How Many Days Should I Stay in Istanbul? A Detailed Guide to Itinerary for Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey; due to its extraordinary position, it lies on two continents: Europe and Asia. It’s rich in history, having been the capital of both the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires. Its iconic sights include the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue-tiled interior. Topkapi Palace reveals a lot about the lavish life of the Ottoman sultans.

One can be visited with the colorful Grand Bazaar, which is one of the oldest covered markets in the world, or the Spice Bazaar for a truly overwhelming experience. Beautiful views over the dividing Bosporus Strait, connecting the two sides of Istanbul—the European and the Asian—complete the experience. What makes this city so unique and interesting is its mix of ancient history and modern culture.

Cultural and Historical Travel Information to Istanbul

This is a city that straddles two continents and is, therefore, a melting pot of cultures, history, and tradition. Rich in historical landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and varied cultural experiences, Istanbul will undoubtedly open its eyes to the past of a former capital city to both the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires.

1. Timeline of Istanbul
   The history of Istanbul is diversified and dates back to over 2,500 years, originally known as Byzantium and later Constantinople. Founded by Byzantium in 660 BCE, it became the capital of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire under Emperor Constantine the Great in 330 CE, when it was renamed Constantinople.Thus, the city had remained a hub of Christianity and Byzantine culture for more than a millennium.In 1453 CE, Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks under Sultan Mehmed II. The Byzantine Empire came to an end; it was succeeded by the Ottoman Empire. With a new name, Istanbul would remain at the heart of the empire and go on for many centuries as a great center of Islamic culture, trade, and power.This can be evidenced today in the mix of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, with such monuments as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque serving as witnesses to this colorful history of events.
   • A Brief History
     Istanbul, historically Byzantium and later Constantinople, is a city with a sprawling and intricate history of over two millennia. Facing the Bosporus Strait, it has always served as a crossroads of civilizations, standing as a critical link between Europe and Asia.
     • Byzantium (660 BCE – 330 CE)
       The history of Istanbul dates back to about 660 BCE when it was founded by Greek colonists from Megara as Byzantium. Soon, turned on account of its strategic location into one of the main centers of commerce and military importance, .
     • Roman and Byzantine Empires (330 CE – 1453 CE)
       In 330 CE, Roman Emperor Constantine the Great refounded the city as Constantinople and declared it to be the new capital of the Roman Empire. Constantinople eventually became the seat of the Byzantine Empire, which was known for its architectural masterpieces like Hagia Sophia, with its vibrant intellectual and cultural life and bastion of Christianity. The city has stood through many a siege put up against it and has repelled various invasions throughout history, remaining one of the most significant cities worldwide.
     • Ottoman Empire (1453 CE – 1922 CE)
       In 1453, Constantinople succumbed to the Ottoman Turks under Sultan Mehmed II, and thus the Byzantine Empire came to an end. The city was renamed Istanbul and became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Under the rule of the Ottomans, Istanbul grew as the core place of Islamic culture and political power. DURING this time, much construction and infrastructure work was done within the city, with major mosques like the Blue Mosque and other general city infrastructure.
     • Republic of Turkey (1923 CE – Present)
       After the fall of the Ottoman Empire at the end of World War I, the new Republic of Turkey retained Istanbul as one of its central cities, but relocated its capital to Ankara. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Istanbul has continued to grow as a vibrant, modern metropolis that retains a strong sense of connection to its historical roots.Today, Istanbul is a sprawling metropolis showing, more vividly than words can express, the diverse history of its past, whereby the ancient and modern live together in an energetic and dynamic, ever-changing landscape. From Byzantine churches to Ottoman palaces, it is veritably a living museum of world history.
   • Geography and Cultural Importance
     
     • Geography Importance
       Such unique geography has highly influenced the history and cultural significance of Istanbul. Located on the Bosporus Strait, it separates Europe from Asia—the natural division between the two continents. Hence, it establishes the threshold of a door between two continents, giving Istanbul control of the vital trade routes and military passages for centuries. The fact that it is situated on the Marmara Sea, and at the same time close enough to both the Black Sea and the Aegean, enhances its strategic value for the city at the heart of maritime trade and cultural exchange.Its landscape of seven hills with the estuary of the Golden Horn has created a very unique topography in Istanbul, conditioning its peculiar landscape and town planning. The natural harbor that the Golden Horn has formed offers safe and important anchorage throughout history, and this characteristic has driven the city to grow as one of the most relevant ports and commercial centers.
