Explore Istanbul in 3 Days

Day 1: Historic Sultanahmet Square

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque with breathtaking architecture.
Walk 5 minutes to Hagia Sophia.
Try to pre-book tickets online to avoid queues., 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Blue Mosque

Head over to the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles adorning the interior walls.
Walk 10 minutes to the Blue Mosque.
Free entry, but remember to dress modestly., 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Matbah Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Ottoman meal at Matbah Restaurant, offering a taste of history and culture.
Walk 5 minutes to Matbah Restaurant.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, home to sultans for centuries.
Walk 15 minutes to Topkapi Palace.
$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Deraliye Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Deraliye Restaurant, offering a blend of Ottoman and Turkish cuisine.
Walk 10 minutes to Deraliye Restaurant.
$$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Vibrant Beyoglu District

Beyoglu, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Galata Tower

Start your day with panoramic views of Istanbul from the historic Galata Tower in the heart of Beyoglu.
Take a 15-minute taxi ride to Galata Tower.
$, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll down Istiklal Avenue

Explore the bustling Istiklal Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a taste of modern Istanbul.
Walk along Istiklal Avenue.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Savor delicious baklava and Turkish pastries at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned pastry shop in Beyoglu.
Walk 10 minutes to Karakoy Gulluoglu.
$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Taksim Square

Visit Taksim Square, a central hub in Beyoglu, known for its cultural events, shopping, and vibrant atmosphere.
Walk 15 minutes to Taksim Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Enjoy a fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine with stunning views of the city at Mikla Restaurant.
Take a 10-minute taxi ride to Mikla Restaurant.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise

Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to admire the beauty of Istanbul from the water, passing iconic landmarks along the strait.
Join a cruise tour departing from Eminonu Pier.
$$, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Experience authentic Anatolian cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse flavors and traditional dishes.
Take a 10-minute taxi ride to Ciya Sofrasi.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning waterfront palace that served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire.
Take a 20-minute taxi ride to Dolmabahce Palace.
$$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul skyline.
Take a 15-minute taxi ride to Sunset Grill & Bar.
$$$, 2 hours
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