Istanbul is a captivating city that bridges two continents, boasts thousands of years of history, and harmoniously blends modern life with the past. If you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time, the city’s vastness and richness might surprise you. In this guide, we explain step by step how to efficiently explore Istanbul’s most important and must-see places in 3 days.
This itinerary, planned with detailed morning, afternoon, and evening programs for each day, will enable you to experience both historic and modern Istanbul. Get ready for a complete Istanbul experience with transportation tips and food recommendations!
Essential Information for First-Time Visitors to Istanbul
When Should You Visit?
While Istanbul is beautiful in every season, the most ideal times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is mild and tourist attractions are less crowded. Summer months (June-August) can be hot and crowded, while winter months (December-February) are cold and rainy.
Where Should You Stay?
The most ideal accommodation areas for first-time visitors are Sultanahmet, Taksim/Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş. Sultanahmet is within walking distance of historical sites and is a tourist-friendly area. Taksim and Beyoğlu stand out with their central location and proximity to nightlife. Kadıköy offers a local atmosphere and more affordable prices on the Asian side. Beşiktaş is preferred for its Bosphorus views and modern hotels.
How to Get Around?
The Istanbul Card is used for all public transportation and is an essential item to acquire. You can obtain it at the airport or metro stations. The metro, tram, bus, and ferry systems are highly developed. You can use taxis or Uber, but if possible, prefer public transportation to avoid losing time in traffic. Many tourist attractions are within walking distance.
Day 1: Historic Peninsula – Sultanahmet and Surroundings
On the first day, you’ll step into Istanbul’s history-scented heart. The Sultanahmet area houses the most important works of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
Morning Program (09:00 – 12:30)
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local restaurant in the Sultanahmet area. You can have a filling breakfast with simit, tea, börek, cheese, olives, and jam.
Your first stop is Hagia Sophia. This magnificent structure built in 537 has served first as a church, then a mosque, museum, and mosque again. The interior mosaics, huge dome, and historic atmosphere are worth seeing. Admission is free, but going early in the morning is important for fewer crowds. It’s recommended to spend approximately 45-60 minutes inside Hagia Sophia.
The Blue Mosque, located right across from Hagia Sophia, stands out with its 6 minarets. The blue Iznik tiles inside gave the mosque its name “Blue Mosque.” Admission is free, but you can only enter outside of prayer times.
Take a short walk between these two magnificent structures. In the square, which was once the Hippodrome area, you’ll find the Obelisk, Serpent Column, and German Fountain. You can take photos around the square and feel the historic atmosphere.
Afternoon Program (12:30 – 17:00)
There are plenty of lunch options in Sultanahmet. Sultanahmet Köftecisi is a historic venue, and Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta is also popular. For budget-friendly options, check out the restaurants in the side streets.
Topkapı Palace, where Ottoman sultans lived for 400 years, is one of Istanbul’s most important museums. The Harem quarters, Sacred Relics section, and gardens with magnificent Bosphorus views are must-sees. Plan to spend at least 2-2.5 hours in the palace. Buying tickets online will save you from queuing at the ticket office.
After leaving Topkapı Palace, return to Sultanahmet Square and visit the Basilica Cistern. This ancient water reservoir, also known as the underground palace, offers a mystical atmosphere with its 336 columns and Medusa heads. It takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
Evening Program (17:00 – 22:00)
Walk from Sultanahmet towards Eminönü (approximately 15-20 minutes). Along the way, observe Istanbul’s street texture, shops, and local life.
In Eminönü, taste one of Istanbul’s most famous delicacies from the fish sandwich boats under Galata Bridge. You can have turnip juice or ayran alongside.
Cross the bridge to Karaköy and from there walk to Galata. Climb Galata Tower to watch Istanbul’s panoramic view. Sunset hours are especially special. Buying tickets online provides faster entry.
Going up from Galata to Beyoğlu, you can have dinner around İstiklal Street or choose one of Karaköy’s trendy restaurants.
End your day by walking on İstiklal Street. The nostalgic tram, street musicians, passages, and lively atmosphere are worth experiencing. You can walk all the way to Taksim Square.
Day 2: Bosphorus and Asian Side – Panoramic Istanbul
On the second day, you’ll discover Istanbul’s Asian side and the unique beauty of the Bosphorus. Today you’ll see modern and panoramic Istanbul where Emaar SkyView is located.
Morning Program (09:00 – 12:30)
Take a ferry from Eminönü or Kabataş to Üsküdar. This short journey on the Bosphorus (approximately 20-30 minutes) is an experience in itself. You can feed the seagulls and take photos of Maiden’s Tower.
