3 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful parks. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that skips the museums but embraces the green spaces and the lively atmosphere of the city. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Istanbul

Morning: Sultanahmet Square & Gulhane Park

• Start your day at Sultanahmet Square, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from the outside. The kids will love the open space to run around!
• After soaking in the sights, stroll over to Gulhane Park. This lovely park is perfect for a leisurely walk, and there are plenty of benches for a quick snack or picnic. The kids can enjoy the playground while you relax under the trees.

Lunch: Local Delights

• Head to a nearby café or restaurant for some delicious Turkish cuisine. Try some kebabs or gözleme (Turkish pancakes) that the whole family will enjoy!

Afternoon: Topkapi Palace Gardens

• While you’re in the area, take a walk through the Topkapi Palace Gardens. The gardens are expansive and offer beautiful views of the Bosphorus. The kids can run around, and you can take some lovely family photos with the palace in the background.

Evening: Bosphorus Cruise

• End your day with a family-friendly Bosphorus cruise. There are many options available, and it’s a fantastic way to see the city from the water. The sunset views are breathtaking, and the kids will love being on a boat!

## Day 2: Asian Side Adventures

Morning: Kadikoy Market & Moda Park

• Take a ferry to the Asian side and start your day at the Kadikoy Market. It’s bustling with local vendors, and you can grab some fresh fruits or pastries for breakfast.
• After exploring the market, head to Moda Park. This park has beautiful views of the sea, and there’s plenty of space for the kids to play. You can even rent bikes or scooters to explore the area!

Lunch: Local Eateries

• Enjoy lunch at one of the many local eateries in Kadikoy. Try some fresh seafood or a traditional Turkish pide (flatbread) that everyone will love.

Afternoon: Fenerbahçe Park

• After lunch, make your way to Fenerbahçe Park. This park is a bit more secluded and offers lovely walking paths, gardens, and a playground. It’s a great spot for a family picnic or just to relax and enjoy nature.

Evening: Dinner in Kadikoy

• For dinner, explore the vibrant streets of Kadikoy and find a family-friendly restaurant. There are plenty of options, from casual eateries to more upscale dining. Don’t forget to try some Turkish ice cream for dessert!

## Day 3: Nature and Culture

Morning: Belgrad Forest

• Start your day with a trip to Belgrad Forest, located a bit outside the city center. It’s a beautiful natural area with walking and biking trails. Pack some snacks and enjoy a morning in nature. The kids will love exploring the forest!

Lunch: Picnic in the Forest

• Have a picnic lunch in the forest. There are plenty of spots to lay down a blanket and enjoy your food surrounded by trees and fresh air.

Afternoon: Emirgan Park

• After your forest adventure, head to Emirgan Park. This park is famous for its tulips in spring and has beautiful walking paths, ponds, and playgrounds. It’s a great place for the kids to run around and for you to relax.

Evening: Sunset at the Bosphorus

• For your final evening, head back towards the Bosphorus. You can find a nice spot along the waterfront to watch the sunset. There are many cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a final dinner with a view.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Use public transport like trams and ferries to get around easily. The Istanbulkart is a convenient option for families.
• Snacks: Keep some snacks handy for the kids, as exploring can work up an appetite!
• Hydration: Make sure to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Istanbul! Enjoy your trip! 🌟