     • Cultural Importance
       The geography of Istanbul has had a role in the richness of its culture. It being a city across two continents has served as a melting pot of civilizations that range from the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. This mixture is manifested in the architectural legacy, culinary traditions, languages, and religious practices of the city.For centuries, the city of Istanbul had served as the center for both Eastern Orthodox Christianity and Islam.The monumental edifices—the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace—are testament to religious and imperial aspirations. Istanbul played an enormous role in diffusing ideas, arts, and sciences first as the Byzantine capital and then under the Ottoman Empire, and has given impetus to cultural development in the extended region.Modern-day Istanbul is full of excitement and culture, straddling East and West. Its cosmopolitan nature shows through in the multi-cultural population, modern art scene, and dynamic economy.Visitors from around the world flock to the festivals, its museums, and its culinary delicacies, to make it truly a global cultural crossroads.Essentially, Istanbul’s geographic location has not only set its historical trajectory but also established it as a cultural bridge between continents where a great tapestry of traditions and influences meet.
2. Istanbul Itinerary Guide: How Many Days Are Enough?
   • The One-Day Itinerary: Highlights of Istanbul Tour
     • Hagia SophiaStart the day at Hagia Sophia, one of the top iconic sights in Istanbul. It was first constructed in 537 CE, first serving as a cathedral and later as a mosque; these days, it’s a museum. The architecture and mosaics are impressive, and the huge dome overwhelms the skyline from almost every angle.
       A stone’s throw away from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is known for its beautiful blue tiles and elegant minarets. It is worth entering to experience the peaceful atmosphere in this still-operating mosque.
     • Topkapi Palace
       Visit the Topkapi Palace, a former residence of Ottoman sultans. Enjoy strolling amid opulent chambers, visit the Harem, and the Treasury containing lots of artifacts and jewelry.
     • Sultanahmet Square
       Lunch can be enjoyed at any of the various restaurants in and around the Sultanahmet area. Depending on your taste and desire, you could go for kebabs, mezes, or the classic Turkish pide.
     • Yerebatan Sarayi – Basilica Cistern
       Visit the Basilica Cistern: Hailing from the Byzantine era, this is the underground water reservoir with impressive columns and eerie, atmospheric lighting.
     • Grand Bazaar: This is one of the biggest and oldest covered markets worldwide, where one could get lost in its labyrinth shops, offering everything from spices, textiles, jewelry, to souvenirs.
     • Galata Tower
       Obtain panoramic views over the great Istanbul from Galata Tower. The tower is a great viewpoint to see the skyline of Istanbul and the Bosporus Strait at sunset.
     • Dinner in Karaköy or Beyoğlu
       Wrap up your day with an incredible dinner in Istanbul’s busy neighborhoods such as Karaköy or Beyoğlu. Have dinner in one of the local restaurants or cafés where you can feel the city’s dynamism rippling into the night.
     • Bosporus Cruise
       If time allows, take a short cruise along the Bosporus to view Istanbul from the water. It gives another perspective of the illuminated city landmarks and is a chill way to end the day.This itinerary, though packing in some of Istanbul’s main highlights, gives a feel for the vast and eventful history, culture, and dynamism of life within the city.
   • Two-Day Istanbul Itinerary: Dive Deeper into the City
     • Day 1: Historical and Cultural Treasures
       • Hagia Sophia
         Commence at Hagia Sophia. Take a minute or two to appreciate its magnificent Byzantine architecture, beautiful mosaics, and historic value.
       • Blue Mosque
         Take a short walk from the Blue Mosque. Notice the serene beauty of its interior, adorned with blue İznik tiles and stylish design.
       • Topkapi Palace
         Next, visit Topkapi Palace. Get into the plush rooms, the Harem, and the Treasury. The views from the palace grounds over the Bosporus are a must when visiting.
       • Lunch : Sultanahmet District
         Lunch may be taken in the Sultanahmet district. One can, of course, try any local restaurant for lunch to try out the tastes of Turkish dishes, either with kebabs, mezes, or in the form of a good Turkish stew.
       • Basilica Cistern
         Enjoy the underground chambers of the Basilica Cistern and take a look at the famous Medusa columns.
       • Visiting the Marketplace
         Wander the Grand Bazaar, with its labyrinthine shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry, antiques.
       • Galata Tower
         Begin sunset over Istanbul at Galata Tower. The view from the top is breathtaking when the city lights start to sparkle.
