article, you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect trip to this enchantress of a city.

Perhaps you’ve come across it in another post of ours and know it already. Or maybe this is the first time you hear about it. We love bridges. Not only in terms of architecture. We first and foremost love bridges for their superpower, which is their ability to connect. Places, people, cultures.

This is why we find Istanbul so fascinating. The entire city is a bridge that connects two continents, Europe and Asia. In fact, it connects two different worlds. The East and the West.

Throughout this 5 days in Istanbul itinerary, it is mostly this blend of cultures that you’ll be trying to explore. Ultimately, this is also what makes every traveller fall unconditionally in love with this unique and beyond-words charming global city.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, this article contains sponsored content. For more information, visit our Disclosure page .

Where Is Istanbul

Built along both banks of the Bosphorus Strait in northwestern Turkey , Istanbul might not be the country’s capital, but it’s the largest city in Turkey. It’s also the largest city in the world to span two continents.

Throughout its long history, the city of Istanbul has always been a significant cultural, political and trade centre because of its strategic position. The oldest part of the city, today’s Sultanahmet area, sits on a peninsula where three seas meet. The Golden Horn Strait, the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus Strait.

What Makes Istanbul So Special To Us

Taking a trip to Istanbul can be a rather emotional experience for us Greeks. Constantinople – Istanbul’s former Greek name – was a city where a large Greek community flourished in the past. However, the vast majority of Istanbul’s Greek residents were uprooted and abruptly separated from their beloved hometown in the previous century.

Therefore, at every mention of Istanbul, a haunting aura of nostalgia makes Greeks turn their eyes towards the East and daydream of the City. For that’s what Greeks used to call Istanbul. The City, η Πόλη. Because, to their minds, it was the prettiest, the most important city of all. The one and only in their hearts.

According to one theory, that’s also where the city’s current name, Istanbul, comes from: Εις την Πόλιν (is tin Polin), which means towards the City. To learn more about the Greeks of Istanbul and how they used to live in harmony with their Turkish neighbours, A Touch of Spice is one of our all-time favourite films.

Travel Resources To Help You Plan The Best 5-Day Istanbul Itinerary

• Find the best deals for your flights to Istanbul here .
• Book your  airport transfer  to your hotel in advance with Welcome Pickups.
• Find the best deals for your accommodation in Istanbul .
• Book the best tours with GetYourGuide or Viator in Istanbul .
• Travel without worries.  Click here  to buy your travel insurance .
• Make your transactions in foreign currency  simple without visiting a bureau de change.  Order your Wise Card here!
• Stay connected with an eSIM card and enjoy a non-stop Internet connection during your trip to Istanbul.

The Ultimate 5 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

Day 1: istanbul basics.

Your 5-day Istanbul itinerary starts with an overview of the city’s two most legendary neighbourhoods. Beyoğlu is one of the most charming districts in Istanbul, formerly known as Pera, which is the Greek word for across. On the other hand, Eminönü is in essence the core of Istanbul Old City.

Taksim Square

There’s no better place to start your first of 5 days in Istanbul than this iconic square in Beyoğlu. Considered the heart of modern Istanbul and for good reason, Taksim Square is buzzing with life all day and night long. Home to several hotels and restaurants, the square is also a major transportation hub and a favourite meeting point for locals and visitors alike.

Istiklal Street

Next up is a stroll along the elegant Istiklal Avenue. Busy with thousands of people all day long, Istiklal is a pedestrianised street lined with magnificent buildings that house shops, restaurants, cafés, consulates and many more.

Along Istiklal Street, you can see the Galatasaray High School , Turkey’s oldest secondary school, as well as Çiçek Pasajı , a beautiful historic shopping arcade built in 1876. The highlight of the avenue, though, is the old-fashioned red tram that runs between Istiklal’s two ends. From Taksim Square in the north to the area around Galata Tower in the south and vice-versa.

If you have enough time, you can also make a small detour to visit the Pera Museum , which is set in a gorgeous building that housed the Bristol Hotel in the past.

While walking along Istiklal Street, it’s mandatory to grab some typically Turkish snacks – simit and açma – from the omnipresent food carts and street vendors along the avenue, as well as some divine baklava from Hafiz Mustafa .

When strolling along Istiklal Street, don’t hesitate to get lost in its maze of charming side streets until you stumble upon hidden spots, such as Nevizade Street with its quaint restaurants and pubs, one of the many spots where the heart of Istanbul nightlife beats.

Galata Tower

At the southern end of Istiklal Street, several downhill cobbled streets descend towards the Galata Tower area. No matter which one you choose, you’ll end up wandering around one quaint street after another. This area is full of souvenir and other shops where you can buy gifts for your loved ones back home. Soon you will be at the foot of the Galata Tower .

This 67-metre medieval stone tower was built by the Genoese who lived in Istanbul in 1348. Back in the day, it was the tallest building in Istanbul.

Nowadays, it’s home to cafés and restaurants. Most importantly, the tower features a viewing terrace with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. However, the best time to go up there is sunset. Therefore, refrain from going up the tower and save this for your last day in Istanbul.

One of the best ways to appreciate the grandeur of Galata Tower and take in the area’s authentic Istanbulite vibe is to sit at a traditional coffee shop under the shadow of the tower and drink your first of many glasses of exquisite Turkish tea, paired with a Turkish delight – or three.

Galata Bridge

After your tea pit stop, it’s time to continue your walk further downhill towards the sea, via a set of some of the steepest streets in the city that will eventually lead you to the famous Galata Bridge on the Golden Horn Strait.

The Galata Bridge was completed quite recently, in 1994. It has vehicle and pedestrian lanes as well as tram tracks. On its first floor, closest to sea level that is, local restaurants and pubs line the bridge. The bridge connects the Beyoğlu area to the Eminönü district.

Once you step on Galata Bridge, the magic that is Istanbul unfolds before your very eyes. Iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace stand majestically over the waters of the Golden Horn Strait. Ferries come and go constantly with seagulls following them all along their short or longer trips.

All this and a lot more compose the image of a city whose beauty no artist’s brush could have painted in more enchanting colours.

Spice Bazaar

Once you cross the bridge, you are in the district of Eminönü. The first stop on your short walk on this side of the city should be the Egyptian or Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı). The beautiful covered market has always been and still is the go-to place for spices. That said, due to its popularity with tourists, the Spice Market is now also home to various other types of shops, such as patisseries, jewellery stores etc.

Grand Bazaar

If you liked the Spice Bazaar, you will love the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) , by far the most impressive of all Istanbul markets. Home to 61 streets and 4000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is where you’ll find the best souvenirs to bring back home. From a hand-painted water pipe to a colourful Turkish tea set to impressive ceramics, the Grand Bazaar has it all, plus several antique shops if you’re into vintage shopping.

That said, the Grand Bazaar doesn’t appeal to avid shoppers alone but to anyone who appreciates gorgeous architecture, authentic vibes and mingling with locals.

The Grand Bazaar is not just another market, but an iconic landmark in its own right. It’s a magnificent maze of covered streets, utterly picturesque cafés and mesmerising sounds and smells of the East. In other words, it is one of the top places to visit in Istanbul.

Visit the Grand Bazaar with a local and go shopping like a pro!

Hodjapasha Cultural Centre

The best way to spend your first evening in Istanbul is to attend a top-rated traditional Turkish performance. Housed in a beautiful 550-year-old hammam in a very central location, the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre offers two different shows, the Whirling Dervishes and the Rhythm Of The Dance.

More of a ritual than a show, the Whirling Dervishes experience is available every day at 7 AM. The 60-minute Whirling Dervishes performance at the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre follows the actual Sema ritual, which represents the spiritual journey of the soul towards God and back.

Although immensely interesting and impressive, this performance is in essence a spiritual ceremony. Therefore, don’t expect lively tunes and an entertaining ambience as not even applause is allowed during the Sema ritual.

Buy your tickets for the Whirling Dervishes show before they sell out.

On the other hand, if an hour of genuine entertainment is what you’re after, you should go for the Rhythm Of The Dance show. A group of amazing professional dancers present traditional dances from various parts of Turkey. The belly dance and Turkish drum (darbuka) solos stand out. Yet our personal favourite was the fascinating Tanoura dance.

Both the Whirling Dervishes and Rhythm Of The Dance shows tend to sell out fast. Therefore, make sure you book your tickets in advance.

Make a reservation for the Rhythm Of The Dance Show here.

Day 2: Essential Istanbul Sightseeing

Your second day on this Istanbul in 5 days itinerary includes the bulk of your sightseeing in Istanbul. Brace yourselves and start early because there’s a lot of magic ahead.

Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultanahmet Square)

Sultanahmet Square is a great place to get your bearings and take a deep breath before delving into this remarkable city’s vast history.

Today’s Sultanahmet Square is where the Hippodrome of Constantinople used to be. This public area hosted horse races, chariot races, gladiatorial games, celebrations and official ceremonies throughout the centuries. A 16th-century Egyptian obelisk stands in the middle of the Hippodrome since the 4th century AD.

Hagia Sophia

Probably the most recognisable landmark in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia. Constructed in the Middle Ages, this sacred place hides the very soul of Istanbul within its walls and is the visual embodiment of the unique blend of cultures that is Istanbul.

Throughout its long history, Hagia Sophia has served as a major religious site for both Christians and Muslims. Originally built as an Orthodox Christian church, it then became a Catholic church before being turned into a mosque. All these changes are reflected on the church’s interior walls where writings from the Quran are hanging next to Virgin Mary icons.

In 1935, Hagia Sophia stopped being a religious site and opened as a museum. This way, the whole world would be able to step inside and marvel at the grandeur of this architectural and cultural masterpiece.

Sadly and quite unexpectedly though, the UNESCO-listed Hagia Sophia was reverted into a mosque in 2020. You can still visit Hagia Sophia as a tourist outside prayer times. However, we can’t tell for sure if the experience will be the same as it was when it was still a museum.

Make the most of your time in Hagia Sophia on a guided tour led by a local.

Blue Mosque

Right across the street from Hagia Sophia stands the Blue Mosque in all its glory. Its official name is Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after Ahmed I, the Sultan who commissioned its construction.

Built between 1609 and 1617, the Blue Mosque was probably the Sultan’s effort to create a monumental mosque that would surpass the splendour of Hagia Sophia. Successful or not, the Blue Mosque with its characteristic blue tiles did manage to become one of Istanbul’s icons and a staple of the city’s skyline.

Book this 1-hour tour of the Blue Mosque or splurge on this in-depth walking tour that explains the artistic value and religious symbolism of this iconic monument .

Basilica Cistern

Dating back to the 6th century, the underground Basilica Cistern is one of the most impressive places to visit in Istanbul in 5 days. Although not the only ancient cistern in Istanbul – the city numbers several hundred of them – it’s definitely the largest and most famous of all.

After descending a few steps, you’ll find yourselves in a forest of 336 columns, many of which bear the marks of their former use, as they were parts of ruined temples. Although for visitors’ safety the underground cistern is now limited to a very small amount of water, it’s still a very beautiful place to visit.

Get into the depths of the Basilica Cistern on a short but sweet tour guided by a local.

Topkapı Palace

The main residence of Ottoman Sultans from the 1400s to the 1800s, Topkapi Palace is one of the top Istanbul attractions. One of the world’s largest palaces that have been turned into museums, Topkapi Palace is home to gorgeous interior courtyards and elaborate halls and rooms. The most striking area, though, is the Harem where the Sultan’s several wives and family members lived.

Book your guided tour of the Topkapi Palace.

Alternatively, you can book a combined tour of Topkapi Palace and the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museum.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan , the Suleymaniye Mosque is an amazing construction in its own right. The second largest mosque in Istanbul, the Suleymaniye Mosque is also one of the city’s best viewpoints as it boasts a prime location on the Third Hill of Istanbul.

Unlike other mosques, the Suleymaniye Mosque has a very bright interior. Among the things you shouldn’t miss during your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site are the tombs of Suleiman the Magnificent and his wife Hurrem Sultan .

Learn the secrets of this imposing structure on a guided tour.

Although these Istanbul attractions are in close proximity to one another, visiting all of them on your own might be overwhelming. That’s because there is a ton of history associated with each place. Therefore, we’d recommend visiting some or all of these places on guided tours. Several tour companies mix and match two or more of these major attractions on the same tour. Here are some of the best combinations that can save you valuable time: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour Hagia Sophia, Suleymaniye & Blue Mosque Tour

Fener & Balat

In the afternoon, you can explore two of the city’s most authentic neighbourhoods for a chance to get a glimpse of how life goes by for the real Istanbulites.

Fener and Balat are among the oldest neighbourhoods in Istanbul. They used to be populated by the city’s Greek, Jewish and Armenian communities. It’s safe to say that this less popular part of Istanbul is where the city acquired its unparalleled multicultural character.

Apart from wandering around the colourful streets of Fener and Balat, trying to imagine a day in the lives of all those ethnic groups that used to live side by side for centuries on end, these districts are home to several historical landmarks, too. The Greek Mary Blachernae Chruch and the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate are only a few of them.

The nearby Chora Church used to be yet another important landmark until 2020 when the museum was turned back into a mosque, following Hagia Sophia’s fate. Unlike Hagia Sophia though, Chora Church remains closed to visitors until further notice.

For a better understanding of Fener and Balat and a thorough account of how these areas formed part of the rich history of Istanbul, you should consider visiting these neighbourhoods on a guided tour. We highly recommend this 3-hour Fener and Balat walking tour, which we joined ourselves a few years ago. We have nothing but praise for the knowledgeable guide who showed us around the charms of this part of Istanbul.

You can read about all the walking tours we joined in Istanbul here .

Day 3: Princes Islands & Kadıköy

On your third day on this 5 days in Istanbul itinerary, we recommend taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city to head to the peacefulness of the Princes Islands, before getting to know one of the most authentic Istanbul neighbourhoods.

Princes Islands

A day at the sea is an excellent idea for a day trip from Istanbul. The Princes Islands are an archipelago of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara. Only four of them are inhabited and open to visitors: Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Büyükada .

No cars or motorbikes are allowed on any of the islands. Therefore, their quiet streets and clean air come in huge contrast to Istanbul’s buzzing roads and smoggy sky.

It goes without saying that there’s no point trying to fit all four islands in a single day trip. It’s best to choose one island and spend a relaxing day there, taking in the views and easy-going vibes. In our opinion, you should go for Buyukada, the largest and most interesting island among the four.

In Buyukada, you’ll feel as though time has stood still. With its wooden mansions and tranquil streets, the island is the perfect getaway for long peaceful strolls and genuine mingling with locals in a setting of bittersweet neglect.

You can buy round-trip ferry tickets to Buyukada here. If you want to learn more about the Princes Islands, click here to read more about the day trip we enjoyed there a few years back .

On your way back to Istanbul from the Princes Islands, get off the ferry at Kadiköy on the Asian side of the city. Although not on the radar of tourists, Kadiköy is one of the most fascinating neighbourhoods in Istanbul to enjoy a walk, a lively district where you can feel the local rhythm of life and taste delicious Turkish food.

Speaking of good food, you can finish your third of five days in Istanbul with a journey through the exceptional tastes and flavours of one of the world’s most delectable cuisines. For an unparalleled experience, splurge on a private food tour in Kadikoy , one of the best places in Istanbul to sample the city’s diverse and mouthwatering dishes.

Day 4: Romantic Istanbul

Apart from all its other charms, Istanbul is one of the most romantic cities you’ve ever seen. That’s mainly because it’s a city built on the sea. Therefore, it makes sense your romantic day in Istanbul involves a lot of ferry rides and seascapes.

The Golden Horn

Start your fourth of 5 days in Istanbul with a ferry ride along the Golden Horn, from the Karaköy Station in Beyoğlu to the final stop at Eyüp. For about 40 minutes, the ferry will be zigzagging from one shore to the other as you sip one Turkish tea after another on this romantic cruise of sorts.

Eyüp is one of the lesser-known parts of Istanbul. At least for tourists. A former Christianity stronghold, the area became an important site for Muslims after the fall of Constantinople in 1453. So much so that in 1581 Christians were no longer allowed to live there.

Nowadays, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque represents one of the Islamic world’s most sacred sites while the entire district attracts more conservative Muslim residents. The mosque and the adjacent mausoleum and tombs are little architectural masterpieces. Moreover, the cobbled streets around the mosque are full of people and souvenir shops.

Pierre Loti Hill

Pierre Loti Hill is one of the most romantic places to visit in Istanbul. The hill took its name from the French novelist and keen Istanbul lover Pierre Loti.

You can get to the top of the hill either by car or cable car. There is also the option of walking through the enormous Eyüp Cemetery . However, we would advise against doing so without the company of a local friend or professional tour guide. For visitors, the cable car is the best way to climb to the top of Pierre Loti Hill.

The only drawback of the cable car is that there are always rather long queues at the entrance. Sometimes, at the exit as well. The reason for this is that there are only two sets of two cabins, each of which has a maximum capacity of just eight people.

That said, once inside the cabin, it takes less than three minutes to get to the top or vice versa. The views from the cable car to the Golden Horn and the Eyüp Cemetery are breathtaking.

Once at the top, there is a nice café with spectacular views of the Golden Horn and the historical centre of Istanbul in the distance. Probably the best time to visit is sunset but this is when the hill gets more crowded, too. Therefore, try to be there earlier.

If you prefer, you can tour the Golden Horn, Eyup and Pierre Loti Hill in the company of a knowledgeable guide instead.

When you’re done taking in the views, head back to downtown Istanbul in the same way: jumping on the ferry. This time, though, take the ferry to Üsküdar, on the Asian side of Istanbul. While on board the ferry, get a glimpse of the beautiful Maiden’s Tower .

Although you’re only here to catch a ferry to Ortaköy, your next romantic stop, take a step back and look around, breathing in Üsküdar’s ambience. In a way that it’s not easy to put your finger on, Üsküdar feels different from the neighbourhoods of the European side. Also, the views of the shore across the Bosphorus Strait are amazing.

Ortaköy 

On board the ferry to Ortaköy, the view of the Bosphorus Bridge is breathtaking. The same goes for the dreamy silhouette of the Ortaköy Mosque itself, the most iconic landmark in the somewhat fancy neighbourhood of Ortaköy.

From an architectural point of view, the mosque is gorgeous. But what makes it truly unique is its position, right there at the waterfront.

Apart from the mosque, Ortaköy is also famous for being the best place in Istanbul to try kumpir, which is jacket potato the Turkish way. Kumpir is Istanbul street food at its best. You will be surprised at how many food stalls in Ortaköy serve just that. Don’t miss it!

With a full stomach and a happy heart, linger in this area until it’s dark to marvel at the illuminated Ortaköy Mosque as you enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many waterfront bars nearby. If that’s not the perfect way to end a romantic day in Istanbul, we don’t know what is.

Day 5: Istanbul Highlights

For your last day in Istanbul, we recommend a series of experiences that are quintessentially Istanbulite, truly enchanting moments that will make you vow to go back to this city of wonders before too long.

Turkish Bath Experience

One of the top things to do in Istanbul is to indulge in an original Turkish bath session. The city is dotted with hammams for all tastes. From luxury establishments housed in historic imperial baths to no-frills hammams that locals still frequent, Istanbul has a wide array of Turkish bath experiences to offer.

If it’s your first time in a Turkish bath though, we’d recommend opting for one of Istanbul’s top-rated hammams, such as Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami , a historic hammam that dates back to the 16th century, designed by no other than Mimar Sinan.

Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami was where we enjoyed our first-ever hammam. Since a Turkish bath is an utterly relaxing albeit very intimate experience, you’d want to choose an establishment with people who go out of their way to make you feel at home and relish those precious moments.

Book your Turkish Bath experience at Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami to enter a world of utter relaxation and rejuvenation.

If you’re feeling nervous about going to the hammam for the first time, we put together a guide to all the things you need to know before booking your first Turkish bath session.

Read our comprehensive guide on how to enjoy your Turkish bath experience here.

Bosphorus Cruise

No trip to Istanbul is complete without a chance to see the city from the water on a boat tour or cruise along the enchanting Bosphorus Strait. Rejuvenated from your Turkish bath experience, now’s the best time to enjoy this one-of-a-kind cruise.

Ranging from simple ferry rides to super luxurious boat trips, Bosphorus cruise options are endless. The public ferries of Şehir Hatları  offer both a full and a shorter Bosphorus tour departing from Eminönü. However, for a special experience, we’d recommend booking one of the Bosphorus cruises we handpicked for you:

• Istanbul: Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Stopover on the Asian Side

For an even more memorable experience, you can tweak this Istanbul itinerary a bit to enjoy one of the sunset or early evening Bosphorus cruises we recommend below:

• Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
• Istanbul: Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus

The Bosphorus Strait is the natural border between Europe and Asia. It’s also the only passage between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. This is why it has always been extremely important for commercial and military reasons alike. For travellers, the Bosphorus Strait is one of the most spectacular ways to take in the beauty of Istanbul.

During a Bosphorus cruise, you can admire iconic landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge. Further north, you have the chance to see the beautiful coloured houses in Arnavutköy as well as the stylish neighbourhood of Bebek .

One of the most impressive sights along the way is Rumelihisari , Istanbul’s imposing medieval fortress with its dreamy waterfront promenade.

After passing below the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge , the ferry moves closer to the Asian shore of the Bosphorus Strait to start its southbound course.

The Asian side is lined with exquisite wooden mansions dating back to the 19th century. This type of residence, which is yet another symbol of Istanbul, is called a yalı . There are yalı on both shores of the Bosphorus Strait but the Asian side features the prettiest among them.

Places To Visit Along The Bosphorus Strait If You Have More Time

• Dolmabahce Palace: An impressive building with a great history, it is the largest palace in Turkey, boasting a spectacular location right on the Bosphorus waterfront. Inside the palace, you can visit many lavishly decorated rooms. Among them, is the very room where Kemal Atatürk died in 1938. Get fast-track entry tickets to Dolmabahçe Palace here.

• Beylerbeyi Palace: Built in the 1860s as a summer residence for the sultan and his family, Beylerbeyi Palace is a fine example of Ottoman Empire architecture and decoration. Small in size and with beautiful gardens overlooking the sea, it is well worth a visit.

Sunset at The Galata Tower

Finish your 5 days in Istanbul itinerary right where you started it, in Beyoglu, and more specifically, at the Galata Tower. This time, climb up the viewing terrace to take in the utter beauty of Istanbul painted in the colours of the golden hour. By now, you must be able to recognise several of the Istanbul landmarks you visited in the previous days and this is why we think that you should save this experience for last.

Grab your skip-the-line tickets to the Galata Tower here. Trust us, you’ll definitely want to skip THIS line.

If you’re anything like us, your sunset climb up the Galata Tower will leave you completely spellbound, your lips uttering vows of eternal love to the city. Your final stroll should be along one of the most picturesque streets of Istanbul. Serdar-ı Ekrem Street might just be the perfect place to kiss this magical city goodnight and promise to be back soon.

How Many Days in Istanbul

We could just say the more the better and leave it at that. However, we’re here to help you rather than simply state the obvious. We believe that spending 5 days in Istanbul is the absolute minimum. However, not everyone can afford a long vacation, so here are a couple of tips on what to include and what to skip if you only have a short time to spend in Istanbul.

4-Day Istanbul Itinerary

If you only have 4 days in Istanbul, just skip the Princes Islands day trip and follow the rest of this 5-day itinerary for Istanbul.

3-Day Istanbul Itinerary

If you’re planning to see Istanbul in 3 days, you could probably do most of the things included in this 5-day Istanbul itinerary – minus the day trip, of course – but in a pretty rushed way, which is not ideal if you ask us.

Depending on how slow you want to take it or not, consider skipping any (or all) of the Istanbul activities and main attractions mentioned on Day 4 of this Istanbul itinerary. You can catch up with all this during your second time in Istanbul. Believe us, once Istanbul gets you under its spell, there will definitely be a second time.

