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Everyone has that city that first made them fall in love with travel – for me, that city is Istanbul. Having been my first small step out of Europe as a child (and having come probably ten times since then), Istanbul and Türkiye are the kind of places that I will never get tired of revisiting.
This 3 days Istanbul itinerary will introduce you to the absolute highlights of the timeless and captivating city of Istanbul.
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Why do travellers keep coming back to Istanbul?
Both historically and in the present, Istanbul is one of the world’s greatest melting pots. The origin of the city’s name – “eis tin polin” (εἰς τὴν πόλιν), meaning “into the city” in Greek – alludes to how Istanbul has always been upheld as a thriving cosmopolitan center, and represented the absolute peak of cultural development in the region.
I’ll ease off from all the clichés you’ve probably heard before about “East meets West”. But Istanbul’s history has absorbed influences from far and wide, and it remains a global gateway for visitors today.
Beside all of the “tick-off-able” sights in Istanbul, this is a city where you should just soak in the atmosphere. Take your time to enjoy the small moments in Istanbul: observing everyday life, taking a slow ferry right across the water, or just enjoying a true (and potent) Turkish coffee at a streetside bar.
In this 3 days Istanbul itinerary, prepare for a whistle-stop tour through some of its many different sides. The Bosphorus Strait conveniently dissects the city into the European and Asian sides, giving this huge city a fresh, spacious feel to it (and probably moderating its air pollution, too).
With most historical sites being concentrated on the western shores (Europe), it’s a good idea to dedicate two days to the European side, and take a ferry to the Asian side on your final day.
Before you go: Visiting Istanbul
Best time of year to visit Istanbul
You might not think it at first, but Istanbul has some pretty dreary, cold weather in the winter. Grey days with plenty of drizzle and rain make winter the worst time of year to come to Istanbul.
The spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the best times to come to Istanbul. The air can be fresh in the morning, and clearer skies make for excellent photos of Istanbul’s skyline.
Summer (June-August) is also a great time to visit Istanbul. While even nearby cities like Athens and the Turkish Riviera roast above 30 degrees, Istanbul’s summer is much more bearable. Summer temperatures in Istanbul generally range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Summer is also a great time to visit some of these off-the-beaten-track beach towns near Istanbul.
Best area to stay in Istanbul for your first visit
As an introduction to Istanbul, it is often recommended to stay in the Sultanahmet area. It is the historical heart of Istanbul, and there is an absolute wealth of things to do and see. Pair with that plenty of options for accommodation, restaurants, bars, cafes and shopping, and Sultanahmet is often a great choice for first-timers to Istanbul.
Istanbul tip: Try to get a hotel near Beyazit, for easy access to the HAVAIST buses to and from the airport.
Alternatively, we often recommend visitors to base themselves in Galata. We even have an article about how much we love Galata. Within easy striking distance of Sultanahmet’s historical areas, but also near the city’s chic and trendy side, Galata is another great choice for Istanbul accommodation.
Sticking on European shores, Taksim is another relatively popular choice. As the commercial epicenter of Istanbul, Taksim has many upmarket, international chain hotels. It’s near the super-trendy neighborhood of Nişantaşı, but personal experience has taught me that Taksim is probably more suitable for business travelers, and not those first-time tourists wanting to focus on historical Istanbul.
Getting to and from the Istanbul airports
Most flights fly into Istanbul’s mammoth new airport, just called Istanbul Airport (IST), on the European side. Otherwise, if you’re using budget carriers like Pegasus or AnadoluJet, you’ll come into Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), on the Asian side.
From the main Istanbul Airport, it’s most convenient to take the HAVAIST bus to Beyazit, Taksim or a number of other destinations in the city. A newly opened connection to the M2 metro line also links the airport with Gayrettepe, but this doesn’t take you directly to where you’re likely to be staying.
From Sabiha Gökçen Airport, the HAVAIST bus company also runs buses to Taksim or Kadıköy, which is on the Asian side. If you’re going for the not too pressed for time, it’s probably a nicer (and definitely cheaper) option to get the metro to Kadıköy, followed by a scenic ferry across the Bosphorus from Kadıköy to Eminönü (Sultanahmet).
The ultimate 3 days Istanbul itinerary
Day 1: Sultanahmet
Morning
Start your day nice and early with a rooftop breakfast at Stera Lounge (The Bosphorus). With sweeping views overlooking the Golden Horn, as well as the dreamy minaret-dotted skyline of Istanbul, there is no better way to start your Istanbul trip.
The Süleymaniye Mosque, a sixteenth-century Ottomon complex housing the tomb of Suleyman the Magnificent, is the next stop. If you can make it here early in the morning to take in the early morning (or even sunrise) views, this would be something you’d never forget.
Meander your way slowly downhill, passing by the Hilye-i Şerif and Tesbih Museum. This under-the-radar gem is a beautiful courtyard with rooms showcasing Islamic calligraphy and art. (Note: at the time of writing, the museum is temporarily closed – check for the latest news online).
As you reach the shores of the Golden Horn, stroll through the Egyptian Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı). Take in the sights and smells of the spices, fragrances and confectionery on sale here. It might have become a bit touristy lately, though, so be prepared to haggle. Market stalls also line the streets outside the main bazaar.
