Things To Do

A 4 Days Itinerary for Istanbul

Day 1: Exploring the Old City

Morning: Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Begin your day with a visit to Hagia Sophia, admiring its stunning architecture and historical significance. Explore the neighboring Blue Mosque and marvel at its intricate tilework and grand domes. Lunch: Turkish Cuisine Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Sultanahmet, sampling traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, mezes, and gözleme. Afternoon: Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern Explore Topkapi Palace, once the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, and discover its treasures and expansive grounds. Visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground wonder featuring ancient columns and atmospheric lighting. Evening: Grand Bazaar Spend your evening getting lost in the maze-like corridors of the Grand Bazaar, shopping for souvenirs, spices, and carpets. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring Turkish delights like köfte and baklava.

Day 2: Marvels of Istanbul

Morning: Bosphorus Cruise Begin your day with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, soaking in panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline and landmarks Lunch: Fish Sandwich at Eminönü Head to Eminönü for a delicious fish sandwich (balık ekmek) from one of the boats along the shore. Afternoon: Suleymaniye Mosque & Spice Bazaar Visit Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece & one of Istanbul's most magnificent mosques. Explore its serene courtyards & impressive interior. Afterward, wander through the nearby Spice Bazaar, immersing yourself in the sights and scents of exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delights. Late Afternoon: Galata Tower Make your way to Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city. Consider going up before sunset for stunning photo opportunities. Evening: Istiklal Avenue Spend the evening strolling along Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul's bustling pedestrian street. Explore its shops, cafes, and street performances. Enjoy your time discovering the beauty and history of Istanbul!

Day 3: Crossing Continents

Morning: Ferry to Kadikoy Take a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul, enjoying the scenic ride across the Bosphorus. Late Breakfast: Traditional Turkish Breakfast Savor a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local cafe in Kadikoy, feasting on an array of cheeses, olives, pastries, and Turkish tea. Mid-Morning: Moda Neighborhood Explore the charming Moda neighborhood, known for its laid-back vibe, trendy cafes, and boutique shops. Lunch: Fresh Seafood at Kadikoy Market Indulge in fresh seafood dishes at Kadikoy's bustling food market, sampling grilled fish, mezes, and Turkish-style calamari. Afternoon: Kadikoy Exploration Discover Kadikoy's diverse attractions, including historical mosques, bustling markets, and vibrant street art. Visit Haydarpasa Train Station and stroll along the Kadikoy coastline for stunning views of the Bosphorus. Evening: Dinner by the Bosphorus Kadikoy Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring delicious Turkish cuisine on the Asian side

Day 4: Cultural Immersion with Contemporary Flair

Morning: Chora Church & Dolmabahçe Palace Begin your day with a visit to the Chora Church (Kariye Museum) to admire its stunning mosaics and frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ. Explore Dolmabahçe Palace, a grandiose late Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus. Lunch: Local Cuisine Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Turkish dishes and flavors. Afternoon: Istanbul Modern Head to Istanbul Modern, a contemporary art museum showcasing Turkish and international modern and contemporary art. Spend some time enjoying the museum's cafe and outdoor terrace, offering beautiful views of the Bosphorus and the historic skyline of Istanbul. Late Afternoon: Karakoy & Galataport Discover trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, immersing yourself in Istanbul's modern culture. Evening: Dinner by the Bosphorus Conclude your day with a memorable dinner along the Bosphorus, enjoying delicious Turkish cuisine and panoramic views of the city.