ISTANBUL ITINERARY
Istanbul, also known as Constantinople, was once the capital of both the Roman and Ottoman Empires. It was once called Basileousia or “Queen Of Cities”, and it is easy to see why.
Istanbul’s vibrant, bustling city can be seen in 3 days. It spans both Asia and Europe. You will find many fascinating and historic attractions in Istanbul, which was the capital of the Roman Empire and Ottoman Empire. These include the iconic Blue Mosque, The Hagia Sophia, The Grand Bazaar (the world’s oldest covered market), and underground cisterns. This Istanbul itinerary will take you to all the top sights and more.
The Perfect Days in Istanbul: Itinerary
You don’t need to spend three days in Istanbul if you want to get the most from your trip. This three-day Istanbul itinerary will allow you to see all the main sights that make this city so special. The Turkey Traveler was our guide. It is the most popular travel blog about Turkey. The Turkey Traveler offers insider tips, guides, and recommendations to help you plan your perfect trip to Istanbul Turkey.
Are you ready to create the perfect Istanbul itinerary? Let’s get started…
- Day 1 Istanbul – Hagia Sophia and Sultanahmet Square. Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace. Sunset Bosphorus Cruise.
- Day 2 Istanbul – Grand Bazaar Spice Bazaar Spice Bazaar Spice Bazaar Spice Bazaar Spice Bazaar Lunch At Eminonu Galata Bridge, Galata Tower Istiklal Street, and Taksim
- Day 3 in Istanbul – Turkish Bath (Hammam), Kadikoy, Camlica Mosque, Uskudar
An Istanbul Card is a great way to see Istanbul. The card is valid for seven days after the initial interaction. It also includes skip-the line tickets to Istanbul’s most popular attractions. It includes 10 rides on public transport, vouchers for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, as well as vouchers for Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace.
Sultanahmet – Historic Center
It is the best way to explore Istanbul than by jumping into its historical center, Sultanahmet. You will find some of Turkey’s most famous historic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. This neighborhood is a must-see on any itinerary.
Istanbul
Enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast will give you the energy to explore the city. A Turkish breakfast, also known as Kahvalti is made up of cured meats and dips along with fresh cheeses, eggs, and fresh breads. You can also enjoy pastries, honey and jams after the savory.
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is the most iconic landmark in Istanbul. It is one of Istanbul’s oldest buildings.
The building was actually built in 537 during a time before there was Istanbul. Istanbul was Constantinople at the time it was constructed. This name was given to the city in the Byzantine Empire’s naming convention. Constantinople, the capital of Byzantine Empire for 1,100 years was its capital. It wasn’t until 1453 that the Ottoman Empire conquered it and named Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia, originally a Catholic Cathedral, was seized by the Ottomans. It was converted into the city’s most important mosque after it was captured by the Ottomans.
The government converted the mosque into a museum in 1934. The Hagia Sophia was reactivated as a mosque in 2020 to the delight and delight of the Turkish people.
The Hagia Sophia’s 4 minarets indicate that it was built by the Sultan. The exterior is stunning with gold and red hints, while the interior will be even more impressive. It boasts massive marble slabs, a main dome measuring 32 meters in height and exudes opulence.
- Opening hours: April through October: 9am-7pm daily November through March – 9am-6pm. Mondays closed
- Access to Hagia Sophia is free with museum passes, or 72TL for those who pay at the entrance
- Tram stop – Sultanahmet
The Blue Mosque
A few minutes from Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia lies another iconic landmark, the Blue Mosque (also known as Sultan Ahmet Mosque). The Blue Mosque may look more impressive than Hagia Sophia due to its 6 unintended minarets. However, it was built only 400 years ago.
The Blue Mosque was built from parts of the Grand Palace of Constantinople. The Blue Mosque has a very short history. It was built by Sultan Ahmed I in an effort to improve the morale of the Turkish people following the Fifteen Year’s War.
You might be astonished at the exterior of The Blue Mosque. Its exterior is not blue. Once you step inside, visitors will see why the mosque is called that.
The mosque’s dome is covered in blue ceramic tiles with traditional Ottoman designs. The Blue Mosque, which is a massive architectural marvel, features many Islamic-style ornaments.