Three days is enough to see Istanbul’s headline sights, cross between continents and eat very well. This route keeps travel time down by grouping sights that are close together.

Day 1: Sultanahmet, the old city

  • Morning: Hagia Sophia, then the Blue Mosque across the square (check prayer times).
  • Lunch: köfte in one of the old-city restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Topkapı Palace and the Harem — allow at least three hours.
  • Late afternoon: the Basilica Cistern.
  • Evening: a hammam, then dinner in Sirkeci or Eminönü.

Day 2: Bazaars, mosques and the Asian side

  • Morning: the Grand Bazaar — go early before it gets busy.
  • Late morning: Süleymaniye Mosque, Sinan’s masterpiece, with views over the Golden Horn.
  • Lunch: a fish sandwich (balık ekmek) at Eminönü, then the Spice Bazaar.
  • Afternoon: take the public ferry to Kadıköy on the Asian side and explore the food market.
  • Evening: meze and grilled fish in Kadıköy or Moda.

Day 3: Galata, Beyoğlu and the Bosphorus

  • Morning: walk up to Galata Tower for the view, then explore Karaköy’s cafés.
  • Late morning: Dolmabahçe Palace on the Bosphorus, or the colourful streets of Balat and Fener.
  • Afternoon: a Bosphorus cruise from Eminönü or Kabataş.
  • Evening: sunset at Ortaköy, with a kumpir by the water, then İstiklal Avenue.

Tips

  • Buy an Istanbulkart on arrival for trams, metro and ferries.
  • Compare single tickets with the Museum Pass if you plan to see several museums.
  • Wear comfortable shoes — Istanbul is hilly.

More: our Istanbul guide and getting around Turkey.