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Dreaming of the perfect 3-day Istanbul itinerary? Let us help you make it happen!
Istanbul is a one-of-a-kind destination that straddles two continents and blends ancient history with vibrant modern life. After exploring this city from top to bottom, we’ve put together a tried-and-true itinerary that covers the very best of what Istanbul has to offer. From iconic mosques and lively street food to relaxing hammams and Bosphorus cruises, you’ll experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this guide is designed to help you skip the stress and make the most of every moment. Get ready to explore Istanbul like a pro!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this private tour of Istanbul! This was the best way to learn about the Old City, discover markets, mosques, and palaces, and see the local side of Istanbul.
Itinerary Overview
Getting around Istanbul is surprisingly easy—no rental car needed. The city’s network of trams, metros, and ferries makes it simple to explore, and when you need a ride, apps like BiTaksi, Uber, or iTaksi are reliable go-tos. While taxis are widely available, scams can happen, and traffic and parking headaches make driving yourself more of a hassle than a help.
With that in mind, this three-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Istanbul with minimal stress. From historic landmarks and hammam rituals to street food, scenic ferry rides, and rooftop views, we’ve got it all covered. Many tours include hotel pickup or start in central locations, making it even easier to dive in.
Day 1: Ease into Istanbul with a guided tour of Old City icons like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Afterward, enjoy rooftop kebabs in Sultanahmet and end the night with a golden-hour stroll or a cozy drink on Akbıyık Street.
Day 2: Spend your morning tasting your way across two continents on a guided food tour that takes you from the European side of Istanbul to the markets of Kadıköy in Asia. After a bit of downtime, enjoy an all-inclusive evening of culture and cuisine with a whirling dervish performance followed by a multi-course dinner at a 140-year-old kebab house.
Day 3: Start your final day with a classic Turkish breakfast and a hammam experience at one of the city’s oldest baths. Then, explore the vibrant Beyoğlu district before boarding a luxury yacht for a sunset Bosphorus cruise. If you’re not ready to say goodbye just yet, end your trip with live jazz at Nardis in Galata.
Day 1
Morning/Afternoon – Explore the Old City
There’s no better way to kick off your time in Istanbul than by exploring the city, and that’s exactly how we spent our first day. This private tour can be booked as a one, two, or three-day experience, but with only a few days in the city, we thought the one-day option (about 7 hours) was perfect. It covered a ton while giving us a real feel for Istanbul’s history, culture, and energy.
Our guide, Fatima, picked us up from our hotel after a quick breakfast, and we set off on a whirlwind day that still felt relaxed and personal. Since it’s a private tour, you can choose your start time (we suggest 9 or 10 am) and customize the stops. Make sure to work a lunch break into your day, too!
We wanted to see the highlights, so Fatima took us straight to the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to begin. Hearing the stories and details behind the architecture up close was a huge bonus.
We wandered through the ancient Hippodrome, marveled at the underground Basilica Cistern, and stepped back into Ottoman grandeur at Topkapi Palace. The day wrapped up at the bustling Grand Bazaar—chaotic but iconic! Thankfully, Fatima helped us navigate and haggle like pros.
This was, hands down, the best way to familiarize ourselves with Istanbul on our first day. And clearly we aren’t the only ones who felt that way—read the five-star reviews here to see why this tour is the perfect intro to Istanbul!
Reserve this private tour here and see the best of the city!
Dinner – Turgut Kebab Restaurant
After wrapping up the tour at the Grand Bazaar, we took a quick 7-minute stroll to Turgut Kebab Restaurant, a casual yet characterful spot in the heart of Sultanahmet that totally hit the spot. The menu is packed with flavorful grilled meats, classic meze, and perfectly baked Turkish pide, all served in a cozy space that often comes alive with live Turkish music in the evenings.
The real highlight, though, is the rooftop. We enjoyed a relaxed dinner with stunning views of the Blue Mosque glowing at sunset—easily one of the most memorable meals of our trip. Reserve a table on their website here and ask for a rooftop table. It’s an ideal way to wind down before heading out for an evening stroll or nightcap.
