Epic 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary: Your Perfect Guide to Exploring the Heart of Two Continents

Welcome to Istanbul! This vibrant city is where East meets West, modern meets ancient, and every corner has a story to tell.

In the last few months, I’ve had several friends come through the city and ask for suggestions on how to plan their visit. I’ve put those suggestions together for you, to create the best 3 days Istanbul itinerary to maximize your trip.

As a resident of Istanbul since 2009, I have the inside scoop on what to see (and what to leave for your next visit), where to stay, what to eat, and how to budget.

For a first-timer or even a seasoned traveler, three days in Istanbul is enough to hit the highlights and get a taste of the magic.

Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Istanbul is Constantinople

I’m going to count your travel day into Istanbul as Day 0. You’ve arrived at the Queen of Cities, had a good night’s sleep, and you’re ready to hit the ground!

On Day 1, we’re going to hit the highlights of this ancient city.

Istanbul was called Constantinople until 1930. The whole city used to be located in what’s now the “Historic Peninsula,” bordered by the Marmara Sea on the south, the Bosphorus Strait on the east, the Golden Horn on the north, and the very defensible land wall on the west.

Let’s begin in the Sultanahmet area of town.

Hagia Sophia

Start your day around 9 a.m. at the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque (formerly a Greek Orthodox church). This is the iconic orange-tinted building with flying buttresses supporting it (those curved columns with the space under them).

From 537-1402, the Hagia Sophia was the largest cathedral in Europe! That’s serious bragging rights!

Currently, the Hagia Sophia is a mosque, and the ground floor is reserved for Muslim worshippers only. You can pay 25 euros for a ticket to enter the building on the second floor, where you can see some magnificent mosaics and get a sense of the size of the building.

Even as a visitor on the second floor, women should have their heads covered and men should have their shoulders and knees covered. You can read more about dress codes here.

Be sure to keep your voice low and be respectful of the house of worship. Last year when I brought a group of friends from out of town, I was a bit too animated while explaining the history of the mosque.

A security guard came over and asked me to “Calm down, lady.” My friends got a kick out of that! But it was a good reminder to keep my voice appropriate to the space.

After about an hour to look around, cross the Hippodrome (where chariots raced for glory) and head to the Blue Mosque.

Here is a tour to cover all the places!

The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

The Blue Mosque is free to enter but is closed during prayer times, five times a day. You can find prayer times here and expect mosques to be closed 30 minutes before and after the stated time.

I love the sense of airy openness of the Blue Mosque, and the beautiful blue tiles that give it its nickname. It’s one of my favorite spots in old Istanbul.

Once you soak in the beauty of the mosque, get ready to head underground at the Basilica Cistern.

Basilica Cistern

The Historical Peninsula was easy to defend against invaders in the Middle Ages, but it had one major problem: no fresh water.

Thankfully, the Romans who established the city were good at building aqueducts and brought water in from north of the city. They had to store this water somewhere, so they dug underground cisterns throughout the city.

The Basilica Cistern is one of the biggest examples of these water holders. Engineers used repurposed columns (some from the Temple of Artemis down near Izmir) to hold up the ceiling of the cistern.

Sometimes they had to play mix-and-match to get the right height. This is why you see random Medusa heads and other pieces down in that eerie space!

When I first toured Turkey in 2003, the cistern was one of the most memorable places on our itinerary. The eerie, secretive sense of being underground was fascinating and fun.

This site was under renovation for a good five years and has finally been completed. Tickets to the cistern are about $30, and can be purchased here:

If you only want to do a cistern tour, here is a good one.

I would definitely suggest that you pre-purchase your tickets to avoid the long line.

Once you come back to street level and re-adjust to the light, you might need a snack. You could get a simit (like a sesame bagel), some roasted chestnuts from a street vendor, or grab a Turkish meatball sandwich (no tomato sauce) at the Sultanahmet Koftecisi, in business since 1920.

Once you’ve re-fueled, head over to the Topkapi Palace.

Topkapi Palace

The former residence of Ottoman sultans gives you a window into the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, which once reached as far west as the gates of Austria and as far south as Egypt.

