Hey there, fellow explorers! You are probably here because you want me to spill the beans on an epic 3 day Istanbul itinerary. Buckle up as we dive into a whirlwind of spice-scented bazaars, ancient wonders, and maybe a doner kebab or two. Yep, it’s gonna be that kind of adventure.
- Going to Istanbul for 5 days instead? Read my comprehensive 5-day Istanbul itinerary. It includes maps, walking routes, and all the must-see’s.
Table of Contents
A Complete 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary
We’re not just talking about any city; we’re talking about a place where history high-fives the future. It’s like time travel, but with more Instagrammable moments. And speaking of, you might want to check out my curated list of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul.
Ready to dive into the eclectic vibes of Istanbul? I’m not here to give you a bland itinerary – Istanbul is not just a destination; it’s a narrative waiting to unfold. We’re not just talking about places to go; we’re talking about soaking in the soul of a city that’s seen it all. Let’s get into it!
Side note: This itinerary for 3 days is perfect for first-time visitors. If you’ve been to Istanbul before, you may want to see this article about non-touristy things to do in Istanbul for hidden gems skipped by most tourists.
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Insider Tip: Consider grabbing the Istanbul Tourist Pass before you kick off your city exploration. This nifty pass offers perks like skip-the-line access to major attractions, airport transfers, unlimited internet, a Bosphorus dinner cruise, a boat tour, and even WhatsApp support! That’s not all – you also get cool bonuses like a Whirling Dervish evening show, a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, and an Istanbulkart (the essential card for public transportation here), and more. It’s like your all-access pass to a fantastic Istanbul experience
They have a 3-day pass available. It saves you big on entrance fees, transportation, guided tours, shows, and internet data. Snag yours here.
In short, this 3 day Istanbul itinerary will allow you to see the following highlights:
- Day 1: Historical Istanbul
- Day 2: Modern Istanbul
- Day 3: Asian side and cultural Istanbul
Where to stay in Istanbul
Choosing the right place to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors will depend on what kind of experience you are looking for and personal preferences.
For those seeking a quintessential Istanbul experience, Sultanahmet district is a prime choice. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque and you can easily explore major attractions on foot, making it an ideal spot for those eager to dive into Istanbul’s rich history. However, keep in mind the area is more conservative than others and there isn’t much nightlife.
If you’re drawn to a more vibrant and modern atmosphere, Taksim Square and the Beyoğlu district should be on your radar. These lively areas are known for bustling streets, diverse nightlife, and many shops and restaurants. Both of these areas offer a dynamic base for first-time visitors who want a taste of both contemporary Istanbul and its rich cultural tapestry. Plus, they are both close and with easy access to the historical district of Sultanahmet.
For those seeking a touch of local authenticity, consider staying in the Kadıköy district on the Asian side of Istanbul. Connected to the European side by a quick ferry ride, Kadıköy offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with vibrant markets, cosy cafes, and a local feel. It’s an excellent choice for travellers looking to escape the touristy hustle and experience Istanbul from a different perspective while still having easy access to the city’s main attractions.
🏠 Best Istanbul Hotels & Apartments:
Top Luxury: Çırağan Palace Kempinski
Best Apartment: Hammamhane
Best Boutique: The Bank Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels
Best Mid-Range: Union Hotel Karakoy
Best Budget: The Print House Hotel
Best Hostel: Hostel Le Banc
👉 Click here for more Istanbul Hotels
Travel 3 day Istanbul Itinerary – Day 1: Visit the Old City
Begin your journey by exploring the renowned landmarks and primary historical sites, conveniently located within walking distance of each other. Keep in mind that these attractions draw crowds, often leading to wait times, so it’s advisable to commence your visit promptly at 8:30 am, their opening time.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Picture this: the Hippodrome of Constantinople, right in the heart of Istanbul, where history’s alive and kicking! This place was the hotspot back in the Byzantine days – chariot races, ceremonies, you name it.
Now, as you wander around, you’ll spot cool stuff like the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column, each with its own story to tell. Just imagine the cheers and the excitement of those ancient races echoing through the air. It’s like time travelling, hanging out where history went down, right in the middle of today’s bustling Istanbul vibe.
Price: Free
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
Just beside the Hippodrome stands one of the most picturesque structures in the world.
Named for the stunning blue tiles that adorn its interior, the Blue Mosque, constructed during the reign of Ahmet I between 1606 and 1616, is a testament to Ottoman architectural splendor.
The Blue Mosque welcomes visitors from 08:30 to 17:30 daily, but like all mosques in Istanbul, it closes during prayer times.
If you find the mosque closed temporarily, Sultanahmet offers plenty to keep you engaged. You can stroll through the Arasta Bazaar for some shopping or get in one of the many quirky cafes for some turkish tea.