       • Dinner in Karaköy
         Enjoy dinner in the Karaköy area, famous for its chic restaurants and vibrant atmosphere. Taste local cuisine and enjoy a lively evening atmosphere.
     • Day 2: Local Experiences and Hidden Treasures
       • Morning:
         • Chora Church
           Begin the day with a visit to the Chora Church, better known as Kariye Museum. Marvel at the exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
         • Districts of Fener and Balat
           Then, proceed to the ancient districts of Fener and Balat. Wander through the colorful streets, adorned with colorful houses and oddly exceptional churches.
       • Lunch:
         • Lokanta in Fener/Balat
           Have lunch in one of the lokantas in Fener or Balat and enjoy Traditional Turkish food in a more relaxed and local atmosphere.
       • Afternoon
         • Spice Bazaar
           Go to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşısı) and treat your smelling senses with spices, sweets, and lots of local delicacies.
         • Süleymaniye Mosque
           Go visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, a Mimar Sinan masterpiece; in the end enjoy the peace of the courtyard and the splendor of the interior.
         • Istiklal Avenue
           Stroll along Istiklal Avenue in the Beyoğlu district. This street is lined with shops, historic buildings, and animated cafés.
       • Evening:
         • Taksim Square
           Visit Taksim Square and its surroundings. A lively nightlife with street performances awaits you, possibly dinner or a drink in a local establishment.
         • Optional: Bosporus Dinner Cruise
           If time allows, do not miss the Bosporus dinner cruise to make the evening worthwhile. Savor your dinner on a cruise between the continents of Europe and Asia as you witness some of the sights of illuminated Istanbul.This two-day itinerary takes you deeper in the rich history, varied and lively areas, and cultural traits of Istanbul to have much more rounded experience of this dazzling city.
   • 3-Day Itinerary in Istanbul
     • Day 1: What to Catch
       • HAGIA SOPHIA
         Start your morning at Hagia Sophia. Appreciate its gigantic architecture, luminous mosaics, and past of great events that brought this building to its present position of a cathedral, mosque, and most recently, a museum.
       • BLUE MOSQUE
         A nice walk will take you to Blue’s Mosque. Its popular name exists because of the splendid display of blue tiles on the inside and because of its splendid design, it is decorated even more from the dappled play of light moving across its surface at different hours of the day and seasons.
         Entrance to former residence of Ottoman sultans, the Topkapi Palace, to see the glamorous rooms, the Harem, the Treasury, and the views over the Bosporus.
       • Sultanahmet District
         Located at the Sultanahmet district; the district is surrounded entirely by several numbers of restaurants that offer traditional Turkish food. Here is where one can taste the famous kebabs, mezes, or the Turkish pide.
       • Basilica Cistern
         Visit Basilica Cistern. Marvel at this ancient underground water reservoir and its hundreds of columns, great lighting that creates the stunningly beautiful but eerie atmosphere.
       • Grand Bazaar
         While there, one can walk the largest and one of the oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar. Bazaar has so many shops to shop the souvenirs from.
       • Galata Tower
         End your day at Galata Tower for a fantasy view over Istanbul during the time of sunset—the panorama views above the city and the Bosporus at their best.
       • Dinner in Karaköy
         Spend dinner in the lively district of Karaköy, internationally known for its famous districts filled with meet restaurants and night life. Try some of the local specialties and treat yourself to the evening atmosphere.
     • Day 2: Exploring the Neighborhoods of Istanbul
       • Chora Church
         Start the day by first visiting the beautiful Chora Church or Kariye Museum with its collection of mosaics and frescoes from the Byzantine era.
       • Fener to Balat Neighbourhoods
         Visit the historic Fener and Balat neighbourhoods. Stroll along their colorful streets, visit historic churches, and feel the local atmosphere of the area.
       • Favourite Local Eatery in Fener / Balat
         Lunch at a Turkish restaurant in Fener or Balat. Savor the taste of tradition in Turkish dishes accompanied by a very local and nice setting.
       • Spice Bazaar
         Either inside the Spice Bazaar, Misir Çarşısı, colorful spices, confectionery, and local delicacies are a real feast for your senses.
       • Süleymaniye Mosque
         Enter one of the greatest masterpieces of Mimar Sinan’s architecture, the very magnificent, very beautiful Süleymaniye Mosque. You will appreciate its peaceful yard and magnificent inside.
       • Istiklal Avenue
         Take a walk down to Istiklal Avenue in Beyoğlu. Visit the shops, historical buildings, and open cafés.