The first area you see is the “selamlik,” or the public part of the palace where official meetings were held. This is similar to the West Wing of the White House in Washington DC.

This area includes various displays of arms, jewelry, and religious relics (since the Ottoman Sultan was also the Caliph of Islam).

The second part of the palace is the Harem, which is like the Executive Residence of the White House.

Topkapi also has some incredible view from the gardens. I can only imagine how incredible it would have been to live there.

Combined tickets to see both parts of the palace as well as the Hagia Irene church on the palace grounds is 1700 TL (about $50). This is one place where a guide could be helpful in understanding the intrigue of the palace.

Be aware that Topkapi is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

This tour has all three included!

Grand Bazaar

Once you’ve gotten your fill of history, you’ll be ready for some shopping! If you’re flagging at this point in the day, you can also save the shopping for the morning of Day 3.

But if you’re up for it, wrap up your afternoon by taking the tram two stops from Sultanahmet to Beyazit-Kapalicarsi and stepping into the Grand Bazaar.

With its maze of more than 4,000 shops, this is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. You’ll find everything from jewelry and rugs to spices and souvenirs.

I often get lost when I’m at the Grand Bazaar, but that’s all part of the fun. People are very helpful so don’t hesitate to ask for directions.

While I’m there, I practice my barganing skills. When I bought a leather wallet as a birthday gift for my husband, I was able to get the guy down about 20%, which was pretty satisfying.

Note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, so if you’re only available to shop on a Sunday, you can go to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar or the Arasta Bazaar (both open 7 days a week).

While I’m all for self-touring, a guided tour can help you make the most of your time at the Grand Bazaar. This is a unique tour and the thing I love about it is a good guide will keep you from getting ripped off.

Evening Options: Hammam or Art

After a day of sightseeing, it’s time to unwind the traditional Turkish way – with a hammam (Turkish bath).

This is one experience where I’d suggest you don’t pre-purchase a ticket. Just pick a hammam and pay at the door. There’s always availability, and even if it’s a bit busy, you just enjoy a bit more time to pour water over yourself and soak.

Recently a friend and I went to the Cemberlitas Hammam (right outside the Cemberlitas tram stop) and had a great experience. We paid about $60 for a soak and a scrub with a short massage included. You can also pay an extra $40 or so for a 30-minute oil massage, which is super relaxing.

If you’re not comfortable with the idea of a communal bath, you could enjoy creating some traditional Turkish marbling art instead.

Just be gracious with yourself as the picture in your mind will rarely be what you produce the first go at it, at least it wasn’t for her.

Kimberly did this recently and had a blast learning and creating. Of course they didn’t look quite like the photo below but it was fun to explore!

Day 2: Modern Istanbul On Two Continents

On Day 2, let’s check out another continent!

Today, we’re exploring the dynamic neighborhoods of Kadikoy (on the Asian side of Istanbul) and Taksim (back in Europe). At the end of the day, we’ll enjoy a scenic evening cruise on the Bosphorus.

You’ll get a taste of modern Istanbul and catch some of the best views in the city.

Kadiköy

Start the morning at the Eminonu ferry port and find the little “house” where boats head to Kadıköy.

To pay for your ride, you can buy a 3-pass ticket or a refillable Istanbulkart transportation card at a vending machine.

The 25-minute ferry ride itself is an experience, with seagulls following the boat and lovely views of the city skyline. Make sure you buy a simit (sesame ‘bagel’) before getting on so that you can partake in the fun!

Once in Kadikoy, head to the “Kadikoy Balik Pazari,” or Kadikoy Fish Market. This is a pedestrian street with shops selling fresh fish and produce as well as sweets and spices you can take home.

For lunch, you can check out Çiya, a much-feted restaurant featuring specialties from southeast Turkey. I particularly love their cold salad bar where you pay by weight. The backstory of this restaurant is quite a fascinating story. Make sure to watch Season 5 Episode 2 of Chef’s Table.

