Istanbul in 3 days: a simple itinerary for first-timers

Three days are enough to see Istanbul's highlights without rushing. This plan groups places that are close to each other, so you spend your time exploring, not commuting.

Day 1 — The historic peninsula (Sultanahmet)

• Start early at Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), which face each other across a square.
• Walk to the Basilica Cistern, the underground Byzantine water reservoir.
• Spend the afternoon at Topkapı Palace, home of the Ottoman sultans (closed on Tuesdays).
• Finish at the Grand Bazaar — one of the oldest covered markets in the world.

Day 2 — The Bosphorus and Galata

• Take a Bosphorus cruise from Eminönü; it is the best way to see palaces and waterfront mansions between Europe and Asia.
• Visit the Spice Bazaar next to the pier for Turkish delight, dried fruit and spices.
• Cross the Galata Bridge and climb to the Galata Tower for the view.
• In the evening, walk along İstiklal Avenue to Taksim Square.

Day 3 — The Asian side or the islands

Take a ferry to Kadıköy and walk to Moda for cafés and the seaside promenade, or spend the day on the Princes' Islands, where there are no cars and you can cycle around the island. On the way back, Çamlıca Mosque on the hill offers a wide view over the city.

Tips to save time

• Book popular attractions online in advance to avoid long ticket queues, especially in summer.
• Mosques close briefly to visitors during prayer times. Dress modestly; women need a headscarf.
• Use the Istanbulkart on ferries — they are cheap and the views are free.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Istanbul is a city of hills and stairs.