3-Day Istanbul Adventure Itinerary

1. Day 1: Explore the Historical Heart of Istanbul
   Start your adventure at Hagia Sophia (9 am - 7 pm), an iconic masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that served as a church, mosque and now museum. Stroll around the Topkapi Palace (9 am - 6 pm) and its gardens to discover the opulence of the Ottoman Empire. End your day at Grand Bazaar (9 am - 7 pm) that houses over 4,000 shops - showcasing Turkish culture and entertainment.
   Estimated time: 7 hours | Distance: 2.3 km | Transportation: Walking
2. Day 2: Adventure on the Bosphorus Strait
   Take a ferry from Eminonu to Uskudar and climb up to the Maiden's Tower (9 am - 7 pm), also known as Kiz Kulesi, the iconic tower which served as a lighthouse, a defensive tower, and a quarantine station. Afterward, head to Beylerbeyi Palace (closed on Monday and Thursday), located on the Asian side Bosphorus Strait, known for its impeccable architecture and being a summer residence of the Ottoman Sultans.
   Estimated time: 6 hours | Distance: 15.4 km | Transportation: Ferry, Bus, and Taxi.
3. Day 3: Outdoor Adventure in Istanbul
   Begin your final day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern (9 am - 6:30 pm) - an underground complex dating back to the Byzantine era, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. Then grab an authentic Turkish breakfast at the Karakoy Gulluoglu and walk to the Gulhane Park to spend your day hiking or cycling around the forested area.
   Estimated time: 6 hours | Distance: 5.5 km | Transportation: Walking and Metro.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hagia Sophia (1.5 hours, £14.50)
• Topkapi Palace (2 hours, £12.80)
• Grand Bazaar (3 hours, varies)
• Maiden's Tower (1 hour, £8)
• Beylerbeyi Palace (2 hours, £6.50)
• Basilica Cistern (1 hour, £6.50)
• Karakoy Gulluoglu (1 hour, £7.50)
• Gulhane Park (2 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: £56.30

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the Suleymaniye Mosque for its stunning architecture and panoramic views. Additionally, check the weather forecast before going to the Maiden's Tower as the visibility might be low if it's a cloudy day. Lastly, if you have less time, consider visiting the Chora Church Museum, a hidden gem of the old city.