2 Days in Istanbul

We don’t think that 2 days in Istanbul are enough to even scratch the surface of a city this size and with so much to see and do. However, if an opportunity comes up for you to visit even for 2 days, don’t miss it. In that case, join this comprehensive Best of The City full day tour on your first day and use your second day to just wander around and take in the unfathomable beauty of this city.

Istanbul Travel Guide

How to get to istanbul.

Turkish Airlines flies you to Istanbul from several destinations around the world. There are two airports in Istanbul. The new Istanbul Airport , which opened its gates to the public in 2019, and the Sabiha Gokcen Airport .

Check out flights to Istanbul here.

Both airports are accessible by public transport. However, for a hassle-free arrival (or departure), we’d recommend booking a private airport transfer in advance . Before doing so though, check with your hotel if they’re offering an airport shuttle service as many hotels in Istanbul do.

Where To Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul is a huge, often chaotic, city. Therefore, deciding on the best places to stay in Istanbul might get a bit overwhelming. Here’s a very brief overview of the best areas to stay in Istanbul to help you decide where to stay in Istanbul.

• Where to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors: Galata area or near Taksim Square
• Where to stay in Istanbul for sightseeing: Old Town near Sultanahmet Square
• Where to stay in Istanbul for couples: Cihangir
• Where to stay in Istanbul with family: Besiktas
• Where to stay in Istanbul for nightlife: Karakoy or Kadikoy
• Where to stay in Istanbul for shopping: Eminonu or Pera near Istiklal Street
• Where to stay in Istanbul as a digital nomad: Kadikoy

No matter where you decide to stay in Istanbul, make sure you opt for a hotel that takes pride in its Turkish breakfast. Turkey is renowned for offering a delicious breakfast experience that you shouldn’t miss out on. For more information about the best places to stay in Istanbul, read our full guide on where to stay in Istanbul .

How To Get Around Istanbul

Although claimed to be built on seven hills, like Rome , Athens , Barcelona , Bergamo , Lisbon, Madrid , Prague , Bucharest and so many others (wow, this list is endless!), Istanbul is a very walkable city. However, its size and the number of uphill streets and locations it has render the use of public transport necessary at times.

Using Public Transport in Istanbul

Public transport in Istanbul is very easy to figure out and use. There are buses, trams, metro lines, ferries and two funiculars. All these combined can take you literally everywhere in the city.

Our least favourite means of transport in Istanbul is the metro. That’s because travelling underground means you’re missing out on the spectacular views at every turn Istanbul offers.

For the needs of this 5-day Istanbul itinerary, you’ll be mostly using the city’s trams and the life-saving funiculars. Why life-saving? Because, thanks to the Tünel (F2) and the Taksim–Kabataş (F1) funicular lines that provide easy access to the upper part of the city, you’ll never have to climb any of Istanbul’s notoriously uphill streets.

Regarding trams, the Kabataş–Bağcılar (T1) line is the most useful. There are also two historic tram lines in Istanbul. On the European side, the T2 Line runs along the entire length of Istiklal Street . On the Asian side, the T3 Line does a circular route from Kadikoy to Moda and back .

The ferries are also a fantastic way to commute in Istanbul, especially between the European and the Asian sides of the city. Last but not least, buses in Istanbul are very efficient and quite straightforward. In most cases, they include something super recognisable in their displayed direction (e.g. Taksim Square or something similar). Therefore, it’s very unlikely that you’ll get lost.

Istanbulkart

The Istanbulkart is a contactless public transport smart card. It is valid for all of the above means of transport plus a couple more, such as the Eyüp cable car. Apart from offering discounts compared to single-ride fares, the Istanbulkart offers you the ease of hopping on and off public transportation in Istanbul without worrying about buying separate tickets all the time.

You can buy an Istanbulkart at any metro station or even a newsstand in the city and load it with the desired amount of Turkish lira. Then you can top up your Istanbulkart at the same places or automatic vending machines located at many metro, tram or bus stations.

The Istanbulkart is not personal. This means that it can be used by more than one person. If so, the discount made at certain transits will only be applied to one passenger.

Istanbul Weather & Best Time To Visit Istanbul

Winter in Istanbul can be really, really cold. Especially on board the ferries or in the evening. Istanbul is a dreamy city and you should be able to enjoy sitting outdoors as much as possible. This is why it would be better to visit in late spring or autumn. Try to avoid visiting Istanbul during the summer months to steer clear of the crowds and scorching heat the peak season brings.

Should I Get a Turkey SIM card?

Free roaming across Europe is one of the best things that has happened to the continent in the last decades. However, Turkey wasn’t invited to the party. If your data providers back home charge outrageous amounts of money for just a handful of MBs, check out this Unlimited 4G Pocket Wifi which can connect up to 10 mobile devices.

Alternatively, get an eSIM card from Airalo and pick one of their packages for a seamless Internet connection.

Is Istanbul Safe?

Apart from being beautiful, Istanbul is an incredibly friendly city where locals will amaze you with their warmth and kindness. That said, like anywhere else in the world, you need to use your common sense while in Istanbul.

Crowded places with many tourists tend to attract pickpockets while dark alleys should be avoided, especially by women travelling alone. On the contrary, popular places like Istiklal Street, Taksim and other squares are perfectly safe any time of the day or night – minus the pickpocket risk, of course.

Our Top 3 Reasons To Visit Istanbul

From what you’ve read so far it must be pretty clear that Istanbul is a remarkably enchanting city that has a special place in our hearts. There are certain little details about Istanbul that we love immensely that couldn’t find their place in the detailed 5-day Istanbul itinerary you just read. However, we felt the need to share with you the three things we love about Istanbul the most.

Served in small glasses rather than cups, Turkish tea has nothing to do with the fancy Afternoon Tea sessions you might have experienced in London – which we also adore. Tea is so much more than just a drink in Istanbul. It’s a mentality in its own right.

If you love cats, Istanbul is your heaven. You’ll be touched by the degree to which locals love cats. There are food and water bowls for them everywhere on the city’s streets. In fact, it seems that cats in Istanbul are literally treated as royalty.

What we love most about the city, though, are the Istanbulites themselves. They are among the most hospitable people we have met. The fact that they are even warmer towards us once they find out we are Greek is indescribably moving.

So much for the eternal-hate-between-Greeks-and-Turks stereotype. It only exists in narrow-minded people’s imaginations. This is why travel is the best antidote to stereotypes and intolerance. A window to the real, beautiful world that leaves no room for harmful misconceptions.

Now that you know what to do in Istanbul in 5 days, here’s one more thing to keep in mind. Istanbul is not just another city to visit. It is an entire world. A world of magic where all opposites converge to form an enchanting blend of cultures and peoples.

Istanbul is more than just the beautiful images of the Bosphorus and the Hagia Sophia. Istanbul is filled with the seductive smells of the East as they reach out to touch the West. Istanbul is carried along in the exciting sounds of a busy city that never sleeps but also in the melodious voice of the muezzin who brings the skies to life at each call to prayer.

Istanbul is all of this and so much more. Istanbul is unique. The one and only. The City.

WORDS & EDITING: Maria IMAGES: Katerina

Disclosure: To facilitate us in publishing this 5 days in Istanbul itinerary, Hodjapasha Cultural Centre and Walks in Istanbul offered us press tickets to their shows and tours respectively. Yet, as always, all opinions remain our own.

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Amazing locations in Istanbul, I truly enjoy all of it.

Thanks for your comment!

I appreciate you illustrating the best five-day itinerary for Istanbul.

i liked your post, soon i will be in istanbul and you blog was so amazing and helpful

Hi there! Thanks for your kind comment! We hope you enjoy your trip to Istanbul.

Thanks for this useful post. I want to do a cruise on the Bosphorus, there are so many choices, not sure which one to take but I found one, Bosphorus Sunset Cruise top-rated on trip advisor. Do you have any suggestions on that? I want to give it a try on this one www. bosphorustour. com Thanks for your feedback.

Hi Alex, thanks for your comment! You must definitely enjoy a sunset cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, you’re going to love it! We can’t give feedback on this specific cruise but you can find many top-rated sunset cruises by clicking on our affiliate link here !

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Istanbul is a dream place for me, I hope one day to see it. Hagia Sophia, the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar are on my list and I am sure that one day I will see and smell those wonderful places.

Hi dear Ferny! We are in love with Istanbul because it is indeed a dreamy destination. So special, so different from any other city we’ve been to. We really hope that you travel to Istanbul soon. You are going to love it!

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14 must-do things on your trip to Istanbul

Nov 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Get ready to add even more to your Istanbul itinerary: here are the top things to do in the city © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

We’ve all heard the descriptions of Istanbul being a bridge between Europe and Asia, a place where East meets West and where cultures have coexisted for centuries. But not everyone is aware of its endlessly fascinating contradictions.

Here are the top things to do in Istanbul to experience the city’s different stories and faces.

Marvel at the Aya Sofya

History resonates when you visit the majestic Byzantine basilica of Aya Sofya . Built by order of the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, its soaring dome, huge nave and glittering gold mosaics contribute to its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful buildings, and its fascinating history as church, mosque and museum make it the city's most revealing time capsule. Looted by marauding Crusaders in the 13th century, stormed by Ottoman invaders during the Conquest in 1453 and visited by millions of tourists after being converted into a museum in 1935, it is one of Turkey's greatest treasures.

Since its reconsecration as a mosque in summer 2020 , the Aya Sofya is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayer times, women must cover their heads and all visitors must take off their shoes to enter the inner narthex. Most of the building’s ancient marble floor has been covered by carpets, some of its mosaics are shielded by retractable screens and the upper gallery is inaccessible, but its historic grandeur remains breathtaking.

Experience the extravagance of Topkapı Palace

The secrets of the seraglio will be revealed during your visit to the opulent Ottoman Topkapı Palace complex occupying the promontory of Istanbul's Old City. A series of mad, sad and downright bad sultans lived here with their concubines and courtiers between 1465 and 1830, and extravagant relics of their centuries of folly, intrigue, excess, patronage, diplomacy and war are everywhere you look. Highlights include the huge Harem, impressive Imperial Council Chamber, object-laden Imperial Treasury and picturesque Marble Terrace.

Uncover the secrets of Topkapı Palace

Lose yourself in Istanbul's Bazaar District

The chaotic and colorful Grand Bazaar is the best-known shopping destination on Istanbul's historic peninsula, but it certainly isn't the only one. After exploring its labyrinthine lanes and hidden caravanserais, follow the steady stream of local shoppers heading downhill into the busy shopping precinct of Tahtakale, which has at its hub the seductively scented Spice Bazaar . From there, head back up toward the Blue Mosque and its attached arasta (an arcade-style Ottoman bazaar that typically featured practitioners of a single trade), where you may well find a lasting memento of your trip.

Ride Istanbul’s ferries

Climbing aboard one of the city's famous flotilla of ferries is the quintessential Istanbul experience. The trip between Asia and Europe on a commuter ferry is hard to beat, but the Bosphorus tourist ferries that travel the great strait from Eminönü toward the mouth of the Black Sea are even better, offering passengers views of palaces, parks and ornate timber mansions on both the Asian and European shores. It doesn't matter whether you opt for a long or short cruise: either is sure to be memorable.

Istanbul ferries will now run during the night at weekends

Revel in Istanbul's nightlife

Though Istanbul’s nightlife scene has suffered some setbacks, you can’t keep a good party town down. For a traditional night out, head to one of the Beyoğlu district’s meyhanes, tavern-like restaurants serving meze and fish where sing-alongs of classic songs flow with each new round of rakı, an anise-flavored liquor. Lively crowds of young beer-drinkers fill the pubs of the Beşiktaş Çarşı and central Kadıköy, while a swankier set sips cocktails near the Bosphorus in the bars and cafes of Bebek and Arnavutköy. For the full Istanbul experience, top off the evening by joining your fellow revelers in lining up for some late-night street food.

Get acquainted with Turkish contemporary art

Anchored by high-profile cultural institutions like Istanbul Modern , Pera Museum , SALT Beyoğlu and Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat , the Beyoğlu district has long been a hub for art-lovers, with galleries and museums scattered on and around İstiklal Caddesi , and increasingly in the adjacent Karaköy, Tophane and Dolapdere neighborhoods as well. Well-established commercial galleries in stately apartment buildings also cluster among the chic boutiques of the Nişantaşı neighborhood, while hip Kadıköy has an up-and-coming independent art scene of its own.

Surrender to the steam in a bath house

In life, there aren't too many opportunities to wander seminaked through a 16th-century Ottoman monument. But Istanbul's world-famous hamams offer just that: the chance to immerse yourself in history, architecture, warm water and soap suds all at the same time. A hamam treatment makes for a relaxing finale to a day spent pounding the city's pavements and gives a fascinating insight into the life and customs of Ottoman society. You can surrender to the steam at baths on both sides of the Galata Bridge: the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Tophane and the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı in Sultanahmet are particularly stunning and luxurious.

Istanbul's bathhouses: a step-by-step guide

Hang out with the cool kids in Kadıköy

Riding a ferry across the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s great pleasures and the Asian-side neighborhood of Kadıköy is becoming a destination in itself, with hip cafes, bars, restaurants and boutiques frequented by a lively young crowd. Peruse the colorful produce market , hunt for street-art murals in the backstreets, visit the museum-home of Turkish rock giant Barış Manço or stroll the waterfront with an ice cream in hand. The sunset views from the shoreline are among the most spectacular in the city.

Sample the flavors of Istanbul

More than anything else, Istanbullus love to eat, and food is much more than mere fuel. Instead, it’s a celebration of community. Meals unfurl with great ceremony – they are joyful, boisterous and almost inevitably communal. The national cuisine has been refined over centuries and is treated more reverently than any museum collection in the country. That’s not to say it’s fussy, because what differentiates Turkish food from other national noshes is its rustic and honest base. The small meze dishes you’ll eat will be simple, the kebaps austere, the salads unstructured and the seafood unsauced. Flavors will explode in your mouth because ingredients are used in season.

Top 5 Istanbul cooking courses and food tours

Admire the architecture of Süleymaniye Mosque

Commissioned by the Ottoman sultan Süleyman I, known as “the Magnificent,” this 16th-century mosque has a fittingly grand perch atop one of the old city’s seven hills. The view from here is one of the finest in Istanbul, looking out over domes and rooftops to the confluence of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn waterways and beyond. With its elegant symmetry and soaring interior, the mosque itself is considered among the masterpieces of the great architect Mimar Sinan. The complex around it is inviting and serene, with tall trees, a grassy lawn and a rose-studded cemetery.

Go underground at the Basilica Cistern

When the Byzantine emperors decided to build something, they certainly didn't cut corners. The extraordinary subterranean Basilica Cistern , located opposite Aya Sofya, features a wildly atmospheric forest of columns (336 to be exact), vaulted brick ceilings, mysterious carved Medusa-head capitals and ghostly patrols of carp. A testament to the ambitious town planning and engineering expertise of the Byzantines, the cistern has played a starring role in innumerable motion pictures (remember From Russia with Love ?) and is now one of the city's best-loved tourist attractions.

Go tile-mad at the Blue Mosque

Officially named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after the early 17th-century Ottoman ruler Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque gets its better-known moniker from the color of the tens of thousands of İznik tiles that adorn its interior. With its enormous courtyard, grand prayer hall and six minarets (an unprecedented number for a mosque when it was constructed) this is a building made to impress – and to rival the Aya Sofya, which sits directly opposite across a landscaped square.

Ogle the opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace

Weighing in at nearly 10,000 pounds, the crystal chandelier hanging over the Ceremonial Hall of Dolmabahçe Palace exemplifies the opulence of this royal residence commissioned in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit I. It’s a glorious mishmash of styles and materials, with ceilings gilded with thousands of pounds of gold, marble floors, crystal bannisters and bearskin rugs. The Bosphorus views are just as dazzling as the decor.

Let your feet be your guide

Istanbul’s marvelous sights could keep a visitor busy for months, but it’s worth taking some time to explore its myriad neighborhoods as well. Though the city is sprawling, its central districts are walkable and reward wandering, with lively street life and distinct identities. Follow the film crews and Instagram influencers through shabby-chic Fener and Balat’s historical lanes ; sip black tea with a Golden Horn view at the Pierre Loti Café , perched above the leafy cemeteries and holy tomb complexes or Eyüp; or watch fishermen cast their lines from the Bosphorus village of Arnavutköy.

You might also like: A hotel in Istanbul has the world's first baklava butler The best shops you can only find in Istanbul Local's guide to Istanbul

This article was first published February 2011 and updated November 2021

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Istanbul Travel Tips: 27 Essential things to know before visiting Istanbul

Planning a trip to Istanbul isn’t that straightforward as there are quite a few things you need to know before visiting Istanbul.

You might be wondering whether you need a visa, what are the best places to stay, how to get around the city, how to save money, or what are the common scams to watch out for.

All your questions will be answered in this blog post where I’ll share my top Istanbul travel tips for first-time visitors and things I wished I’d known before visiting.

So without further ado, here are 27 essential travel tips for Istanbul.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Turkey:

• How to spend 4 days in Istanbul
• Top 20 free attractions in Istanbul
• 16 Best photography spots in Istanbul
• How to spend 7 days in Turkey
• Best ways to get from Istanbul to Ephesus
• How to book a Turkey car rental

Table of Contents

Istanbul Travel Tips for planning your trip

1. you need at least 3 or 4 days in istanbul.

Istanbul is a huge city with so many things to do. This is why you need a minimum of 3 or 4 days for a proper introduction to the city and to hit all the main tourist attractions.

If you need help planning your itinerary, make sure to read my guide on how to spend 4 days in Istanbul .

Related post: Istanbul itinerary for 4 days

2. Book your hotel in advance

One of the most important Istanbul travel tips is to book your hotel in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season (June to August).

Most of the nicer hotels are usually sold out several weeks or even months in advance. Booking in advance also means that you’ll benefit from cheaper rates.

Some of the best places to stay in Istanbul include Tomtom Suites , World House Boutique Hotel , and Hostel Le Banc .

3. Booking.com is banned in Turkey

If you use booking.com to book your accommodation, I highly recommend doing so before you land in the country since it’s banned in Turkey.

Although you can still access the website to manage your bookings, you won’t be able to book a Turkish hotel while you’re in Turkey.

If you want to book hotels on booking.com while you’re in Turkey, I recommend getting a VPN. Alternatively, you can download the Opera browser on your phone and use their free integrated VPN.

4. Stay outside of Sultanahmet if you want a quiet night’s sleep

Sultanahmet is the most popular place to stay in Istanbul since this is where all the main tourist attractions are located.

But what you probably don’t know is that it can be very loud at night and also quite expensive compared to other neighborhoods.

I learned this the hard way during my recent trip to Istanbul. The hotel I initially stayed at was located along a street flanked by rows of restaurants that kept playing music until 2 a.m!

If you absolutely want to stay in Sultanahmet, Camelot Apartment is located on a rather quiet street, not too far from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Otherwise, I recommend staying in either Beyoglu or Karakoy if you want some peace and quiet.

5. You probably need a visa to visit Turkey

One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to check whether you need a visa or not. You can do so on the official website here .

There are also third-party websites where you can apply for a visa but these are usually more expensive as they charge an additional fee on top of the visa fee.

Most travelers, including US citizens, need to apply for an e-visa. The visa is valid for a period of 30 to 90 days, depending on your nationality.

UK citizens, for example, are exempt from a visa while others can get a visa for free.

When applying for an e-visa on the official website , click on “new application” and then select your country.

The cost of the e-visa and duration of stay will depend on the country you’re from.

After completing the application process, it can take a few minutes up to 24 hours before the visa is sent by email.

6. When to visit Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul will depend on what you want out of your trip. Below is a quick overview of the different seasons and what to expect for each.

Spring :  April to May – Mild temperature, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices. The annual tulip festival takes place in April.

Summer : June to August – Very hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30 degrees Celsius. Huge crowds, hotel and tour prices are much higher.

Fall/autumn : September to November – The temperature starts to drop, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotel rates.

Winter : December to March – Cold weather with the occasional snowfall but it’s considerably less cold than other European destinations.

Istanbul Travel Tips to skip the crowds

7. buy the istanbul museum pass.

The Istanbul Museum Pass gives you access to 10 museums in Istanbul like the Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archeological museum, and more.

The pass is valid for 5 consecutive days and is perfect for those who want to visit a lot of museums, and at the same time, skip the long ticket lines.

Another option is to buy an Istanbul E-Pass which includes skip-the-line tickets and guided tours for over 40 attractions in Istanbul. The pass is available for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days and is perfect for those who want to see as many attractions as possible while saving money.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE ISTANBUL E-PASS

Note : I only recommend buying the museum pass under certain circumstances. For instance, if you’re planning to visit 5 museums and the total cost of the individual tickets exceeds the cost of the museum pass, then it makes more sense to get the museum pass.

Otherwise, if you’re visiting one or two museums only, you’re better off buying individual tickets. Just remember that the pass can only be used once at each attraction.

8. Buy attraction tickets online

For those who don’t plan to purchase the Istanbul Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass but still want to avoid the long ticket lines, then I recommend booking your attraction tickets online.

You can book tickets to most museums and attractions on the Government website here .

9. Plan your visit outside of the peak season

The peak season in Istanbul, and Turkey in general, is during the summer months of June to August and thus attracts hordes of tourists.

Popular attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are absolutely packed with tourists during this time of the year.

If you can only come to Istanbul during the peak season, I highly recommend visiting these attractions early in the morning, at least before 8 a.m to avoid the long lines.

As more tourists visit Istanbul in summer, hotel rates also increase considerably as well as tour prices.

Another thing to note is that there are also more crowds during popular Turkish holidays like Kurban Bayrami and Ramadan Bayrami. The date changes every year so make sure to do a quick Google search before your trip.

So, if you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper prices, I recommend visiting during the shoulder season – April/May or September/October.

Istanbul Travel Tips for getting around

10. the bus is the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center.

Istanbul has two airports – Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.

One of the best Istanbul tips for tourists, more specifically for those traveling on a budget, is to take the Havaist bus (from Istanbul Airport) or Havabus (from Sabiha Gokcen Airport).

It’s definitely the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center. Plus, the buses are very spacious and comfortable.

The bus operates 24/7 and the journey from the airport to the city center takes on average 1-2 hours, depending on where you’re staying. You can buy tickets online or directly at the airport.

If you don’t want to take the bus or are traveling with a group, then I recommend booking a private airport transfer .

11. Download apps like BiTaksi or Uber

If you don’t want to take the bus, be sure to download ride-sharing apps like Uber or BiTaksi. The fares will be much cheaper than regular taxis, plus you can see beforehand how much the journey costs, thus avoiding getting ripped off.

12. Buy an Istanbul Kart

If you’re planning to get around a lot by public transportation, it’s a good idea to buy an Istanbul kart. It costs about 60 TL and you can top up with the amount needed.

The main reason why I recommend getting the Istanbul kart is that the fares are much cheaper with the card (about 50% cheaper) compared to buying a single ticket. You’ll also save time by not having to buy tickets every single time.

A single fare with the Istanbul Kart costs about 10 TL and the good news is that the fare gets cheaper the more you use the card.

The card can be used by up to 5 people, so there’s no need to buy individual cards for each traveler in your group.

You can buy the Istanbul kart at the airport or at most metro stations in the city center and use it on the bus, metro, tram, and ferry.

Alternatively, you can buy this Istanbul transport card that’s pre-loaded with up to 20 rides. You can either pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel.

Another thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can also use the Istanbul Kart to pay for public toilets around the city and inside the metro stations. The toilet fee is about 2 TL.

13. Traffic in Istanbul can be very hectic

One thing to know about Istanbul is that the traffic can be very hectic. One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to avoid taking the bus during peak hours, especially in the afternoon.

For instance, I once took the bus at around 5 p.m from Ortakoy to Beyoglu, and what was supposed to be a 40-minute journey ended up lasting 1.5 hours!

The traffic was so bad that I even had to get off the bus and walk back to my hotel. I’m pretty sure I arrived before the bus!

So do yourself a favor by taking the metro instead if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic during peak hours.

