Istanbul is a city that is rich in history, culture, and beauty. Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Istanbul:

Day 1:

Start your day by visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque that is now a museum. You'll be amazed by the stunning architecture and intricate mosaics. After that, head to the Blue Mosque, which is just a short walk away. This mosque is known for its beautiful blue tiles and six minarets.

For lunch, head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. You'll find everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. After lunch, take a stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district, where you'll find many other historic sites such as the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern.

In the evening, head to the Galata Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. You can also enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Day 2:

Start your day by visiting the Spice Bazaar, where you'll find a variety of spices, teas, and sweets. From there, take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul and explore the Kadikoy neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant street art, trendy cafes, and local markets.

For lunch, try some traditional Turkish street food such as simit (a sesame-covered bread) or lahmacun (a thin, crispy pizza-like dish). After lunch, take a stroll along the Bosphorus and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.

In the evening, head to the Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street that is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can also visit the historic Galata Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Golden Horn.

Day 3:

Start your day by visiting the Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning palace that was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans. From there, take a short walk to the Ortakoy neighborhood, which is known for its beautiful mosque and lively street market.

For lunch, try some traditional Turkish meze (small dishes) at a local restaurant. After lunch, take a stroll through the trendy Nisantasi neighborhood, where you'll find many high-end shops and cafes.

In the evening, head to the Taksim Square, which is the heart of modern Istanbul. You can enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area or visit one of the many bars or clubs.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Istanbul!