3 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Here's a 3-day itinerary for Istanbul that is hipster, foodie-friendly, and off the beaten path:

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to the trendy neighborhood of Karaköy. This area is known for its street art, independent boutiques, and artisanal coffee shops. Grab a cup of coffee at Petra Roasting Co. or Karabatak Cafe and take a stroll around the neighborhood.

Next, head to the Istanbul Modern Museum, which showcases contemporary Turkish art. The museum is located on the waterfront and offers stunning views of the Bosphorus.

For lunch, head to Çiya Sofrası in Kadıköy, on the Asian side of Istanbul. This restaurant serves traditional Turkish dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Be sure to try their famous stuffed vegetables and baklava.

After lunch, take a ferry back to the European side and explore the historic neighborhood of Balat. This colorful neighborhood is full of narrow streets, old houses, and hidden courtyards. Stop by Forno Bakery for some delicious pastries and coffee.

End your day with dinner at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant in Beyoğlu that offers panoramic views of the city. Chef Mehmet Gürs combines traditional Turkish flavors with modern techniques to create a unique dining experience.

Day 2:

Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Design Biennial, which takes place every two years in various locations throughout the city. The biennial showcases innovative design projects from around the world.

For lunch, head to the trendy neighborhood of Beşiktaş and check out the street food scene. Try simit (a sesame-covered bread), kokoreç (grilled lamb intestines), and midye dolma (stuffed mussels).

After lunch, take a walk along the Bosphorus and visit the Sakıp Sabancı Museum, which features a collection of Ottoman calligraphy, paintings, and ceramics.

In the evening, head to the neighborhood of Ortaköy and have dinner at Çiya Kebap. This restaurant serves traditional Turkish kebabs made with high-quality meat and spices.

Day 3:

Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, which showcases contemporary art from Turkey and around the world.

For lunch, head to the neighborhood of Şişli and check out the street food scene. Try lahmacun (a thin, crispy pizza-like dish topped with minced meat and vegetables), pide (Turkish-style pizza), and döner kebab.

After lunch, take a walk through the trendy neighborhood of Nişantaşı, which is known for its high-end boutiques and cafes. Stop by Minoa Bookstore, which specializes in art and design books.

In the evening, head to the neighborhood of Karaköy and have dinner at Karaköy Lokantası. This restaurant serves traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Be sure to try their meze platter and lamb shank. After dinner, grab a drink at Unter, a speakeasy-style bar located in an old bank vault.