14. Don’t rent a car in Istanbul

As mentioned above, traffic can be very hectic which is why it’s not recommended to rent a car in Istanbul unless you plan to leave the city and start a road trip around the country.

Public transportation in Istanbul is cheap, convenient, and reliable so there’s no point in spending extra cash on car rental.

Istanbul Travel Tips to help you save money

15. there are many free things to do in istanbul.

For those traveling on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many free things to do in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and all other Istanbul mosques are completely free to visit.

Visiting the Grand Bazaar (which is an experience in itself) or exploring the local neighborhoods like Balat, Fener, and Kadikoy also doesn’t cost a cent.

Make sure to read my guide to 20 things to do in Istanbul for free for more things to do.

Related post: What to do in Istanbul for free

16. Take the local ferry instead of a Bosphorus tour

One of the most popular things to do is to take a Bosphorus tour. It costs anywhere from €10 for a 90-minute sightseeing tour up to €55 for a luxury sunset cruise including dinner .

But if you’re on a budget, you can just hop on the local ferry from Europe to Asia. A single ticket costs only about 10 TL which is a bargain.

One thing to note is that the ferry ride will be shorter but you’ll still be able to admire some of the major landmarks in the city.

17. You can use toilets at the mosques for free

If you need to use the toilet, you can simply go to any mosque and use the toilets there for free. They are generally well-maintained and clean.

Otherwise, you can use the public toilets at the metro stations or around the city for about 2 TL. As mentioned above, you can pay the toilet fee with your Istanbul Kart if you don’t have any small change.

Travel Tips for Istanbul for a safe trip

18. take note of emergency phone numbers.

Travel is sometimes unpredictable which is why it’s always a good idea to have local emergency phone numbers on hand. Below are some of the most important ones:

Police: 155

Ambulance: 112

19. Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a relatively safe destination even for solo female travelers. I traveled to Istanbul solo and from my personal experience, I didn’t feel unsafe while walking alone nor did I receive any unwanted attention.

Security is pretty tight with lots of police officers especially around Sultanahmet and Taksim so you don’t have to worry about safety issues.

That said, petty crimes like pickpocketing sometimes happen, so always be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing any expensive objects.

You should also watch out for scams which brings me to my next tip for visiting Istanbul.

20. Watch out for common scams

Like in most big cities, you need to be aware of common scams that mainly target tourists.

The most popular one is the shoe shiner. The person will pretend to drop his brush and when you pick it up, he will then proceed to shine your shoes which obviously isn’t free.

There’s also another scam where someone will approach you and invite you for a drink. You’ll then end up being forced to pay an exorbitant bill.

In order to prepare yourself before your trip, I recommend reading  this article  about the most common scams in Istanbul.

Other Helpful Istanbul Tips for Tourists

21. buy a local sim card.

The best way to stay connected, especially if you need to use Google Maps to navigate the city, is to buy a local sim card.

There are three major internet providers in Turkey, namely Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. All three are quite similar but it is said that Turkcell has the best coverage.

I recommend buying your sim card when you get to the city center since those at the airport are slightly more expensive.

I bought a Turkcell tourist sim card which came with 20 GB of data and 200 minutes of local call, valid for 30 days. You just need to bring your passport and it takes only a few minutes for the sim card to be activated.

Alternatively, you can buy a pocket wifi (with unlimited internet valid for 14 days) and have it delivered directly to your hotel. It’s slightly more expensive but can connect up to 10 mobile phones at a time.

Note : If you need internet as soon as you land in Turkey, you can use the airport wifi for free. Just input your local phone number and after receiving a one-time password, you’ll be able to connect to the wifi.

22. There are lots of steep hills

One thing to know about Istanbul is that it’s also known as the “City on the Seven Hills” so don’t be surprised if you come across a lot of steep hills.

The streets along Beyoglu, Balat, and Galata Tower are among the steepest in Istanbul and you’ll be sweating buckets if you’re not dressed in light clothing. Make sure to also carry plenty of water and to wear comfy shoes.

23. Mosque Etiquette

Although you can wear any type of clothes you like in Türkiye, you need to dress more conservatively when visiting the mosques.

For women, this means covering their shoulders and knees and wearing a head scarf. Men, on the other hand, need to wear long pants.

You also need to take off your shoes before entering the mosques.

24. Check prayer times before visiting mosques

One thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can only visit the mosques outside of prayer times. Make sure to check the prayer times on this website before visiting.

25. Learn some basic Turkish words

Although most Turkish people can speak English, I always do my best to learn a few basic words and phrases in the local language when traveling to a new country.

A little goes a long way and I can guarantee that you’ll put a smile on the Turkish people’s faces if you at least try to speak a few words in the local language.

Below are some useful Turkish words to know:

Hello : Merhaba

Thank you : Teşekkür ederim or Teşekkürler

Please : Lütfen

Excuse me : Afedersiniz (I’ve also heard people say “pardon”)

How much : Ne kadar

26. Drinking tap water in Istanbul

Although it’s considered safe to drink tap water in Istanbul, most locals might tell you the opposite due to the old rusty pipes and water tanks.

I did drink the tap water during my first few days in Istanbul and while it didn’t make me sick, I didn’t really like the taste.

If you don’t want to drink tap water, I recommend buying the 5 L water bottles. They are much cheaper and you can also reduce your plastic consumption since you won’t need to buy multiple water bottles.

27. Plug type

The plugs and sockets in Turkey are of type C and F with a voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. You’ll probably need a travel adapter if you’re coming from a non-European country.

There you have it – 27 important things to know before traveling to Istanbul. If you have any additional Istanbul travel tips to share, please comment below.

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Great post! I got enough details and info for my upcoming trip to Istanbul

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19 Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

The world's only city that sits on the two continents of Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul possesses so many layers that make it absolutely unique. A megacity that has seen the rise and fall of two empires, the former

• All Things To Do

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) free

Sultan Ahmed I was determined to build a mosque that rivaled the nearby Hagia Sophia , and most would agree that he accomplished this task or, at least, came close. Since the early 1600s, the Blue Mosque has been quite the sight to behold, with an array of domes, semidomes and minarets (or narrow towers). It's also one of the biggest tourist draws in Istanbul.

Visitors say this mosque offers stunning architecture inside and out. It can, however, get busy, so consider arriving early. And remember, the Blue Mosque is an active religious site, so dress conservatively. Women should wear headscarves, as is custom. If you forgot to bring one, you can borrow one from the mosque.

Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) free

Tourists flock en masse to the Hagia Sophia for its stunning architecture, glorious interior views and historical significance. Built between 532 and 537, the building was a church for nearly a thousand years. It then served as a mosque from 1453 until 1935, before becoming a secular museum. In 2020, the building once again became a working mosque. 

Once the biggest cathedral in the world, the Hagia Sophia is considered the magnum opus of Byzantine architecture. Visitors say it is a must-see when in Istanbul and recommend taking a guided tour for more information about the history of the site. 

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici) Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's largest surviving Byzantine cistern and one of its most unique historic sites. Constructed in 532 for Justinian I, this sprawling underground water reservoir –which is roughly the size of two football fields – once supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, a large palace that served as the main residence for local emperors for centuries. Though the palace no longer exists, the cistern was renovated in 1985 to welcome visitors. In 2022, it reopened to the public after a five-year restoration effort. Its most noteworthy feature is a pair of Medusa heads that sit upside down at the base of two columns.

According to past travelers, the Basilica Cistern is easy to miss but worth checking out, despite its lack of interior attractions. Many said the site is beautifully preserved, but queues to buy tickets and enter can get quite long, so several recommended visiting with a tour group. Multiple half- and full-day tours that include stops at the cistern are offered on Viator ; tour prices range from $39 to $686 per person.

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Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) free

Located within walking distance of must-visit sights like the Blue Mosque , the Basilica Cistern  and Süleymaniye Mosque , the Grand Bazaar is one of the biggest and oldest covered shopping markets in the world. It regularly overwhelms visitors with its more than 60 streets of 3,000-plus shops, each accompanied by an overzealous vendor. Products range from hand-loomed carpets to antiques, traditional textiles to copper and silver artisan objects, artisan jewelry and ceramics to clothing and much more.

Despite the size and chaos of this bazaar, shoppers say you'll find yourself strangely at ease with the rhythm of the market, thanks in part to the friendliness of the vendors, who are far from pushy. Remember, though, that Westerners are often quoted higher rates for items here, so come prepared to bargain. Most merchants will drop their rates by as much as 50% when a customer refuses to pay full price. What's more, additional discounts are often given to those who pay with cash, although most vendors do accept credit cards.

Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi) Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a lunch break at Pandeli Restaurant  inside the bazaar, which has been around since the 1950s serving classic Turkish dishes in a refined ambiance. Make reservations in advance and don't miss the stairs that lead up to the restaurant on the left side of the bazaar's Eminönü entrance. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Built in the 17th century from the revenue of the Ottoman administrative district in Egypt (and therefore also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) this historic bazaar is the second most famous covered market in Istanbul. A must-visit for gourmets who love to shop for traditional ingredients, the more than 80 shops inside the market have a wide and fragrant spectrum of spices, nuts, dried fruits, Turkish coffee and traditional sweets.

Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) free

Nestled within Istanbul's historic Fatih district by the Golden Horn, Istanbul University and the Grand Bazaar , Süleymaniye Mosque is considered one of the city's most impressive Ottoman mosques. Built between 1550 and 1557 after being commissioned by its namesake, Süleyman I, this grand structure features multiple gardens and a large dome, plus high-end finishes like mother-of-pearl window shutters, painted corbels, traditional ceramic tiles and stained-glass windows.

Recent travelers described their time at this mosque as "amazing" and "peaceful," adding that it is just as stunning as the Blue Mosque and cannot be missed. What's more, this attraction is not as central and popular as others like the Hagia Sophia , meaning you won't have to rub elbows with lots of tourists while visiting. But remember, like other religious sites in the area, Süleymaniye Mosque hosts six prayer services every day, so expect occasional closures and dress conservatively. If you forget to wear long pants or pack a scarf to cover your head, the mosque offers loaner coverings at its entrance.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii) Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii)

One of Sultanahmet's lesser-known mosques is also one of its most beautiful. Designed by the famous Ottoman imperial architect Mimar Sinan (who also designed the Süleymaniye Mosque ) and completed in 1563, the structure was dedicated to the Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha. The mosque's most important trait are the large quantities of Iznik tiles that decorate its interior in a wide variety of floral and geometric patterns. It's a definite deviation from Mimar Sinan's usual style, which favored the structure rather than its internal decoration.

Previous travelers commented that this more hidden sight is a definite stop for anyone interested in Islamic art and Ottoman architecture. They add the design impresses deeply with its hand-painted tilework as well as its majestic dome. Travelers have also commented that the mosque is a welcome respite from Istanbul's busy streets.

Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi) Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi)

Topkapi Palace served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans from 1478 to 1856 and is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. It officially became a museum in 1924, shortly after the end of the Ottoman era, and features brilliant architecture, manicured courtyards and extensive weaponry, porcelain, cutlery, art and fabric collections.

Previous visitors loved admiring the palace's architecture and perusing its exhibits, saying you'll need several hours to take in everything there is to see. Popular exhibits include the kitchens, the calligraphy area and the armaments room. Many also recommend strolling through the property's gardens and refueling at the on-site coffee shop, where picturesque views of the Golden Horn await you.

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Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri) Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri)

At the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, which opened near the Topkapi Palace Museum  in 1869, you'll find more than a million antiquities displayed throughout three buildings: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum and the Tiled Kiosk Museum. Exhibitions offer a wealth of artifacts from the Assyrian, Hittite, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations.

Travelers have commented on the beauty of the museum structures themselves and appreciated the vast collection at this underrated museum. Others recommended seeing the Sarcophagus of Alexander, a highlight in the collection.

The Beyoglu Neighborhood The Beyoglu Neighborhood

The heart of Istanbul's local life, Beyoglu, once known as Pera, was the center of European aristocratic settlement during the Ottoman era. The neoclassical architecture of its structures all speak of this past. Starting with the new Ataturk Cultural Center  in the famous Taksim Square, the equally famous Istiklal Avenue stretches all the way to Tünel Square, where the historic Tünel funicular station is located as one of the world's oldest subterranean urban railways.

When walking down Istiklal, make sure to stop and explore the many historic shopping arcades, restaurants, art galleries and churches hidden in the side streets. Standouts include the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, the city's largest Catholic Church; the Istanbul Cinema Museum , exhibiting the history of Turkish cinema inside a stunning former mansion from the 19th century; and the art gallery Casa Botter inside a renovated and repurposed art nouveau apartment building from the 1900s.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Certainly one of Istanbul's most iconic structures, the Galata Tower was first built during the Byzantine era, rebuilt by the Genoese, who gave it the stone mesh exterior it still possesses today, and later used as a prison during the Ottoman period. Today, the tower welcomes visitors who can climb to the top to enjoy a gorgeous 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Travelers have remarked that the tower is located in the city's "coolest" neighborhood and noted that the view from the top is especially amazing at night. Others commented that the tower itself is beautiful, though they felt the steep entry fee wasn't worth the experience.

Dolmabahce Palace Dolmabahce Palace

Sitting along the Bosphorus near the Kabatas tram stop and the Besiktas  ferry port, Dolmabahçe Palace's jaw-dropping beauty and historical importance impresses visitors. Built in the 19th century, the palace was used by the final Ottoman sultans as their primary residence and administrative seat. The interior and exterior architecture showcase a mix of European and Ottoman designs that can only be found at this global crossroad. Make sure to also visit the National Painting Museum next door (included in the ticket), which showcases around 200 paintings from the palace's collection that spans Turkish and international artists from the 19th century.

Past travelers were wowed by the palace's extravagant interior, although some wished photography was permitted and felt tours were rushed and lacked information. Several visitors also reported long ticket lines, and the property's website  cautions that the ticket office closes early once all passes have been distributed for the day, so plan on arriving early.

The Besiktas Neighborhood The Besiktas Neighborhood

After exploring the Dolmabahçe Palace , a stroll in the Besiktas neighborhood at large is a great way to delve into local life, away from the tourist highlights. Walk up Süleyman Seba Avenue to reach Akaretler, the 19th-century row houses originally built for those who worked at Dolmabahçe Palace. They're now filled with modern shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Stroll down Çiragan Avenue to reach Yildiz Park, one of the city's largest public parks with two Ottoman-era pavilions that now serve as cafes and enjoy some time away from the crowds. Right across the park, gaze at one of Istanbul's most iconic hotels with its ornate gates, the Çiragan Palace Kempinski, inside a former Ottoman palace. If you still have the energy, continue on Çiragan Avenue to Ortaköy Square to enjoy a waterfront view of the famous Bosphorus Bridge with the Ortaköy Mosque built in the 1850s right before it.

The best way to reach Besiktas is via bus, however, the neighborhood also has its own ferry port with transfers available from Eminönü (Old City).

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The Nisantasi Neighborhood The Nisantasi Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure to visit Kalyon Kültür , an art and culture space inside a beautifully renovated Ottoman mansion built in 1889. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

It's in this neighborhood that you'll find the city's residents shopping for the latest collections from Turkish and international designers. Apart from Beymen , Turkey's most exclusive department store, you'll also find brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Chanel plus the atelier and showrooms of some of Istanbul's most important fashion designers. The neighborhood is, however, also home to brands such as Gap, Massimo Dutti, Zara and Marks & Spencer, pleasing shopping crowds of all budgets in one go.

Galataport Galataport

Much more than the world's first underground cruise ship terminal, Galataport is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops and a wide boardwalk that all face the Bosphorus. Apart from Istanbul Modern , Galataport's other cultural offering is the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture , designed by the famed Turkish architect Emre Arolat's firm. It has a vast collection that presents Turkish art from the late 19th-century Ottoman period to the end of the 20th century. The port is also home to the luxurious Peninsula Hotel; three of its four buildings are renovated heritage structures overlooking the Old City.

Travelers have remarked that the port is modern and has lots of branded storefronts and restaurants and that the views are incredible. They add that the modern design of Galataport and the historic architecture of nearby structures gives visitors the best of both worlds.

Istanbul Modern Istanbul Modern

Inside a stunning waterfront structure by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Istanbul Modern is the city's most important hub for contemporary art with its permanent and temporary exhibitions. The collection focuses mainly on pioneering Turkish artists and also includes a photography collection. Make sure to visit the museum's rooftop that faces the Bosphorus and the Old City and features shallow pools that reflect the horizon.

Previous visitors have commended the large variety of artworks, including all types of art, media, sculpture and interactive exhibits. Other guests recommended the rooftop and its fantastic view of the historic city center.

The Kadiköy Neighborhood The Kadiköy Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Heading to Kadiköy Market? Start your journey on Günesli Bahçe Street and then get lost among the offerings, especially the many little eateries selling street food. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Istanbul's Asian side (or Anatolian side as the locals like to say) is often completely overlooked by tourists, but it's the perfect locale for those who want to have a genuine local experience. Kadiköy is very down-to-earth and still very Turkish, largely untouched by the cosmopolitan air that is prevalent on the European side. After arriving at the Kadiköy ferry station, the first stop should be the vast Kadiköy Market, a network of interconnected streets that are filled with vendors selling everything from fresh fish to produce, cheeses to pickled vegetables, coffee to nuts, offal to honey and so much more.

Beylerybeyi Palace Beylerybeyi Palace

Another hidden gem Istanbul's Anatolian (Asian) side, the breathtakingly ornate Beylerbeyi Palace was built between 1863 and 1865 under the order of Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz. It served as a summer residence and state guesthouse. The waterfront palace was designed by Sarkis Balyan, who, along with other members of the Armenian Balyan family, designed such other icons as the Dolmabahçe  and Çiragan Palaces. A confluence of Western and Eastern architectural styles, the interior of the lavish palace is filled with Turkish Hereke carpets; French Baccarat crystal chandeliers; and Chinese, Japanese, French and German ceramics, to name a few.

Previous travelers were astounded by the beauty and design of the palace, which exhibited wonderful craftsmanship. The palace's coffee shop was also recommended due to the stunning Bosphorus view.

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Büyükada Büyükada

U.S. News Insider Tip: This island is very popular on the weekends, so if you'd rather avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

The largest of Istanbul's Princes' Islands is certainly its most popular and is the best way to really take a break from the city's endearingly chaotic energy. Büyükada (which literally translates to 'large island') was a popular getaway for Istanbul's prosperous Greeks, Jews and Armenians who had lavish summer mansions built to accommodate their vacationing needs. Nowadays, these Ottoman-era mansions are some of the most important attractions on the island, and locals and visitors alike arrive in droves to stroll along the streets to gaze up at the historic architecture. Some of the most notable houses are located on Çankaya Avenue.

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25 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

From historic squares to the Grand Bazaar, there's much to do in the Turkish metropolis.

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Surely there has never been a dull moment in Istanbul . An imperial capital for 1,700 years, the metropolis has long stood as a gateway between the East and West, and that has made it a hub for crossing cultures, religions, ideologies, and cuisine. And the legacy of the city — formerly Constantinople — has withstood the test of time. "It is a city with an incredible depth of culture, and history like no other," says Liam Dunch, product manager of Abercrombie & Kent, Europe. "Discovery through the stratification and the layers will be constant and unending. Observing the way that people of the city blend together the notions of the East and those of the West is an incredible experience."

Mina Agnos, president of Travelive and a Travel and Leisure A-List Advisor , agrees that the bustling city is a quintessential destination for anyone aiming to understand Turkey. "Every visit to Turkey either starts or ends with Istanbul," she adds. "It is a uniquely diverse city with so many unforgettable sites to discover." Read on to learn what these experts name as the best things to do in Istanbul.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Istanbul of 2023

Experience Taksim Square.

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Taksim Square is in the heart of modern Istanbul, perched at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. Past meets present here; at one end you have the grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Ataturk Cultural Center . This is where the hum of Istanbul’s activity vibrates at its highest level.

Stroll down Istiklal Caddesi.

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Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak in the vibe of Istanbul. It is one of the most famous thoroughfares in the country today and is flanked by both Ottoman-era buildings and Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sample Turkish kebab.

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Turkish cuisine includes a dizzying array of grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich desserts, coffee, and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you will want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps Turkish kebab especially. Made of marinated lamb or beef, the kebab is cooked on skewers and served alongside vegetables or wrapped up in lavash bread.

Visit the Galata Tower.

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Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands today, however, dates back to the 13th century and serves as a gallery and museum. A primary feature of the tower is a 360-degree observation deck that overlooks Istanbul.

Shop and party in Beyoglu.

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"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historic district," says Agnos. "This side of the city is considered more 'Western' and it includes nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts such as Beyoglu and Karakoy. Beyoglu is famous for its vibrant atmosphere; this area offers wonderful stops for shopping, dining, and nightlife." It's likely you will spend a lot of time in Beyoglu should you travel to Istanbul. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the neighborhood is the beating heart of modern Istanbul on the European side of the city.

Grab a drink at Grand Hotel de Londres.

A grande dame of Istanbul, Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. It's all about opulence here, from the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to plush wall-to-wall carpeting. The terrace bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals; there's often live music here, plus beautiful sunset views over the Golden Horn. "This is a good suggestion for travelers that have been to Istanbul," says Agnos. "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to really feel the vibe of the city."

Explore Karakoy.

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"Karakoy, the modern name for the old Galata, is part of the Beyoglu district," says Agnos. "It is known as one of the hippest and oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, home to arty cafes, local boutiques, cocktail bars open late into the night, and art galleries. There is a growing local fashion and art scene in this area."

Marvel at the Blue Mosque.

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city skyline. It is known for its gorgeous domes and six soaring minaret towers. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.

Visit Hagia Sophia.

Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted to a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey, and it remains one of the most important monuments for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Roam the Hippodrome.

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Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot racing, and the Hippodrome was where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. While the original venue is no longer around, what stands in its place is Sultanahmet Square, where several monuments serve as reminders of the area's millennia-old past.

Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, being the first in the country to showcase Turkish and Islamic artwork together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire period. The museum has 1,700 pieces of art, and its carpet collection is among the most impressive in the world.

Journey underground at the Basilica Cistern.

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Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues underneath the pavement, too, thanks to masterpieces of engineering and infrastructure. The primary water reservoir for Constantinople, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to see. Built during the 4th century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold up to 17.5 million gallons of water.

Visit Topkapi Palace.

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This 15th-century palace was once the administrative headquarters for the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the venue is full of treasures, from walls festooned with gorgeous paintings to rooms that give way to sumptuous courtyards — you can even explore the opulent former harem. It's one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Check out the Süleymaniye Mosque.

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Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques, and Süleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered the masterpiece of architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Süleyman, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The central dome stands at a staggering 154 feet tall and the interior is beautifully decorated with colors of gold, green, red, and blue.

Ferry to Istanbul’s Asian side.

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Istanbul stands as an important crossroads between Europe and Asia, and the city itself is divided between the two continents by the Bosphorus Strait. Be sure to immerse yourself in both sides of this rich city in order to best understand its history. There are more than 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.

Admire Beylerbeyi Palace.

Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a 19th-century estate built as a summer palace for royalty. It was also used as a residence for visiting heads of state. The now-museum is a gorgeous example of interior design and architecture, with nods to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. The stunning gardens that surround the palace are equally impressive.

Shop around Kadikoy Market.

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Kadikoy Market is part of a buzzy bazaar on Istanbul's Asian side. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, home to more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles, and paintings. It is also one of the best spots in the city to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delights, a jelly candy made with rosewater.

Walk the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.

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Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the most lively and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul's Asian side, and it has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll see mosques, churches, and synagogues here, plus the neighborhood's funky mishmash of coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and brightly colored historic homes.

Bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

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Prepare to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul contains a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell everything you could possibly think of, so if you're a professional at haggling, this will be like your Super Bowl.

Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

Wellness has been "on trend" in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness with a visit to the iconic Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and serves as one of the top spots in the city for a classic hamam ritual today. Remember to book accordingly — the hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pege.

