A Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, where East meets West, is a dazzling city full of contrasts, culture, and culinary adventures. Begin your Day 1 exploring the historic Sultanahmet district — walk through the majestic Hagia Sophia, the beautifully tiled Blue Mosque, and the grand courtyards of Topkapi Palace. After soaking in history, lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar’s vibrant maze of carpets, lamps, and spices. Enjoy your first Turkish meal — maybe a kebab or a sizzling plate of Iskender — before sipping hot çay while watching the sunset over the Bosphorus.

Day 2 should take you to the water — take a Bosphorus cruise and cross to the Asian side of Istanbul, where you can explore Kadıköy’s cafes, murals, and markets. Return for a food tour in the evening — savor street delights like simit, kokoreç, and Turkish delight. On Day 3, head to modern Istanbul: Taksim Square, Galata Tower, and the artsy Istiklal Street. This area is full of live music, bookshops, rooftop bars, and boutique stores. Try Turkish coffee at a traditional kahveci, and don’t forget to indulge in baklava. Istanbul’s public transport makes moving around easy. Stay in Sultanahmet for a historic vibe or in Karaköy for a younger crowd. Every step in Istanbul tells a story — it’s a city that sings to your senses.