Ultimate 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary: History, Nature, Shopping & Bosphorus Sunset including Princes' Islands

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on July 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hafız Mustafa 1864

Start your day with traditional Turkish breakfast and sweet delights like baklava at this historic patisserie open from 8am.
TRY100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia Museum, known for its stunning Byzantine architecture and mosaics dating back to the 6th century. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY150, 2h0m

11:30am

Tour the Blue Mosque

See the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and grand Ottoman architecture. Open 9am-5pm (closed during prayer times).
Free, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy authentic Turkish meatballs and traditional dishes at this beloved local restaurant near historical sites. Open 11am-7pm.
TRY120, 1h0m

2:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans featuring imperial collections, treasury, and beautiful gardens. Open 9am-6:45pm.
TRY200, 3h0m

5:15pm

Grand Bazaar

Explore one of the largest and oldest covered markets for souvenirs, carpets, and spices. Open 9am-7pm daily except Sundays.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor kebabs and panoramic views over the Golden Horn at this popular Istanbul dining spot open until 11pm.
TRY250, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus & Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Experience a rich and varied Turkish breakfast with regional specialties in Çengelköy. Open from 8am.
TRY110, 1h0m

9:45am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 2-hour scenic Bosphorus ferry cruise to admire palaces, mosques, and bridges linking Europe and Asia. Departures from Eminönü pier start at 9am.
TRY85, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası, Kadıköy

Relish traditional Anatolian dishes at this renowned restaurant in the lively Kadıköy market area, open 11:30am-10pm.
TRY140, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Kadıköy Market

Stroll through the bustling market streets of Kadıköy with shops, cafes, and vibrant street art. Open all day.
Free, 1h30m

3:15pm

Visit Çamlıca Hill

Head up to one of the highest points in Istanbul for panoramic views across the Bosphorus and city. Open 24hrs.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Maiden’s Tower

Take a short boat trip to the Maiden’s Tower and enjoy a magical sunset with views of the city skyline. Tickets and cafe services available until 7pm.
TRY75, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine on fresh seafood dishes in a charming historic house in Sultanahmet, open until 10:30pm.
TRY280, 1h30m
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Day 3: Nature & Shopping

Istanbul, Turkey on July 7, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at your hotel or local cafe

Have a light Turkish breakfast to prepare for the day’s excursion to the Princes' Islands.
Included or TRY80, 1h0m

8:30am

Ferry to Büyükada (Princes' Islands)

Catch a ferry from Kabataş to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its historic mansions and car-free streets. Ferry runs frequently, taking approx 1h.
TRY50, 1h0m

9:45am

Bike or horse carriage tour on Büyükada

Rent a bike or take a traditional horse-drawn carriage to explore the island’s pine forests, waterfront, and historic sites like Aya Yorgi Church.
TRY35, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning sea views at this iconic Büyükada restaurant, open from 12pm.
TRY160, 1h0m

1:30pm

Return ferry to Istanbul

Take the ferry back to the city from Büyükada to continue afternoon activities. Ferry duration about 1 hour.
TRY50, 1h0m

3:00pm

Shopping at Istiklal Avenue & Taksim Square

Explore the vibrant pedestrian street Istiklal with boutiques, cafes, and street performers leading to Taksim Square. Most shops open 10am-10pm.
Free, 2h0m

5:15pm

Coffee break at Mandabatmaz

Relax with some of Istanbul’s strongest Turkish coffee in a cozy cafe near Istiklal Avenue, open until evening.
TRY40, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Conclude your trip dining with contemporary fusion cuisine atop a rooftop with panoramic city views. Open until midnight.
TRY300, 1h30m
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