Istanbul, Turkey-3-day-itinerary
Day 1: Sultanahmet and the Hagia Sophia
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Start your day at the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Müzesi), a former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. This ancient wonder is an absolute must-see.
- 11:00 AM: Visit the nearby Basilica Cistern, another incredible ancient structure featuring 336 marble columns.
Lunch
- Head to Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a renowned pastry shop famous for its baklava and other traditional Turkish sweets. Try their delicious pastries and sandwiches for lunch.
- Alternatively, grab some street food at the bustling Sultanahmet Street Food Market, offering a variety of affordable and tasty options.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM: Visit the Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Explore its opulent chambers, gardens, and treasury.
- 4:00 PM: Explore the surrounding streets of Sultanahmet, browsing shops selling traditional Turkish goods like ceramics, carpets, and jewelry.
Dinner
- For dinner, head to Dolmabahçe, a restaurant located near the famous Dolmabahçe Palace. Enjoy their delicious Ottoman-inspired cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.
- Alternatively, try some traditional Turkish street food at Adanalı Kebapçısı, a popular spot for kebabs and other grilled meats.
Accommodation
- For your stay in Istanbul, consider booking at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, a luxurious hotel located near many of the city’s main attractions.
- Alternatively, check out the Hotel Sulta, a comfortable and affordable option with great views of the Bosphorus.
Transportation
- To get around Istanbul, consider purchasing an Istanbul Tourist Pass, which grants access to public transportation, including buses and trams.
- Alternatively, use ride-hailing services or taxis to navigate the city.
Tips
- Don’t forget to try some delicious Turkish coffee at one of the many cafes throughout the city!
- Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
- Explore Istanbul’s many markets and bazaars to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Day 2: The Bosphorus and Beyoğlu
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Start your day with a scenic Bosphorus Strait Cruise, offering stunning views of the city’s waterfront.
- 11:00 AM: Visit the iconic Camlica Hill, offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
Lunch
- Head to Nusr-Et, a renowned steakhouse serving delicious meat dishes. Try their signature “Doner Kebab Steak”!
- Alternatively, grab some street food at the bustling Beyoğlu Street Food Market, offering a variety of affordable and tasty options.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM: Visit the Galata Tower, an historic tower offering stunning views of Istanbul.
- 3:00 PM: Explore the surrounding streets of Beyoğlu, browsing shops selling traditional Turkish goods like ceramics and jewelry.
Dinner
- For dinner, head to Dürümzade, a popular spot for delicious kebabs and other grilled meats.
- Alternatively, try some traditional Turkish street food at Adanalı Kebapçısı.
Accommodation
- Consider booking at the Hotel Pera Palace, a luxurious hotel located near many of the city’s main attractions.
- Alternatively, check out the Hotel Sulta, a comfortable and affordable option with great views of the Bosphorus.
Transportation
- To get around Istanbul, consider purchasing an Istanbul Tourist Pass, which grants access to public transportation, including buses and trams.
- Alternatively, use ride-hailing services or taxis to navigate the city.
Tips
- Don’t miss out on the stunning views of Istanbul from the top of Camlica Hill!
- Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions like the Galata Tower and Beyoğlu Street Food Market.
- Explore Istanbul’s many markets and bazaars to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Day 3: The Princes’ Islands
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Take a ferry from the Karaköy Ferry Terminal, located in the heart of Istanbul, to the beautiful Princes’ Islands.
- 11:00 AM: Visit the iconic Heybeliada Island, known for its stunning beaches and historic sites.
Lunch
- Head to Ayazma Restaurant, a popular spot for delicious Turkish cuisine. Try their signature dishes like “Bosphorus Fish”!
- Alternatively, grab some street food at the bustling Princes’ Islands Street Food Market, offering a variety of affordable and tasty options.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM: Visit the Kumköy Island, known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites.
- 3:00 PM: Explore the surrounding streets of the Princes’ Islands, browsing shops selling traditional Turkish goods like ceramics and jewelry.
Dinner
- For dinner, head to Dürümzade, a popular spot for delicious kebabs and other grilled meats.
- Alternatively, try some traditional Turkish street food at Adanalı Kebapçısı.
Accommodation
- Consider booking at the Hotel Sulta, a comfortable and affordable option with great views of the Bosphorus.
- Alternatively, check out the Hotel Pera Palace, a luxurious hotel located near many of the city’s main attractions.
Transportation
- To get around Istanbul, consider purchasing an Istanbul Tourist Pass, which grants access to public transportation, including buses and trams.
- Alternatively, use ride-hailing services or taxis to navigate the city.
Tips
- Don’t miss out on the stunning views of Istanbul from the top of Camlica Hill!
- Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions like the Galata Tower and Beyoğlu Street Food Market.
- Explore Istanbul’s many markets and bazaars to find unique souvenirs and gifts.