A Three Day Istanbul Itinerary & Travel Guide
A Three Day Istanbul Itinerary & Travel Guide was originally published in 2025
There’s no city quite like Istanbul. I’ve spent a good chunk of time here over the years. On a few extended stopovers and a longer stay in early 2025, I keep finding new reasons that bring me back.
Istanbul is a place where Byzantine basilicas, Ottoman palaces, and modern towers all exist in one chaotic, glorious sprawl.
One moment you’re watching the sunset over the Bosphorus with a glass of salep in hand, and the next you’re elbow-deep in a spice bazaar hunting down saffron that may or may not be real.
If you only have a few days to spare, don’t worry. I’ve put together the ultimate Istanbul itinerary for 3 days, packed with sights, bites, and scenic ferry rides. Whether it’s your first time visiting Istanbul or you’re returning for another go, this guide has got you covered.
So grab a simit from a street cart, lace up your most comfortable shoes, and let’s dive into this whirlwind 3 days in Istanbul travel guide.
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- Istanbul Travel Guide: Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Where to Stay in Istanbul
- Kadıköy
- Eminönü & Karaköy
- How to Get Around Istanbul: A Guide to Navigating the Chaos (Without Losing Your Mind)
- 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary
- More Cool Things to Do in Istanbul (If You’ve Got Extra Time)
- A Complete Istanbul Itinerary
Istanbul Travel Guide: Practical Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
The sweet spot? Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October). The weather is mellow, the crowds are thinner, and everything’s blooming or glowing. Summer can be brutally hot and humid, while winter has its charm (cozy cafés, misty Bosphorus vibes), but comes with drizzle and the occasional downpour.
Language
Turkish is the official language, but you’ll find plenty of English spoken in tourist areas. Learn a few basics like Merhaba (hello), Teşekkürler (thank you), and Nerede? (where is…?) to win some smiles.
Currency
The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep cash handy for street eats, dolmuşes, and tiny corner shops. Exchange rates tend to be better at local exchange offices (döviz) than airports.
Dress Code
Generally relaxed, but when visiting mosques like the Blue Mosque or Suleymaniye, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Headscarves are available at many mosque entrances for women, but it doesn’t hurt to keep one handy for an impromptu visit.
Use Public Transport
Istanbul has the best public transport system I have seen anywhere in the world, with an extensive network of metros, trams, buses, and ferries that can get you pretty much anywhere in Istanbul.
Where to Stay in Istanbul
When planning your visit to Istanbul, choosing the right neighborhood can make or break your trip. Here are my top picks:
Taksim
Great nightlife and central location, close to Istiklal Street.
Classic Taksim experience with sweeping Bosphorus views. You can roll out of bed and be in the heart of the action—ideal for short stays or first-timers.
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
A swanky five-star choice with a full spa, sky bar, and a view that’ll ruin all other views. Luxe, but worth the splurge.
Budget-friendly and full of charm, this cozy spot is a restored 19th-century building run by a small, friendly team. Great value for being so central.
Perfect for those looking for a cheap place to stay and nearby to all the main attractions and transport in Taksim. The beds are comfy, the staff is nice, and equipped with a kitchen to do all your cooking (eating out in Istanbul can add up after a while!).
Galata & Beyoğlu
Hipster cafes, vintage shops, and views of the Golden Horn.
One of Istanbul’s most stylish stays. Minimalist rooms, French balconies, and that rooftop terrace with Galata Tower and Bosphorus views.
Boutique but budget-conscious, with gorgeous design elements and a prime location just a few minutes from the tower.
A sweet little mid-range pick that blends Turkish design and modern comfort. Steps from all the winding backstreets of Galata.
Old-world opulence with a literary twist—Agatha Christie stayed here. Marble bathrooms, red velvet, and a legendary tea lounge make this the grande dame of Beyoğlu.
Elegant and modern inside a historic former convent. Each suite feels like a luxe apartment, and it’s within walking distance to both Istiklal Street and Galata. Great for design lovers.
