Istanbul is one of those cities that sweeps you off your feet. It’s chaotic and peaceful, old and modern, European and Asian — all at once. It’s one of the only cities in the world that spans two continents, and you really feel that unique blend of cultures the moment you arrive.

I spent 3 days in Istanbul, and although it wasn’t nearly enough to see everything, it gave me a taste of this magical city. If you’re planning a short trip, this detailed 3-day itinerary will guide you through the best things to see and do in Istanbul — from iconic mosques and palaces to ferry rides, bustling markets, and hidden corners.

Getting Around Istanbul

The good news is that Istanbul is easy to explore without a car. If you’re staying in Sultanahmet or Sirkeci (where I stayed), you’ll find that many attractions are within walking distance.

For longer journeys, get yourself an Istanbulkart (metro card). It works on trams, buses, metro, and ferries, and each ride is just 2.6 TL.

💡 Tip: Load more credit than you think you’ll need, because you’ll probably end up using it for ferries and trams multiple times a day.

Day 1: Discovering the Historical Heart of Istanbul

Most first-time visitors start with the Sultanahmet area, and for good reason: this is where Istanbul’s most famous landmarks are concentrated.

If you wake up early, you’ll avoid the long lines at ticket offices and have more time to wander freely before the crowds take over.

Hagia Sophia

Start with Hagia Sophia, Istanbul’s most iconic building. Its history is a journey in itself: once a church, then a mosque, later a museum, and now a mosque again. Entry for worship is free, though some areas are restricted.

Step inside and look up — the massive dome will take your breath away. The building is layered with stories of Byzantium, Christianity, and Islam, making it a true symbol of Istanbul’s identity.

The Blue Mosque

Just across the square is the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). Entry is free, but you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees. Don’t worry if you’re not prepared: scarves and skirts can be borrowed at the entrance.

Inside, the mosque is covered in beautiful Iznik tiles in shades of blue, which is how it got its nickname. It’s still an active mosque, so check prayer times before you go.

Basilica Cistern

From there, walk a few minutes to the Basilica Cistern — an underground wonder built in the 6th century to store water. With its dim lighting, 300+ marble columns, and the famous Medusa head carvings, it feels like stepping into another world. Entry is around 20 TL, and it’s one of the most atmospheric sites in the city.

Topkapi Palace

If you love history, you’ll want to spend a good chunk of your day at Topkapi Palace. Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, it’s now a museum complex with gardens, courtyards, and treasure rooms.

Don’t miss:

· The Harem (requires an extra ticket but worth it)

· The Treasury, with dazzling jewels and relics

· Views over the Bosphorus from the palace grounds

It’s easy to spend half a day here, so pace yourself.

The Grand Bazaar

End your day by diving into the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it’s easy to get lost among the carpets, ceramics, spices, and jewellery.

💡 Personal tip: Don’t feel pressured to buy. Half the fun is wandering and soaking up the atmosphere. But if you do shop, bargain politely — it’s expected here.

Day 2: Palaces, Towers & Shopping Streets

For day two, I wanted to go beyond the old city and see more of Istanbul’s modern side.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Start with Dolmabahçe Palace, the 19th-century palace that became the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire. It’s very different from Topkapi — think European glamour with chandeliers, crystal staircases, and ornate halls.

· Palace ticket: ~60 TL

· Harem ticket: ~40 TL

· Combined ticket: ~90 TL

This is where East meets West in architecture, and it’s stunning.

Galata Tower

Next, head to the Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower that offers one of the best panoramic views of Istanbul. The climb is easy, and the 360-degree cityscape is absolutely worth the wait. Tickets are about 45 TL.

Istiklal Street

From Galata, walk up to Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul’s famous shopping street. It’s a lively pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Don’t miss:

· The nostalgic red tram that runs through the street

· Street performers and musicians

· Traditional Turkish delights and ice cream vendors (yes, the ones who play tricks on you)

It’s the perfect place to grab lunch or do some shopping.

Galata Bridge

End the day with a stroll along the Galata Bridge, which connects the two sides of the Golden Horn. Locals come here to fish, and underneath the bridge you’ll find seafood restaurants. At sunset, the skyline of mosques lit against the sky is unforgettable.

Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise & the Asian Side

For the last day, I decided to slow things down with a cruise.

Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus cruise is one of the highlights of any trip to Istanbul. You can do a quick 2-hour ride or a longer one that goes all the way to the Black Sea. I chose a half-day option that also included a stop on the Asian side.

What makes it special is seeing Istanbul from the water — palaces, mansions, mosques, and even fortresses line the shores. It really gives you a sense of the city’s scale.

💡 Tip: Skip overpriced tourist cruises and take a Şehir Hatları ferry instead. It’s what locals use, and it’s way cheaper.

Exploring the Asian Side

Once on the Asian side, you can explore neighbourhoods like Üsküdar and Kadıköy. They have a different vibe — less touristy, more laid-back, and full of authentic food spots.

Grab a Turkish tea by the waterfront or wander through local markets. It feels like you’ve entered another city entirely.

Where to Stay in Istanbul

I stayed in Sirkeci, which was great for walking to most attractions. But it was very noisy and crowded, especially at night.