This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends tied to it, thanks to a spring that is believed to have magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in city views.

Connect with the local community.

If you like to step into the shoes of a local when you travel, you can do that in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the island village of Bozcaada in August to harvest and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest that occurs between September 15 and December 25.

Enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Istanbul may be a cosmopolitan city, but it is surrounded by nature at every turn, with coastal views, island-style living, forests, and parks. "There are many seaside promenades where locals walk, run, or socialize and hang out," says Dunch. "From early June to the end of September, public beaches on the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara are open." Dunch also recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer, or visiting Belgrad Forest, north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."

Discover your favorite ‘esnaf lokantası’.

Istanbul has some of the top restaurants in Europe, but local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart. "I recommend eating at a craftsmen's eatery," said Dunch. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası,' frequented by shopkeepers and craftsmen in commercially vibrant areas, such as the markets, and they offer underrated and extremely tasty home-style cooking. This is as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."

Be entertained at Bomontiada.

The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for the arts. There's the Ara Güler Museum, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making this the place to go for all forms of entertainment. It also happens to be housed within the once-abandoned Bomonti beer factory, and it was integral to helping redefine this formerly desolate part of the city.

How to Spend the Perfect 3 days in Istanbul Itinerary

By: Author Contributor

Posted on Last updated: 6th July 2023

Categories Itineraries , Turkey

Last Updated on 6th July 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Dreaming of spending some days in Istanbul? This mesmerising city that spans between Europe and Asia is a wonderful destination all year round. If you are planning a short visit to this city on the coast of the Bosphorus, then bookmark this itinerary for 3 days in Istanbul so as not to miss any of the highlights in town.

The most remarkable city in Turkey (although not the capital of the country) receives thousands of visitors from all over the world eater to explore its unique wonders, such as the awe-inspiring mosques, the delicious bazaars, and some of the most sumptuous palaces in the region. 

Things to Know about Istanbul, Turkey

The history of istanbul, getting to istanbul, where to stay in istanbul, is 3 days enough time to visit istanbul, suggested itinerary for 3 days in istanbul, the blue mosque, hagia sofia, basilica cistern, topkapı palace, sultan süleyman hamam – suleyman palace, dinner cruise on the bosphorus, grand bazaar (kapalı çarşı), arasta bazaar (arasta çarşısı) , beyazit book market (beyazıt sahaflar çarşısı), the egyptian bazaar (mısır çarşısı), the new mosque, lunch by the galata bridge: balık ekmek, karaköy, galata tower, dinner in beşiktaş district, asian side of istanbul and istiklal caddesi, kadıköy, kadıköy market (kadıköy çarşısı), afternoon in istiklal caddesi, the flower passage, whirling dervishes, end your day in taksim square.

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey as well as the most important cultural and economic center in the country, lying both in Europe and Asia, Istanbul has a large population (over 15 million people) and it is also among the fifteenth largest cities in the world. 

This might give you the impression that a three-day tour of the city might never be enough, however, the city’s must-visit landmarks mostly concentrate on the European side, which is easy to explore relying on public transport.

Although many people mistake this impressive city for the capital of the country, the actual capital of Turkey is Ankara, located in the central part of Anatolia, and it is Turkey’s second-largest city after Istanbul. Other popular spots in Turkiye include Fethiye and Cappadocia (check out how to spend 3 days in Cappadocia here ).

Born under the name of Byzantium, the city was founded during the seventh century by Greek settlers. Later on in history, it became the capital of the Roman Empire (330 AD) and its new name was Constantinople, the city of Constantine the Great.

One of the most important spots along the Silk Road (connecting Asia and Europe) as well as among the most influential cities in history, Constantinople grew through the years expanding towards both sides of the Bosphorus. 

Capital of the Late Byzantine Empire from 1261 until 1453, the city fell to the Ottoman Empire (Fall of Constantinople), becoming then the seat of the Ottoman Caliphate (1453-1922).

Istanbul was then the capital of Turkey and it was replaced by Ankara in 1923 when the country became the Republic of Turkey. A few years later, in 1930, the city’s name was transformed into Istanbul. The city is a modern and developed hub with a rich cultural heritage hosting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There are two international airports in the city, one located on the Asiatic part of the city, Sabiha Gökçen International, located 45 kilometers southeast of the city center. Istanbul New Airport which replaces the former Atatürk Airport is around 50 km from the center of the city.

There are different options to travel from the airport (any of them- there are multiple airports in Istanbul) to the city centre, a taxi ride can take from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the traffic. Prices range from €50 to €70 and it is a good idea to book it before the trip.

There are also buses connecting both airports to the city centre, a one-way ticket is about €20  minutes to reach the centre of Istanbul. Prices range between 10 and 35 Turkey Liras depending on the stops, the time of the day, and the route covered.

Those who visit Istanbul for the first time might be surprised at the affordable fees they will pay even when choosing to stay in a top-rated hotel.

Accommodation, food, and entertainment are some of those key things that are still very affordable for visitors when you consider the favourable currency exchange rate between the Turkish Lira and the Euro (or the US Dollar).

If you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time, it is a good idea to stay in the more central areas of the city, such as Taksim Square, a major bus hub in Istanbul, home to hotels, restaurants, and a few interesting attractions. 

Another great place to stay in the city center is the Sultanahmet district, where you will be able to visit some of the most remarkable mosques and other religious buildings in town.

If you’re staying in Istanbul for three days, do consider the following hotels in town:

Budget – Best Point Hotel Old City – Best Group Hotels : The hotel is located in the heart of the Sultanahmet area, in the district of Fatih, within walking distance from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range – Haci Bayram Hotel : Situated in the heart of Sultanahmet, this accommodation boasts a gorgeous terrace with great views of Istanbul as well as a paid airport shuttle service. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury – Azra Sultan Hotel and Spa : This place is conveniently close to the stunning Basilica Cistern, in the Sultanahmet district. It is a 4-star hotel offering free parking and currency exchange services for guests. Check prices and availability here.

The short answer is yes, 3 days is sufficient time to get to see the main attractions of Istanbul, though the longer answer is that 72 hours isn’t really enough time if you truly want to get to know the Turkish city on a more local level. As such, 5 or 6 days is a better amount of time to allot to exploring the city if you’re able to!

Day 1: Sultanahmet District

Start your day by heading to Sultanahmet Square to discover the magnificent Blue Mosque, the best-known place of prayer in Istanbul. If you are planning to visit both The Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia, consider booking a guided tour like this one.

The Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is an active Ottoman imperial mosque built between 1609 and 1616, containing the tomb of ruler Ahmed I as well as a madrasah (Coran school) and a hospice.

The name Blue Mosque refers to the thousands of hand-painted blue tiles that decorate the interior of the building. The imposing mosque features five main domes as well as six minarets. The place has been included on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1985 as a Historic Area of Istanbul.

To visit the mosque, you will need to remove your shoes. If you are a female visitor, you will also need to cover your head and wear a special long skirt that they provide free of charge. This is the main mosque in the city open for visits outside of the hours of prayer.

Just across the street from the Blue Mosque, this building was born as the largest Christian Cathedral in the world, commissioned in the sixth century by Emperor Justinian the Great. 

It was the biggest Greek orthodox church in the world as well as the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years (until 1507 when the Seville Cathedral in Spain was completed). 

When the city fell to the Ottoman Empire (fifteenth century), Hagia Sofia was transformed into a mosque with the addition of minarets and the removal of several Christian icons. Most of the Christian mosaics, though, are still visible in many areas of the former church.

It functioned as a mosque until 1931. The building was made into a secular museum in 1935. In recent years, however, (July 2020) the decision to establish a museum was suppressed and Hagia Sophia was reclassified as a mosque, a controversial fact received with a great deal of skepticism by the opposition, UNESCO, and the Orthodox community around the world.

From the Christian Era, pay attention to the intricate remarkable vaulted dome, the basket capitals carved with monograms of Justinian, as well as the marble columns and walls.

Some of the most remarkable Muslim traits of Hagia Sofia include the mihrab located in the apse where the altar used to stand, pointing towards Mecca, which is flanked by two immense candlesticks made in Hungary.

Descend 52 stone steps to enter the third stop of your first morning in Istanbul. The Basilica Cistern is an incredible place just meters from Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque, also in the Sultanahmet district. You can also book this Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour if you want to discover the complex with a guide. 

Locally known as the subterranean cistern ( Yerebatan Sarnıcı in Turkish), the impressive complex hosts the largest of a network made of several hundred ancient cisterns (built to catch and keep rainwater) located underneath the city of Istanbul.

The cistern dates from the sixth century, and its construction was ordered by Emperor Justinian the Great. Originally located under a large public square, known as the Stoa Basilica, it receives the name from this former public market in town where there was also a basilica from the early Christian Roman ages. 

The cistern included a water filtration system that was used to feed fresh water to some of the best palaces in town until recent times while it is capable of holding about 80,000 cubic meters) of water.

Among the most unique features, there are more than 300 marble columns sustaining the ceiling, some of them with curious engravings. 

On the western area of the underground building, you will find two of the most visited spots in the Cistern which are the bases of two columns carved with the face of Medusa, a mythological creature. The two blocks are oriented sideways and inverted as a means to negate the deadly power of the creature’s gaze.

After visiting these three gorgeous places, it is a good idea to stop for lunch and a rest before heading to the second part of the day. 

In the area, you can enjoy a quick bite and some street food such as grilled corn, roasted chestnuts, steamed spicy mussels, or a portion of lahmacun. Alternatively, you can go for a doner kebab in one of the many small restaurants behind Sultanahmet Square.

Less than a ten-minute walk from Hagia Sofia stands another magnificent landmark in the city, Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı in Turkish) which was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from the mid-1400s until another monumental palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, was finished (1856). 

Until the 1800s, this palace was also the official and main residence of the sultanate of Istanbul. The place, originally known as New Palace, was named Topkapı (Cannon Palace) in more recent years.

The lavish complex features four important courtyards and several smaller buildings, with a harem especially created for the female members of the Sultan’s family. 

The palace was made into a museum back in 1924, with dozens of interesting exhibitions, such as Ottoman clothing, military weapons, miniatures, religious objects, manuscripts, and more. 

Being part of the Historic Areas of Istanbul, also Topkapı has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once again, you can go on a guided tour of this Istanbul attraction. Check prices and availability here.

What about spending the next few hours relaxing at a Turkish Public Bath?

A great spot for a relaxing end of the day in Istanbul before heading out for dinner is this spectacular hammam bath complex open to the public features a sauna area, therapeutic massages, hot baths, cold plunge pools, salt room, mud therapy, and the antique technique of scrub foam massage.

For more information about what to bring for your visit and what free services they offer, head to the official website and find out all you need to know to get ready for this relaxing experience.

Arguably the most romantic way to finish the first day in town is to embark on a cruise on the Golden Horn and explore both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul from the water.

During the experience, you will be welcome with a delicious drink to sip while taking in the spectacular views of the city, along the way, you will also pass under the Bosphorus Bridge and Fatih Sultan Mehmed Bridge. 

You will admire the Ottoman splendor of the former summer palaces including Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi Palaces, the fortifications of the Anatolian Castle and marvel at the impressive mansions along the coast of the Bosphorus.

During the evening, there is normally a music show and a dinner with international and local cuisine. For instance, this particular cruise includes a delicious 3-course dinner, free local drinks, and a diverse program of traditional entertainment on board.

Day 2: Bazaars and Karaköy

Today we will devote the morning to exploring a few of the amazing bazaars and markets in the city, to then reach the Galata bridge for a mouthwatering fish lunch. Then we will visit the Galata Tower as well as other lesser-known districts in Istanbul. 

A place like no other in town, this ancient covered market sells fresh products, spices, household objects and appliances, trinkets and jewelry, lamps, carpets, and a lot more. Keeps in mind that prices will always be negotiable, as this is considered a refined art that the Turkish stand owners enjoy putting into practice with locals and visitors alike. 

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest bazaars in Istanbul. It is located in the Fatih district and it features an impressive series of 60 narrow streets with more than 3600 shops. You could visit every day for a whole year and still not become an expert here. 

A covered bazaar is an excellent place where to start your perfect Istanbul-souvenir hunt. Filled with all types of things on sale, you’ll certainly find the right city memory to take home with you. 

Keep in mind that the most popular objects as well as the things that tourist love to take back home are often overpriced, so avoid the tourist trap price tag and bargain until you get the best deal. 

Among such souvenirs, there are kilims, a high-quality, handwoven carpet, colorful glass lamps, gold and silver jewelry, spices, sweets, nuts, and dried fruits.

A small version of the Grand Bazaar, the Arasta Bazaar is a market located right behind the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet. 

This is a quiet place mostly visited by locals and with affordable prices, ideal to find original souvenirs, but also Turkish gastronomic products, handcrafts, and clothes. 

Also in the Fatih area, near Sultanahmet Square, this is a different kind of market, catering to book lovers. Although a big number of the books sold in this bazaar are religious ones, you will also find second-hand cuisine books, ancient titles, and even the odd modern Turkish best-sellers.

Leather-covered notebooks, prayer beads, wood-carved objects, paintings, and even Oriental perfumes are also on display in the different stalls of this market that is located in a gorgeous courtyard.

Going also under the name of the Spice Bazaar, this public market was built after the Great Fire of Istanbul (1660) to feature spices coming from Egypt.

Known for its enigmatic perfumes and colorful spices on display, those who enjoy cooking would be willing to spend hours over here purchasing unique spices and dried herbs. There are also other exotic condiments as well as fruit teas, Turkish delight, and natural cosmetics.

Inside the market, there is also a lesser-known small fish market as well as other stands selling home and garden tools and supplies for pet owners. The market is also in Fatih, surrounded by endless small streets with plenty of affordable fashion shops.

After you leave the Egyptian Bazaar, and enter the Eminönü quarter, head towards the sea, and before stopping for lunch, pay a visit to Yeni Camii, also known as The New Mosque

Another Ottoman imperial mosque, Yeni Camii was completed between 1660 and 1665. It is located facing the Golden Horn and part of the Bosphorus, only steps from the famous Galata Bridge and it is deemed a great architectural example of the Sultanate of Women period.

During this moment in the history of the Ottoman Empire, wives and mothers of the Sultans had extraordinary political influence. Proof of that is the original name of the mosque, Valide Sultan Camii (that roughly translates as Sultan Mother or Queen Mother Mosque).

Another highlight of the Eminönü quarter is the Gülhane Park, which lies adjacent to the Topkapı Palace. Today it remains one of the oldest and largest parks in the city.

You can enjoy the most iconic dish in town opposite the courtyard of the New Mosque. Right on the Golden Horn, there is a series of small floating restaurants (better described as floating kitchens) specialised in cooking and serving only one dish, the most traditional food you can savour in Istanbul: Balık ekmek.

This mouthwatering snack is quite generous and it will be a great lunch option before heading to cross the Galata Bridge on foot. Made with grilled whiting or mackerel, the sandwich also comes with fresh lettuce, onions, spices, herbs, and a few drops of lemon juice and is served between two thick slices of fresh bread.

This is the place where most locals come for lunch, any day of the week, although the weekends are extremely crowded and finding a place to seat is almost impossible. Worry not, I’ve always eaten my Balık ekmek standing and looking at the sea. It is a priceless experience and a must-do in Istanbul.

Once you cross the Galata Bridge, and therefore the Golden Horn, you will be in the Karaköy area of Istanbul, however, before getting lost in the streets of this neighborhood, and right after you’ve crossed the bridge, look back towards the New Mosque for a breathtaking view of the city’s ancient mosques and modern bridges.

Formerly known as Galata, this was a citadel and colony of the Republic of Genoa back between the end of the 1200s and 1453. Today, the whole area has been named Karaköy and it remains the most commercial part of the Beyoğlu district, still in the European area of Istanbul. 

When checking out the narrow alleys around the neighborhood, you will find dozens of interesting boutiques and vintage stores selling the famous silk headscarves and neckerchiefs from Bursa.

The place was better known for its popular port where immigrants would settle and commerce, since those times, this has been one of Istanbul’s melting pots, where there are religious buildings of different faiths, including Latin Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Bulgarian and Armenian churches, Jewish synagogues and international schools, including Italian, Austrian, Greek and Jewish schools.

The undiscussed star in this part of Istanbul is the medieval Galata Tower, with its really distinctive conical roof shaping the Karaköy skyline. 

Built by the important Genoese community that lived in the area in medieval times, the tower was named after the previous name of the quarter where it was located (Galata, today known as Karaköy).

This seaside watchtower, with a strategic observation deck, is now an important exhibition center and city museum as well as one of the most characteristic symbols of Istanbul. 

Originally built following the Romanesque style, the tower was for centuries the tallest building in Constantinople (more than 65 meters high). 

After the fall of the Byzantine Roman Empire, when the local Genoese colony dispersed and the Ottoman Empire took over, it also served as a prison for much of the sixteenth century. 

Later on, the tower also served useful purposes being used as an observation tower to watch for fires in the center of Old Istanbul. 

Although part of its roof was lost during a heavy storm, the tower regained its ancient magnificence when it was restored between 1965 and 1967. Since 2020, the Galata Tower has been functioning as a city museum.

Fans of soccer might know the Beşiktaş name as the area is home to one of Turkey’s most famous soccer teams, however, contrary to soccer fans’ beliefs, there is much more than sports when it comes to Beşiktaş.

The picturesque neighborhood, on the European side of the Bosphorus, is easily reached from Karaköy by public transport (the journey from Galata Tower lasts around 10 minutes).

Among the important sites located in this district, is the famous Dolmabahçe Palace which was the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire through different historical periods. North of Beşiktaş, the Bebek area is a charming sport, with picturesque alleys and colorful wooden houses.

Heading here at night is great to dine like locals at a typical Bursa Iskender restaurant. Affordable and delicious, these typical Turkish restaurants serve a variety of delicious dishes, some of them originating in the region of Bursa. 

There are dozens of traditional eateries along Barbaros Boulevard and the alleys that cross this main street, pick any of them and enjoy a round of authentic Turkish delicacies for a convenient fee. 

Avoid visiting when the local soccer team plays, as it will be impossible to find a place to sit!

Day 3: Lesser-Known Istanbul

Early wake up to visit the opposite side of the Bosphorus Strait and explore a lesser-known part of Istanbul, also known as the Anatolian Side. Be aware that crossing is very simple even if you’re traveling to another continent, you won’t need a visa or any other special document.

You could get there by Metrobus, ferry or the subway, probably the fastest way to cross. The metro is called Marmaray and you can take it at Sirkeci Station, and get off directly in the Kadıköy district, on the Asian side.

Alternatively, both the hop-on-hop-off bus and public buses take a scenic road crossing over the suspension bridge that goes from the Ortaköy district (European side) to the Uskudar district (Asian side).

Crossing by ferry offers a great opportunity for sightseeing, as you sail towards Asia, you can check out the whole Bosphorus Strait, the several bridges, and the modern skyline of Istanbul dotted with ancient minarets from the several mosques and ancient towers. 

The ride is about 30 minutes. The ferry leaves from Eminönü or Karaköy districts (European side) to Kadıköy or Uskudar districts (Asian side).

There are a few sites to visit in this part of Istanbul, start by heading to Kadıköy, to check out the modern town and the famous Moda neighborhood, which has been included in the list of the coolest neighborhoods in the world. 

Over here, you will find plenty of restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and tons of colorful streets and graffiti, plus endless shopping opportunities. As you would expect, the vibe is definitely more relaxed and authentic on the Asian side of Istanbul.

A wonderful market to visit in Istanbul, Kadıköy Çarşısı offers a more authentic and realistic image of Istanbul. You will find lots of stalls selling fresh produce, as well as bargain shops with clothes, shoes, bags, and more. 

Prices are more convenient than on the European side, so this is where most Istanbul residents come for their shopping needs.

The Asian side is also a great place for lunch, you can hang out in the small food stalls at the market, or choose any of the several restaurants in Kadıköy for an affordable yet delicious meal before heading back to Europe. According to the locals, this area of Istanbul has the best restaurants in the whole of Istanbul.

Back in Europe, it’s time to discover the most famous street in Istanbul, Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Street). Get ready to walk, ride an iconic tram, and maybe do some shopping too.

The easiest way to reach this famous Istanbul street is to first get to Taksim Square (either by bus or tram) and then head to the area. If you like nostalgic rides, instead, it is a good idea to get to Karaköy first, and once there, jump on the nineteenth-century red underground funicular and get off at Tünel Square. 

From here, you can start your walk along Istiklal Street, or where you can take the so-called Nostaljik Tramvay (often very crowded) that runs on this street. If you’re in the mood, you can do both!

Although the city is quite safe in general, this is among the most crowded places you will find during your trip, so wear a safe crossbody bag, and keep your personal belongings close to you. Don’t be scared, just take the same precautions you would take in any other big and crowded tourist spot you might visit.

Along the street, you will find the obvious fashion shops and some international brands, bars and cafeterias, and a few restaurants as well as plenty of souvenir shops. 

However, the best shops on this street are some vintage and second-hand bookstores, historic cinemas, charming covered passages, two Catholic churches, and fine Art Nouveau buildings. 

One such place is the magnificent Cité de Pera or Çiçek Pasajı, usually known as the Flower Passage to tourists. This is a Parisian-style arcade that opened back in 1876, and it was designed respecting the Art Nouveau architectural style. 

The Flower Passage got its name because Russian refugees living in Istanbul would sell flowers inside the gallery. Today, there are chic stores and elegant cafeterias where you can sit and rest after a walk along Istiklal Street. It’s a good idea to sit at one of the coffee bars and order a cup of Turkish apple tea.

What about experiencing one of the most traditional sights of the country’s culture by attending a Whirling Dervishes dance?  This show takes you on a journey into the Mevlevi Sema spiritual experience through dance. During the show, there are complimentary drinks served as well.

Once inside the 550-year-old Ottoman Turkish bath in Sultanahmet-Sirkeci,  now Hodja Pasha Cultural Center, you will experience this ancient ritual that’s more than 800 years old.

The hour-long performance starts with a classical Turkish music concert. Then, the dervishes and sheik dance and chant to the rhythm of drums and a complex musical repertoire called ayin. 

The mystical act represents the man’s spiritual ascent and ends with a prayer for the salvation of the country. This is an ancient ritual and one of the most authentic experiences you can live in the city. During the show, there are complimentary drinks served as well.

Lively, busy, and popular, Taksim Square is the most important square in town where you can spend the last night in Istanbul. 

Start by checking out the remarkable monuments that adorn the area, including the beloved Republic Monument which commemorates the formation of the Turkish Republic in 1923.

Around Taksim, there are also dozens of shops as well as restaurants and bakeries selling some of Turkey’s best-known sweets, including baklava and Turkish delight (locally known as lokum).

This is a good area for dinner. In most restaurants, you can order anything from a simple selection of mezedes (small dishes with a variety of finger food) , but also doner kebab, lahmacun, and a variety of local sweets.

Enjoyed reading about how to spend 3 days in Istanbul? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book . She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.

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Tuesday 14th of March 2023

Superb post! We're hoping to visit for the first time from BC, Canada very soon. I've pinned your post for future reference. Thanks, Robert :)

3 Days In Istanbul Itinerary

Written By: Sean Lau

Updated On: April 14, 2023

Istanbul, or Constantinople as it was once famously named, was the ancient capital of the Roman and Ottoman Empires. It was referred to as Basileousia, or “Queen of Cities” and even today, it’s easy to see why.

3 days in Istanbul is just enough time to see this vibrant and bustling city is a huge city that spans two continents; Asia and Europe. As the capital of the Roman and Ottoman Empire, you can expect to find a plethora of historic and fascinating attractions, from the iconic Blue Mosque , the ancient Hagia Sophia, the world’s oldest and largest covered market, The Grand Bazaar, and the underground cisterns. In this Istanbul itinerary, you’ll see all of these top attractions and more when you visit this amazing city.

