You can't see all of Istanbul in three days — but you can hit the highlights. Our day-by-day route from Sultanahmet to Beyoğlu with transport and food tips.
Istanbul is one of those cities you want to return to again and again. Three days is the bare minimum to feel its rhythm. Here's the itinerary we've refined over years of sending clients here.
Day 1: Historic Peninsula
- Sultanahmet Square — start your morning here
- Blue Mosque — free entry, closed during prayer times
- Hagia Sophia — now a mosque, $15 entry
- Basilica Cistern — 6th-century underground reservoir, $10
- Grand Bazaar — bargain, drink tea, buy spices
- Dinner in Kumkapı — the old city's fish restaurant quarter
Day 2: Bosphorus and Asian Side
Take the ferry from Eminönü to Asian Istanbul (Kadıköy). Morning coffee with Bosphorus views, the Kadıköy farmers' market, then a ferry to Üsküdar. In the evening, cross back to the European side and catch the sunset from Galata Tower ($12).
Day 3: Beyoğlu and Modern Istanbul
- İstiklal Avenue — 1.5km pedestrian boulevard
- Balık Ekmek fish sandwich at the Galata Bridge ($2)
- Taksim Square
- Karaköy neighbourhood — modern galleries and coffee shops
- Mısır Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar) — for gifts and souvenirs
BlessedTravel includes Istanbul in Turkey tours from 5 to 14 nights, or we can arrange a dedicated Istanbul city break.