Walking through Eminönü Square (dodging the famous Bosphorus seagulls), you’ll pass by the New Mosque (Yeni Camii), and eventually reach Sirkeci Railway Station. The erstwhile terminus of the Orient Express, this is still a functioning railway station today. A visit to the Istanbul Railway Museum here is a worthwhile short detour if rail history is your thing.
Lunch
As lunchtime approaches, you’ll be right nearby the Hocapaşa alleyway and its large selection of restaurants. Go to Hocapaşa Pidecisi to sample traditional Turkish “pide” (a stuffed flatbread often containing spicy meat, cheese and egg). In my opinion, eating pide in Istanbul is a quintessential food experience on any Istanbul itinerary.
The best Turkish sweets in Sultanahmet
Just round the corner, Hafiz Mustafa 1864 dessert shop is a legendary place to sample all manner of sweet treats. Branch out from the traditional baklava that you’ve probably tasted many times before – there is a mouthwatering choice of other sweet treats here, especially in combination with gooey Turkish dondurma ice cream and added pistachios or nuts.
Afternoon
Undoubtedly the most iconic monument in Istanbul, the Hagia Sofia is a truly breathtaking building, and an essential stop on your 3 days Istanbul itinerary. Completed in 360 AD, the staggering history of the Hagia Sofia – converted from church to mosque to museum and back again, multiple times over the millennia – demands a good amount of time. The serenity and beauty of its interior will leave you dumbstruck.
On the other side of Sultanahmet square is the Blue Mosque. Recently renovated, its stacked domes and six minarets make it another one of Istanbul’s finest landmarks. While the ancient Hagia Sophia represents the Byzantine period, the Blue Mosque evokes the cultural wealth of the more recent Ottoman Empire. Don’t miss the Obelisk of Theodosius and Serpent’s Column, just outside the Blue Mosque.
Across the square, you’ll see lines of tourists outside the Basilica Cistern. This is a relatively interesting Roman underground cistern, deep underground and held up by illuminated marble columns. However, due to the inflated price tag, long queues and the fact you’ll have covered quite a lot of ground already, it might be a good idea to skip the Basilica Cistern until your next visit.
Evening
If you still have time and energy, walk back up the hill to check out the Grand Bazaar (things tend to slow down at 6 pm). If you don’t get time, it would be a good start to your second day.
One of the best restaurants for dinner in Sultanahmet is Mivan Restaurant and Café. You can’t go wrong with their eggplant kebab, all for a good affordable price.
The best hammams in Sultanahmet
If visiting in the colder months, warm up at a local hammam just downhill at the Kadırga Hamamı.
For a more luxurious hammam experience, to really unwind after your day, head back up the hill Cağaloğlu Hamamı. This beautiful eighteenth-century bathhouse has been pristinely restored to international standards, and it’s the perfect way to end the day.
Çemberli Taş is another one of my favorite premium-oriented hammams, located on the main street around Beyazit and the Grand Bazaar.
Day 2: Topkapı Palace, Galata and Beyoğlu
Morning
If you didn’t get round to visit yesterday, start off your second day with a shopping trip at the Grand Bazaar. It’s infamously easy to get lost in the Grand Bazaar, but that is part of the whole experience. You can also grab a local breakfast from a local restaurant in the alleyways surrounding the market.
As the biggest sight remaining to be seen on the Sultanahmet peninsula, head to the Topkapı Palace Museum. This sprawling complex of imperial rooms, gardens, treasuries and residences was the seat of the Ottoman sultans, including their harems. Decorated throughout with paintings and calligraphy, the Topkapi palace will definitely be a highlight of your 3 days Istanbul itinerary.
Lunch
Having taken in the main sights of Sultanahmet, walk across the two-tiered bridge towards the neighborhoods of Karaköy and Galata on the northern side. You’ll pass by a whole line of picturesque seafood restaurants on the bridge’s lower level, with fisherman’s lines being thrown from the top level.
For a more local vibe, though, the Karaköy Balık Evi (“Karaköy Fish House”), on the western side of the bridge’s north end, serves great, varied and affordable seafood in a casual plastic-table-and-chair setup.
When you carry on up the hill to Galata, Güney Restaurant is one of my favorites from the more refined options by Galata Tower.
Afternoon
You’re now in the neighborhood of Beyoğlu, a historically cosmopolitan area of Istanbul. After following our advice for what to do in Galata, continue walking northwards until you reach the famous pedestrianized Istiklal Street.
There are two particularly interesting art galleries to stop by here. The first, Meşher, is one of my favorite galleries I’ve visited in recent years – a small free gallery showcasing impressions of Istanbul from different angles, including cityscapes, sculptures and antique ceramics. The second gallery is the Pera Museum, which mainly focuses on contemporary art and hosts temporary exhibitions.
Walking along the Istiklal Street, you won’t be able to miss the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua on your right – an impressive Catholic church built in the neo-Gothic style, and worth a few minutes of your time.