After disembarking at Üsküdar Pier, have breakfast along the coast with a view of Maiden’s Tower. The cafes on Salacak coast are ideal locations. Simit-tea or full breakfast options are available.
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, the symbol of Üsküdar, is a work by Mimar Sinan. The mosque, located by the sea in the pier square, attracts attention with its architectural beauty.
Walk along Üsküdar coast and enjoy the view of Maiden’s Tower. You can sit under the historic plane trees on Salacak coast and watch the sea view.
Afternoon Program (12:30 – 17:30)
Emaar Square Mall, located in Üsküdar, is a modern shopping center. Various restaurant and cafe options are available here. You can have lunch at the food court inside or at one of the restaurants in the open area.
After lunch, visit Emaar Aquarium. Turkey’s first underwater zoo offers an impressive experience with 9 thematic sections and 20 thousand sea creatures from 200 species. Walking in the Ocean Tunnel and watching sharks and stingrays is unforgettable. Online tickets may be more advantageous. Plan to spend approximately 1.5-2 hours at the aquarium.
The most important stop of the day is Emaar SkyView! Istanbul’s observation terrace at 300 meters height, one of the highest, offers a bird’s eye view of Istanbul with its 360-degree panoramic view.
Taking a coffee or beverage break at Sky Cafe on the 47th floor, you can watch both sides of the Bosphorus, the Princes’ Islands, the Historic Peninsula, and all the city’s magnificence. If you go during sunset hours, you can watch the sun setting over the Marmara and the city lights coming on.
The SkyWalk Experience offers an adrenaline-filled activity for brave visitors with a walking experience on a glass floor. Go up 1 hour before sunset (approximately 16:30-17:00), and you can see both day and night views. Online tickets are recommended. Plan to spend approximately 1.5-2 hours including Sky Cafe.
Evening Program (17:30 – 22:00)
Go from Üsküdar to Kadıköy by minibus (10-15 minutes). Kadıköy is the liveliest and youngest district of the Asian side.
Experience Istanbul’s local life by walking in Kadıköy Market. Fish market, spice shops, street artists, and lively atmosphere await you. Don’t forget to taste street delicacies: çiğ köfte, döner, wet hamburger, and such.
Walk from Kadıköy to Moda along Bahariye Street (15-20 minutes) or use the historic tram. You can catch the last rays of sunset on Moda coast and take a walk along the shore.
Have dinner at restaurants on Bahariye Street in Kadıköy or at restaurants with sea views in Moda. Kadıköy’s tavern culture is also famous.
If you want to experience nightlife, you can visit Kadıköy’s bar area known as Kadife Street. Live music, cocktails, and a young atmosphere await you.
Day 3: Modern Istanbul and Bosphorus Shores
On the third day, you’ll discover Istanbul’s modern face and the elegance of the Bosphorus shores.
Morning Program (09:00 – 12:30)
The first stop of the day is Ortaköy. In early morning hours, Ortaköy is quieter; you can eat kumpir with a view of the Bosphorus Bridge or have breakfast at the cafes on the shore.
Take photos in the square next to Ortaköy Mosque. This point where the bridge, mosque, and Bosphorus meet is one of Istanbul’s most photographed places.
Walk from Ortaköy towards Beşiktaş (20-25 minutes along the shore) or use a bus. Dolmabahçe Palace, the last period palace of the Ottoman Empire, is famous for its Western-influenced architecture, crystal chandelier, and luxury furniture. It’s closed on Tuesdays. Buying tickets online is recommended. Plan to spend approximately 1.5-2 hours at the palace.
Afternoon Program (12:30 – 17:00)
Eat at a local restaurant in Beşiktaş market. Options like pide, döner, kebab, and fish sandwich are available.
If you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time, a Bosphorus tour is a must. You can join tours departing from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, or Kabataş piers. Short tour (1-1.5 hours) or long tour (3-4 hours, up to Anadolu Kavağı) options are available.
Important points you’ll see on the Bosphorus tour include Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, Beylerbeyi Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and historic waterfront mansions.
After the tour, take a coffee break in Bebek or Arnavutköy. You can sit at cafes along the Bosphorus shore and relax, feeling the atmosphere of Istanbul’s luxury neighborhoods.
Evening Program (17:00 – 22:00)
Get from Bebek or Beşiktaş to Taksim by metro or bus. Taksim Square is the heart of modern Istanbul. You can take photos around the Republic Monument.
Walk on İstiklal Street for shopping, you can see Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage) and the Fish Market. Historic structures like Galatasaray High School and Ağa Mosque are also on the street.