Table of Contents

The Perfect 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

If you only have three days in Istanbul but want to make the most out of your visit, don’t fret. In this three-day Istanbul itinerary, you’ll be able to explore all the major sights that make this great city so magical. We enlisted the help of The Turkey Traveler , the #1 travel blog on all things Turkey-related. Offering insider tips, recommendations, and guides, The Turkey Traveler is your ultimate resource to help you plan the perfect trip when you visit Istanbul Turkey.

So, when you’re ready for the perfect Istanbul Itinerary? Let’s get started…

• Day 1 in Istanbul  – Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Square, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, a Sunset Bosphorus Cruise
• Day 2 in Istanbul – Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Lunch At Eminonu, Galata Bridge, Galata Tower, Istiklal Street and Taksim
• Day 3 in Istanbul  – Turkish Bath (Hammam), Kadikoy, Camlica Mosque, Uskudar

A great way to explore Istanbul is to purchase an Istanbul Card . It is valid for 7 days from the first interaction and includes skip-the-line tickets to Istanbul’s top attractions. It also includes 10 rides for public transportation and vouchers to Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, and a Bosphorus Cruise.

Day 1 – Sultanahmet – Historic Center

There is no better way to start exploring Istanbul than jumping straight into its historic center – Sultanahmet. It is home to some of the most iconic historical landmarks in Turkey – from the Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque. No itinerary is complete without a visit to this neighborhood.

After enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast, you’ll have plenty of energy to explore the old city. Better known as Kahvalti, a Turkish breakfast consists of cured meats and dips, fresh cheeses, egg, and fresh breads including a Turkish bagel. After the savory you’ll enjoy pastries, honey, and jams.

Hagia Sophia

The most famous landmark in Istanbul is arguably Hagia Sophia, one of the oldest buildings in Istanbul. 

In fact, the building was built in 537, at a time when there was no Istanbul. When it was built, Istanbul was Constantinople, a name given to the city by the Byzantine Empire. For 1,100 years, Constantinople was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. And it wasn’t until 1453 did the Ottoman Empire conquer it and named it Istanbul.

That is why Hagia Sophia was originally a Catholic Cathedral. Once the city was seized by the Ottomans, it was turned into one of the most significant mosques in the city.

In 1934, the mosque was converted into a museum by the government. In 2020, the Hagia Sophia became a functioning mosque again, much to the delight of the Turkish people.

The Hagia Sophia has 4 minarets, which indicates that the mosque was built by the sultan. Its exterior is gorgeous with hints of red and gold, but the interior will amaze you even further. It has massive marble slabs and a 32-meter main dome that exudes nothing but opulence.

• Opening Hours: April to October: 9am to 7 pm daily November to March – 9am to 6pm. (closed on Mondays)
• Free access to Hagia Sophia with  museum pass  or 72TL if paying at the entrance.
• Tram stop  – Sultanahmet

The Blue Mosque

Just minutes away from the historic Hagia Sophia is another one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks – The Blue Mosque also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque. Though the Blue Mosque might look more impressive than the Hagia Sophia, especially with its unintended 6 minarets, the Blue Mosque was only built around 400 years ago.

Parts of the Grand Palace of Constantinople were destroyed to build The Blue Mosque. There isn’t a lot of history to The Blue Mosque, except that it was built by Sultan Ahmed I to boost the morale of the Turkish people after the Fifteen Years’ War .

From the exterior, you might wonder how The Blue Mosque got its name. None of its exterior is blue. Visitors will understand once they step inside this religious landmark how the mosque got its name. 

The dome of the mosque is covered with decorative blue ceramic tiles that feature traditional Ottoman patterns. Along with the Islamic-style ornaments that dot this massive building, the Blue Mosque is simply an architectural masterpiece. 

Though it might not be as historical as Hagia Sophia, its charming decor is going to make you fall in love!

• Opening Hours:  9 am to 7 pm
• Tram Stop  – Sultanahmet
• Read our tips for visiting  Istanbul’s Blue Mosque. 

Sultanahmet Square

After visiting the two most iconic mosques in Istanbul, stroll around Sultanahmet Square. This is the park that connects both The Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque, but it has much more to offer visitors.

Check out the Obelisk of Theodosius, an Egyptian obelisk that was re-erected here in the 4th century AD. 

The park is filled with decorated fountains built during the Ottoman period. They served as drinking water for travelers and a place where Muslims could purify themselves before entering a mosque to pray.

Before the Ottomans took over Istanbul, Sultanahmet Square was a Hippodrome, an ancient Greek stadium for horse racing and chariot racing. That is why you might notice the odd shape of the park. 

Before you head off to the next stop of our 3-day Istanbul itinerary, imagine what it was like back then!

See if you can find a place that sells Turkish Ice Cream, otherwise called dondurma. The Turkish ice cream here comes with a little performance when you buy it, and that alone is worth every penny (or Lira)!

Basilica Cistern

Minutes away from Sultanahmet Square is one of the most essential buildings for the day-to-day life of the Byzantine Empire – the Basilica Cistern. Built in 532 by Emperor Justinian, the Basilica Cistern is the biggest of the hundreds of cisterns that exist beneath Istanbul. 

Many of these cisterns have collapsed over time, but thanks to the Basilica Cistern’s 336 columns and lots of upkeep, the cistern is open to visitors. Most of the columns came from salvaged temples and visitors can still see the carvings on many of them.

The cisterns were an underground reservoir water system that was designed to hold large quantities of water and collect rainwater. This water is then supplied to the entire city so that everyone can have clean water to use. It’s one of the most incredible ancient Greek technologies. This tour  offers skip the ticket lines to enter the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern with a local host.

• Opening Hours:  Wednesday-Monday: 9 am to 7pm (from November to march 9 am to 5pm) Closed on Tuesdays.
• Cost : 72 TL (note this does not include the Harem) To book the Harem, it is another 42 TL)

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was built in 1460 after the conquest of Constantinople to serve as the home and administrative building for the Ottoman sultans. It took a total of 18 years to complete.

The grandeur of the Topkapi Palace is undeniable, but it wasn’t enough for the Ottoman sultans. Starting in the 17th century, the sultans started to prefer spending their time in their palaces along the Bosphorus Strait.

In the mid-19th century, Topkapi Palace was no longer in use and was turned into a museum. Inside, visitors will find tons of exhibits on Turkish history, large courtyards, and beautiful gardens.

But perhaps the most famous section of the Topkapi Palace Museum is the Harem, a private quarter where the female members of the sultan’s family lived. The tiling inside the Harem is equally stunning, if not, more stunning than the ones in the Blue Mosque.

Along with the stained glass windows and intricate patterns throughout the whole interior, the Harem is nothing less than breathtaking. Get a skip the line ticket  that includes a guided tour of the Audience Hall, High Court, Historical Kitchens, and The Treasury.

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

No Istanbul itinerary is complete without enjoying a Bosphorus sunset cruise. The cruise departs from the Golden Horn and cruises around the Bosphorus Strait, one of the most historically important bodies of water.

Today, the Bosphorus Strait acts as the boundary between Europe and Asia, so guests technically get a tour of two continents!

All Bosphorus sunset cruises will showcase some of the most important buildings along the Bosphorus Strait, such as the Dolmabahce Palace and Maiden’s Tower. Guests can also go under the impressive Bosphorus Bridge that connects Istanbul’s European side and Asian sides.

Depending on the type of cruise you’ve selected, there might be food and entertainment on board. We recommend selecting a luxurious Bosphorus dinner cruise, so you can have the chance to sample traditional Turkish food like meze and raki, as well as experience cultural dance like the Whirling Dervishes while sipping on Turkish coffee.

We took a yacht cruise  to take in the sights,  and this cruise  takes you on a 2.5-hour boat cruise of the Bosphorus Strait to see Istanbul’s top attractions including Galata Tower and the Dolmabahçe Palace, both the Asian and European Coasts the Küçüksu Palace which was the hunting lodge of the Ottoman Empire.

Day 2 – Sultanahmet and Taksim

You’ll be walking a lot on the second day of our 3-day Istanbul itinerary, so make sure you wear something comfortable today! On the second day, you’ll finish exploring the sight in Sultanahmet and head across the Galata Bridge into Taksim, the so-called modern center of Istanbul.

Grand Bazaar

Start your second day in Istanbul with one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world – Grand Bazaar. It has an estimated total of 61 streets and over 4000 shops, meaning that visitors can spend an entire day here and probably not see everything.

An i nteresting fact about Grand Bazaar   – it is considered the first shopping mall in the world, which makes it the perfect place to purchase some souvenirs! 

You can find a variety of stuff here – from cheap counterfeits to antiques. But if you are looking for something to remember your trip by, then we recommend getting a nice Turkish rug, a Turkish lantern, or a nazar amulet.

When you are tired from walking up and down the streets, relax in one of the local tea shops. Have a nice Turkish Tea (çay in Turkish) and a local snack before you continue.

If you decide to purchase something (which you totally should), don’t forget to negotiate! The Turkish are very good salesmen and you can pay a lot more than what the item is worth!

• Hours: 10 am to 6pm
• Tram Stop  – Beyazit Kapaliçarsi

Spice Bazaar

Located a few minutes from the Grand Bazaar is the Spice Market. Unlike the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar is rather small. There are only two streets, and they form the letter L.

Constructed in the 17th Century, the Spice Bazaar is much newer than the Grand Bazaar and visitors can immediately tell by the moment they walk in. It is much more modern-looking and elegant than the Grand Bazaar.

But perhaps the most striking feature of the Spice Bazaar is the smell. When you go in, your scent is immediately overwhelmed by the different spices. A mix of sweat, tea, spices, and herbs create a unique smell that is iconic to the Spice Market. If you want to purchase Turkish tea, the Spice Bazaar is a great place to do so. 

• Tram Stop  – Beyazit – Kapaliçarsi

Lunch At Eminonu

Once you have finished your shopping spree in those bazaars, it is time to sample some local foods. Luckily, Eminonu, the neighborhood where the Spice Bazaar is located, is the perfect place to do so.

This bustling neighborhood is a great place to sample Turkish food . Unlike restaurants in Sultanahmet that are targeted toward tourists, the restaurants here attract locals thanks to their affordable prices and simple Turkish flavors. 

The best way to experience Eminonu is to walk around and see what you like. Our favorite restaurant in Eminonu is Sehzade Cag Kebap . Its lamb sis kebap is so rich in flavor and melts in your mouth!

Galata Bridge

After a hearty lunch, it is time to continue exploring Istanbul. Head over to the Galata Bridge, which connects the historic center of Istanbul with its modern center. The bridge spans across the Golden Horn, an iconic body of water and one of the most popular spots for fishing. 

It is not uncommon to see local fishermen lined up from one side of the bridge all the way to the other.

All the fishermen bring forth a ton of seagulls. Combined with the multitude of pedestrians and boats coming from in and out, walking across Galata Bridge is an iconic moment. Though only 490 meters long, it can take a bit of time to get across!

Galata Tower

Perhaps the most famous attraction in the modern center of Istanbul is Galata Tower in the Beyo?lu District. The tower was built in 1348 under the rule of the Byzantine Empire. At 63 meters above the ground, it was the tallest tower back then and served as part of Constantinople’s fortification.

Nowadays, the Galata Tower is one of the best places in Istanbul for panoramic views of the city. From the balcony, you can see Sultanahmet, Golden Horn, Bosphorus Strait,  and even the Asian side of Istanbul on a good day.

Besides admiring the spectacular views, make sure you explore the exhibits that detail the history of the Galata Tower. This tower was an important part of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empire’s history.

• Opening Hours of Galata Tower:  9 am to 7 pm
• Cost : 35 TL

Istiklal Street and Taksim

The last activity on the second day of our 3 days in Istanbul itinerary is to explore Istiklal Street and the Taksim neighborhood.

Istiklal Street is a 1.4-kilometer (0.87-mile) pedestrian-only street in Istanbul that is always bustling. Home to numerous restaurants, trendy bars, and chic cafes, you can spend hours here and not see some of the best things it has to offer.

Here you’ll find the historic Istiklal tram that covers half the span of Istiklal Street. Though it might be tempting to get on it and save yourself some time, the tram could be slower than walking because of all the pedestrian traffic!

The best way to see Istiklal Street is to just walk around and go into any shops that might fancy you. Don’t miss the dessert shops and the chance to try out baklava, the national dessert of 

Turkey. There are many flavors to it but you can’t go wrong with the original pistachio flavor.

As you walk up Istiklal Street, you’ll eventually find yourself in Taksim Square. Many people consider Taksim Square to be the heart of modern Istanbul, and you’ll certainly see a lot more international brands such as Mcdonald’s, Burger King, Marriott, and the likes here.

On the western side of Taksim Square (near the entrance of Istiklal Street) are several doner kebabs shops. If you haven’t gotten the chance to try them yet, this is the place to go. Just expect a long queue and a lot of hungry people shoving around!

Before you leave, enjoy a nice dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants near Taksim. Our favorite is 360 Istanbul, and it has earned its name for the 360-degree views its penthouse offers. 360 Istanbul usually turns into a nice nightlife venue later in the night. 

If you want to check out the nightlife in Istanbul , this is a great place to do so. Otherwise, there are numerous options along Istiklal street!

A great travel tip is to get an  Istanbul Museum Pass   to skip the line to popular museums   like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Harem, Great Palace Mosaics and more popular museums in Istanbul with the guided tour app.  Check out this pass  here.

Day 3 – Asian Side Of Istanbul

Our last day in Istanbul covers the Asian side of Istanbul and also offers something a little more relaxing. 

Turkish Bath (Hammam)

After a long day of walking around Istanbul, I think it is time to relax. Luckily, there is the perfect place in Istanbul to do so – a Turkish Bath, or Hammam in Turkish.

Turkish Baths were an important part of Islamic culture, serving as a place where visitors can cleanse themselves before entering a mosque, and a place where guests can socialize.

Nowadays, a Turkish Bath is more of a relaxing experience where guests can come out completely refreshed and one of the best things to do in Istanbul .

There are plenty of Hammams in Istanbul, but we recommend Ca?alo?lu Hammam. Built in 1741, it is one of the last baths built under the Ottoman Empire. The interior of the Ca?alo?lu Hammam is gorgeous and looks like a museum of its own.

When it comes to experiencing a Turkish Bath, there are many packages to choose from. Depending on how you want to be pampered, you can choose something that is more comprehensive or something shorter.

Before you go, make sure you check out the different packages Ca?alo?lu Hammam offers on their official site !

Now that you’ve experienced the main attractions on Istanbul’s European side, it is time to head over to the Asian side. The Asian side is known for its incredible food and more laid-back lifestyle. With plenty of residential areas, it is one of the best places to stay in Istanbul for families.

Our first stop on the Asian side is Kadikoy, a neighborhood known for its affordable restaurants with authentic flavors. Seafood is a specialty on the Asian side, so don’t miss out on the chance to try some stuffed mussels and fish sandwiches!

Head towards the sub-neighborhood of Moda, where you can find a promenade along the Bosphorus Strait. Go for a short stroll and take in the spectacular views and refreshing sea air before heading to your next destination! 

Camlica Mosque

Built in 2019, the Camlica Mosque is a new attraction you don’t typically find in any guidebooks. But if you are following our Istanbul itinerary, you’ll not miss out on this hidden gem.

The Camlica Mosque is the biggest mosque in all of Turkey and its modern construction makes it a spectacular landmark. Besides being a mosque, it features an art gallery, a library, and a museum.

Everything in the Camlica Mosque just speaks of luxury and opulence.

Don’t miss out on the massive courtyard that boasts spectacular views of the Bosphorus Bridge. Perched on top of a hill, the views from there are stunning. The Camlica Mosque is situated in Camlica Park, a massive green space that is popular for families to enjoy the outdoors. 

If you are still early in the afternoon, spend some time strolling around. You’ll be thankful for some fresh air after the past 2 days on the European Side.

After you are done exploring the Camlica Mosque and its massive grounds, head over to the quaint neighborhood of Uskudar on the Asian Side. This neighborhood is known for its bustling fish markets and a long-stretching promenade with tons of cozy cafes.

Facing west, the shores of this seaside neighborhood is one of the best places to catch the sunset in Istanbul. But what makes Uskudar even more stunning is the historical Maiden’s Tower that sits just a few hundred meters off the shore.

At the right spot, the sun sets behind this Byzantine-era fortification and its silhouette is just spectacular.

After the sun sets, walk around the neighborhood and find a seafood restaurant with a view for dinner!

Where to Stay in Istanbul

• Swissotel The Bosphorus  – This five-star luxury hotel right is in the centre of Istanbul on the European banks of the Bosphorus. It is a perfect location for exploring Istanbul with a rooftop pool and free WiFi. Check out Availability & Prices at  Booking.com / Trip Advisor
• Sura Hagia Sophia  – Located in Sultanahmet, this 5-star hotel is perfectly situated to all the main attractions. The hotel also offers a well-designed garden with an attractive pool area and Free Happy Hour. Check out Availability & Prices Booking.com / Trip Advisor
• Elite World Europe Hotel  – Situated close to the airport, this newly-opened hotel offers luxury at budget prices. Perfect for a layover or to avoid Istanbul traffic if you have a flight leaving in the early morning hours. Check out Availability & Prices  Booking.com / Trip Advisor

Tips For Visiting Istanbul

• Bring comfortable shoes – Istanbul is a city that is best discovered on foot. The city has a nickname of “City on the Seven Hills”, so make sure you bring some comfortable shoes to walk around the city!
• Dress conservatively – Though Turkey is slightly more liberal than most Muslim countries, it is still a Muslim country. Make sure you won’t wear something too revealing. For the mosques, men cannot wear tank tops and their pants must cover their knees. Hats are also not allowed. Women must cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. You’ll need to wear a scarf to cover your head before you enter.
• Be Mindful of the Prayer Times – If you plan on visiting the mosques, make sure you check out the prayer times. Visitors are not welcome during this time.
• Get an Istanbulkart – The Istanbulkart is a necessity when using Istanbul’s transportation system. It is a smart contactless card that is used to pay the fare. You can get one from most major public transportation stations.
• You may also like: Etiquette in the Middle East- Travel for Men and Women

To get to and from the airport, we (Dave and Deb) took  TransferExpert.com . Their services were professional and friendly! It was nice to have a sign with our name on it waiting for us when we landed at the hectic airport.

27 Best Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

• The Blue Mosque of Istanbul and tips for Entry
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: How to Choose the Right Company
• Spa Etiquette – From Stripping to Tipping
• Hammam Spa Tips – Our Surreal Moroccan Massage Experience

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sean Lau

Hey, I am Sean Lau of LivingOutLau and The Turkey Traveler . I left the comfort of my home in NYC to find out what truly inspired me. Since then, I’ve trekked through the Andes, encountered the world’s deadliest spider in the Amazon Rainforest, explored the world’s most catastrophic nuclear disaster, and more. On LivingOutLau, you will find personal information, guides, and travel tips as I share my discoveries of the world. This is me Living Out Loud(Lau). Follow Sean on Facebook / Pinterest / Instagram

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Three Days In Istanbul

By Ashlea Halpern

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Since 2015, tourism in Turkey has been roiled by a failed military coup, devastating terrorist attacks, grim travel advisories from the U.S. State Department (see also: Is It Safe to Visit Istanbul Right Now? ), and a two-year state of emergency that was only lifted in mid-July. Despite those deterrents, travelers are slowly returning. Phase I of the ambitious Istanbul New Airport soft-opened in late October; when it’s completed in 2020, it’ll be the largest transit hub in the world , serving 200 million passengers a year, accommodating 250 different airlines, and costing a pretty $12 billion USD. Flagship carrier Turkish Airlines , meanwhile, is ramping up its business class offerings while continuing to slash fares for economy travelers. An enticing stopover program , with vouchers for four- and five-star hotels, makes it easier than ever to spend a few nights in Istanbul en route to myriad destinations throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This is good news for travelers intrigued by Turkey’s deep history, rich multiculturalism, unparalleled shopping, and mouthwatering food. Here’s how to make the most of an extended layover in the country’s most dynamic and addictive city.

Checking In

The grand Pooh-Bah of the Istanbul hotel scene is the opulent Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul . From the moment you pass under its ornately carved arches and see the autographed photos of celebrities, prime ministers, and sheiks who’ve stayed here over the years, you know you’re in for the royal treatment. The hotel has 313 rooms, including 11 sumptuous palace suites, plus an opulent pool overlooking the Bosphorus Strait. Breakfasts are fit for a king, outdone in decadence only by the pasha-worthy spa treatments available in the hotel’s beautiful marbled hammam. (You haven’t truly experienced Turkey until you’ve stripped down to your birthday suit and paid a stranger to lather you up in luxurious olive-oil soap, and then scour away your dead skin with a textured mitt. It hurts so good.)

For a more laid-back experience, book yourself one of 18 rooms at Witt Istanbul Suites , a boutique hotel in the trendy Cihangir neighborhood of Beyoǧlu. Contemporary rooms are done up with sleek leather sofas, wall-to-wall mirrored tile, and gleaming kitchenettes carved from Marmara marble. It’s the little touches here that really count: the helpful concierge desk, the fresh-baked fig cookies left under bell jars by housekeeping, bathrooms kitted out with Molton Brown toiletries, and Juliette balconies offering sweeping views of Galata Tower and the Golden Horn.

A view of the Blue Mosque from the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul's old city.

Day 1: Historic Istanbul, With Hip Boutiques and a Jazz Closer

Start early with a hearty breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi in Cihangir. A traditional Turkish spread includes a selection of salty white cheeses, hard-boiled eggs, muhammara (an addictive red pepper-and-walnut spread), bal-kaymak (delicious clotted cream with honey), and a basket of warm bread that the waiters will keep refilling despite your protests. Consider it fuel for the sightseeing to come.

First stop: Topkapı Palace , a.k.a. the Seraglio, a 15th-century Ottoman palace and municipal complex that served as the heart of the empire for 380 years. Royal gardens, peeling frescoes, and tiled mosaics are breathtaking in their beauty, but the zenith of any visit is a wander through the sultan’s harem, once home to hundreds of concubines and their eunuch guards. If you’re intrigued by castle drama— The Real Housewives of Constantinople , joked one friend—then rent an English-language audio guide at the entrance. (To save yourself additional time and money, buy an Istanbul Museum Pass before your visit. The five-day tourist card charges a flat rate—125 lira or about $30—for access to a dozen of the city’s most popular cultural institutions, including Topkapı Palace , Hagia Sophia , and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts .)

Next, head down to Sultanahmet Square for an up-close look at traces of the Byzantine-era Hippodrome of Constantinople ; the majestic Hagia Sophia , a Greek-Orthodox church built by Emperor Justinian circa 537 AD, converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmet II in 1453, and declared a museum in 1934 by the republic of Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk; and the 402-year-old Blue Mosque , which earned its nickname thanks to the dreamy Iznik tiles that cover its walls. The latter reopened to tourists in May, following a two-month renovation, but it remains closed to non-Islamic worshippers during each of the five daily calls to prayer. For the best experience, avoid visiting on Fridays or within a half hour after the ezan is chanted from the minarets.

For a more in-depth look at Istanbul’s key attractions, consider hiring an English-language guide from Condé Nast Traveler travel specialist Sea Song . The luxury tour company was founded 17 years ago by American transplant Karen Fedorko Sefer; full-time guides like Istanbul native Anka Benli cobble together seamless itineraries offering behind-the-scenes access and invaluable commentary. Benli can point out unique features the average tourist would miss—like the tortured faces of devils swirled into the green marble at Hagia Sophia. Sea Song can also arrange a languorous yacht cruise on the Bosphorus, stopping for a traditional grilled seafood lunch and tumblers of bracing rakı at the wood-paneled Ismet Baba Restaurant in Kuzguncuk. (Order the turbot if it’s season, or else the sea bass in lemon sauce with bonito and fava paste.)

Come late afternoon, carve out some time to explore two adjacent neighborhoods: Karaköy and Galata . The former is a historic harbor district dotted with small galleries, cute coffeehouses, gritty street art, and hip boutiques. Hit up Bey Karaköy for Everlane-style minimalist menswear and cool-girl concept shop Mae Zae for handmade ceramics and funky wood and leather jewelry.

