3 day itinerary for Istubul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Istanbul:

Day 1:

Start your day by visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia, which was once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum. You'll be amazed by its stunning architecture and history. After that, head over to the Blue Mosque, which is just across the street from Hagia Sophia. This mosque is known for its beautiful blue tiles and six minarets.

For lunch, try some traditional Turkish cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the Sultanahmet area. After lunch, take a stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. You can find everything from spices to jewelry to textiles here.

In the evening, take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline and the sunset.

Day 2:

Start your day by visiting Topkapi Palace, which was once the residence of Ottoman sultans. The palace has several courtyards, gardens, and rooms filled with treasures, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond.

After that, head over to the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir built during the Byzantine era. The cistern is beautifully lit and has several columns with Medusa heads at the base.

For lunch, try some delicious street food like simit (a sesame-covered bread) or doner kebab. In the afternoon, visit the Spice Bazaar, which is filled with colorful spices, teas, and sweets.

In the evening, head over to Taksim Square, which is the heart of modern Istanbul. You can find plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops here.

Day 3:

Start your day by visiting the Dolmabahce Palace, which was built in the 19th century and served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The palace has several rooms filled with beautiful furniture, chandeliers, and paintings.

After that, take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul and visit the Kadikoy neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant street art, trendy cafes, and local markets.

For lunch, try some traditional Turkish meze (small dishes) at one of the many restaurants in Kadikoy. In the afternoon, visit the Chora Church, which is known for its stunning mosaics and frescoes.

In the evening, head over to the Galata Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city. You can also find plenty of restaurants and bars in the area.

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