       • Taksim Square
         Go around Taksim Square and its streets. Enjoy the nightlife with street performances and have dinner at a local restaurant or café.
       • Optional: Dinner Cruise on the Bosporus
         Consider a Bosporus dinner cruise for an unforgettable evening of meals while cruising between the two continents, Europe and Asia, with the illuminated monuments of Istanbul.
     • Day 3: The Asian Side and Hidden Treasures
       • Kadıköy
         Take a ferry across the Bosphorus to Istanbul’s Asian side in order to have a glimpse of the city from this side. Walk around Kadıköy, which is a very dynamic district with lots of markets, rapidly rising cafes, and street art.
       • Moda
         Sensationally scenic neighborhood of Moda—take a walk here. Nice streets and cool parks on the shore—plus, there’s always one of the neighborhood cafés for coffee or brunch.
       • Local Restaurant in Kadıköy:
         Continue to a local restaurant in Kadıköy for lunch. Try a traditional dish from Turkey or be surprised by some innovative fusion cuisine.
       • Çamlıca Hill
         On top of Çamlıca Hill lies a panoramic view of the city of Istanbul—one of the best viewing spots for the cityscape combined with the Bosphorus.
       • Ortaköy
         Go to Ortaköy, one of the nicest areas on the European side, enjoy the lively square, Ortaköy Mosque, and you should definitely stroll along the waterfront.
       • Dinner in Ortaköy
         Have dinner in Ortaköy. It is one of the many recommended restaurants and cafés. It is possible to Plate in the same place with the bridge on the Bosphorus Bridge.
       • Night Life or Rest
         Walk along the Bosphorus, all the way, or experience nightlife within the Beyoğlu or Galata districts.This three-day tour is going to be completely bathed in Istanbul because it combines not just iconic sights but also the major subjected neighborhoods of the city and a vibrant atmosphere of cultural life.
   • The Four-Day Itinerary: In-Depth Istanbul Exploration
     • Day 1: Iconic Landmarks
       • Hagia Sophia
         Begin your time of exploration at Hagia Sophia. Spend moments inside this building, taking in the overwhelming architecture, magnificent mosaics, and stories of change—cathedral, mosque, and finally a museum.
       • Blue Mosque
         Take a walk up to the Blue Mosque, named after its beautiful blue tiles and stylish design. Be filled with the peaceful atmosphere and beauty inside.
       • Topkapi Palace
         Visit the Topkapi Palace, which was the former residence of Ottoman sultans. You will be exposed to its pompous rooms, Harem, Treasury, and Bosporus views available from the grounds.
       • Sultanahmet District
         Lunch in Sultanahmet district, which is home to plenty of different traditional Turkish restaurants. Don’t miss trying kebabs, mezes, or pide.
       • Basilica Cistern
         Visit Basilica Cistern and explore its underground chambers of ancient times, a “must” in Istanbul. It is a place to discover with the famous Medusa columns.
       • Grand Bazaar
         Spend time in the Grand Bazaar, exploring through various shops on offer. It specializes in spices, carpets, and jewelry, among others.
       • Galata Tower
         Visit Galata Tower to have an overview of Istanbul from its top. The cityscape and the Bosporus look absolutely great at dusk.
       • Dinner in Karaköy
         In the evening, enjoy dinner within the trendy restaurants in the lively district of Karaköy. Taste local foods while soaking in the brilliant scene of an evening of the city.
     • Day 2: Cultural Immersion
       • Chora Church
         Start the day at the Chora Church, Kariye Museum, to view stunning pieces of Byzantine mosaic and frescoes.
       • Fener and Balat Districts
         Get a glimpse of ancient Fener and Balat districts. Colorful streets with historic churches and local life make for a perfect walkabout.
       • Local Restaurant in Fener/Balat
         Take a break for lunch in a local restaurant in either Fener or Balat. Get a feel of traditional Turkish cuisine in a local atmosphere.
       • Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşısı)
         Go through the Spice Bazaar, known for its spices, sweets, and local delicacies.
       • Süleymaniye Mosque
         Go through the Süleymaniye Mosque, the work of the architectural genius Mimar Sinan. Be enchanted by its peaceful courtyard and interior grandeur.
       • Istiklal Avenue
         Walk down Istiklal Avenue in Beyoğlu, and take your time going through some of the shops, old buildings, and the many lively cafes.
       • Taksim Square
         Visit the famous Taksim Square and its surroundings; taste nightlife, watch street performances, and have dinner in one of its restaurants or cafes.
