Istanbul
Istanbul, a city that bridges Europe and Asia, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia, a symbol of the city’s rich history, and the grand Blue Mosque with its striking blue tiles. Wander through the Topkapi Palace, home to sultans, or visit the bustling Grand Bazaar for unique shopping experiences.
Take a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait to see the city from the water and enjoy a vibrant mix of modern life and ancient traditions. With its fusion of cultures, Istanbul offers a fascinating blend of the old and the new.
Things To Do
If you’re looking for a perfect mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Istanbul is the place to be. From the moment I arrived, I was mesmerized by the city’s unique blend of East and West, where ancient landmarks stand side by side with modern life. Whether you’re exploring historic mosques, wandering through lively bazaars, or cruising along the Bosphorus, Istanbul is a city that offers something for everyone.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, where its grandeur and history left me speechless. I also loved exploring the bustling Grand Bazaar, where the vibrant colors, scents, and sounds created an atmosphere like no other. The city’s skyline, with the beautiful Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, made every view feel like a postcard.
With its fascinating history, lively neighborhoods, and incredible food, Istanbul is a city that constantly surprises and delights. Whether you’re savoring Turkish delights, cruising on the Bosphorus, or simply soaking in the city’s energy, Istanbul is an unforgettable destination.
Need To Know
Situated: In Turkey, spanning Europe and Asia
Accommodation: It is important to book in advance, especially in Sultanahmet or near the Bosphorus.
Activities:
- Visit the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
- Explore Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar
- Take a Bosphorus boat tour
- Discover the Basilica Cistern and Dolmabahçe Palace
- Enjoy Turkish cuisine and traditional tea houses
Best season: From April to June and September to October
Cheap season: From November to March
Recommended Time to Visit Istanbul (Turkey)
- 1-2 days: Visit the main landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.
- 3-4 days: Explore the Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus Cruise, and discover the Basilica Cistern.
- 5+ days: Dive into Istanbul’s vibrant neighborhoods, enjoy a Turkish bath, and take day trips to nearby Princes’ Islands or Bursa.
Istanbul 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)
Day 1: Sultanahmet – Historical and Religious Landmarks
- Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Marvel at its stunning mosaics and grand architecture.
- Head to the nearby Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque), famous for its blue-tiled interior and grand minarets.
- Visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir with eerie lighting and majestic columns.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a historic spot known for its delicious Turkish meatballs.
- After lunch, visit the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Don’t miss the Harem and the Treasury.
- Take a walk in the Gülhane Park next to the palace, offering peaceful gardens and scenic views of the Bosphorus.
- Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, located near the Galata Bridge with a perfect view of the Golden Horn.
- End your evening by strolling around Sultanahmet Square and admire the illuminated landmarks.
Day 2: Bosphorus & Grand Bazaar
- Morning:
- Begin your day with a Bosphorus cruise, where you can admire Istanbul’s skyline, beautiful palaces, and bridges connecting two continents.
- Visit Dolmabahçe Palace, an extravagant palace on the Bosphorus known for its European-style architecture and lavish interiors.
- Afternoon:
- Head to Istiklal Street in Beyoğlu, one of Istanbul’s busiest and most vibrant streets, filled with shops, cafes, and historical landmarks.
- Have lunch at Meze by Lemon Tree, offering delicious Turkish meze and seafood.
- After lunch, visit the Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, where you can shop for souvenirs, jewelry, spices, and Turkish textiles.
- Evening:
- For dinner, enjoy a traditional Turkish kebab at Zubeyir Ocakbasi.
- Experience Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife by visiting Karaköy for trendy bars and cafés with stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Day 3: Exploring Istanbul’s Hidden Gems & Asian Side
- Morning:
- Start your day by visiting Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı), another of Istanbul’s famous markets where you can buy spices, Turkish delight, and other local treats.
- Take a short ferry ride to the Asian side of Istanbul and explore the charming Kadıköy district, filled with local markets, cafés, and street art.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Çiya Sofrası, a famous restaurant offering diverse Anatolian dishes.
- Visit the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), a small island tower located in the Bosphorus with historical significance and a great view of Istanbul.
- Take a walk through the Moda neighborhood, known for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic views.
- Evening:
- Return to the European side and enjoy a final dinner at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant with contemporary Turkish cuisine and breathtaking views.
- Conclude your visit with a relaxing stroll along the Bosphorus promenade, soaking in the city’s beauty at night.
Istanbul 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)
- Day 4: Visit the Chora Church (Kariye Museum) for incredible Byzantine mosaics, explore the Fener and Balat neighborhoods with their colorful houses and cafés, and enjoy a Turkish bath (hammam) at Çemberlitaş Hammam.
- Day 5: Take a day trip to Princes’ Islands, where you can enjoy a peaceful escape with bicycle rides, picturesque views, and seafood restaurants. Or visit Bursa, an ancient Ottoman city known for its historic mosques and Uludağ Mountain.