Evening – Stroll Around Sultanahmet
Since you’ll already be in Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s central historic district, it’s easy to keep exploring after dinner. Even if you passed through earlier in the day, the area takes on a whole new magic at night. The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are beautifully lit, casting a golden glow over Sultanahmet Square. We loved wandering around the Dancing Fountains, watching the lights shimmer off the water with the city’s most iconic landmarks as a backdrop.
If you’re in the mood to keep the evening going, walk just a couple of minutes over to Akbıyık Street. This narrow cobblestone lane is lined with cozy bars, rooftop lounges, and tucked-away spots perfect for a relaxed nightcap. Whether you’re after a glass of Turkish red or just want to soak in the atmosphere, it’s a lovely way to end your first night in Istanbul.
Day 2
Morning/Afternoon – Taste Your Way Across Two Continents
We kicked off our second day in Istanbul with one of our favorite experiences of the entire trip—this guided food tour that doubled as a deep dive into the city’s history and cultural mix. With a 9 am start time and over five hours of eating, walking, and learning, this tour delivered way more than just snacks (so skip breakfast—you won’t need it!).
Our guide, Bahar, met us at a charming café where we started the day with a strong cup of Turkish coffee and a light traditional breakfast. From there, we wandered through the European side of the city, stopping at local markets and sampling lots of Turkish treats. A highlight was the historic spice market, where we snacked our way from stall to stall, savoring sweets, spices, and savory bites.
Midway through, we hopped on a ferry across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of Istanbul—something we didn’t even realize was possible before coming here! The Kadıköy Market was full of energy and flavor, with standout tastings like dolma, fresh wraps, and the most unforgettable baklava of the trip.
The tour wrapped up around 2:30 pm, and with return ferry tickets included, it was easy to head back toward our hotel via either the Eminönü or Karaköy dock.
This tour was truly unforgettable! After all, it’s not every day you get to eat your way through two continents in one day. If you still need convincing, read THOUSANDS of five-star reviews here to see why this tour is a must-do for foodies and first-timers alike.
Get ready to taste your way through Istanbul and book this food tour here!
Late Afternoon: Relax
Eating your way across two continents is exhausting, so you’ll definitely want a little downtime. Head back to your hotel to relax, freshen up, and let all that delicious food settle. You’ve got an exciting evening ahead—with dinner and a show!
Dinner/Evening – Traditional Dervish Experience
After a full day of sightseeing, the last thing we wanted was to stress over dinner reservations or waste time figuring out evening plans. That’s why this small-group dervish and dinner tour was such a win! It handled everything for us, and still managed to feel like a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience.
The 6:30 pm option worked out great and gave us plenty of time to relax beforehand. We met in front of the historic Sirkeci Train Station, where our incredible guide, Eylül, welcomed the group and walked us to a nearby venue. Before the show began, she gave us background on the mesmerizing 800-year-old dervish tradition—recognized by UNESCO—and prepared us for what turned out to be one of the most moving performances we’ve ever seen.
From there, we were whisked away by private car to a 140-year-old kebab restaurant, tucked away in a neighborhood popular with locals. The unlimited dinner included five types of kebabs, hot soup, meze, salads, drinks, and dessert. Eylül made sure every dietary need was met and even surprised us with a small gift at the end!
This tour lasts around three hours and is completely all-inclusive—no surprise charges! Between the powerful performance, unforgettable flavors, and excellent guide, it offered a deeper look into Turkish culture and hospitality that we’ll never forget.
For a seamless night of food, tradition, and connection, reserve your spot here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Related Read: Hotels here book up fast! Our where to stay in Istanbul guide shares top hotels for all budgets in the areas we love the most!
Day 3
Breakfast – Central Istanbul Cafe & Restaurant
We started our final day in Istanbul with a laid-back Turkish breakfast just a few minutes from our next activity. Central Istanbul Cafe & Restaurant opens at 8 am and is located right in the heart of the Old City—just a 3-minute walk from the famous historical baths, making it a super convenient stop.
The setting is casual and welcoming, and the menu features all the classics: cheeses, olives, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, warm bread, eggs, and sweet spreads like honey and jam. It was the kind of slow breakfast that felt both satisfying and unrushed—perfect for easing into the day before heading to the hammam.