Trendy, well-priced, and perfectly located just a short walk from the main drag of Istiklal. Rooms have a sleek, industrial vibe, and it’s got that artsy Beyoğlu energy written all over it.
Kadıköy
Chill local vibe on the Asian side, perfect for foodies and art lovers.
Charming design, central location, and housed in a late Ottoman building. You’re right in the middle of Kadıköy’s food and nightlife scene.
More of a co-living/guesthouse hybrid, ideal for digital nomads and solo travelers looking for community. Super stylish and tucked into Moda.
DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul – Moda
Reliable chain with a rooftop pool and sweeping sea views. Great for a more upscale stay while exploring the Asian side.
Sultanahmet
Best for first-timers, walking distance to major historical sites.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
Luxury meets Ottoman charm. Housed in a former prison (yes, really), this iconic yellow-stone building is steps from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The rooftop terrace? Unreal views.
Boutique, charming, and full of warm Turkish hospitality. It’s a guest favorite for its personalized service and sweet little balconies—plus, you’re right in the heart of the Old City.
A solid mid-range gem with artistic flair and Bosphorus peeks. Tucked on a quiet side street, it’s perfect if you want peace, but still be 5 minutes from the major sights.
Eminönü & Karaköy
Busy and vibrant, great ferry connections, and street eats.
A luxury boutique hotel in a historic former bank. Marble everywhere, art installations, and a cocktail bar that feels very speakeasy-meets-Ottoman.
Beşiktaş
Best for waterside cafés, local flavor, and proximity to ferry terminals.
Pure luxury with a full spa, enormous rooms, and an unbeatable Bosphorus-front location. You’ll feel like royalty.
Modern and lush, with a massive garden, pools, and panoramic views. A good spot for travelers who want a peaceful base but still want to walk to the action.
Great mid-range choice with apartment-style suites. Ideal if you want more space and a kitchen, especially for longer stays.
My personal pick?
Base yourself in Beyoğlu or Kadıköy and use the ferry to bounce around. You’ll get the best mix of vibes, views, and value. If you want to be in the epicenter of everything, I also like Taksim, as you will have easy access to plenty of sites, restaurants, and more.
How to Get Around Istanbul: A Guide to Navigating the Chaos (Without Losing Your Mind)
One of the joys, and occasional headaches, of traveling in Istanbul is just figuring out how to get from A to B in this unique city that straddles two continents.
The good news?
Istanbul has a surprisingly efficient and cheap public transport system.
The bad news?
It can be a little confusing at first, especially when you’re trying to decode Turkish station names while dodging a stampede of commuters.
Here’s how to crack the code and get around Istanbul like a pro.
Istanbulkart: Your Magic Key to the City
Before you do anything in Istanbul, get yourself an Istanbulkart. It’s a reloadable transit card that works on pretty much everything- metro, trams, buses, ferries, Marmaray trains, and even public toilets (seriously, I’m not shitting it 🤣).
You can buy an Istanbulkart at airport kiosks, major transit stations, or convenience shops for about 70 TL. Top it up at machines you’ll see at metro entrances and ferry terminals.
Each ride is significantly cheaper with the card, and it saves you the hassle of buying individual tickets.
Metro, Tram, and Marmaray Trains
Istanbul’s metro and tram lines are clean, air-conditioned, and fairly easy to navigate once you get your bearings. Most touristy spots are linked up, like:
- T1 Tram: Hits all the classics—Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Karaköy, and Kabataş.
- M2 Metro: Great for getting to Taksim, Şişli, and Levent.
- Marmaray: This underground commuter rail runs under the Bosphorus, connecting the European and Asian sides in mere minutes.
You’ll sometimes need to switch between lines, so factor in a bit of time for transfers. Signage is in both Turkish and English.
Ferries: The Most Scenic Commute of Your Life
Forget Uber, ferries in Istanbul are where it’s at. Cheap, relaxing, and offering unbeatable views of the city’s skyline.
I took ferries as often as possible during my most recent winter visit to Istanbul, not just for the convenience, but because there’s nothing quite like sipping Turkish tea on deck as you cruise across the Bosphorus.
