Three days is ideal for getting to know Istanbul's two continents and many faces. Getting an İstanbulkart makes metro, tram, ferry and Marmaray travel easy.
3 days · Tourist
Istanbul in 3 Days: A First-Timer's Plan
A balanced plan covering the historic peninsula, Beyoğlu & the Bosphorus and the Asian side over three days.
Day 1
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Sabah
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Cistern
The heart of the historic peninsula.
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Öğleden sonra
Topkapı Palace & Grand Bazaar
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Akşam
Süleymaniye & Eminönü
Evening walk around the Spice Bazaar.
Day 2
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Sabah
Galata Tower & Karaköy
Breakfast and a künefe stop in Karaköy.
Our pick: Karaköy Künefe Evi →
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Öğle
İstiklal Avenue & Taksim
The nostalgic tram and arcades.
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Öğleden sonra
Bosphorus cruise
Public ferry or private boat from Eminönü or Kabataş.
Our pick: Mavi Rota Tekne Turları →
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Akşam
Kumpir in Ortaköy
Night view in front of Ortaköy Mosque.
Our pick: Ortaköy Kumpir Köşesi →
Day 3
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Sabah
Ferry to Kadıköy
Cross between continents with the seagulls.
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Öğle
Kadıköy Market & Moda
Street food and the Moda shore.
Our pick: Kadıköy Kokoreç Durağı →
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Akşam
Sunset in Üsküdar
Maiden's Tower view from the Salacak shore.
Our pick: Salacak Sahil Kafe →
Opening hours and fees of museums and historic sites can change; check official sources before you go.