Morning – Experience a Turkish Bath
After days on our feet, we were ready for a reset, but finding a hammam in a city full of tourist traps was easier said than done. That’s why we were so glad we booked this small-group experience at Gedikpasa Hamami, one of the oldest and most authentic baths in Istanbul.
Located just steps from the Grand Bazaar and only a short walk from our breakfast spot, Gedikpasa Hamami has been in operation since 1457 and still retains its historic charm, featuring marble floors, vaulted ceilings, and a peaceful, steamy atmosphere that sets the tone the moment you step inside. The hammam is gender-separated with same-gender therapists, and the service was both professional and deeply relaxing.
We recommend choosing the 10 am time slot, which fit perfectly into our morning and gave us plenty of time to enjoy the full experience. Most guests spend between 1 and 2.5 hours here, depending on the package they choose. Our ritual began with a steam session to open the pores, followed by a full-body scrub using a traditional kese mitt.
Then came the foam massage—20 glorious minutes of warm bubbles and gentle pressure under the hamam’s stunning 16-meter ceiling. We added on a classic oil massage in a private room, which was well worth it. Post-treatment, we were served tea, Turkish delight, and fruit in a quiet lounge.
This tour has it all—centuries-old history, a luxurious spa treatment, total relaxation, and the five-star reviews you can read here to back it up. Trust us, your tired muscles will thank you!
Treat yourself to the ultimate reset and book this hammam experience here!
Afternoon – Explore the Beyoğlu District
Once you’ve wrapped up your relaxing hammam experience, it’s time to switch gears and explore one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and modern neighborhoods—Beyoğlu. Just hop on a tram or grab a quick Uber ride over to the Galata Bridge, where your afternoon adventure begins. This area is packed with local flavor, iconic landmarks, and plenty of opportunities to walk, eat, and soak in the city’s energy.
Walk along the Galata Bridge
This two-level bridge spans the Golden Horn, connecting the neighborhoods of Eminönü and Karaköy, and it’s the perfect place to ease into the afternoon. The upper level is popular with fishermen, while the lower level is lined with casual restaurants and cafés, offering views right over the water.
For lunch, you can grab a Balık Ekmek (grilled fish sandwich) from one of the waterside stalls—fresh, fast, and super local. Prefer a sit-down meal? Cross into Karaköy and head to Namlı Gurme, a well-loved Turkish deli-café with excellent mezzes, salads, and hot dishes.
Go to the top of the Galata Tower
From Karaköy, make your way uphill to the iconic Galata Tower. If your legs need a break, hop on the historic Tünel funicular to save the climb. This medieval stone tower offers one of the best panoramic views in the city—360° views of the Bosphorus, Old Town, and Istanbul skyline await at the top.
There’s also a café up there if you’d like to sip something while enjoying the view. It’s one of those classic “touristy” stops that’s totally worth it, especially on a clear day, when you can truly grasp the city’s layout between two continents.
Stroll through Istiklal Avenue
From Galata Tower, wander north along Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul’s most famous pedestrian street. The avenue is buzzing with activity: boutiques, bookstores, bakeries, art galleries, arcades, and more. Street musicians and performers pop up often, adding to the lively atmosphere and giving the whole area an energetic, local feel.
We popped into a few local shops and paused for a strong Turkish coffee partway through. It’s also a good spot to grab any last-minute souvenirs that aren’t overly touristy. And don’t miss the historic passageways like Çiçek Pasajı and Hazzopulo Pasajı tucked just off the main drag. They’re filled with character and often overlooked by visitors!
Visit Taksim Square
At the top end of Istiklal is Taksim Square, a major cultural and social hub. You’ll find the Republic Monument, loads of locals hanging out, and a mix of old-school and trendy new restaurants. It’s also a great place to grab a quick dinner or light bite if you haven’t yet, since the sunset cruise you’ll be doing next doesn’t serve a full meal (just snacks and drinks).
Whether you want to try street food or sit down at a nearby café, it’s a nice final stop before heading to the water for your evening adventure. As the crowds gather and the city lights begin to glow, the energy in the square is the perfect lead-up to a relaxing evening on the Bosphorus.