Ferries run between Eminönü, Karaköy, Kadıköy, Üsküdar, and more.
They’re part of the public transit system and accept the Istanbulkart. Try to sit outside for the breeze and watch the gulls chase the boat.
Dolmuş: Shared Taxis for the Brave
Dolmuşes are little yellow vans that function like shared taxis on set routes. They don’t follow strict timetables and they leave when full. Payment is made in cash, directly to the driver.
They’re fast, cheap, and a bit chaotic. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on one heading to Kadıköy or Beşiktaş.
Taxis & Ride Apps
Regular taxis in Istanbul are plentiful, but… let’s just say some drivers play fast and loose with the rules. Scams are rife, and almost always the meter is conveniently “not working”. I don’t recommend ride-sharing apps either (like BiTaksi or Uber), as the prices quoted are always a fraction of what they actually charge.
On the most recent trip, two girls I was out with for a day went to grab an Uber back, and despite the app showing 775 TL, we were told it would actually cost 2800 TL. I said no thanks, and we walked to the ferry terminal.
On Foot
Honestly, one of my favorite ways to explore Istanbul is just on foot. You’ll stumble across hidden courtyards, sleepy backstreets, and tiny tea gardens you’d never find otherwise. Just beware it’s a very hilly city, so comfy shoes are a must, and if your itinerary says “just a short walk from Taksim” it may secretly mean “prepare to climb a mini mountain.”
Getting Into Istanbul From the Airport (Without Selling Your Soul to a Taxi Driver)
So you’ve just landed in Istanbul, your legs are half numb from the flight, and now it’s time to face the biggest question of every trip: how the heck do I get into the city without being scammed or stuck in traffic for three hours?
Fear not, whether you’re flying into Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), I’ve got you covered with the best public transport options for Istanbul travel.
From Istanbul Airport (IST)
Welcome to the shiny, enormous chaos of Istanbul’s new mega-airport. Located way out northwest of the city, Istanbul Airport is about 40 km from central districts like Sultanahmet or Taksim. But the good news? It’s finally connected to the city via metro.
Option 1: Metro (Cheapest and Easiest)
- Take the M11 Metro Line directly from Istanbul Airport to Kağıthane.
- From Kağıthane, transfer to the M7 Metro Line, which connects to hubs like Şişli/Mecidiyeköy or Taksim (via bus or funicular).
- Total journey time: around 50–70 minutes, depending on transfers.
- Cost: around 15–20 TL using your Istanbulkart.
This is the best option if you’re packing light and staying somewhere connected to the metro system. The stations are clean, the signage is in English, and the trains run frequently.
Option 2: Havaist Buses (Best for Direct Routes)
- Comfortable, air-conditioned Havaist shuttle buses run every 30–60 minutes to key neighborhoods like Taksim, Sultanahmet, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and more.
- Journey time ranges from 45 minutes to 90 minutes depending on traffic.
- Cost: around 90–120 TL, payable by card or Istanbulkart.
- Bonus: there’s Wi-Fi onboard, and you can snooze while watching the city crawl past.
From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)
If you’re flying a budget airline (hi Pegasus), you’ll probably land at Sabiha Gökçen on the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s smaller, but just as far-flung at about 45 km from Istanbul’s historic core.
Option 1: Metro (Fastest & Cheapest)
- Take the M4 Metro Line from Sabiha Gökçen Station, now finally open and directly connected to the airport.
- It runs all the way to Kadıköy, where you can hop on a ferry to the European side or connect to other metro and bus lines.
- Total journey: about 50–70 minutes to reach Kadıköy, plus ferry time.
- Cost: around 15 TL with an Istanbulkart.
Option 2: Havabus Shuttles (No Transfers Needed)
- Havabus runs frequent coaches to Taksim and Kadıköy.
- Journey to Taksim takes about 90 minutes (traffic depending), to Kadıköy around 60 minutes.
- Cost: roughly 70–90 TL, pay on board (cash or card).
- These are a comfy alternative if you’re dragging luggage or jetlagged into a coma.
