Planning 3 Days in Istanbul? Here’s the Ultimate Itinerary to Discover the Best of the City!
If you’re lucky enough to have 3 days in Istanbul, get ready to experience a city that has it all- history, culture, food, and an energy like no other. Having visited the city on the Bosporus twice, I can honestly say it’s one of those places that never stops surprising you. Istanbul really is one of the cities that captured my heart and interest to return to time again and again.
From its ancient landmarks to mouthwatering cuisine and buzzing nightlife, Istanbul is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re planning a short 3-day getaway or a longer escape, this itinerary will ensure you hit all the must-see spots, making the most of your time in this unforgettable city.
(Updated November 2024)
A Brief Overview of Istanbul
Istanbul, formerly Constantinople, is the capital of Turkey and its largest city. Istanbul is the only transcontinental city in the world. It lies to one part in Europe and to one part in Asia, separated by the 31km long Bosphorus strait.
All people with a European passport or European identity card can visit Turkey visa-free. If you don’t have a European passport you would need to apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival.
Best Time To Visit Istanbul
The best time to visit this exciting city is between March to May and between September to November. That way you will escape the summer heat and crowds and can count on more affordable room rates.
Discover Istanbul In 3 Days Itinerary: The 10 Most Amazing Things To See and Do
Considering the grand size of Istanbul it’s a good idea to divide your sightseeing days into districts.
During my first visit, I was slightly overwhelmed by all the things one can do in the city. In this 3 days in Istanbul itinerary, I’ll share with you the 10 things to do, places that you can’t miss when in Istanbul, the best places to eat, and where to stay.
Keen on having a guide by your side to accompany your 3-day itinerary covering the best things about the city? I recommend booking this exclusive 1, 2, and 3-day Istanbul Old City Tour for a more personalized experience. Your Turkish guide will help you experience the city like a local, showing you hidden spots and cover all the popular places.
Visit Suleymaniye Mosque – Day 1
The Suleymaniye Mosque towers over one of Istanbul’s seven hills and dominates the Golden Horn. It’s one of the city’s most striking landmarks and one of the places that aren’t overrun by tourists. Its four minarets represent the four sultans who took the throne after the conquest of Constantinople.
The garden of the mosque is open at all times, which makes it a perfect thing to do early in the day to catch the sunrise.
To be able to visit the mosque inside, you need to cover your head as well as shoulders and knees as a woman. If you want to get a better understanding of the local mosques and culture, I recommend reserving a spot on this traveler’s favorite Istanbul Mosque Walking Tour. Enjoy learning about the religion, architecture und significance of Istanbul’s iconic sights, all as part of an intimate group. This spot is a real gem and a must-visit on your 3 days in Istanbul itinerary. Every time I visit the city, I come back, it’s that magical!
Opening times: 9 am to 6 pm
Entry: Free to visit
Stroll The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Opening way back in 1431, it is one of the top things to do when in town. Located in the Eminönü quarter of the Fatih district, the Grand Bazaar covers 61 streets and over 4000 stalls.
This is a place you can spend hours in, wandering through shops selling Turkish delight, leatherware, Turkish copper or ceramics. While you spend 3 days in Istanbul you need to include the Grand Bazaar in your itinerary at all costs.
My tip: find a cute cafe and watch the market life go by with a nice Turkish tea.
Opening times: 10 am to 6 pm
Entry: Free to visit
Go Shopping at The Egyptian Bazaar
The stunning Egyptian Bazaar is another one of Istanbul’s gems that you have to visit. Also situated in the Eminönü quarter of the Fatih district, and right by the ferry terminals, it’s hard to miss.
The Egyptian Bazaar has a beautiful ceiling and is a paradise for photographers. This is the best place to stock up on Turkish delight, exotic spices and all kinds of dried fruits or chocolate-covered nuts. You can’t go wrong with a present from this place!
Don’t forget to stop by Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi to grab a pack of roasted coffee beans. The famous shop is supplying beans for about 100 years!
Opening times: 8 am to 7 pm
Entry: Free to Visit
Explore the Hagia Sofia
Probably the most visited place in Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is a mosque and a major cultural site in Istanbul. A true must-visit on any 3 day in Istanbul itinerary, the Hagia Sofia is worth the wait. The 1,500-year-old mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and counts as one of the city’s top things to do.
Since this is one of the most important places in Istanbul, I recommend reserving a spot on this immersive Istanbul Mosque Walking Tour.
The Hagia Sophia poses as a grand important monument both for the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. If you haven’t already been convinced by its exterior, the interior surely will! The interior of the mosque is a magnificent place, featuring Byzantine elements of massive marble pillars, a grand dome and beautiful religious mosaics.
You will also encounter Islamic elements like low-hanging chandeliers and massive round placards showing the names of Allah and Muhammad in Arabic.
Tip: Make sure to get to the Hagia Sophia as early as 8.30 am to avoid standing in the (very long) queue to enter.
Opening Times: 9 am
Entry: The mosque is free to visit.
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an iconic landmark and one of the most famous attractions in Turkey. It was built during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century, between 1609 and 1616.
The mosque is renowned for its impressive architecture, with its six minarets, cascading domes, and striking blue tiles adorning the interior walls, which give it its nickname. It’s also still an active mosque today, welcoming worshippers and visitors alike.
Since it’s opposite of the Hagia Sophie, it makes the ideal next stop on your 3 days in Istanbul itinerary.