If you want convenience, Sultanahmet or Sirkeci are good choices. If you’d prefer something quieter (and more local), try Kadıköy on the Asian side.

No trip to Istanbul is complete without indulging in its food culture. Turkish cuisine is rich, flavourful, and incredibly diverse. Whether you’re into street food or fine dining, Istanbul has something for every taste.

Must-Try Dishes

· Kebabs – From juicy Adana kebab to skewered shish kebabs, you’ll find them everywhere. Don’t leave without trying at least one.

· Baklava – Layers of pastry filled with nuts and soaked in syrup. Best enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea.

· Simit – A sesame-crusted bread ring that’s a popular street snack. Cheap, delicious, and perfect for breakfast on the go.

· Menemen – A traditional Turkish breakfast dish made with eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices.

· Meze – Small plates (like tapas) that are often served before the main meal. Think hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and spicy dips.

· Turkish Delight (Lokum) – Sweet, chewy candies often flavoured with rosewater, pistachio, or lemon.

· Fish sandwiches at Galata Bridge – Simple, fresh, and iconic.

Drinks to Try

· Turkish tea (çay) – Served in tulip-shaped glasses, it’s part of everyday life in Turkey.

· Turkish coffee – Thick, strong, and served unfiltered. Be prepared for coffee grounds at the bottom of your cup!

· Ayran – A salty yogurt drink that pairs perfectly with kebabs.

· Rakı – Known as “lion’s milk,” this anise-flavoured spirit is the national drink of Turkey.

💡 Tip: If you’re vegetarian, Istanbul is still great. Many meze dishes are veggie-friendly, and you’ll find plenty of lentil soups, börek (pastry filled with cheese or spinach), and falafel spots.

Shopping in Istanbul: From Bazaars to Boutiques

Shopping in Istanbul is not just about buying things — it’s about the experience. The city has both traditional bazaars and modern shopping malls, so you can browse carpets in the morning and designer clothes in the afternoon.

Where to Shop

· Grand Bazaar – As mentioned, it’s the most famous place to shop. Best for carpets, lamps, ceramics, jewellery, and leather goods.

· Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) – A feast for the senses. Stock up on saffron, Turkish delight, dried fruits, and nuts.

· Istiklal Street – For modern shops, fashion, and international brands.

· Local boutiques in Kadıköy – Perfect if you want unique, artsy pieces.

Souvenirs to Bring Home

· Hand-painted ceramics

· Turkish tea sets

· Spices & sweets

· Nazar (evil eye) charms

· Carpets & kilims (if you’re ready to negotiate!)

💡 Bargaining tip: Always be polite and smile. Offer about half the initial price and meet in the middle.

Cultural Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

Istanbul isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s about immersing yourself in its culture.

Turkish Baths (Hammams)

After a long day of walking, nothing beats relaxing in a traditional hammam. These bathhouses date back to Ottoman times and involve a steam bath, scrubbing, and sometimes a massage.

Famous hammams include:

· Süleymaniye Hammam – Historic and tourist-friendly.

· Çemberlitaş Hammam – One of the oldest, located near the Grand Bazaar.

· Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam – Recently restored, beautiful architecture.

Whirling Dervish Ceremony

This mystical dance, part of Sufi tradition, is both spiritual and mesmerizing. You can watch performances at cultural centres like Hodjapasha near Sultanahmet.

Rooftop Bars & Cafés

For a modern touch, head to a rooftop café or bar for sunset views over the mosques. Istanbul’s skyline is unlike anywhere else, and sipping tea (or a cocktail) with that view is unforgettable.

Nightlife in Istanbul

While Istanbul is a deeply traditional city, it also has a vibrant nightlife scene.

· Beyoğlu & Taksim – Trendy bars, pubs, and nightclubs.

· Kadıköy – A more local vibe, with laid-back bars and live music.

· Ortaköy – Chic waterfront spots with Bosphorus views.

If you want something casual, just grab a table at a meyhane (traditional tavern), order meze and rakı, and enjoy the music.

Practical Travel Tips for Istanbul

Best Time to Visit

· Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal — pleasant weather, fewer crowds.

· Summer can be very hot and packed with tourists.

· Winter is chilly, but the city is still beautiful (and less crowded).

Dress Code

Turkey is modern, but mosques require modest clothing:

· Shoulders and knees covered

· Women should cover their hair (scarves are usually provided at mosque entrances)

Costs

· Street food: ~10–20 TL

· Restaurant meal: ~50–100 TL

· Museum tickets: 20–90 TL depending on the site

· Public transport: 2.6 TL per ride

Istanbul is very affordable compared to other European cities.

Final Thoughts: Why Istanbul Stole My Heart

Three days in Istanbul gave me just enough time to fall in love with the city. From the call to prayer echoing at sunrise to the laughter in tea gardens at night, Istanbul is alive in every corner.

It’s a city where East meets West, where history meets modernity, and where every street feels like a story waiting to be told.

Would I go back? Absolutely. Three days is a great introduction, but Istanbul deserves much more. If you’re planning your trip, be prepared to walk, eat, and be amazed at every turn.

3 Days in Istanbul: The Perfect Itinerary to Explore the City of Two Continents