Exploring backstreet Beyoğlu
Istiklal’s mainstream shops can be a bit of a tourist trap. For a more local neighborhood, turn right off the main street, and wander through the pretty backstreets. Just be prepared to take on some pretty steep slopes.
Fans of Turkish literature should stop by the Museum of Innocence, made famous by Orhan Pamuk’s popular novel.
If the weather is nice, my favorite place to have a coffee is at 1 Kahve, or any of the cafes with outdoor seating around this quaint intersection. Exploring these backstreets and stumbling upon boutique galleries and shops is one of the greatest joys of visiting Istanbul.
Evening
As the afternoon comes to a close, there are quite a few decent low-key restaurants just south of Taksim Square to choose from. Antakya Mutfağı is a very nice Turkish restaurant in this area. If you’re looking a special dining experience, nearby Aheste is one of our favorite contemporary Turkish fusion restaurants.
For dessert, I enthusiastically recommend that you try the künefe from Keyfeder Künefe Katmer. If you don’t know what kunefe is, then proceed with caution: this dessert is made of molten cheese, cooked in sweet syrup until goes gooey, then drizzled in sweet syrup and sprinkled with pistachios and shredded kadayıf pastry, and sometimes served with ice cream. Nowhere will you find a more decadent dessert; I actively search it out whenever I’m in the Middle East.
To continue the fun, cross over to the other (northwestern) side of Istilkal Street where you’ll find loads of bars. Some are surprisingly loud (and even rowdy), definitely representative of Istanbul’s famously liberal citizens.
Day 3: Asian Side (Kadıköy, Moda, Üsküdar) and Beşiktaş
Morning
On the final day of your 3 days Istanbul itinerary, head from Europe to Asia, specifically for the destination of Kadıköy. On the reliable and cheap public ferry (leaving from Eminönü and Karaköy), try to grab a spot on the right side of the ferry. Views of Sultanahmet, with seagulls dancing in the wind, is one of the most beautiful memories of Istanbul.
Kadıköy, in Asian Istanbul, definitely gives off a more local neighborhood vibe than Sultanahmet or most of Beyoğlu. However there is still a bustling commercial heart of Kadıköy, and plenty of nice restaurants for a late breakfast, or cafés for your caffeine fix.
Walk the waterside promenade all the way south to Moda, a traditionally wealthy and liberal neighborhood of Istanbul. Greeks, Georgians, Armenians and many others have contributed to the architecture of the houses in Moda. There’s also quite a lot of modern boho-chic going on with Moda’s café and bookshop culture.
When you’re done, take the nostalgia tram back up to central Kadıköy.
Lunch
There are plenty of lunch options in central Kadıköy to choose from. If you haven’t tried them yet, I personally love the mantı (traditional Turkish dumplings) at Sayla Mantı.
Afternoon
Üsküdar
In contrast to Moda, Üsküdar is a traditionally more religious and conservative area of Istanbul. Just set back from the Bosphorus, you won’t be able to miss the Karadavud Pasha Mosque and the Yeni Valide Mosque.
While in Üsküdar, check out the small covered market along the street called Atlas Sokak. Uncular Caddesi is another street with lots of more modern cafés and eateries worth checking out.
Walkways through the pleasant green parks heading further up the shoreline take you eventually to Kuzguncuk. The colors of the old houses, together with their wooden balconies and tree-lined road of Icadiye Caddesi, are pretty impressive.
If you’re not too worn out by the hills yet, you’ll find my favorite viewpoint here. Take some pictures and enjoy the view of the water and the huge Bosphorus Bridge.
Beşiktaş
Towards the end of the afternoon, it’s only a quick shot across the water to Beşiktaş. Over here, the grandiose Dolmabahçe Palace is the main drawcard. Frankly, on this 3 days Istanbul itinerary, you may not have enough time to squeeze it in. The Dolmabahçe Palace is, however, a sight you’ll want to put on the list for your next visit.
Beside the Dolmabahçe Palace, you’ll be able to tell from the historical Akaret Sarıevler Street that Beşiktaş is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Istanbul. Also consider stopping by the Yıldız Palace, or alternatively enjoy the public park just below it.
Evening
In Beşiktaş, if you can get a table at Tuğra Restaurant, it is worth the splurge. You’ll want to book ahead, because the beautiful Bosphorus views put this restaurant in high demand.
Over your jam-packed 3 days Istanbul itinerary, you’ll understand now why this is such an impressive global city, and why it has kept visitors – myself included – coming back again and again.
Beyond 3 days in Istanbul
In case it wasn’t yet clear, Istanbul is one of my favorite cities in the world. With a few extra days in Istanbul you could spend some time ‘hanging out’ in the trendy neighborhoods of Galata or Nişantaşı, or head to one of Istanbul’s hidden urban beaches.
We also love Istanbul as a base for some fascinating day trips, including: the stunningly beautiful World War I battlegrounds of the Gallipoli peninsula, or the mystical and historic city of Bursa.
Better yet, extend your stay and explore more of Türkiye. Whether you’re ticking the other-worldy Cappadocia off your bucket list, visiting mind-blowing ancient ruins or heading to secret beach towns on the Turkish Riviera, Türkiye truly has it all.
(Source: Alex Johnson)
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