Climb the Galata Tower – Day 2
Undoubtedly one of Istanbul’s most iconic sights, the Galata Tower is one of the best things you can visit. Whether you climb to the top or admire the tower from below, it’s worth it!
As for your second day in Istanbul, I recommend booking a private Modern City Walking Tour through Galata and Taksim, two of the best neighborhoods to visit. You’ll start by the medieval Galata Tower to get a panoramic view of the city, followed by exploring hidden gems you’d miss without a local guide!
The tower was probably built around 527 AD during the Byzantine area. It played a big part of the defense wall surrounding the district.
You can visit the tower by climbing the 142 steps or taking the elevator to the top. As the queue can get super long, be there early!
Tip: Sit down in one of the cafes and indulge in one of their San Sebastian cheesecakes covered in chocolate. You’re welcome!
Opening Times: 8.30 am to 10 pm
Entry: 14 Euro with a skip-the-line ticket
Indulge in a Typical Turkish Breakfast
An Istanbul must-do thing is having a typical Turkish breakfast. For me this is one of the most delicious breakfast cuisines. At its best, it features multiple small dishes including olives, fresh cheese, halloumi and egg & tomato shakshuka.
One of the things I was looking forward to most during my stay at Stayso The House Hotel was their delicious breakfast – totally recommend it!
Take a Ferry Ride on the Bosphorus
One of the coolest things to do in Istanbul certainly is a ride on one of the ferries. With the city being divided into to European and the Asian sides, there is no shortage of water taxis. You can go on one of the tourist boats covering various destinations or you just hop on a public ferry.
My favorite ride was during sunset from Eminönü near the Egyptian Spice Market towards Beşıktaş Iskelesi for Dolmabahçe Palace. This way you can see the European side with the Galata Tower and the Asian side.
Cost: starting from 1.5 Lira or 0.10 ct for public ferry
If you prefer a more intimate experience, I suggest booking this praised Bosphorus sunset cruise on a luxury yacht. Sitting on the open-air deck, you get to see the pretty Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque and the Rumeli Fortress all while snacking on canapes and enjoying the sunset.
Marvel at the Grand Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque) – Day 3
The Ortaköy Mosque must be the mosque in the most picturesque setting in Istanbul. Situated just before the Bosphorus Bridge, it shows the juxtaposition of the city’s modern and traditional sides.
Built in the 18th century, the mosque was designed by the Armenian architect Garabet Balyan who also designed the nearby Dolmabahce Palace. With a beautiful ceiling in a dome shape, decorated with pink mosaic, it’s definitely a highlight to visit.
If you want to have memorable photos of your visit, I recommend hiring a local photographer to capture yourself in front of the mosque and other spots.
Just outside of the mosque you can find many restaurants, souvenir shops and places to go out. Stay after sunset to also admire the bridge in its various colours. It’s a true highlight of this 3 days in Istanbul itinerary and ideal for anybody looking to see a different side of the city.
Opening times: 9 am to 6 pm
Entry: Free to visit
Wander through the Balat District
Probably the most colorful area of Istanbul, Balat’s neighborhood is a gem and a top thing to do. In more than one area of the district, you can find the most colorful houses on its cobblestone slopes. These historic wooden homes are between 50 to 200 years old and make some fantastic photo spots.
The easiest way to reach to area is by ferry to the station of Ferner. From there, its a leisurely walk through the area.
If you’re keen to see more of the lesser-visited areas, I recommend booking this full-day Extraordinary Istanbul Tour – visiting Balat, Karakoy, and Kadikoy. Experience a true Turkish bath, indulge in Turkish food and see a side many tourists usually won’t see!
Balat used to be home to the minorities of the city, such as Jewish and Greek Orthodox families. Till today you can find many churches and a synagogue here. It really has a special feeling, very distinctive from the rest of the city.
Make sure to relax in one of the cosy coffee shops.
One of the best things you can do is to just wander around, soak in all the Oriental and European vibes and see where you end up!
Accommodation Istanbul: Best Places To Stay
Istanbul offers a variety of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
Sultanahmet: Ideal for first-time visitors due to its location. Hotel Nena is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district. It’s situated just a short walk away from major attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
Another great option is Galata/Karakoy – a trendy neighborhood known for its historic buildings, hip cafes, and art galleries. It’s also a transportation hub with ferry terminals and tram stops. Try Walton Hotel Galata known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. IT features beautifully designed rooms and suites, blending modern amenities with traditional Turkish touches
For those seeking a more refined experience, try Nisantasi. A chic and upscale area known for its designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and elegant cafes. With an exceptional view of the Golden Horn, The Stayso House Hotel is a fantastic place to base yourself. A mix of modern and minimalist interiors, it features a co-working area, a gym and an outstanding patisserie. Their pistachio truffles are out of this world!
(Sponsored PR stay)
Book The Best City Accommodation in Istanbul Here
Restaurants Istanbul
Nova Santiye Cafe: for a terrace rooftop with view of Istanbul
Viyana Kahvesi Galata: for their amazing cheesecakes
Old Java Coffee Roasters Galata: for amazing coffee!
Galata Kitchen: because they have the best vegetarian buffet
Helvacı Ali Galata: you just need to try their desserts
I hope this 3 days in Istanbul itinerary inspires you to visit this fantastic city and gives you a starting point to explore Turkey. Let me know if you have any additional spots in mind to check off next time!
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