Evening – Go on a Bosphorus sunset cruise
After a busy afternoon exploring the city on foot, we were ready to slow things down, and this sunset cruise on the Bosphorus was the perfect way to do it. Instead of navigating more crowded streets, we boarded a luxury yacht and experienced Istanbul from the water, drink in hand, while the sun dipped below the skyline.
The tour can start anytime between 4 and 6 pm, depending on the time of sunset, and there’s an option for hotel pick up, which we highly recommend to make things super easy. If you’re visiting when the sun sets earlier, you may need to adjust your afternoon in Beyoğlu. We suggest picking just two stops so you can still make it to the cruise on time without feeling rushed.
After a quick check-in at the waterfront meeting point, we stepped aboard the 25-meter (82-foot) yacht and immediately felt like we were in for something special.
Over the next 2.5 hours, we sipped fresh drinks and sampled canapés while cruising past the city’s most iconic sights, like Dolmabahçe Palace, Süleymaniye Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, and even the famous Maiden’s Tower, all glowing in the golden dusk light. Plus, our wonderful guide shared just enough history to bring the skyline to life without ever pulling us out of the moment.
Sailing between two continents, as the city lit up around us, was nothing short of magical! The views, the breeze, the calm vibe—it was such a relaxing way to wind down our last full day in Istanbul.
Book your sunset cruise here and enjoy the scenic side of Istanbul!
Night – Listen to some jazz
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night after the cruise, head back to the Galata neighborhood for a laid-back but memorable evening at Nardis Jazz Club. It’s about a 12-minute drive from the cruise drop-off point and makes for a perfect final stop on your last night in Istanbul. If you took the earlier sunset cruise, you’ll even have time to enjoy a drink or stroll through the area before the show begins.
This cozy, brick-walled venue is known for its intimate atmosphere and impressive live performances, featuring some of the best jazz talent in the city. The club opens at 8:30 pm, and the show typically starts at 9:30 pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to settle in before the music kicks off.
We highly recommend making a reservation here in advance, as it’s a popular spot with both locals and visitors. You can check the lineup and reserve directly on their website. Just note that they’re closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly if this is on your wishlist.
With candlelit tables, great acoustics, and a rotating lineup of talented performers, Nardis is the perfect way to close out your Istanbul adventure—something relaxed, soulful, and a little unexpected.
Related Read: Want even more ideas? Check out our guide for the 10 best things to do in Istanbul here for can’t-miss sights, hidden gems, and extra activities to extend your trip.
Where to Stay in Istanbul
With a full itinerary in Istanbul, you’ll need the perfect hotel to rest and relax! Luckily, you’ve got a lot of options, no matter your budget or preferred location.
To help narrow it down, I’ve listed three great hotels for the luxury traveler, someone looking for a mid-range option, or those with a tight budget!
Luxury – $$$
Hotel De Reve Galata is a luxury option, featuring incredible views, pristine rooms, and high-class service. I love the modern and upmarket design in every room, offering twin, double, or corner suites. You can choose to have a room with a jacuzzi, a sea-facing view, or a balcony, and you can enjoy the onsite bar and restaurants.
This hotel is located in a central location, and prices start around €400. You can book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
If you’re looking for a conveniently located hotel at a moderate price point, the Royan Hotel Hagia Sophia has you covered! Located meters away from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, you can easily reach Istanbul’s top sights. The rooms are well-equipped and of high quality, so you’ll have a comfortable stay. You can get a standard room for only €150 a night, or upgrade to a suite, or to include a private Turkish bath!
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Venue Hotel Istanbul Old City is a historic hotel with a fabulous location. Just steps from the Sirkeci Tram Station, you can get all around the city quickly, and you’re a short walk from the Grand Bazaar and other Old City sights. They offer a range of rooms to fit your price point, and all are cozy, well-decorated, and provide the highest service for a comfortable stay.
Rooms average around €100 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
For more options, check out all the hotels in Istanbul here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Istanbul was on our travel bucket list for a long time, so we wanted to make our three days in the city count! This is the itinerary we followed, so I know you’ll have the best time if you stick to it. Whether you’re exploring markets, seeing the famous mosques, or relaxing on a river cruise, Istanbul will be a memorable trip.
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out all of our travel blogs here. We have guides on where to stay, the top things to do, and city itineraries for all over the world. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your travels – cheers!
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