Have dinner on Nevizade Street or Asmalımescit, Beyoğlu’s famous tavern streets. Experience meze varieties, rakı, and lively atmosphere. Alternatively, you can eat at rooftop restaurants like 360 Istanbul Restaurant or Mikla with Istanbul views.
From the end of İstiklal Street, take the historic Tünel funicular down to Karaköy. Even this short journey is a nostalgic experience.
Explore Karaköy’s nightlife. Take a final walk on Galata Bridge, you can have night tea or dessert at the fish restaurants under the bridge.
Practical Tips and Recommendations
Transportation Tips
The Istanbul Card is valid on all public transportation vehicles (metro, tram, bus, ferry, funicular). Up to 5-6 people can use one card. It’s also used for transportation from the airport to the city center.
Among metro lines, the M1 line runs between the Airport and Kirazlı (transfer to M3 from here), the M2 line provides access to Taksim between Yenikapı and Hacıosman, the M4 line runs between Kadıköy and Sabiha Gökçen Airport, and the M5 line serves between Üsküdar and Çekmeköy.
Tram T1 line runs between Kabataş and Bağcılar and passes through Sultanahmet, Eminönü, and Beyazıt.
Ferry piers are located at Eminönü, Karaköy, Beşiktaş, and Kabataş on the European Side, and at Üsküdar, Kadıköy, and Haydarpaşa on the Asian Side.
Food Recommendations
Must-try items include fish sandwich in Eminönü, kumpir in Ortaköy, wet hamburger in Taksim, simit and tea everywhere, döner at Kadıköy Saray and Beyoğlu Şehzade, baklava and künefe at Karaköy Güllüoğlu and Hafız Mustafa, and stuffed mussels from street vendors. We recommend trying street delicacies like stuffed mussels and kokoreç at places whose hygiene you trust.
Ticket Buying Tips
Places where online ticket purchase is recommended include Emaar SkyView (you can get discounted tickets without waiting in line), Emaar Aquarium (discounted online prices), Galata Tower (long queues), Topkapı Palace (fast entry), and Dolmabahçe Palace (fast entry).
By purchasing online tickets for Emaar SkyView and Emaar Aquarium, you can both save time and benefit from advantageous prices.
Safety and General Advice
Istanbul is generally a safe city. Be careful of pickpockets in tourist areas. Keep your valuables in a discreet manner. Avoid deserted streets late at night.
Bargaining is acceptable at the Grand Bazaar and street vendors. Bargaining is not done at restaurants and cafes. You can bargain politely to reduce the initial price.
English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning basic Turkish words can be useful (Hello, Thank you, How much?). You can use Google Translate.
Dress conservatively when entering mosques (headscarves for women, pants for men). Comfortable shoes are essential for walking. Dress in layers according to the season.
Best Spots for Photography
The best spots for photography include the 360-degree panoramic Istanbul view at Emaar SkyView, the Golden Horn and Historic Peninsula view at Galata Tower, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque together at Sultanahmet Square, the bridge and mosque combination at Ortaköy, Maiden’s Tower from Üsküdar or Salacak coast, views from both top and bottom at Galata Bridge, and the Golden Horn view at Pierre Loti Hill.
Alternative and Additional Suggestions
If you have more than 3 days or want to add to the program, you have several options. You can take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands, Büyükada or Heybeliada, and go on a bicycle tour. You can go on nature walks and picnics at Belgrade Forest. You can experience shopping and culture at the Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar. Istanbul Modern or Pera Museum are ideal for art and culture enthusiasts. Emirgan Grove is especially beautiful during the tulip festival period (April-May).
Night activities include night boat tours on the Bosphorus, night fishing on Galata Bridge, live music and tavern culture in Beyoğlu, and rooftop bars like 360 Istanbul, Mikla, Vogue, and Ulus 29.
Special for Ramadan, you can experience iftar tents in Sultanahmet, Ramadan pide queues in Eminönü, tarawih prayers in mosques, and sahur street vendors.
Istanbul is a city you can begin to discover in 3 days but explore for a lifetime. This guide’s plan is designed to enable first-time visitors to see the city’s most important points efficiently.
On the first day, you’ll experience the historic texture, on the second day modern and panoramic Istanbul (at the summit with Emaar SkyView), and on the third day the Bosphorus shores and contemporary life. Each day a different face of Istanbul, a different atmosphere, different flavors…
Remember: Istanbul is not a city to be rushed. Prefer public transportation to avoid losing time in traffic, love walking, be open to exploration. A new story awaits you at every corner, a different flavor on every street.
After seeing Istanbul from a bird’s eye view from Emaar SkyView, you’ll better understand the city’s vastness and diversity, and perhaps decide to come back again. Safe travels!
