Byzantium, Constantinople, and Istanbul—this remarkable city, known by many names, captivates every visitor. Nestled along the bustling yet picturesque Bosphorus waterway, Istanbul is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, lively cultural experiences, and mouth-watering cuisine, ensuring an unforgettable vacation. Its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences adds an irresistible allure to its character. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the lively Grand Bazaar, every corner of this iconic city invites you to create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Here is a three-day guide to making the most of a short holiday in Istanbul.
Start your day with a cup of Turkish coffee and simit, a beloved staple of Istanbul’s street food culture that you can find in shops and carts throughout the city. This local bread is crustier on the outside than a bagel yet soft, light, and delicate on the inside. After enjoying your morning meal, head to Topkapi Palace. Once the Ottoman sultanate's primary residence and administrative headquarters, it is now the largest museum in Istanbul and one of the city’s most popular attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses an impressive Ottoman clothing, weapons, religious relics, and manuscripts collection. The Ottoman imperial harem is also worth a visit. However, be aware that this heritage site has its own set of rules for visitors.
Address: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Continue your exploration of amazing ancient architecture in Istanbul with a visit to Hagia Sophia. Known as "Holy Wisdom" in Greek, this remarkable structure was originally a Greek Orthodox church, then an Ottoman imperial mosque, and now stands as one of the most popular museums in Istanbul. A prime example of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia's impressive dome attracts culture and architecture enthusiasts alike. As the second most visited museum in Türkiye, it offers an unforgettable experience with its elaborate frescoes, stunning mosaics, and exquisite marble floors.
Located right next to the Hagia Sophia is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque. This mosque is still in use today and is renowned for its interior and exterior walls adorned with hand-painted blue tiles, which is how it got its name. The mosque is an architectural marvel, featuring five main domes and six minarets.
Also nearby is the ancient Basilica Cistern. This famous subterranean structure was featured in the 1963 James Bond film "From Russia with Love" and Dan Brown's novel and movie adaptation "Inferno." The Basilica Cistern is an architectural wonder open daily for tourists from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
After an exciting day of exploring stunning monuments in Istanbul, head to Istiklal Avenue, an elegant pedestrian street bustling with life. Here, you'll find a delightful mix of boutiques, shops, art galleries, theatres, cafés, nightclubs, and restaurants, ensuring endless entertainment options at your fingertips. If you seek tranquility, retreat to one of the libraries in the area. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a charming tram ride along the avenue.
As you stroll, you'll eventually arrive at Taksim Square, the vibrant heart of modern Istanbul. This iconic square is not only the main transportation hub of the city but also a thriving commercial district, offering a wealth of hotels, restaurants, pubs, and eateries. Taksim Square is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Istanbul.
Begin your day with an artisanal coffee at Geyik, the perfect hangout spot that transforms from a cosy coffee shop by day to a lively cocktail bar by night. Situated in the trendy Cihangir neighbourhood, this charming venue boasts a skilled team dedicated to crafting innovative beverages.
After enjoying your morning beverage and meal, take the opportunity to experience traditional Ottoman palace life by visiting Dolmabahçe Palace. Located on the European coast of the Bosphorus, it is the largest palace in Türkiye. The palace exhibits European influences and houses some of the finest Ottoman art and culture examples. Dolmabahçe Palace is lavishly decorated with gold and crystal. Please note that visits to the palace are conducted only through guided tours, and photography is not permitted inside.
Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Head to Galata Tower, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. A visit to the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The tower has a restaurant, café, and nightclub on its top floor. The surrounding Galata area is a delightful tourist attraction, home to numerous churches and synagogues. Don’t miss the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art if you love art. This venue showcases local talent through workshops and exhibitions, making it a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art.
Spend the evening exploring street food in Istanbul. One dish you must try is balık ekmek, a delicious fish sandwich. It features perfectly grilled, crispy fish fillets complemented by a tangy pomegranate molasses sauce and served with a medley of fresh vegetables, between slices of freshly baked bread. In Turkish cuisine, ice cream has a rich tradition, particularly in the form of hard, sticky maraş. It is a favourite among tourists, known as dondurma, or Turkish ice cream. There are many more incredible foods to explore, so check out our guide for more information.
Enjoy dinner and drinks at one of Istanbul's many trendy cocktail bars. If you’re a vinyl music fan, visit Arkestra, a unique audiophile bar that serves exceptional craft cocktails and delicious savoury snacks. The Listening Room provides an intimate atmosphere, perfect for pre-dinner aperitifs or late-night indulgences. Check out our guide for more recommendations.
It's time for a traditional Turkish bath to relieve any aches from all the walking you did yesterday. Istanbul's hammams have long been a pleasure and relaxation for visitors and locals. They are integral to the city's rich cultural and historical heritage, representing a physical manifestation of Ottoman tradition. You can choose from several options, including the Hurrem Sultan Hammam, the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam, the Çemberlitaş Hammam, and the Çukurcuma Hammam.
After the invigorating experience at the hammam, head out for brunch, shopping, and relaxation in Nişantaşı, a popular neighbourhood celebrated for its iconic buildings and lively atmosphere. Located on the European side of the city, Nişantaşı this upscale area dates back to the 19th century, during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdulmajid I, who settled there and constructed two stone obelisks to mark the neighbourhood's boundaries. It boasts several galleries, museums, a concert hall, and the Neoclassical Teşvikiye Mosque. However, Nişantaşı is the ultimate shopping destination for local fashion enthusiasts and international visitors. This vibrant district features prestigious brand boutiques showcasing iconic names such as Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Roberto Cavalli, Ermenegildo Zegna, Escada, and Hugo Boss. Check out our guide here.
Next, visit the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Its bustling atmosphere and winding alleys make it a paradise for shoppers. With over 4,000 shops and stalls, the Grand Bazaar invites visitors to explore its treasure trove of goods. The market displays a wide variety of Turkish craftsmanship, including vibrant textiles, exquisite jewellery, intricately designed ceramics, and aromatic spices.
You can also book a Bosphorus cruise, an enchanting journey that reveals the mesmerizing beauty of Istanbul as the boat glides along the Bosphorus Strait. This famous waterway serves as a boundary between the European and Asian sides of the city, providing an extraordinary experience. As the boat sails, passengers enjoy breathtaking views of the city's stunning skyline, featuring towering minarets alongside modern skyscrapers.