You might want to join a food tour that introduces you to a variety of good eats with a local guide. I love joining food tours that give me insights into local culture while I eat delicious food!

Whether you explore with a guide or on your own, Kadikoy is a really hip area and a fun way to check out two continents.

Taksim Square and Istiklal Street

If you’ve spent an extended time in Kadikoy, you can save Taksim Square and Galata Tower for Day 3. From Kadikoy you can directly take a ferry to Karaköy to get on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise for a fun way to end Day 2.

But if you’re up for a bit more adventure, you can take a ferry to Kabatas (back on the European side) and follow the signs for the funicular (one-stop metro) up to Taksim.

This bustling square is a symbol of modern Istanbul, with a mix of historic buildings, trendy shops, and cultural landmarks.

From here, walk or take the historical tram down Istiklal Street, a pedestrian avenue filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and street performers. If you’re into shopping then this street is for you!

I love the pulsing energy of this street, with its gorgeous architecture and fun attractions. My girls and I once enjoyed a fun New Year’s trip to the Museum of Illusions and got some amazing photos.

I have an Italian friend who likened this street to Milan, and it definitely has a European feel to it.

Galata Tower

As you continue down Istiklal Street, make your way toward the Galata Tower. This medieval pencil-shaped stone tower is one of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and offers panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.

You can choose to take photos of the tower from its base or pay the 30 euros fee to take the elevator to the top. It is beautiful up there! As you take the stairs back down to the base of the tower, each floor has an interesting exhibit to check out.

Recently a friend of mine had limited time in the city and this was the only tourist attraction she visited, and she was awed by the amazing view. If you go at sunset you will see the city bathed in a beautiful pink, golden glow.

As you continue to walk down the hill from the Galata Tower, you’ll hit the Karakoy neighborhood near the water.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

From Karakoy pier, you can catch this Bosphorus dinner cruise (8:30 p.m. departure, lasts approximately 3 hours, $30).

Your dinner cruise will include a full meal, live Turkish music, and traditional dances. It’s the perfect way to wrap up Day 2 and create some unforgettable memories.

Here are some other options for a private Bosphorus Cruise

Day 3: Other Gems

For the last day, we’re diving into some lesser-known gems of Istanbul, exploring the charming Balat neighborhood, and attending a mesmerizing whirling dervish ceremony.

This day offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s off-the-beaten-path spots and rich traditions.

Dolmabahce Palace

For the morning of Day 3, I’d suggest you catch anything you might have missed in Days 1 and 2.

If you’ve been able to see it all, head to the Dolmabahce Palace for another peek into Ottoman history (approximately $45, closed on Mondays).

The Ottoman sultans lived in Topkapi Palace until 1856 when they moved into this opulent budget-busting seaside palace.

You’ll see both international and local tourists gaping at the grand chandeliers and gold-leaf details. When my daughter was in 4th grade, we took a school trip to Dolmabahce with her class of 36 kids.

The kids were certainly amazed at their surroundings and we had to work hard to keep their hands off of the historic furniture!

Egyptian Spice Bazaar, Balat, and Fener

Once you’re done with your morning adventure, head to Eminonu and stop for lunch at Lezzet-i Sark behind the Egyptian Spice Bazaar for the southeastern specialty Beyran Çorbasi (beef and rice stew). I love this soup!

To find this hidden gem, enter the Spice Bazaar’s main entrance at the square and turn right at the first intersection. Walk outside and continue down the narrow street till you see the restaurant on your right.

Once you are re-fueled, either take a tram or join a tour to explore Balat just down the Golden Horn (the little waterway that juts in on the European side).

Balat/Fener is a colorful, artsy area known for its historic buildings and eclectic vibe.

This part of town was once home to Istanbul’s Jewish community, and you’ll still find synagogues and traditional houses with iron balconies and vibrant facades.

The current Greek Orthodox Patriarchate (like the Vatican for the Orthodox Church) is located in Fener, and I often hear Greek being spoken by groups of tourists coming for a pilgrimage.