The next neighborhood over is Galata, a Genoese colony back in the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Twisting cobblestone streets give this quarter a charming European air, but avoid the overpriced restaurants clustered around the famed Galata Tower . Instead, head to Salt Galata , an Ottoman bank turned multi-use space: Under one architecturally pleasing roof you’ll find a tightly edited bookstore ( Robinson Crusoe 389 ), communal café, and research library stuffed with books about art, graphic design, and Turkish culture. The shopping continues along design-forward Serdar-ı Ekrem street; look for kilim throw pillows and olive-wood serving trays at housewares shop Çiçek Işleri , and shearling-trimmed denim jackets and rose-tinted sunglasses at Baston Vintage .

With even an ounce of energy remaining, close out the night with a bucket of lemony, rice-stuffed mussels from the wildly popular Midyelerin Efendisi in Beşiktaş and a drink at the atmospheric Nardis Jazz Club in Cihangir . The latter books a mix of local and international acts, like a quintet led by Ankara-born jazz vocalist and Fulbright scholar Ece Göksu.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

Jessica Puckett

At the Egyptian Bazaar, or Spice Market, you'll find row after row of vendors selling Turkish spices, coffee, and more.

Day 2: An Underrated Mosque, a Grand Bazaar, and an Unusual Museum

While not as ornate as the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque is just as impressive—and noticeably less touristy. It’s the second-largest imperial mosque in the city, built atop the third hill of Old Istanbul in the 16th century, by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan at the behest of Suleiman the Magnificent. On a clear day, the views from the courtyard are unbeatable. Don’t miss the cemetery, either, where the carvings atop each tombstone indicate that person’s station in life (a fez headdress was reserved for government officials, a turban for someone of the religious order, an anchor for a seaman, and so on). For a late breakfast or early lunch, meander over to Mimar Sinan , one of several nearby restaurants specializing in kuru fasülye , white beans stewed in olive oil and tomato sauce and served with rice pilaf. It’s Turkey’s unofficial national dish, and especially popular with lira-pinching students.

Now on to the world-famous Grand Bazaar , one of the oldest and largest covered markets on earth. Twenty-two gates usher you into a labyrinth of 4,500 stores; you’ll definitely get lost, and that’s okay—it’s how you stumble upon happy mistakes like hammered-copper serving trays, hand-tooled leather bags, and glittering zultanite rings. Or you can go in with a game plan, knocking out a list of covetable souvenirs from established shops like Dervis (good for pastel-striped peştemals ), Soy Türkiye (for professional-grade copper cookware), Iznik Art (for çini , a traditional Turkish pottery in bold turquoise and red tulip motifs), and Yazzma (ikat central). If it’s a hand-knotted silk rug you’re after, venture out of the bazaar and over to Orient Handmade Carpets , a spectacular showroom run by a fifth-generation Anatolian family. Here, more than 14,000 carpets are spread across 27 rooms. Be prepared to invest, as this level of quality does not come cheap.

One more market to go, and that’s Mısır Çarşısı , a.k.a. the Egyptian Bazaar or Spice Market. It’s a wonderful place to photograph centuries-old architecture, rows of Turkish delight vendors, and pyramids of fragrant spices. Pick up potent vials of amber and rose oil at 72-year-old perfumery Istanbuli ; and don’t forget to buy a bag of freshly ground Turkish coffee from Kurukahveci Mehmetv Efendi , one of the oldest coffee shops in Istanbul.

If you’re not totally wiped out, it’s worth a spin through the antiques district of Çukurcuma in Beyoǧlu . Here you’ll find quality dealers like A La Turca , although one of the most curious stores is The Works Objects of Desire (tagline: “For the slightly deranged collector seeking identifiable memories”). The cluttered bric-a-brac shop provides artifacts for the conceptual vignettes displayed in the nearby Museum of Innocence , based on the namesake novel by Nobel Prize–winning Turkish author Orhan Pamuk (who also happened to live in the house before it was converted into a museum). Fans of the book, as well as of Joseph Cornell–esque assemblages, will appreciate both the store and the museum. Don’t be surprised if you walk away with a 70-year-old dental mold or vintage police badge from the former.

Final stop: Dinner at Çukurcuma Köftecisi , a mom-and-pop meatball shop with just six tables and enough tempting cold meze dishes that you may forget to leave room for the köfte.

Menemen, lightly set eggs with salty feta, tomato, chilis, and ample olive oil.

Day 3: The Food Crawl to End All Food Crawls

If you do just one walking tour in Istanbul, design it around your stomach. The food walks organized by Culinary Backstreets cover so much more than eating, though that’s clearly the highlight. The company offers eight food-centric tours, diving deep on everything from kebabs to rakı. Born on the Bosphorus is one of the best, traversing three waterside neighborhoods: liberal, sectarian Beşiktaş ; conservative Üsküdar on the Asian side of the river; and historically multicultural Kuzguncuk , once settled by Jews, then Greek-Orthodox and Armenian Christians, and now Muslims. You’ll sample menemen (lightly set eggs scrambled with salty feta, tomato, chilis, and a bucket of olive oil) at Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu ; tavuk göğsü (savory milk pudding made with chicken skin) at Murat Muhallebicisi ; pickled everything at Üsküdarlı Ünal Turşuları , and a real grandma’s made-from-scratch manti (tiny dumplings served in a pool of chili butter) at the family-run Hatice Anne Ev Yemekleri .

There are opportunities to buy chestnut honey, fresh figs as big as a toddler’s fist, and boxes of rainbow-colored Turkish delight. You’ll eat yourself silly, but you’ll also tour churches and mosques, swing through a seafood market where the stands are manned by bearded fishermen in galoshes, visit a cat-mobbed cemetery where whirling dervishes are buried, and meet Istanbul’s last great umbrella repairman (he’s a hoot!). The tour lasts anywhere from six to nine hours, depending on your group’s endurance level, and covers well over a dozen eateries. (If he’s available, ask for Benoit to be your guide; you won’t be disappointed.) The day out is a feast for the eyes and stomach, and you’ll be positively stuffed by nightfall. It’s the most satisfying way to end an all-too-short adventure in one of the world’s most fascinating and diverse cities.

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Istanbul Itinerary: The PERFECT 5 Days in Turkey

Looking for a magical istanbul itinerary for 5 days in turkey.

We’ve got the full guide for the perfect Istanbul itinerary for a 5 day trip to Turkey. Istanbul, where East meets West, is a captivating blend of cultures, colors, and cuisines, all waiting to be explored.

In the next five days, we will embark on an enchanting journey that will take you through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Old City, the vibrant bazaars brimming with spices and textiles, the awe-inspiring architecture of ancient mosques, and the picturesque shores of the Bosphorus Strait.

So put on your walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable Istanbul itinerary.

Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission if you book through these links, and that helps keep this blog running.

Looking for the Best Istanbul Private Tour?

Istanbul itinerary: 5 days overview.

Our 5-day Istanbul itinerary is designed to showcase the city’s fascinating history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beauty. We’ll explore iconic landmarks, discover hidden gems, and savor the delightful flavors of Turkish cuisine, creating an immersive experience you won’t forget.

➡️ Day 1 : Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome & Basilica Cistern

Today, you’ll explore the famous Sultan Ahmet district in Istanbul. Prepare to be enchanted by the stunning Hagia Sophia, with its grand dome and intricate mosaics telling tales of its Byzantine and Ottoman past.

Don’t miss the equally impressive Blue Mosque, an architectural masterpiece famed for its six minarets and beautiful blue Iznik tiles, a journey through time that’s an integral part of your Istanbul itinerary.

➡️ Day 2: Topkapi Palace, Spice Market & Bosphorus Cruise

On the second day of our Istanbul itinerary, you’ll visit Topkapi Palace, the grand residence of Ottoman sultans. Then, explore the aromatic Spice Market, filled with exotic spices and traditional Turkish treats. Finally, a memorable sunset Bosphorus cruise, witnessing the vibrant colors of the city’s skyline.

➡️ Day 3: Balat District – Colorful Neighborhoods & Historic Churches Synagogues and Mosques

Day three of your Istanbul itinerary will lead you to the historic Balat district, a vibrant neighborhood renowned for its colorful houses and rich history. Here, you’ll get to witness a harmony of cultures with historic churches, synagogues, and mosques coexisting side by side, making it a true gem of Istanbul’s diverse heritage.

➡️ Day 4: Grand Bazaar & Kadikoy Food Tour

Get ready to haggle and explore the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar, a shopper’s paradise with over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets to jewelry. Then, bring your appetite for a culinary adventure in Kadikoy, where you can sample mouth-watering Turkish street food and authentic local cuisine.

➡️ Day 5: Dolmabahce Palace & Yildiz Palace, Ortakoy District

On the final day of your 5 day Istanbul itinerary, visit the magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace. This opulent symbol of the fading Ottoman Empire is famous for its lavish interior and stunning views of the Bosphorus.

After that, explore the historic Yildiz Palace before concluding your journey in the charming Ortaköy district. Enjoy its picturesque waterfront, lively café culture, and the impressive Ortaköy Mosque.

Next, we’ll review the detailed Istanbul itinerary for five days of exploring Turkey.

✅ Istanbul Itinerary Day One: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome & Basilica Cistern

Your Istanbul adventure starts on a high note, taking you right into the heart of the city’s history, to the Sultanahmet District.

Begin your day at the Seven Hills Restaurant for Turkish Breakfast overlooking the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Next, visit the Hagia Sophia , an astonishing testament to Byzantine architecture and one of the world’s most significant heritage sites. You’ll marvel at the glittering mosaics and the impressive dome that has been an iconic part of Istanbul’s skyline for centuries.

Next, you’ll visit the Blue Mosque, an epitome of the Ottoman Empire’s architectural prowess. Adorned with over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles, its mesmerizing interior bathed in ethereal blue light will leave you spellbound.

📍 Click Here to Book a Tour of the Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque

After a tasty local lunch at Garden Restaurant, you’ll immerse yourself in the ancient history of the Hippodrome, where chariot races and social gatherings once took place.

Finally, you’ll finish your day by exploring the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul’s largest surviving Byzantine cistern, an underground marvel that will transport you back in time.

We suggest Las Tapas Restaurant to try the best of traditional Turkish food and desserts for dinner. As the day draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on your fantastic journey through Istanbul’s rich history before retiring to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.

📍 Click Here to Book a Full Day Istanbul Highlights Tour

✅ istanbul itinerary day two: topkapi palace, spice market & bosphorus cruise.

Today, we will capture the sights and tastes of the Ottomans as you explore Topkapi Palace and the Spice Market. Then, you’ll take a sunset cruise along the luxurious shores of the Bosphorus Strait.

Start your second day in Istanbul bright and early. Take a short walk to your first destination, the magnificent Topkapi Palace and harem . This iconic landmark was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years.

Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of artifacts and royal relics that offer a glimpse into the opulent past of the empire. Explore the lavishly decorated rooms and hidden chambers of the Imperial Harem to learn about the luxurious lives of the sultans and their families.

📍 Click Here to Book Entrance to Topkapi Palace with an Audio Guide (and skip the line)

Stop for lunch at Pandeli Restaurant, a Michelin-star restaurant with views of the Spice Market & the Bosphorus. After lunch, you’ll head off to the vibrant Spice Market, the Egyptian Bazaar.

A feast for the senses, the Spice Market is a riot of colors, smells, and sounds. From spices and herbs to dried fruits, nuts, and Turkish delight, the market offers an array of delectable treats. Remember to sample some of the local delicacies and pick up souvenirs!

As the day winds down, a sunset dinner and boat tour of the stunning Bosphorus Strait is on the agenda. Enjoy the cool breeze and the mesmerizing views as you glide past palaces, fortresses, and ornate Ottoman villas.

To cap off an eventful day, sip on a cup of the finest Turkish coffee at a cozy café, taking a moment to soak in the beauty and charm of Istanbul.

📍 Click a Sunset Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

✅ Istanbul Itinerary Day Three: Taksim Square, Istiklal Street & Galata Tower

Welcome to day three of your Istanbul itinerary! Today, you’ll explore the vibrant Beyoglu & Galata districts. Spend the morning and afternoon walking the streets of Istanbul, exploring shops, cafes, ancient architecture, and passageways.

Taksim Square is always energetic, offering insight into Istanbul’s contemporary side. From the historic Ataturk Cultural Center to the Monument of the Republic, there’s plenty to see in this busy square.

Continue walking down Istiklal Street, the heart of modern Istanbul. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with countless shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The famous red, nostalgic tram runs the length of Istiklal Caddesi.

As you stroll along, savor the delicious street food, and remember to peek into some of the stunning passages that branch off from the main street.

Try one of Istanbul’s favorite street foods – the durum at Durumzade on your way from Taksim to the culturally rich neighborhood of Galata. Start your visit with the iconic Galata Tower . This medieval stone tower offers a panoramic view of Istanbul and is perfect for taking photos.

As you walk, explore the charming streets filled with chic boutiques, music stores, and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the local art centers and museums in the area.

📍 Book a Galeta Tower Entrance Ticket & Audio Guide

As the evening approaches, you can find a cozy spot at one of the rooftop bars or restaurants in Galata to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city at sunset. Galata offers a wide range of culinary delights, so whether you prefer a fancy dinner or simple street food, you will find something delicious to end your day on a high note.

Afterward, you can take a stroll back to your hotel through the softly lit streets and experience the enchantment of Istanbul at night.

✅ Istanbul Itinerary Day Four: Grand Bazaar & Kadikoy Food Tour

Welcome to day Four of your enchanting Istanbul itinerary! Today’s journey is all about the captivating sights, sounds, and tastes of Istanbul. It will take you from the mysterious and fascinating Grand Bazaar labyrinth to Kadikoy’s lively atmosphere.

Gear up to experience an unforgettable day of exploration, shopping, and delicious food!

Your Day Four in Istanbul begins with a visit to the mysterious Grand Bazaar. Lose yourself in its intriguing maze of streets and passages, boasting over 4,000 shops and eighteen entrances. This vibrant marketplace, brimming with various goods, is the perfect place for you to haggle your way to a souvenir or two.

In the afternoon take the Taste of Two Continents Food Tou r to explore the best of Europe and Asian Turkish cuisine in Istanbul. Join a walking tour in the bustling Balikpazari, where you can indulge in a wide array of local street foods and immerse yourself in the lively culture.

📍 Book the Istanbul: Taste of Two Continents Food Tour

Wrap up the day by unwinding at a local café, reminiscing the day’s adventures over a cup of traditional Turkish tea before returning to your hotel. This concludes your fourth day exploring Istanbul, filled with delightful culinary experiences.

✅ Istanbul Itinerary Day Five: Dolmabahce Palace & Yildiz Palace, Ortakoy District

Welcome to the final day of your 5-day Istanbul itinerary. Today, you’ll enter the grandeur of Istanbul’s royal history with visits to the splendid Dolmabahçe and Yıldız Palaces.

Then, we’ll head to the charming Ortaköy District, where a picturesque mosque, vibrant street food scene, and delightful people-watching opportunities await.

Your last day in Istanbul starts at Dolmabahçe Palace , a 19th-century gem on the Bosphorus. Built during the final stages of the Ottoman Empire, this palace showcases their power and extravagance. Explore its fascinating interiors and be captivated by its stunning location.

After lunch, head to Yıldız Palace. Once the hunting grounds of Sultans, it now stands in the heart of the city’s upscale commercial district. Despite its central location, the palace offers peace, tranquility, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus from its hillside setting.

📍 Book a Dolmabahce Palace Tour & Audio Guide Plus skip the line!

Enjoy lunch at Konyali Ferdi Usta restaurant before taking a walking tour of Ortakoy in the afternoon. Visit Ortaköy Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most beautiful mosques by the seaside. Ortaköy is also renowned for its street food and bustling atmosphere, perfect for people-watching.

This is where your 5-day journey ends, immersing in local vibes, mouth-watering delicacies, and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of Istanbul. We suggest dinner at Hanzade Terrace Restaurant with views overlooking the Marmara in the later afternoon or evening to close out a fantastic trip in Istanbul.

Where To Stay In Istanbul

Choosing the right hotel can significantly amplify your Istanbul experience. The city is home to many remarkable hotels, each bursting with its unique charm, located in key areas that provide easy access to major attractions.

From luxurious suites with breathtaking Bosphorus views to quaint boutique hotels in historic districts, Istanbul offers a broad spectrum of accommodations to fit all budgets.

📍Budget Option: Walnut Shell Hotel Sultanahmet

Nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, the Walnut Shell Hotel Sultanahmet is an excellent budget-friendly choice for travelers.

Its proximity to major attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar, along with its 24-hour front desk service, ensures a comfortable and convenient stay for exploring the city.

📍 Book Walnut Shell Hotel Sultanahmet

📍mid-range option: hotel sultanhan.

Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, Hotel Sultanhan is a stone’s throw away from historic attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

This hotel charms with its skyline views, especially from the Sultanhan Terrace Restaurant, where you can start your day with a breakfast overlooking the iconic cityscape of Istanbul.

📍 Book Hotel Sultanhan

📍luxury option: ciragan palace kempinski istanbul.

Perched on the edge of the Bosphorus, the Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is more than just a lavish hotel—a symbol of opulence and grandeur with a rich Ottoman heritage.

Guests are treated to an exquisite blend of a resort atmosphere in the city, offering unrivaled luxury, spectacular palace suites, and an unforgettable culinary journey.

📍 Book Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Getting Around Istanbul

Istanbul boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation system, making it easy for visitors to navigate the city. The Istanbul Metro system comprises six lines that span most of Istanbul’s major attractions, ensuring you can easily reach your destinations. The Metro operates from 6 a.m. to midnight, with an increased frequency during peak hours. For shorter distances, consider taking a tram.

Istanbul’s tram system is a faster alternative to buses, albeit with a more limited network. Key tram lines that interest tourists include the T1 line, which connects Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu, and the T4 line, which serves the northern and western suburbs.

If you’re looking for a more scenic route, Istanbul’s ferries are an excellent choice. They provide a unique city perspective while transporting you across the Bosphorus or to the Princes’ Islands.

You can also use minibusses (dolmuş), shared taxis operating on specific routes, typically running until late at night, and they’re an excellent way to get around after the Metro has closed for the night.

Remember to have an Istanbulkart, a reloadable smart card used to pay for public transport in Istanbul, which can be purchased and topped up at kiosks throughout the city.

Visiting Istanbul: FAQs

This section will address frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting Istanbul . Ranging from travel tips, cultural nuances, and popular attractions to local cuisine, these questions provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect when visiting this enchanting city.

Is 5 days enough to see Istanbul?

Yes! A 5-day itinerary is a great way to explore Istanbul’s rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. 5 days allows you to visit iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

You can also wander off the beaten path through the charming streets of the Balat & Ortakoy Districts, visit the royal palaces, and take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise.

Do you tip in Istanbul?

Tipping is not a standard practice in Istanbul, particularly outside of tourist areas. However, if you’ve received good service and wish to express your appreciation, a tip of around 10% is usually considered generous.

Make sure to check your bills, as some establishments add a service charge, in which case an additional tip is unnecessary.

Can you drink tap water in Istanbul?

While locals may drink tap water in Istanbul, it’s recommended that tourists stick to bottled water. The tap water is treated and safe for consumption.

Still, the difference in water purification processes compared to what your system might be used to can sometimes cause discomfort.

Which side of Istanbul is better for tourists?

Both sides of Istanbul offer unique experiences, making it hard to decide which is better for tourists. The European side, with its historic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar, is generally favored by first-time visitors keen on immersing themselves in the city’s rich history and culture.

On the other hand, the Asian side, particularly Kadikoy, provides an off-the-beaten-path experience with its local markets, vibrant nightlife, delicious street food, and potentially cheaper prices. It’s ideal for travelers who wish to experience Istanbul like a local.

Therefore, your itinerary for 5 days in Istanbul could be tailored to include both sides, providing a balanced perspective of what the city has to offer.

Conclusion: Istanbul 5 Day Itinerary

Istanbul, where east meets west, offers an unforgettable experience filled with rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. An Istanbul 5-day itinerary gives you ample time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, while also allowing you to wander off the beaten path to discover local markets and neighborhoods.

Whether you stay in a luxurious suite with a Bosphorus view or a budget-friendly hotel in the historic district, you will surely have an unforgettable journey in this magical city.

Dania Demirci is your go-to travel expert for exploring Turkey and co-founder of Adventurefolio.com. With her extensive knowledge and personal experiences, Dania helps fellow travelers create the ultimate Turkish itineraries. From hidden gems to must-visit spots, she shares practical tips to empower you to confidently explore Turkey.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Istanbul, Turkey

Discovering the magic of istanbul: a journey through history, culture, and culinary delights.

Planning the perfect trip to Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents and is steeped in history, requires a blend of careful planning and an open mind to explore its rich cultural tapestry. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your Istanbul adventure.

Before You Go

• Research and Documentation : Ensure your passport is valid, and check if you need a visa. Turkish e-visa can be easily obtained online.
• Travel Insurance : It’s wise to have travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.
• Cultural Insights : Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases and understanding local customs will enhance your experience.

When to Visit

• Best Time to Travel : Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and moderate prices.
• Festivals : Plan around Turkish festivals like the Istanbul Film Festival in April or the Istanbul Jazz Festival in July for unique cultural experiences.

Where to Stay

• Accommodation Options : From luxury hotels in Taksim to charming guesthouses in Sultanahmet, there’s something for every taste and budget. Explore unique stays in Turkey for a more immersive experience.

Itinerary Highlights

• Historical Landmarks of Turkey : Visit the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque . These iconic sites offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history.
• Turkish Cultural Experiences : Stroll through the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, take a Bosphorus cruise, and enjoy a traditional Turkish bath.
• Turkish Cuisine Guide : Savor local delicacies like baklava, kebabs, and Turkish delight. Street food tours can offer an authentic taste of Istanbul’s culinary scene.

Off the Beaten Path

• Turkey’s Hidden Gems : Explore the less-traveled neighborhoods like Balat and Kadıköy for a more authentic local experience.

Practical Tips

• Transportation : Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system. Consider buying an Istanbulkart for convenience.
• Stay Connected : Rent a local SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi for easy navigation and communication.

Local Collaborations

• Local Insight : Collaborate with local businesses and guides for personalized tours and experiences.

Travel Planning Assistance

• Professional Help : Embark on an Istanbul adventure with our expert guide, featuring iconic historical sites, rich cultural encounters, distinctive accommodations, and Istanbul tours . Taste authentic Turkish cuisine for a memorable journey, and consider ‘ One Nation Travel’ for effortless planning.

Safety and Respect

• Respect Local Customs : Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs.
• Safety : Istanbul is generally safe, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Istanbul is a city where history and modernity coexist. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to experience the best of what this enchanting city has to offer, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to keep your plans flexible to allow for spontaneous adventures that often lead to the most authentic experiences.

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Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

Adventures of Alice

The Perfect 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

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Istanbul truly is a great city. It’s bustling with excitement, culture, food, and stunning history. It’s the largest city in Europe and the only city that straddles two continents, so you’d certainly expect it to be something special. And, I thoroughly enjoyed my 3 days in Istanbul.

We visited in mid-June, so it’s safe to say it was hot. It was just before peak season truly hit, but was also pretty busy. But that’s kind of something you have to embrace when going somewhere like this. It’s like visiting Bangkok or New York – you expect it to be a little mental. But what you don’t necessarily expect is the beauty of the city. 

The sights of mosques lit up against the Bosphorus, and the sparkling skylines of the city have a beauty to them that I loved. So, whether you’re whizzing through Istanbul on a layover, having a long weekend in Istanbul, or spending longer in the city while exploring more of Turkey, here’s the perfect Istanbul itinerary for 3 days.

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How to get to istanbul.