3 Day Istanbul Itinerary
Day 1: The Historic Core – Sultanahmet & Eminönü
Sultanahmet Square
Start your Istanbul itinerary in the heart of the old city. Sultanahmet Square was once the site of wild chariot races during the Byzantine era.
Today, it’s dotted with ancient monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column. History nerds, rejoice.
Nearby Eats:
Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi– Old-school Turkish meatballs since 1920.
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
No Istanbul travel guide is complete without mentioning the Blue Mosque. With its cascading domes and six minarets, it dominates the skyline and delivers a jaw-dropping dose of Ottoman elegance. Dress modestly.
Hagia Sophia
This place is just unreal. A former church turned mosque turned museum and now mosque again, Hagia Sophia encapsulates Istanbul’s layered past. The interior mosaics, giant medallions, and sheer scale make it a top sight in any 3 days in Istanbul itinerary.
Basilica Cistern
Time to head underground. The Basilica Cistern is moody and mystical, with its forest of ancient columns and still waters. Keep an eye out for the Medusa heads hiding in the shadows.
Nearby Eats:
Sarnıç Fine Dining- Dine inside a historic cistern with a fancy Ottoman twist.
Topkapı Palace & Harem
Get a glimpse into royal Ottoman life at Topkapı Palace, with its shimmering tiles, golden treasures, and views of the Bosphorus. Don’t miss the Harem section—it’s the juiciest part of the palace.
Gülhane Park
When you’re feeling museumed out, take a breather in Gülhane Park. It was once the palace garden and is now a tranquil oasis where locals sip tea and kids chase pigeons.
Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth of color and chaos, with over 4,000 shops selling carpets, jewelry, and Turkish kitsch. Even if you’re not a shopper, wandering these covered lanes is an experience.
Nearby Eats:
Nusr-Et Steakhouse- If you want to dive into a steak.
Havuzlu Restaurant- Tucked inside the bazaar, this hidden spot serves hearty Ottoman fare.
Hafiz Mustafa- Not far from the Grand Bazaar. Pop into Hafiz Mustafa for some baklava and other Turkish sweet treats.
Spice Bazaar & Eminönü
Walk to Eminönü, home of the aromatic Spice Bazaar. You’ll find everything from pistachio-stuffed Turkish delight to heaps of saffron and sumac. Right outside, watch the fishermen line the Galata Bridge and soak in the everyday magic of Istanbul.
Nearby Eats:
Pandeli- Historic and refined, upstairs in the Spice Bazaar.
Balık Ekmek- Iconic grilled fish sandwiches from boats along the dock.
Day 2: Beyoğlu & The Golden Horn
Galata Bridge & Karaköy
Start the day crossing Galata Bridge, with fishing rods dangling above and ferries zipping below. Karaköy has transformed into a café-crawl-worthy neighborhood full of murals and bakeries.
One of the best views in the city. If the line’s long, skip the tower and explore the cobbled streets around it. Think local boutiques, ivy-covered facades, and tucked-away tea houses.
Nearby Eats:
Namlı Gurme- Epic Turkish breakfast platters you’ll dream about later.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower
One of the best views in the city. If the line’s long, skip the tower and explore the cobbled streets around it. Think local boutiques, ivy-covered facades, and tucked-away tea houses.
Istiklal Street & Taksim Square
Istanbul’s most famous street is a sensory overload. You’ll pass art galleries, vintage arcades, street musicians, and historic churches. Don’t miss:
- Çiçek Pasajı- Flower Passage for seafood and raki.
- St. Anthony of Padua Church- Italy meets Istanbul.
- French Street- Cute, colorful, and full of wine bars.
Nearby Eats:
Zübeyir Ocakbaşı- Smoky, authentic Turkish barbecue. Probably the best kebab I have ever had.
Mandabatmaz- The thickest Turkish coffee in town.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Ride the tram to Kabataş and prepare to be dazzled by Dolmabahçe Palace. This place is dripping in chandeliers, crystal staircases, and opulence. It’s the Versailles of Istanbul.
