Ultimate 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary

Day 1: Historical Istanbul Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sultanahmet Square

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at one of the charming cafes in Sultanahmet Square, offering a variety of pastries, cheeses, olives, and tea.
Sultanahmet Square is centrally located and easily accessible by tram or walking from most accommodations.
150 TRY, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning architecture and history of Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has served as a church and a mosque.
Hagia Sophia is a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
100 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch of kebabs or mezes at a nearby local restaurant.
Walk or take a short tram ride to a restaurant in the Sultanahmet area.
200 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Blue Mosque

Admire the beautiful blue tiles and intricate design of the Blue Mosque, another iconic landmark of Istanbul.
The Blue Mosque is located a short walk from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, offering a wide array of souvenirs, textiles, and spices.
Take a short tram ride or walk to the Grand Bazaar from the Blue Mosque.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant near Sultanahmet Square.
Walk or take a short tram ride back to Sultanahmet for dinner.
250 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Royal Istanbul Experience

Istanbul, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at Topkapi Palace

Start your day with a delightful breakfast overlooking the Bosphorus at Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans.
Topkapi Palace is easily accessible by tram or a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
200 TRY, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Spice Bazaar

Discover the vibrant colors and aromas of the Spice Bazaar, where you can find exotic spices, Turkish delight, and souvenirs.
Take a short tram ride or walk from Topkapi Palace to the Spice Bazaar.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to admire the panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.
Head to the Eminonu or Kabatas ferry docks for the Bosphorus Cruise.
50 TRY, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant along the Bosphorus.
Disembark from the cruise and choose a restaurant along the waterfront for lunch.
250 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Istiklal Street

Stroll down Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, perfect for shopping and people-watching.
Take a tram or taxi to Istiklal Street from the Bosphorus area.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Dine at a cozy restaurant on Istiklal Street, offering a variety of Turkish and international cuisine.
Choose a restaurant along Istiklal Street for dinner.
300 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Modern Istanbul Discovery

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the opulent interiors and gardens of Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and design.
Dolmabahce Palace is easily accessible by tram or taxi from the city center.
150 TRY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Taksim Square

Take a leisurely walk around Taksim Square, a bustling hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment in modern Istanbul.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Taksim Square from Dolmabahce Palace.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a light lunch at a trendy cafe in Taksim Square, offering a mix of Turkish and international dishes.
Choose a cafe in Taksim Square for lunch.
150 TRY, 1 hour

2:30PM

Galata Tower

Climb to the top of Galata Tower for breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline and the Bosphorus Strait.
Take a short taxi or walk from Taksim Square to Galata Tower.
25 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Cross the Bosphorus to Kadikoy and wander through its vibrant market, where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
Take a ferry from Eminonu or Karakoy to Kadikoy for a unique experience.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Seafood Restaurant

Indulge in a seafood dinner at a local restaurant in Kadikoy, known for its fresh catch and waterfront views.
Choose a seafood restaurant along the Kadikoy waterfront for dinner.
300 TRY, 1.5 hours
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