Being the largest city in Europe, Istanbul is pretty well connected. You can reach the city in several ways:

• Plane : Arguably the most popular way to reach the city and possibly the easiest too, is to fly. Istanbul has two main airports, Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). IST is the newest airport and the closest to the city centre, however, both are well-connected to many major cities around the world.
• Bus : Istanbul is also well connected to other Turkish cities by bus, with many local bus companies operating routes to and from the city. I recommend using Flixbus to buy bus tickets, however, travelling to Istanbul by bus can add a lot of time to your journey. Bus travel can be cheaper, although you can also find very cheap fares with Pegasus or Turkish Airlines between cities in Turkey and elsewhere in Europe. So, I’d look into this before booking buses.
• Boat : Istanbul is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. As such, if you’re coming from the Bursa region or other cities along the Black and the Aegean Sea coastlines, it is possible to book a ferry to Istanbul . 

Where to stay for 3 days in Istanbul

Being such a vast city, there’s a lot to offer in terms of accommodation type and location. Ideally, if you only have 3 days in Istanbul, you’ll want to stay near the city centre. Not necessarily the very centre (as this can rack up costs), but near enough so that you can easily get public transport into the city.

Some popular areas to consider staying in include:

• Sultanahmet : This is the historic heart of Istanbul and is home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. 
• Taksim : This is the modern, cultural, and commercial centre of Istanbul, and is a great choice if you want to be close to shopping, dining, and nightlife. 
• Beyoğlu : This is another popular neighbourhood to stay in Istanbul. It is known for its cultural and historical landmarks, as well as its trendy cafes and nightlife.
• Galata : Famous for the Galata Tower, this neighbourhood has a cool, hip vibe. Located across the river from the Old Town, it is full of hilly streets and historical buildings. This is where we stayed during our time in the city.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, it’s important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as rooms can fill up quickly.

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How to get around istanbul.

Despite its size, it’s fairly easy to get around Istanbul. The city has a very good public transport network and (once we’d worked out how to use it), it was pretty simple. 

To use public transport, you have to purchase something called an IstanbulKart from a machine at the station. It turns out though, that you can only buy these from specific machines in the city – the ones that have the IstanulKart sign on them. We made the mistake several times of trying to buy a card from the wrong machine and, quite simply, nothing happened!

The cards cost about 13 TL and come without any credit on them. You then have to top them up to use them, scan them at the turnstiles in the stations, and pay per journey. It’s only about 4 TL per journey (about £0.20) so it’s an incredibly cheap way to get around.

You can then use the card on buses, metro, ferries, and trams around the city.

An alternate way to get around the city is to use a City Card to save money on public transport. These usually come with free transportation and also include entrance and discounts on many of Istanbul’s top attractions. So, it’s a win-win!

Of course, if you’d prefer, you can also use the Taxis to get around. However, traffic in Istanbul is quite frankly terrifying, so I’d recommend public transport at all costs!

3 days in Istanbul – Day 1

So, without further ado, here’s the ideal itinerary for 3 days in Istanbul. For your first day in the city, let’s start in the old town. Here, you’ll find some of Istanbul’s most famous and most photographed landmarks, plus, it will allow you to get to know the city on foot.

Sultanahmet Square

Located in the centre of the Sultanahmet district, Sultanahmet Square is a historic public square. Funnily enough, it actually used to be a circus arena where chariot races and other sporting events took place. 

This is an ideal place to start your 3 days in Istanbul as the square is located near several of those top landmarks I just mentioned. It also contains plenty of history itself and you’ll find a few ruins, and the Column of Constantine, a historic obelisk that is also worth a look at. 

Then, when you get peckish, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s also surrounded by several shops, cafes, and food trucks.

Hagia Sophia

Once you’ve had a wander around Sultanahmet Square, head to your first attraction in Istanbul: The Hagia Sophia. This is the Grand Mosque of Istanbul. It’s an incredibly historic building having been built in 360 AD. It also had a very varied history.

It served as the primary church of the Eastern Orthodox Church for almost 1,000 years and was considered one of the most important religious buildings in the world. In 1453, after the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. In 1935, the Turkish government transformed it into a museum. It remained that way for over 80 years, until 2020 when it was converted back into a mosque.

Today, it is a working mosque, but also one of the most popular attractions in the city. As such, women will be asked to cover their heads and everyone will have to remove their shoes before entering the building.

The Hagia Sophia is a truly beautiful building, renowned for its unique architectural style, which combines elements of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. The dome inside and the intricate details that went into the decoration are stunning and it’s an absolute must-see in the city.

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Basilica cistern.

After you’ve explored Hagia Sophia, head to Basilica Cistern. The largest of several underground cisterns that are scattered underneath Istanbul, Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century. Located in the Sultanahmet district, it was originally created to provide water to the city. Today, you can explore the cistern and admire its unique architecture.

And it’s an incredibly impressive feat of architecture. Approximately 9,800 square meters in size, you’ll find brick vaults and lots and lots of columns. The entire chamber is lit with low light, creating an almost eerie glow, and is filled with clear water. There are also raised walkways that allow you to get a closer look at the columns and water below.

Blue Mosque

Next head over to The Blue Mosque, another of Istanbul’s most famous buildings. Created in the 17th century, much later than Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque is known mostly for its unique design which, as you can probably guess, is blue.

The interior of the mosque features a large central dome and six surrounding domes and the walls of all of these are covered in pretty, blue tiles. You’ll also find an intricate design of marble pillars, elaborate calligraphy, and stained glass windows.

The Blue Mosque is still used as a mosque and is an important place of worship for Muslims in Istanbul. It’s also one of the most famous landmarks in the city and a must-see within 3 days in Istanbul.

As with the Hagia Sophia, you will be asked to dress modestly when visiting the mosque, and to remove your shoes before entering.

Grand Bazaar

The final stop on day one of this Istanbul itinerary is possibly one of the most famous marketplaces in the world. The infamous Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets. In operation since the 15th century, it consists of 61 streets and around 4,000 shops. It’s an incredible place, a strangely beautiful place, and another great photography spot.

Inside, you’ll find a wide range of products, including textiles, jewellery, pottery, spices, and souvenirs. You can literally spend hours exploring the maze-like streets of the bazaar, and bargaining with shopkeepers for the best prices. 

The Grand Bazaar is not only a shopping destination but also an important cultural site. The Ottoman architecture is beautiful and it has been a centre of trade and commerce in Istanbul for many centuries.

The bazaar is also a great place to find unique and authentic Turkish souvenirs, enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavours of Istanbul’s bazaar culture, and experience the local culture and traditions of Istanbul. However, be prepared for crowded conditions, as the bazaar can get very busy, especially during peak tourist season.

3 days in Istanbul – Day 2

For day 2 of your 3 days in Istanbul, we’re heading back into the old town to dive deeper into some of the histories of the city. Finish the day with a spectacular cruise on the Bosphorus.

Topkapi Palace

After some breakfast at your accommodation, head to the Topkapi Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces in Istanbul. Constructed in the 15th century, It was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. 

Since then, it’s steadily expanded through a complex of buildings, courtyards, high walls, and several gates. It now includes several residential buildings, administrative buildings, a mosque, a hospital, and several museums.

Easily a building you could spend several hours exploring, Topkapi Palace is a great place for history buffs, lovers of architecture, culture, and certainly photographers.

Some of the buildings here are simply magnificent with a wonderful fusion of Ottoman and Islamic styles. From the upper gardens, you’ll also be treated to stunning views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

Istanbul Archeological Museum

Next, walk just a short distance to find the Istanbul Archeological Museum. This will take you on a fascinating tour of Istanbul’s history. It’s another place you could easily spend a few hours. 

Founded in the late 19th century, it’s considered one of the most important museums of archaeology in the world. The museum’s collections include artefacts from ancient civilizations such as the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires, as well as artefacts from ancient civilizations in the surrounding region. 

My favourite part of the museum was the intricately decorated sarcophaguses and gigantic segment of an ancient wall. It’s easily one of the top things to visit during 3 days in Istanbul.

Bosphorus Cruise

Finally, head down to the riverside. If you want to see the city of Istanbul from a different light, joining one of the many cruise boats that tour the Bosphorus Strait is a great way to do it. 

The Bosphorus separates Europe and Asia in Istanbul. A cruise along the Strait offers breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks, as well as its lush hillsides, palaces, and fortresses.

Typically lasting between 1 and 2 hours, it offers a unique perspective on the city, its history, and its culture. You’ll likely spot several landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Rumeli Fortress, the Maiden’s Tower, and the Ottoman palaces and villas that line the shore.

They will also typically include commentary in several languages, which provides a relaxing and scenic way to learn about the city’s history and culture. Some cruises also offer traditional Turkish entertainment, such as music and dance performances, as well as food and drinks.

3 days in Istanbul – Day 3

For your final day in Istanbul, head north of the old town to the Galata district. This time, we’ll be exploring ancient fortresses and a few more famous landmarks.

Rumeli Fortress

Start your day with a trip to Rumeli Fortress. Out of all of these wonderful things to do in Istanbul, Rumeli Fortress is located furthest away from the city centre. Nonetheless, it’s still easily reachable by public transport.

This historical fortress was built by the Ottoman Empire’s conqueror in 1452, in preparation for the conquest of Constantinople. Situated on the European banks of the Bosphorus, it was used to block the passage of enemy ships. The fortress played a key role in the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. It has since been an important symbol of Ottoman power and military might.

Today, you can walk around the castle’s fortified walls, explore the old mosque, and climb the towers for wonderful views across the Bosphorus. Once you’ve explored the fortress, you could also go for a relaxing walk along the Bosphorus and take in the views of the Faith Sultan Bridge.

Galata Tower

Next, head back south towards the centre of Galata. The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower and another of Istanbul’s most photographed spots. It was built in 1348 and was originally used as a watchtower.

Popular with photographers (both from up high and down on the ground), it offers panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus from its 67-meter-high observation deck. 

Furthermore, the Galata Tower is located in the historic and vibrant neighbourhood of Galata. It’s also well worth exploring the neighbourhood itself while visiting the tower. You’ll find little shops, cafes, and stalls selling souvenirs and street food.

Galata Bridge

Finally, head back towards the Bosphorus for our final stop in this 3 day Istanbul itinerary. The Galata Bridge crosses the Golden Horn in Istanbul. Constructed in the 19th century, it connects the old city on the historic peninsula of Istanbul with the Galata region.

The bridge has several appeals. On the lower deck, you’ll find a bustling street-level fish market. Here, you can sample fresh seafood from one of the many seafood restaurants, and watch the local fishermen bring in their catch.

On the top deck, however, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the historic side of Istanbul, the modern side, the Bosphorus Strait, and the Marmara Sea. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset, snap some final pics of the city, and sit down for a meal at one of the many restaurants.

I didn’t really know what to expect when I decided to visit Istanbul, but it really surprised me. There’s so much to explore and so much excellent history and culture, you could easily spend days just wandering the streets of the old town. Nonetheless, 72 hours is a great way to get a feel for the wonderful Turkish city.

This itinerary will allow you to see some of Turkey’s most famous landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Grand Bazaar. You can get a feel for the culture and dip your toe into the rich history of this place.

All in all, there is no one best way to spend 3 days in Istanbul. The city offers something for everyone. So, whether you’re a history and culture buff or who just want to relax and enjoy its beauty, I hope you have a wonderful time in Istanbul. I certainly did and I can’t wait to go back.

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Very interesting. I found this over on a Facebook group for bloggers of which I’m also a member. I’m going on a cruise in November which ends in Istanbul and we’re staying a couple of days before flying home to Spain. I’m admin of a private group for this particular cruise so I just shared this article over there, hopefully you’ll get quite a few new visitors!

Hey Adele, Thanks so much for sharing it, I’m glad you liked the content! I hope you have a fantastic time in the city! 🙂

The photos and description of Blue Mosque and mystic Basilica Cistern are enchanting. You have very thoughtfully included the true gems of Istanbul in this 3-day itinerary.

Thank you! I love Istanbul and there are so many wonderful spots to visit in the city 🙂

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• How To Spend 5 Days...

How to Spend Five Days in Istanbul

It’s said that the largest city in Turkey has so much to see that even its year-long residents still discover something new. However, five days are definitely a great starting point to get familiar with all of Istanbul’s attractive qualities. Check out our guide to making the most out of your time in Istanbul .

Want to explore Turkey’s vibrant bazaars and rocky valleys? Book TRIPS by Culture Trip’s 12-day group tour where you’ll stop at key historical sights and glide across the landscape in a hot-air balloon.

Day 1: Get acquainted via boat

As mentioned, Istanbul is a huge city so it may be a good idea to get yourself acquainted with its many neighbourhoods. A lot of visitors tend to stay in Sultanahmet to be near the Blue Mosque or the Topkapı Palace , but be sure to get out of the historic centre and explore the rest of Istanbul.

One of the best ways is to go to the Eminönü Ferry Dock at 10:30am and take the long Bosphorus cruise , which will give you a pretty comprehensive visual introduction to the entirety of Istanbul, as seen from the water. The ferry makes a few stops in between, but we suggest you get off at the last stop, Anadoluhisarı – a small seaside neighbourhood named after its historic castle, and wander around before the ferry takes off again returning to Eminönü.

Day 2: Explore Sultanahmet

So now that you’ve got a good understanding of what Istanbul looks like all around, it’s time to explore the major tourist destinations. Start in Sultanahmet Square and visit the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern. Other major attractions include the Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar. If you’re a fan of museums , then make your way to the Archeology Museum and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art. If the old city hasn’t taken up the entirety of your day, then head to the breathtaking Chora Church and get something to eat at Asitane, Istanbul’s most famous restaurant for Ottoman cuisine.

Day 3: Explore Beyoğlu

After a whole day of gazing at the historic masterpieces of Istanbul, make your way across the Galata Bridge and get to know the city’s locals. Start with the neighbourhood of Karaköy with its cool boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Then, make your way up to Tophane with all of its galleries – followed by Çukurcuma , famous for its antiques and Cihangir , Istanbul’s cool bohemian neighbourhood. Take a stroll down the infamous Istiklal Street, but make sure to pay attention to its side streets because you’ll discover a few churches and plenty of historic arcades .

By the time you get to the end of Istiklal, explore the Galata neighbourhood , especially Serdar-ı Ekrem Street with its cool local designer boutiques – as well as Pera, with its beautiful neoclassical buildings. End the day by checking out the awesome city view from the terrace of Adahan Hotel’s restaurant, Cachi.

Day 4: Discover the Bosphorus Coast

Not a lot of visitors are familiar with Istanbul’s Bosphorus Coast, but it’s here that the city’s wealthiest have their homes overlooking the water. Skip the traffic and take the metro all the way to Etiler and walk down the hill to reach the upscale neighbourhood of Bebek and its lovely waterfront park – as well as the many boutiques and cafes all around its main street.

A favourite here is Bebek Balıkçısı, an excellent fish restaurant right on the water. Across the street, you’ll also see the Meşhur Bebek Badem Ezmesi, where you’ll find some of the city’s best almond and pistachio marzipan. From here, you can stroll the Bosphorus boardwalk for as long as you like, but make sure to see the neighbourhood of Arnavutköy , which has become pretty trendy due to its excellent fish restaurants and cocktail bars.

Day 5: Visit the islands

As if Istanbul didn’t have enough to explore, it also has islands . The most popular island is Büyükada where you’ll soon discover – to your delight – that cars are not allowed and the main form of transportation is bikes or horse-drawn carriages. Rent a bike and explore the big island with its many beautiful Ottoman-era mansions and if the weather is warm enough, be sure to stop by one of the many beach clubs for a nice cool swim in the sea.

If you’d rather head to a smaller island, Heybeliada is also a great choice with its historic Greek Orthodox theology school – now closed but still viewable – as well as beautiful old mansions and many fish restaurants by the water. Burgazada is even smaller but also has its share of beautiful old houses, hidden churches, beaches and the Kalpazankaya Restaurant, which boasts an amazing view of the sea and an even more beautiful sunset.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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• Destinazioni
• Medio Oriente

Itinerario di Istanbul in 3 giorni

• Moschea Blu
• Basilica di Santa Sofia
• Basilica Cisterna
• Palazzo Topkapi
• Grand Bazaar e piazza Sultanahmet Meydanım
• Museo Archeologico di Istanbul
• Moschea di Solimano
• Torre di Galata
• Palazzo Dolmabahçe
• Istiklal Caddesi e Piazza Taksim
• Moschea Fatih
• Chiesa di San Salvatore in Chora
• Quartiere Fener
• Madame Tussauds Istanbul
• Çiçek Pasajı

Istanbul, città dove Oriente e Occidente si uniscono, è una destinazione dove le cose da fare e da vedere non finiscono mai . In un weekend avrete comunque modo di immergervi nella sua essenza, perdendovi fra le bancarelle del famoso Bazar e ammirando la bellezza della Moschea Blu! Ecco tutti i nostri consigli per organizzare al meglio un itinerario a Istanbul di 3 giorni . Vedi anche: Cosa vedere a Istanbul

Valuta l'acquisto di una card : per risparmiare sul costo delle singole attrazioni, ti consigliamo l'acquisto dell'Istanbul Pass. Prezzi a partire da €95,00. Scopri di più

• Distanza percorsa 4 km
• Luoghi visitati Moschea Blu (gratis), Basilica di Santa Sofia ( ingresso con tour guidato €15,00 ), Basilica Cisterna (495 TL / €15,00 circa), Palazzo Topkapi ( ingresso prioritario e audioguida €44,00 ), Gran Bazaar, piazza Sultanahmet Meydanım
• Dove mangiare Pranzo presso Saltanat Fish & Kebab House ( Ottieni indicazioni ), Cena presso Hanzade Terrace Restaurant ( Ottieni indicazioni )

Prima volta a Istanbul? Lasciati guidare : per un primo approccio con la città ti consigliamo un tour in bus panoramico Hop-on Hop-off , per individuare i punti di riferimento e conoscere storie e aneddoti.

1 - Moschea Blu

Ammira l'Ippodromo : tra la Moschea Blu e la vicina Basilica di Santa Sofia potrai ammirare i resti dell'antico Ippodromo, ovvero il luogo di sport e di aggregazione dell'antica Bisanzio. Tra le parti arrivate intere fino ad oggi, potrai vedere il leggendario Obelisco di Teodosio, la Colonna Serpentina e la Colonna di Costantino.

2 - Basilica di Santa Sofia

Attenzione alle regole per la visita : in tutte le Moschee della città, per entrare dovrai coprire spalle e ginocchia, e se sei una donna anche il capo (all'ingresso trovi il materiale adatto). All'interno dovrai usare un tono di voce basso e rispettoso.

3 - Basilica Cisterna

Il meglio di Istanbul in un giorno : se per questo primo giorno preferisci esplorare la città con una guida, allora ti consigliamo di partecipare al tour con il meglio di Istanbul , dove troverai tutte le attrazioni proposte in questa prima giornata, dalla Moschea Blu fino al Gran Bazazr.

4 - Palazzo Topkapi

Organizza la visita : trattandosi di una delle attrazioni più visitate della città, ti consigliamo di acquistare l' ingresso prioritario con audioguida , quest'ultima indispensabile per capire cosa stai visitando. In alternativa puoi scegliere un tour guidato prioritario con una guida certificata!

5 - Grand Bazaar e piazza Sultanahmet Meydanım

Assisti alle danze dei dervisci rotanti : prima di cena, raggiungi il Centro Culturale HodjaPasha per assistere ad uno spettacolo dei dervisci rotanti , una tradizionale danza mistica dei sufi Mevlevi risalente al XIII secolo, un'esperienza davvero unica. Durata 1 h.

• Distanza percorsa 8 km
• Luoghi visitati Museo Archeologico di Istanbul (340TL/€11,50), Moschea di Solimano (gratis), Torre di Galata (650,00 TL / €19,85 circa), Palazzo Dolmabahçe (1370 TL / circa €42,00 con audioguida), Istiklal Caddesi e Piazza Taksim, crociera con cena sul Bosforo (€24,00)
• Dove mangiare Pranzo presso Mimar Sinan Tarihi Süleymaniye Kuru Fasulyecisi ( Ottieni indicazioni ), Cena compresa nella crociera sul Bosforo

1 - Museo Archeologico di Istanbul

Inizia la giornata con un caffè turco : prima di immergerti tra i reperti archeologici del museo, fermati poco prima al Gulhane sur cafe ( Ottieni indicazioni ), dove ordinare un famoso caffè turco. E per assaggiare una delle baklava più buone della città (dolce tipico a base di pasta fillo, frutta secca e miele) raggiungi la pasticceria Hafız Mustafa ( Ottieni indicazioni ).

2 - Moschea di Solimano

Pranzo con vista Moschea : a pranzo fermati da Mimar Sinan Tarihi Süleymaniye Kuru Fasulyecisi, locale con tavolini all'esterno con una splendida vista sulla Moschea. Qui potrai trovare i piatti della tradizione turca, come l'inconfondibile kebab. Ottieni indicazioni

3 - Torre di Galata

4 - Palazzo Dolmabahçe

Rilassati in un hammam : se non sei interessato alla visita del Palazzo Dolmabahçe, trascorri parte del pomeriggio rilassandoti in un hammam. Ad esempio, qui nella zona europea potrai trovare il Tarihi Galatasaray Hamamı, aperto dal 1481! Ottieni indicazioni

5 - Istiklal Caddesi e Piazza Taksim

Concludi la giornata con una crociera sul Bosforo : si tratta di una delle esperienze da non perdere assolutamente a Istanbul! Goditi quindi una crociera con cena e intrattenimento sul Bosforo , ammirando le luci della città di notte e assistendo anche a spettacoli tradizionali!

• Distanza percorsa 7,4 km
• Luoghi visitati Moschea Fatih, Chiesa di San Salvatore in Chora (54,00 TL/€5,90), quartiere Fener, Madame Tussauds Istanbul (180,00 TL/€11,10), Çiçek Pasajı, Piazza Taksim
• Dove mangiare Pranzo presso Old Balat Cafe Kitchen ( Ottieni indicazioni ), Cena presso MeatMoot Taksim Restaurant ( Ottieni indicazioni )

1 - Moschea Fatih

Per gli amanti della baklava : a pochi passi dalla Moschea si trova il Şerifoğlu Baklavaları, un locale specializzato in Baklava, uno dei dolci tipici turchi. Le potrai trovare in tantissime varianti diverse, assolutamente da non perdere per iniziare la giornata nel migliore dei modi. Ottieni indicazioni

2 - Chiesa di San Salvatore in Chora

Ammira le antiche mura di Costantinopoli : a pochi passi dalla Chiesa potrai ammirare le antiche mura di Costantinopoli, quelle originali, che dopo secoli e secoli sono arrivate fino a noi! Il punto di riferimento è İstanbul Surları ( Ottieni indicazioni ).

3 - Quartiere Fener

Fermati a pranzo nel quartiere : ricco di locali e ristorantini, qui la cucina è un mix tra quella turca e quella greca. Ti consigliamo di fermarti all'Old Balat Cafe Kitchen, dove potrai trovare piatti tipici turchi come il kebab o piatti più internazionali con influenze greche e mediterranee. Ottieni indicazioni

4 - Madame Tussauds Istanbul

Per raggiungere questa tappa: 20 min in traghetto ( Ottieni indicazioni ). Per il pomeriggio tornate nel lato europeo di Istanbul prendendo il traghetto . Nel quartiere di Fener si trova infatti il molo con le corse che collegano le due sponde: salite sul traghetto linea Haliç Hattı al molo Fener e scendete direttamente al molo Kasımpaşa, sulla sponda opposta (5 min). Una volta scesi dal traghetto, passeggiate per circa 20 min fino ad arrivare al famoso Madame Tussauds Istanbul (tutti i giorni 11:00-20:00; ingresso 180,00 TL/€11,10), il museo delle cere di Istanbul . Il museo è diviso in 4 grandi sezioni: Musica, Film, Sport e VIP Party, dove potrete scattare foto con i vostri idoli in versione statue di cera. Tempo di visita : 2 ore

Numerose alternative per tutti i gusti : se vuoi trascorrere qualche ora di divertimento, puoi visitare il Museo delle Illusioni ( Ottieni indicazioni ), mentre se vuoi immergerti ancora nella cultura turca, opta per il Galata Mevlevihanesi Müzesi, museo dedicato alle danze sufi dei Dervisci rotanti ( Ottieni indicazioni ). Se ti interessa l'arte moderna, scegli l'Istanbul Modern, recentemente restaurato su progetto di Renzo Piano ( Ottieni indicazioni ).