For precise closure times, check the official religious affairs page for prayer schedules. Keep in mind that big mosques like this one close an hour before prayer for preparation. So, if the noon prayer is at 13:00, expect the mosque to be closed from 12:00 to 13:30 for worshipers’ preparations.
This is a religious temple, so you will be asked to dress moderately. In any case, they provide scarves, long skirts and plastic bags for your shoes at the entrance (all free of charge).
Price: Free
Opening Hours: 8:30 – 17:30 h. Opens every day.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
The Hagia Sophia is one of the best things to include in your 3 day Istanbul itinerary. This mosque will give you an interesting perspective of religious history like no other. With a heritage of more than 900 years being a Christian church and more than 400 years being a mosque, Christian and Islamic symbols share the same roof.
It was a museum for 86 years, but in July 2020, the Hagia Sophia was converted back into a mosque. As a tourist, the main differences are that now you can enter for free (as a museum, the fee was 100 TL), and you need to organize your day, so you don’t go during prayer time.
The worship hours vary a lot, so it is better to check in advance by just googling “Istanbul prayer times”. The Hagia Sophia closes its doors to foreigners about an hour before the prayer time and opens them again about 30 minutes after the prayer time. So, if, for example, the prayer time is at 1:30 pm, it will close at 12:30 pm and open again at 2 pm.
The same applies to the Blue Mosque when it comes to visiting hours.
Price: Free
Opening Hours: Opens every day. Closed to non-muslims during prayer time and on Fridays in the morning until 2:30 pm.
Basilic Cistern
Alright, picture this: You’re standing in the coolest underground spot in Istanbul – the biggest surviving Byzantine cistern. It’s not just any old water reserve; this place served as the lifeline for the Great Palace and its crew back in the day. With a whopping 336 columns decked out in Roman-style bling, you can’t help but feel like you’ve stumbled onto something seriously epic.
But wait, there’s more! As you meander through the shadows, keep an eye out for two Medusa heads chilling at the far end. Now, here’s the kicker – one’s lounging sideways, and the other’s upside down. Talk about a head-scratcher, huh? It’s like the ancient architects had a wicked sense of humor.
Price:
– 900 TL – 09.00-18.30
– 1400 TL – 19.30-23.50
Opening Hours: 9 am – 11.50 pm every day of the week
Explore the Neighborhood
Alright, let’s talk about the charming chaos of the Old City streets – it’s like getting lost in a maze of little alleys and cute streets that seem to go on forever. Everywhere you turn, there are restaurants and shops galore, offering up everything under the sun. Take a stroll down Soğukçeşme Street for a taste of Ottoman-style architecture or hit up the vibrant Tavukhane Street for a splash of color.
Now, if you’re on a tight budget but still want to snag some Turkish souvenirs, brace yourself – you won’t find many wallet-friendly options here. But hey, the stuff you’ll find is top-notch, so it’s worth splurging a bit. If you’re all about stretching those Turkish Liras, though, Kadiköy and Eminönü neighborhoods are your go-to spots (don’t worry, we’ll get there later in this adventure!).
Quick tip: Watch out for the smooth talkers trying to lure you into their shops by offering to snap a photo of you in front of the main sites. Sure, it seems harmless, but trust me, there’s usually a catch – like a not-so-subtle invitation to check out their store. Don’t feel bad about saying no thanks; you’re not obligated to do anything. And if they try to tell you the mosque is closed because of prayer time, do yourself a favor and double-check the schedule. You’ll thank me later!
Travel Itinerary for Istanbul – Day 2: Old City and Ortaköy
Hold on – we’re not done with the Old City just yet. Trust me, you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.
Topkapı Palace
Get ready to step into the grandeur of Istanbul’s largest and oldest palace – Topkapi. Plan for about 4 hours to soak in all its wonders, but trust me, every minute will be worth it. It’s hands down one of the best things to check off your Istanbul bucket list on your first visit.
Why’s it such a big deal? Well, Topkapi was the crib for Ottoman Sultans and their crew from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Walking through its halls is like taking a crash course in Ottoman history and Islamic culture – talk about a deep dive into the past!
Once inside, prepare to be dazzled by room after room dripping with luxury. We’re talking serious bling here, folks – the Ottoman Sultans didn’t mess around when it came to living the high life.
Now, here’s the kicker: you can’t miss the Harem area. Trust me, it’s worth the extra wait in line. Pro tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
The tickets to the Topkapi Palace are now sold together with the Hagia Irene, an beautiful church located in the first courtyard of the palace outside the museum.
Price:
Topkapı Palace Combine Ticket (Topkapı Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem): 1700 TL
There used to be two different ticket options for the palace, one with the Harem and one without it. However, as of January 1st, 2024, the combined ticket has become the only option.
