Free 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary

Hagia Sophia:

Start your day early and visit this iconic landmark. Explore the stunning architecture and learn about its fascinating history.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque):

Just a short walk from Hagia Sophia, admire the beautiful blue tiles and intricate designs of this historic mosque.

Basilica Cistern:

After the mosque, visit this ancient underground water reservoir. Marvel at the Medusa heads and the impressive architecture.

Lunch:

Head to a nearby local restaurant and enjoy some authentic Turkish cuisine, such as kebabs, mezze, or Turkish pide.

Topkapi Palace:

Spend your afternoon exploring the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans. Don't miss the Harem section and the stunning views of the Bosphorus.

Grand Bazaar:

End your day with some shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Get lost in its labyrinthine streets filled with shops selling everything from spices to jewelry to textiles.

Dinner:

Choose a cozy restaurant in Sultanahmet or nearby areas to enjoy dinner and relax after a day of exploring.

Bosphorus Cruise:

Start your day with a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. Enjoy the views of both Europe and Asia as you sail past historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers.

Dolmabahçe Palace:

Disembark from the cruise and visit this magnificent palace, which served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. Don't miss the grand chandeliers and the Turkish bath section.

Lunch:

Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants along the Bosphorus, savoring freshly caught fish and other local delicacies.

Ortaköy:

After lunch, head to Ortaköy, a charming neighborhood on the European side known for its picturesque mosque and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the narrow streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.

Çırağan Palace Kempinski:

Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the luxurious Çırağan Palace Kempinski hotel, housed in a restored Ottoman palace.

Dinner:

For dinner, try a restaurant in Ortaköy offering both Turkish and international cuisine while enjoying views of the Bosphorus and the iconic Bosphorus Bridge.

Galata Tower:

Start your day with a visit to the Galata Tower. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn.

Lunch:

Head to Karaköy or Beyoğlu for lunch. These neighborhoods are known for their trendy cafes and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

Istiklal Avenue:

After lunch, stroll down Istiklal Avenue, one of Istanbul's most famous shopping streets. Explore the boutiques, art galleries, and street performers along the way.

Taksim Square:

Reach the end of Istiklal Avenue at Taksim Square. Take some time to relax and people-watch in this bustling square, a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Dinner:

Choose a restaurant in Beyoğlu or nearby Karaköy for dinner. These neighborhoods offer a wide range of dining options, from traditional Turkish taverns to modern fusion cuisine.