The other day when I was walking through the neighborhood to check out an art exhibition, I passed by a ceramics shop that had the cutest mugs. I love poking around this neighborhood and checking out cafes and little boutiques.

Don’t miss the Instagram-famous colorful steps and houses!

Whirling Dervishes

Close off your Istanbul adventure by attending a whirling dervish ceremony. This spiritual Sufi dance, known as the “sema,” is a peaceful ritual that symbolizes a journey to divine love.

You can catch these performances at a few places in Istanbul. The Hodjapasha Cultural Center hosts a daily ceremony at 7 p.m. (approximately $30) in a lovely, traditional setting.

From April to October, if you eat at the outdoor Dervis Cafe and Restaurant in Sultanahmet between 7:30 and 10:30 p.m., you can also see a simple (but free!) whirling dervish ceremony.

They don’t host the ceremony on rainy evenings but if the night is clear, check it out!

Watching the dervishes spin in their white robes is mesmerizing and meditative, leaving you with a serene impression of Istanbul’s spiritual side.

Baklava Bonanza

End your Istanbul 3 day itinerary with the best baklava in the city at Karakoy Gulluoglu (open till 1 a.m.).

Take the T1 tram to Tophane and walk about 5 minutes to find flaky layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and buttery syrup.

When I first came to Turkey in 2003, I thought all baklava was the same. I stopped by a random bakery and got a few pieces, but it was a bit gamey and really syrupy.

Then a friend took me to Gulluoglu and since then that’s been the gold standard for Turkish baklava for me!

My favorite shape of baklava is called havuc dilimi (literally “carrot slice”) alongside a tulip-shaped glass of light Turkish tea (ask for “achuk chay”).

You can even have it topped with kaymak or ice cream to add a creamy flavory, which I think cuts the sweetness a bit.

Other Considerations

Your route is set for your three days in Istanbul! What are some other topics you’ll need to iron out in order to have a good visit?

Where to Stay?

On my first trip to Istanbul in 2003, my husband and I stayed in the Sultanahmet part of town. It was amazing to be in the heart of historic Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is a very touristy part of the city, but for good reason. It’s the historic heart of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and it’s a great place to home base for your travels.

There are hotels in every range, from a bed in a shared hostel room a Stanpoli (make sure use promo code “ARTFULLYLIVING” at checkout for a 5% discount) to the luxurious Four Seasons which was recently renovated.

Taksim is also a popular place for tourists to stay.

If you’d like to be a bit off the beaten path, Kadikoy on the Asian side is a good option as well. This post covers our favorite places in Istanbul.

How Much Should I Budget?

Prices in Turkey have gone up considerably in the last few years, but you can still have an amazing time on a wide range of budgets.

Some points of interest, like the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, are free to enter.

Many attractions, like Galata Tower and Dolmabahce Palace, can be appreciated from the outside or on a second trip to the city.

Generally speaking, I’d suggest you budget approximately $100-150 per person per day for activities and meals. You can go up or down on this budget depending on which tours you join or if you get a discount pass like the Megapass.

Is it Worth Getting a Museum Pass?

The Turkish government offers a Museumpass Istanbul E-Card for 105 euros that covers some of the main attractions in Istanbul and lasts for 5 days.

This pass doesn’t end up saving you much money. However, having this card means you can skip the ticket line, which can be worth it during peak visiting months from May to September. Note: that this e-card does not include entry to Hagia Sophia or the Kariye Mosque (Chora Church).

One private alternative to the Museumpass is the MegaPass Istanbul. This pass gives you a choice of some of the most popular highlights of Istanbul including the Hagia Sophia and an Asian side walking tour.

Very convenient and highly recommended!

FAQs About Istanbul 3 Days Itinerary

Final Thoughts

This 3-day itinerary gives you a rich mix of Istanbul’s history, culture, and modern life. Looking for more than just Istanbul? We also have a 7 day itinerary for Turkey.

From exploring ancient landmarks to tasting local flavors, watching dervishes, and cruising the Bosphorus, you’ll get a true taste of what makes this city so enchanting.
 
So, what are you waiting for? Istanbul is ready to sweep you off your feet!