Opening Hours: 9am – 5:30pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
Ortaköy
Hop on the tram heading to Kabataş Station, and from there, you’ve got options – grab a taxi or hop on a bus to Ortaköy.
Now, here’s the kicker: Ortaköy might not be on every Istanbul guide’s radar, but trust me, it’s a hidden gem worth uncovering!
As you arrive, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking view of the Bosphorus before stepping into the Ortaköy Mosque, officially known as Büyük Mecidiye Camii. Get ready to be wowed by its massive chandeliers and dreamy pastel hues.
But hey, the fun doesn’t stop there! While you’re out and about, treat yourself to a taste of tradition with a mouthwatering kumpır or indulge in a delightful waffle. After all, you’re here to experience Istanbul in all its delicious glory!
The Grand Bazaar
Back to the Old City we go, and this time, we’re hitting up one of its crown jewels – the Grand Bazaar. This iconic marketplace is not just old; it’s one of the biggest in the world, boasting over 3000 shops bursting with treasures galore. Trust me, you’ll want to set aside some serious cash for this place.
Now, here’s the scoop: Bargaining is key! Don’t be shy about haggling, especially if you’re snagging a bunch of goodies from one shop. Drop a line like “yabancı değilim” (I’m not a foreigner) or “turk fiyat, lütfen” (Turkish price, please), and watch those prices magically drop (or maybe just get a chuckle from the sellers).
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm. Closed on Sundays
Looking for a place to store your suitcase while exploring the city’s attractions? LuggageHero is a convenient and reliable luggage storage service that allows you to drop off your bags at various locations throughout the city, including Sultanahmet and Beyoglu. With LuggageHero, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your belongings are stored safely and securely in case you have a late check-in or early check-out.
Travel Itinerary for Istanbul – Day 3: Modern Town
Ready for the rollercoaster of Day 3? This time you will still see historical gems, but also a more modern and hipster side of Istanbul.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace, once the residence of the last six Ottoman Sultans, represents a shift from Topkapı Palace to the administrative heart of the late Ottoman Empire.
Its opulent halls provide a vivid insight into the extravagant lifestyles of the sultans. If you’re short on time or budget, choosing between Dolmabahçe and Topkapı might be tough, but both offer distinct experiences worth exploring.
Inside, guided tours in English or Turkish enrich your visit, giving you a deeper appreciation of the palace’s history and grandeur.
Price:
Selamlık + Harem + Painting Museum Ticket: 1200 TL
Until May 2022, separate tickets were sold for each section of Dolmabahce Palace. Alternatively, there was a combined ticket that covered all sections. However, as of May 1, the combined ticket became the only option.
In summary, with a combined ticket, you can visit the main halls of the palace called the Selamlık (Reception) and also the rooms of the Harem. The Palace Collections Museum, which contains magnificent paintings by court painters, is also included.
After receiving your ticket, you will see the turnstiles at the entrance to the palace. You can obtain a free audio guide system at the office to the left before passing through the turnstiles.
You can purchase tickets online for Dolmabahce Palace on its official page.
Opening hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue
Taksim Square stands as the vibrant heart of modern Istanbul, bustling with a mix of restaurants, bars, and both churches and mosques nearby. Beyond its bustling nightlife and dining scene, it’s also a hub for political gatherings and protests, reflecting its dynamic role in contemporary Turkish society.
From Taksim, take a stroll down Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street always teeming with people from around the globe. Lined with a myriad of shops and eateries, it transforms into a lively party spot at night, catering to all tastes whether you’re into cozy pubs or glamorous clubs.
Don’t miss landmarks like Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage) or the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, each offering a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich cultural tapestry.
Galata Tower
The origins of the Galata Tower date back to AD 507, starting as a wooden structure and evolving over time into its current form. Initially serving as an observatory for city fires, it has since become an iconic part of Istanbul’s skyline.
Visitors to the Galata Tower can ascend for a breathtaking 360º view of the city. Don’t fret about the climb – a lift whisks you up seven floors, and just two more floors require a bit of walking. At the top, you’ll find options to dine or enjoy a coffee with stunning vistas, but entering these spots is entirely optional.
Price: 30 euros
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 11 pm. Opens every day.
Explore Karaköy
Looking to explore one of Istanbul’s coolest neighborhoods? Head to the ferry dock on the eastern side of the Galata Bridge and take a stroll around the corner to the left. For a taste of authentic baklava, check out Karaköy Güllüoğlu, renowned for its delicious treats.
If you’re hungry for more than sweets or fancy a drink, you’re in luck – there’s no shortage of restaurants and bars in the area. Dive into the narrow streets buzzing with hipster vibes and adorned with vibrant street art. You’ll find most spots nestled between Ali Paşa Değirmeni and Kemankeş streets, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.
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