Görele Şakir Usta Pide
Finish off day two of your 3 day Istanbul itinerary with a bit of a journey from Dolmabahçe Palace over to Beyoğlu for my absolute favorite restaurant in Istanbul- the legendary Görele Şakir Usta Pide.
This isn’t some overhyped place with neon signs or an Instagram line stretching around the block. It’s a humble, old-school eatery run by a man who’s been handcrafting Black Sea–style pide longer than I’ve been alive.
The man, the myth, the dough-wielding legend himself: Şakir Usta, originally from Görele, a small town in Turkey’s Black Sea region. He brought his hometown’s signature pide recipe to Istanbul decades ago and has been kneading, stretching, and sliding golden boats of dough into his wood-fired oven ever since.
Pide is often described as Turkish pizza, but that doesn’t quite do it justice. Imagine a boat-shaped dough baked to golden perfection in a wood-fired oven, topped with everything from melty cheese to spiced ground beef or sucuk (Turkish sausage), and finished off with a runny egg cracked on top. Now, take that and crank it up to eleven. That’s what Şakir Usta is doing.
What to Order
- Kaşarlı Pide (Cheese Pide) – Simple, cheesy, and divine.
- Karışık Pide (Mixed Pide) – A glorious mashup of minced meat, cheese, pastirma, and egg.
- Pastirmali Peynerli Pide (Pastrami with Cheese and Egg) – My personal favorite. The yolk melts into perfectly crisp pastrami and turns the whole thing into buttery heaven.
Day 3: Asian Side & The Bosphorus
Ferry to Kadıköy
Start your day with a scenic ferry ride to Kadıköy, Istanbul’s cooler, less-touristy cousin across the Bosphorus. It’s the kind of place where old bookshops sit next to third-wave coffee bars and locals sip tea on benches facing the water.
Kadıköy Street Art & Moda District
Explore murals and café-hop through the laid-back streets. Walk to Moda, a chilled-out seaside neighborhood perfect for people-watching, sunsets, and sneaking in another ice cream.
Nearby Eats:
Çiya Sofrası- A must for regional Turkish dishes you won’t find elsewhere.
Baylan Pastanesi- Treat yourself to the legendary “Kup Griye” dessert.
Üsküdar & Maiden’s Tower
Hop another short ferry ride to Üsküdar. Stroll along the waterfront or visit Maiden’s Tower, perched on a tiny islet with a story for every era. Legend, romance, and city views in one.
Sunset at Çamlıca Hill
End your 3 days in Istanbul at the city’s highest point. Çamlıca Hill offers panoramic views stretching from the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea. It’s a local favorite for sunset picnics and selfies with a skyline straight out of a postcard.
Nearby Eats:
Kanaat Lokantası- Homestyle Turkish stews, pilav, and dreamy rice pudding.
More Cool Things to Do in Istanbul (If You’ve Got Extra Time)
If you’re lucky enough to stretch your 3 days in Istanbul into 4 or more, here are a few extra gems:
- Süleymaniye Mosque – Less crowded than the Blue Mosque and equally stunning.
- Balat & Fener – Wander through colorful old houses, Orthodox churches, and antique shops.
- Rumeli Fortress – Overlooking the Bosphorus, this medieval fortress has killer views and picnic potential.
- Pierre Loti Café – Ride the Eyüp cable car up to this historic teahouse with views over the Golden Horn.
- Princes’ Islands – A day trip escape from the chaos. Think horse-drawn carriages, old wooden villas, and no cars.
A Complete Istanbul Itinerary
Three days in Istanbul is just enough to fall head over heels for this sprawling, ancient, chaotic city. From skyline views that span continents to underground cisterns guarded by Medusa, there’s no end to what you can discover. This Istanbul itinerary just scratches the surface, but it covers the soul of the city- history, flavor, and ferry rides included.
Whether you’re coming for the history, the food, or the chaos that makes Istanbul tick, I hope this guide helps you get the most out of your visit.
Need help planning your visit to Istanbul
Feel free to drop any questions or Istanbul itinerary tweaks in the comments below.