5 - Çiçek Pasajı

Ultima serata a piazza Taksim : il cuore della movida notturna, ti consigliamo di trascorrere qui la serata. La zona è ricca di club e discoteche, ma anche pub e locali più tranquilli in cui divertirsi.

Quanto costa un weekend a Istanbul

• Costi per mangiare circa €30,00 al giorno a persona (compresi colazione, pranzo, cena)
• Costi per musei e attrazioni prezzo medio €30,00 al giorno a persona seguendo l'itinerario da noi suggerito (compresa la crociera con cena sul Bosforo )
• Trasporti prezzo medio €5,00 al giorno a persona
• Hotel, alloggi e b&b da €30,00 a camera - guarda le offerte
• Svago da €20,00 al giorno a persona (compresi spuntini, caffè, aperitivi, drink, ...)
• Costo complessivo di un weekend a Istanbul da €315,00 a persona (voli e/o trasferimenti esclusi)

Prima di partire: consigli utili

• Preferisci le mezze stagioni l'estate è molto calda quindi, a meno che Istanbul non sia solo una tappa di un viaggio che comprende anche mete balneari della Turchia, ti consigliamo di scegliere periodi come maggio o settembre - scopri di più qui ;
• Dove dormire piazza Sultanahmet e piazza Taksim sono le zone migliori. Scegli sempre un hotel o alloggio vicino ad una fermata della metro o del tram, per poterti muovere senza problemi;
• Muoviti a piedi e con i mezzi potrai muoverti a piedi nei singoli quartieri, ma per raggiungere i diversi punti della città utilizza i mezzi. Consigliato il bus turistico - scopri di più ;
• Organizza bene l'itinerario fondamentale per ottimizzare i tempi. Se hai bisogno di ambientarti, puoi anche prendere parte ad un tour di 1 o 2 giorni con guida privata , ideale per non perdersi i luoghi più importanti e per spostarsi senza problemi;
• Attenzione agli orari di preghiera le Moschee sono chiuse alle visite durante gli orari di preghiera, che sono 5 in una giornata (uno durante l'ora di pranzo). Tieni a mente di questa cosa quando organizzi l'itinerario;
• Vestiti in modo adeguato soprattutto per visitare la parte più antica e tradizionale di Istanbul, indossa abiti adeguati. Per le Moschee dovrai avere spalle e gambe coperte, le donne dovranno coprire anche il capo;
• Assaggia la cucina turca spezie, carne, verdure e profumi, la cucina turca è davvero ricca e gustosa. Ti consigliamo di fermarti nelle tipiche taverne a conduzione famigliare. Se mangi nei mercati, assicurati che il cibo venga cotto davanti ai tuoi occhi e preferisci acqua chiusa in bottiglia.

Assicurazione di viaggio: il nostro consiglio

Hai dei suggerimenti?

Orari, prezzi e altre informazioni cambiano spesso, grazie ai tuoi feedback puoi aiutare migliaia di viaggiatori come te.

Wander-Lush

What Do Things Cost in Istanbul? Istanbul Prices + Budget Travel Tips

When I first visited Istanbul back in 2019, it wasn’t really known as a budget-friendly destination (not to me, at least). We had to tighten our belts and watch our spending – especially since Istanbul was our last stop on a 9-month trip around the Balkans .

Flash forward to 2022 when I got a chance to go back to Istanbul, and things had certainly changed. The cost of travelling in Istanbul (and I assume, living in Istanbul) has dipped dramatically.

Let’s not forget the reason why: Turkey (Türkiye) is currently experiencing a currency and debt crisis . Times are very tough for locals, and there is no joy in declaring Turkey a ‘cheap’ destination (I avoid using this word to describe Turkey, just as I do with Georgia ).

If there’s anything positive to take away from this situation, it’s that Turkey and Istanbul now look even more appealing to tourists. If I had known just how affordable Istanbul is right now, I would have visited and done my part to support the local economy a lot sooner. It’s even more affordable than Georgia , where I currently live.

My aim for this Istanbul travel budget guide is to give you a general idea of current prices in Turkey. Prices are based on the thorough budget we kept during our recent 10-day stay this summer.

Things are changing on an almost daily basis as the currency and inflation rate oscillates, so I encourage you to cross-check numbers wherever possible.

If you have any updates or insights to share about your own Istanbul travel budget, please feel free to do so in the comments below. I really appreciate any input, especially from locals – it’s extremely helpful for other readers.

Please note: Costs in Istanbul have gone up significantly since this guide was first published in summer 2022. Please check prices locally.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Money in Istanbul

The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY), represented with the ₺ symbol and sometimes abbreviated to TL.

At the time of writing:

• 1 USD = 18.12 TRY
• 1 EUR = 18.17 TRY
• 1 GBP = 21.42 TRY
• 1 AUD = 12.49 TRY

Turkey uses both banknotes (5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 lira) and coins called kurus (1, 5, 10, 25 and 50, plus 1 lira).

Example Istanbul travel budget

Before I get into the nitty gritty of average costs in Istanbul, here is a broad overview of what you can expect to spend per day depending on your travel style. Prices are inclusive of accommodation (individual for the budget category and twin share for the rest).

Budget traveller: 650 TRY / person / day

For 36 USD per person per day (or 252 USD per week), you can see Istanbul on a shoestring budget. Set aside 300 TRY/night for a bed in a hostel, leaving 350 TRY/day for expenses: Public transport, an easy street food breakfast, lunch and dinner at local restaurants (including a few draught beers), a trip to the public baths, and as many free activities as you fancy plus entrance to one ticketed attraction.

Mid-range traveller: 1500 TRY / person / day

A spend of 83 USD per person per day (or 580 USD/week) is ideal for mid-range travellers. This gives you 1000 TRY/night for a mid-range hotel (twin share) plus 500 TRY for your daily spending: Public transport and the occasional taxi ride, a traditional Turkish breakfast, street food snacks and dinner at a local restaurant with a bottle of wine, entrance to a few museums, and a special experience such as a street food tour or a Whirling Dervishes show.

High-end traveller: 5000 TRY / person / day

A generous budget of 276 USD per person per day (or 1932 USD/week) is more than enough for Istanbul. A boutique hotel costs around 2500 TRY/night (twin share), which leaves you with spending money of 2500 TRY/day: Use it for taxis, a fancy Turkish breakfast and other meals at higher-end or international restaurants, a private guided tour and fun experience such as a cooking class, a luxury hammam treatment, and a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus.

What do things cost in Istanbul?

Here is a detailed break-down of prices in Istanbul, including accommodation costs, prices for popular foods and drinks, entertainment expenses, and other essential purchases.

Note: All costs are averages based on my own experience in Istanbul and information available at the time of writing. Remember that the lira is in a state of flux right now due to inflation and other factors, so prices are changing constantly.

Essential Istanbul travel expenses

E-visa for turkey.

While visa-free travel to Turkey is available to EU citizens and passport holders from many countries in Eastern Europe and the Middle East , 40+ other nationalities (including Americans, Canadians and Australians) need a tourist visa.

One of my biggest tips for Istanbul is to apply for a visa before you travel. Turkey’s online e-visa portal makes the application process easy. It’s much more efficient (and less costly) to apply before you leave home rather than waiting to get a VOA when you arrive. A standard visa grants you a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with multiple entries.

An e-visa for Turkey costs 50 USD for US citizens, or 60 USD for Canadians and Australians. Apply through the official e-visa portal .

Airport shuttle to Taksim Square

• 52.50 TRY / 2.90 USD

Havabus/Havaist is the official airport bus service in Istanbul and a terrific service for reliable, budget-friendly travel to and from the airport. It services both Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen 24-hours a day, ferrying passengers to Taksim Square.

Tickets are purchased from the attendant after you board the bus. Card is not accepted, so make sure you have the correct amount of lira on you.

Private airport transfer

• From 490 TRY / 27 USD

If you prefer having someone to meet you in the arrivals hall and take you directly to your accommodation, private airport transfers are very well-priced.

This private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen starts from 27 USD.

Local SIM card

• 350 TRY / 19.30 USD

Tourists are somewhat limited when it comes to buying a SIM card in Turkey. There are several operators to choose from, but they only offer a standard ‘tourist package’ for non-residents.

I recommend picking up a SIM from Vodafone, which comes with 20GB of data, call and text credit, and unlimited use of Whatsapp, with 60 days validity.

Cost of accommodation in Istanbul

Note: Accommodation prices in Istanbul always go up during peak season and down over winter . Prices here are averages for the summer period.

Night in a hostel

• 300 TRY / 16.50 USD

Expect to pay around 300 TRY for a dorm bunk in a standard hostel with a central location. Hostel Le Banc in Beyoglu is the perfect choice for this price point, while more affordable options – with savings of up to 50% – can be found if you’re willing to stay further out or share a room with more people.

Night in a mid-range hotel

• 1000 TRY / 55 USD

A mid-range hotel in a central district should cost 1000 TRY on average, twin share. 38 Hotel in Sisli is a little bit pricer, but a great choice if you’re looking to stay in a local neighbourhood, close to public transport but some distance from the fray of Eminonu.

Night in a boutique hotel

• 2500 TRY / 140 USD

There are some truly special boutique accommodations in Istanbul, including the lovely Hotel Empress Zoe . With a budget of 2500 TRY per night, you can score some beautiful digs with a full Turkish breakfast and hammam-style ensuite included.

Night in a private Airbnb studio apartment

• 1600 TRY / 88 USD

The average price of an Airbnb in Istanbul (entire place) is 88 USD. You can find terrific studios and one-bedders for a lot less than that – I’ve seen plenty of quality listings for 40-50 USD/night. We recently paid 487 TRY (27 USD) per night for a 9-night stay in Sisli.

Cost of transport in Istanbul

IstanbulKart transport card

• 50 TRY / 2.80 USD

A rechargeable transport card is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport in Istanbul. It’s good for the metro, buses, dolmus vans, trams and most importantly, the local ferries. It also gives you access to lower fares compared with buying single or multi-journey electronic tickets.

Purchase a card for 50 TRY (non-refundable) from marked kiosks, newsstands, or ticket desks inside the metro. Up to five people can share the one card.

Single metro / bus / ferry fare

• 7.67 TRY / 0.40 USD

With the exception of the Metrobus, public transport fares in Istanbul are charged at a flat rate of 7.67 TRY one-way for IstanbulKart users (if you purchase a single electronic ticket, it will cost you almost double – 15 TRY).

If you have a multi-leg journey, transfer fares are charged at 5.49 TRY (0.30 USD) for the first transfer and decrease in price from there.

• 30-80 TRY / 1.60-4.40 USD

Istanbul has three types of taxis: Yellow (standard), turquoise (premium, 20% more on average) and black (luxury, twice as expensive). Expect to spend 30-80 TRY for a yellow taxi to take you anywhere in the city (not including the airport).

Yellow taxis are priced at 6.30 TRY/km with a switch-on fee of 9.80 TRY. Daytime and nighttime fares are the same. Thus a taxi from Taksim to Balat, for example, should cost around 50 TRY.

Istanbul taxis are metered and generally reliable, but you might want to use an app for peace of mind. Uber, BiTaksi and Itaksi are the three most popular options.

Car rental per day

• From 365 TRY / 20 USD

Renting a car in Istanbul is unnecessary (and honestly a bad idea!), but when you’re ready to venture out of the city and explore more of Turkey , having your own wheels will pay dividends.

I recommend using Discover Cars to compare big-name rental companies including Hertz, Europcar, Sixt and Wish. For a budget-friendly alternative, Local Rent offers cars from local agents, with prices starting from as low as 20 USD per day.

Cost of food & drinks in Istanbul

Glass of tea

• 3 TRY / 0.15 USD

Start your morning in Istanbul the old-fashioned way with a tulip-shaped ince belli of strong, black cay . A single glass of tea costs around 3 TRY at a standard cafe and slightly less if you buy it from a street or market vendor. You can never stop at just one, though – budget for a minimum of three glasses.

Cup of Turkish coffee

• 7 TRY / 0.40 USD

The UNESCO-recognised ritual of kahve (Turkish coffee) is a priceless experience, especially if you’re lucky enough to be in the company of some friendly locals. Coffee is traditionally reserved for later in the day, while tea is sipped with breakfast.

Latte / iced Americano at a fancy cafe

• 35 TRY / 1.95 USD

If you prefer your coffee cold-poured or V60’d, there is certainly no shortage of uber-trendy cafes in Istanbul. An Italian-style milk coffee or iced Americano is around five-times the price of a Turkish coffee – more if the cafe is located in a particularly touristy area.

Traditional Turkish breakfast

• 90-150 TRY / 5-8.30 USD

A kahvalti Turkish traditional breakfast is a must when visiting Istanbul. There are thousands of options when it comes to eating a full kahvalti tabagi spread breakfast, ranging from the gourmet version at Velvet Cafe Balat (150 TRY per person), with incredible house-made condiments, to the more-local but just as excellent Van Kahvalti Evi (90 TRY per person).

Oftentimes when you order a kahvalti , you end up with way too much food. A pick-and-choose style breakfast, where you only order what you want, is lighter on the wallet and on the tum.

My favourite place for this is Besiktas ‘Breakfast Street’, where there are dozens of early morning cafes. Small plates at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu range from 2-8 TRY each. Two things that are definitely worth splashing out on are the bal kaymak (clotted buffalo cream and honey) for 13 TRY and the tahin pekmez (tahini and grape molasses) for 10 TRY.

A local local quick breakfast of borek filled pastry and tea costs as little as 15 TRY (0.85 USD), while a humble simit bagel will only set you back 9 TRY (0.50 USD).

Meal for two in a mid-range Turkish restaurant

• 200-360 TRY / 11-20 USD

When in Istanbul, do as Istanbulites do – eat at local Turkish restaurants as often as possible. There is a huge price range here depending on the type of establishment and the location, but generally speaking, you can expect to spend somewhere in the neighbourhood of 200-360 TRY for a generous Turkish meal for two.

At cafeteria-style restaurants in Sisle, we paid as little as 140 TRY (7.70 USD) for a pair of kebabs, rice and ayran (a popular savoury yogurt drink). A worker’s lunch at a casual lokanta costs around 200 TRY, while you will pay 320-plus TRY for a seafood lunch at a fancier fish restaurant or a meze feast at a meyhane .

Meal for two in an international cafe/restaurant

• 350-500 TRY / 19-28 USD

As with most cities, international cuisine is priced higher compared with Turkish fare. Expect to pay more – up to twice as much – for sushi or pasta, depending on the location and the quality of the establishment.

Street food snack

• 40 TRY / 2.20 USD

A quick doner kebab, balik ekmek (grilled fish wrap) or icli kofte (stuffed kibbeh) to go costs around 40 TRY per piece. For the same price, you can get a more substantial sit-down street food meal, such as a heaving plate of tavuk pilav (chicken and rice).

Piece of Turkish baklava

• 14 TRY / 0.75 USD

Everyone’s favourite Turkish treat. A diamond of basic sade baklava somewhere like Karakoy Gulluoglu costs 14 TRY, while you’ll pay up to 150 TRY (8.30 USD) for the havuc dilimi (giant pistachio baklava with Turkish ice cream) at the historic cafe Hafız Mustafa 1864 (don’t fret, it’s plenty big enough to share!).

Chocolate bar

• 16 TRY / 0.90 USD

A pistachio milk chocolate from the supermarket (Damak brand or similar) costs 16 TRY, or you can fork out slightly more for an imported sweet. Notice how the little square chocolate blocks in Turkey are perfectly proportioned for one sitting!

Small bottle of fresh orange juice

• 15 TRY / 0.85 USD

Freshly squeezed orange juice ( portakal suyu ) and pomegranate juice ( nar suyu ) are a steal. Street vendors around Galata Tower and other touristy areas often overcharge – stick to juice bars or shops.

Small bottle of water

• 4 TRY / 0.20 USD

Whether or not you can drink the tap water in Istanbul is quite a controversial topic. If you prefer to drink bottled, try to buy larger bottles to cut down on plastic waste.

Glass of local draught beer

• 50 TRY / 2.75 USD

A tall glass of Efes Pilsen or similar starts from 50 TRY, while you’ll pay 30-50% more for a bottle of craft beer .

Cost of toiletries in Istanbul

Bar of Turkish hammam soap

You can definitely find a lower price if you shop at a local market, but this is a ballpark figure when buying from the Grand Bazaar.

Mid-sized tube of sunscreen

• 170 TRY / 9.40 USD

Sunscreen is quite pricey and there isn’t a big range of brands – bring your own from home, especially if you’re visiting during summer.

• 16.50 / 0.90 USD

I once read a scathing Istanbul trip report on a travel forum where the individual paid through the nose – double dollar figures – for a simple plastic toothbrush. Thank goodness this is no longer the case. Basic toiletries, over the counter medications and prescription medicines are all extremely affordable in Turkey.

Bottle of hand gel

• 9 TRY / 0.50 USD

Hand sanitiser is widely available in supermarkets and cosmetic stores.

Cost of activities & entertainment in Istanbul

Istanbul E-Pass

A worthwhile investment if you plan on doing the rounds through Istanbul’s museums and landmarks, the Istanbul E-Pass includes entry to more than 40 of the city’s finest cultural institutions and most popular attractions.

Galata Tower (130 TRY), Topkapi Palace and the Harem (200 TRY), the Istanbul Archaeological Museum (60 TRY), Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (60 TRY), and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum (25 TRY) are all included.

Choose from 2-7 days validity. And best of all, the digital pass allows you to skip the queue at most sites.

Buy the official Istanbul E-Pass here through Viator .

Entrance to Galata Tower

• 130 TRY / 7.20 USD

Istanbul’s most famous viewing deck now costs a pretty penny, but I still think it’s worth it. The new Galata Tower Museum inside the watchtower is quite interesting, too. Read my tips for visiting Galata Tower here .

Ticket to see the Whirling Dervishes

• 545 TRY / 30 USD

Yes, it’s one of the most touristy activities in Istanbul – but ‘authentic’ Mevlevi Sema ceremonies that take place in local mosques do exist. Read this article to learn about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul , and which commercial shows to avoid.

Luxe hammam treatment (private bath)

• 700-800 TRY / 40-44 USD

You can’t visit Istanbul without going to a hammam for an exfoliating scrub down and kopuk bubble wash. Fancier bathhouses charge around 700-800 TRY per person for a basic treatment, which normally includes unlimited time in the communal bathing area.

Aga Hamami off Taksim Square (which claims to be the oldest bathhouse in Istanbul) and Kilic Ali Pasha Hamami in Karakoy are both fine choices, with opulent facilities and quality service.

Remember the price is exclusive of service. It’s recommended to tip your natir or tellak therapist an additional 10-20%.

Hammam & peeling scrub (public bath)

• 125 TRY / 6.90 USD

A budget-friendly alternative is to visit a public hammam, where the communal rooms are divided into mens and women’s sections (the private hammams mentioned above are mixed).

You aren’t obliged to purchase a package treatment, you can simply steam and soak in the baths (usually for around 100 TRY) and add-on a peel or a foam massage for an additional 25 TRY if you wish.

There are dozens to choose from – Kadirga Hamami in Sultanahmet has good reviews, beautiful 18th-century marble rooms, and competitive prices.

Sunset cruise on the Bosphorus

While the budget-conscious should stick to the local ferries, if you prefer champagne and yacht-level legroom with your water views, you can upgrade to a Bosphorus sunset cruise.

This 2.5-hour cruise has impeccable reviews.

Other Istanbul costs

Tipping is customary in Istanbul, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurant and bar staff. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash. Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to staff at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

Majority of ATMs in Turkey charge a withdrawal fee, usually a percentage of the transaction rather than a flat fee. The only no-fee ATM I know of is Ziraat Bank.

Fee structures change regularly. Usually different ATMs are clustered together, so you can experiment with a few options.

Public restrooms

• 2 TRY / 0.10 USD

If you need a public restroom, head to the nearest mosque. Every mosque, it seems, has a bathroom that’s open to anyone and most of the time they are relatively clean. Many of the larger mosques offer facilities for free, but some request a coin.

Cash or card in Istanbul?

Ninety-nine percent of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard as well as contactless pay. The same goes for hotels. For small markets and convenience stores, local eateries and taxis, you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills come in handy for tipping, so try to keep some 10s and 20s on you.

Tips for saving money in Istanbul

• Avoid travelling during peak summer season. Accommodation and tour prices are always inflated between June and August, while you can find some great shoulder and off-season deals if you travel in spring, winter or autumn.
• Remember that a visa on arrival is more expensive than an e-visa. It’s best to apply online in advance – and it will save you time and energy at the airport, too.
• Pick up an IstanbulKart transport card as soon as you can. Metro, ferry, tram and bus fares are 50% lower when you use the card compared to buying single tickets.
• Eat like a local. It goes without saying that local bites are usually better priced than international meals, and that local restaurants outside of the very touristy zones offer better value for money.
• Stick to free activities and choose your big-ticket attractions wisely. There are plenty of free things to do in Istanbul . Don’t cull something from your itinerary if you have your heart on it, but pick and choose which of the big museums and landmarks you want to spend money on.
• Invest in an Istanbul E-Pass. But only if it makes sense for you.
• Opt for a public hammam rather than a private bath. If you don’t need maximum pampering, a public bath is an equally fun experience.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• The perfect Istanbul itinerary
• 40+ Istanbul tips for first-timers
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower – is it worth it?
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• The ultimate guide to Istanbul street food
• Guide to Arnavutkoy , my favourite neighbourhood in Istanbul
• The most beautiful places to visit in Turkey
• Where to visit in Turkey in winter

Hi there, this is an excellent and detailed guide!! So helpful. May I also add some tips relaed to ATMs, exchanging money in Istanbul. In my experience, I found using ATMs (the fee-free ones) much better than exchanging currency to get better rates. Interestingly, the bank ATMs in Istanbul have such a variety of ATM fees – like some charge absolutely no fees to foreign cards holders and some charge ridiculously high fees. So its an important cost consideration when travelling there. I landed up using the ATM Fee Saver mobile app – it gives a list of fee-free and low-fee ATMs in Istanbul along with their withdrawal limits. Was quite a life saviour for me as I landed up saving so much on ATM fees. Worth adding to your list, it will help a lot of international travellers to Turkey!

Excellent tip, thank you Jess!

Hi there, I keep on seeing the same information related on many blogs and being in Istanbul right now, prices are much more expensive. Count 35 try for a tea, 70 try for a Turkish coffee. A meal at a mid range restaurant is 300-500 try per person just for the main dish. We just paid 1300 try for 2 people to visit topkapi palace. We are quite schooled as we expected Istanbul to be a much more affordable location ! I don’t know if such a huge surge in price is very recent, but all information online seems to be outdated.

Thank you for the update – certainly prices seem to have increased considerably since I was there in summer.

I’ve been in Turkiye for 3 weeks and the lira has gone from $1aud = 12.8lira to being about 16.8 lira today!! I’ve noticed all the museums use stickers to change the prices almost daily, so wouldn’t be surprised if it keeps going up. But if you’re a foreigner, the lira will be more but the dollar value is still similar.

Best of luck on your travels

I’m not a local, but I think your budgets are right on the mark! My husband and I visited Turkey in 2019 and spent about $45 USD/day per person. For our time in Istanbul alone, the average was closer to $62 USD/day (currently ~1152 TRY) and I consider us to be between budget and mid-range travelers, so that matches up with your estimates quite well! Thanks as always for sharing such detailed information for fellow travelers. Glad to see you loved Istanbul.

Thanks Megan for the feedback about your Istanbul budget! Hope you enjoyed your time in Turkey!

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