Istanbul 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Historic Sultanahmet District

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Müzesi), a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque that’s now a museum. Be prepared for crowds, but it’s worth the wait.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the adjacent Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Camii), famous for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets.

Lunch

  • Head to Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a local institution serving delicious Turkish pastries and desserts. Try their famous baklava or kadaif!

Afternoon

  • Visit the Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Explore the opulent pavilions, gardens, and treasury.
  • Stop by the nearby Sultanahmet Square and take in the lively atmosphere.

Dinner

  • Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at Zeytin Grill & Restaurant, located just steps away from the palace. Try their famous kebabs or grilled fish!

Accommodation

  • Stay at the Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul (5-star), which offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and comfortable rooms.

Things to Know

  • Respect local dress codes when visiting mosques.
  • Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace are wheelchair accessible.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Day 2: Discover the Grand Bazaar and Other Hidden Gems

Morning

  • Visit the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Explore the labyrinthine corridors and alleys, where you’ll find everything from carpets to jewelry.
  • Stop by the nearby Nuruosmaniye Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.

Lunch

  • Grab a quick bite at Çiya Sofrası, a local eatery serving delicious Turkish sandwiches and salads.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Chora Church (Kariye Müzesi), a stunning medieval church turned museum. Admire the breathtaking mosaics and frescoes.
  • Explore the Edirnekapi neighborhood, known for its charming streets, quaint shops, and beautiful architecture.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Tereyağı, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at the Grand Bazaar.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the city from the top floor of the Chora Church museum!

Day 3: Explore the Modern Side of Istanbul

Morning

  • Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı), a former Ottoman palace turned museum. Admire the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Stop by the nearby Taksim Square, one of the most vibrant areas in Istanbul.

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at Madam Figen, a local eatery serving delicious Turkish street food.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), another stunning example of Ottoman architecture.
  • Explore the trendy Beyoğlu neighborhood, known for its shopping streets, cafes, and restaurants.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Mikla, a modern Turkish restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative cuisine.

Things to Know

  • Dolmabahçe Palace is wheelchair accessible.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait from the palace’s gardens!

Day 4: Explore the Waterfront and Other Hidden Gems

Morning

  • Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), another stunning example of Ottoman architecture.
  • Stop by the nearby Golden Horn, a historic harbor area with beautiful views.

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at Karabük, a local eatery serving delicious Turkish sandwiches and salads.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Museum of Innocence (Masumiyet Müzesi), a quirky museum created by Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk.
  • Explore the charming Bebek neighborhood, known for its beautiful waterfront views, parks, and cafes.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Dürnitz, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the Golden Horn from the Süleymaniye Mosque’s gardens!
  • Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions like the Museum of Innocence!

Tips and Transportation

  • Use public transportation (trams, buses) or taxis to get around Istanbul. You can also use ride-sharing services.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Respect local dress codes when visiting mosques.
  • Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace are wheelchair accessible.

Other Interests

  • Visit the Princes’ Islands, a charming archipelago with beautiful beaches, forests, and historic architecture.
  • Take a Bosphorus cruise, which offers stunning views of the city’s waterfront.
  • Explore the trendy Arnavutköy neighborhood, known for its shopping streets, cafes, and restaurants.

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you may want to adjust it based on your personal preferences and interests.