What to do in Istanbul in 3 days

Istanbul is a city of rich history and culture. Located on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait, it serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia. With its many historical sites, cultural attractions, and bustling street life, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Istanbul, especially if you only have three days. To help you make the most of your time, here is a comprehensive guide on what to do in Istanbul in three days.
Day 1:
Start your first day by visiting the Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most famous museums and one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century and later became a mosque during the Ottoman era. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing both Christian and Islamic art and architecture.

Next, head over to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. The palace is a sprawling complex of buildings, courtyards, and gardens and is home to a vast collection of Ottoman treasures, including jewelry, ceramics, and manuscripts.
In the afternoon, take a walk through the Sultanahmet neighborhood, also known as the “Old City.” Here, you’ll find the Blue Mosque, which gets its name from the blue tiles adorning its interior. The mosque is still an active place of worship and is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks.
End your day by taking a stroll along the Bosphorus Strait, where you can enjoy the sunset and take in the views of the city’s skyline.
Day 2:
On your second day, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a shopping paradise for those who love to bargain and explore. From spices to textiles to jewelry, you’ll find everything under one roof here.

Next, head over to the Suleymaniye Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most beautiful and largest mosques. The mosque was built in the 16th century and is considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
In the afternoon, take a boat tour of the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia. On the tour, you’ll see some of Istanbul’s most iconic sights, including the Dolmabahce Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge.
End your day by exploring the lively Beyoglu neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and street life. Walk down Istiklal Avenue, the main pedestrian street, and visit some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Day 3:
On your last day, visit the Chora Museum, one of Istanbul’s most beautiful Byzantine churches. The church is famous for its well-preserved Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, which are considered some of the finest examples of Byzantine art.

Next, visit the Spice Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s oldest and most famous markets. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and sweets.
In the afternoon, visit the Galata Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. The tower is a popular spot for sunset views and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
End your trip with a traditional Turkish bath experience at one of the city’s historic hammams. The hammam is a cultural institution in Turkey and is a great way to relax and unwind before your trip back home.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city with an endless list of things to see and do. Within three days, you can visit most parts of Istanbul for more information and a guide in your own language contact us.