       • Optional: Bosporus Dinner Cruise
         Spend your evening on board a Bosporus dinner cruise for a memorable experience. You will enjoy your dinner while cruising between the two continents, Europe and Asia, and see the beautiful, enlightened landmarks of Istanbul.
     • Day 3: Asian Side and Hidden Treasures
       • Kadıköy
         Take the ferry to the Asian side to Kadıköy. Explore its bustling markets, trendy cafes, and vibrant street art.
       • Moda
         Stroll around Moda. This rich neighborhood meets at its nice streets, parks, and along the waterfront. Take a break in a local café for a good cup of coffee or delicious brunch.
       • Kadıköy Local Restaurant
         Give a visit to Kadıköy and dine out in a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to taste classical Turkish food or enter the world of fusion food, mixing and matching flavors.
       • Çamlıca Hill
         Now, drive to Çamlıca Hill and witness an extended view of Istanbul, which presents one of the most stunning views over the cityscape and the Bosporus.
       • Ortaköy
         Go down to Ortaköy, a pleasant district on the European side; walk through its busy square, visit the Ortaköy Mosque, and take a pleasant promenade along the waterfront.
       • Dinner in Ortaköy
         Taste dinner in Ortaköy. It is quite reputed for lovely open-air restaurants and sidewalk cafés, from which you can enjoy your meal with a view across to the Bosporus Bridge.
       • Enjoying Nightlife or Chilling
         Take a leisurely walk along the Bosporus to end the day or enjoy the city’s nightlife in areas such as Beyoğlu or Galata.
     • Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
       • Dolmabahçe Palace
         Start the morning at Dolmabahçe Palace, the overwhelmingly ornate 19th-century palace that housed the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. Explore decadent rooms, the grand hall, and the beautiful gardens.
       • Yıldız Park
         Visit Yıldız Park, a calm green spot near Dolmabahçe. Take a slow promenade or spend some time off and enjoy the surroundings.
       • Local Restaurant in Beşiktaş
         Have lunch in Beşiktaş, a district full of life with several eating-out options. Enjoy some traditional Turkish or modern fare.
       • Pera Museum
         Attend the Pera Museum and explore its large collection of art encompassing Ottoman and Orientalist works, as well as temporary exhibitions.
       • Beyoğlu and Galata
         Wander around the neighborhood, exploring Beyoğlu and Galata’s eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and historic sites.
       • Dinner in Beyoğlu
         Enjoy a last dinner in Beyoğlu. It abounds with restaurants to suit all tastes, traditional or modern, for this last evening in Istanbul.
       • Final Stroll
         Conclude your strolling through the lightened streets of Istanbul with a reflective overview of the in-depth look at the vibrant city.This four-day course in Istanbul hits all the classical sights and some hidden corners that will make for a full and rewarding visit.
   • Must-See Attractions and Neighborhoods Highlights
     • Hagia Sophia
       One of the most significant pieces of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. It’s a massive and opulent domed structure full of great mosaics.
     • Blue Mosque
       Famous for its six minarets and impossibly beautiful blue Iznik tiles inside, the Blue Mosque is an icon of Istanbul and a peaceful place to worship.
     • Topkapi Palace
       Topkapi Palace, former home to the Ottoman sultans, opens its lavish rooms, the Harem, and the Treasury to make the imperial life seem like it used to be.
     • Basilica Cistern
       An ancient underground reservoir with a forest of columns creates an enchanting atmosphere complete with famous Medusa columns.
     • Grand Bazaar
       The largest covered market in the world, where one can find everything from spices and jewelry, Galata Tower discovers it in the hustle-bustle of the maze of shops.
     • Galata Tower
       The Galata Tower provides panoramic views of Istanbul and presents an amazing viewpoint from which to observe the city’s skyline and the Bosporus Strait.
     • Kadıköy
       Kadıköy is a dynamic area on the Asian side of the city, known for street art, great markets, and chic places to eat.
     • Fener and Balat
       Two of the city’s historic districts have a rich history of inclinations with colorful buildings and vibrant streets that have attained them significance honors as Istanbul’s areas steeped in some of the many histories including that of colorful social diversity. Opulent 19th-century palace on the Bosporus with lavish interior and stunning gardens.
     • Istiklal Avenue
       A busy pedestrian street in Beyoğlu that is lined with all kinds of shops, cafes, and historic buildings—it is an outlook to modern Istanbul.
     • Ortaköy
       The lively neighborhood of Ortaköy is situated on the waterfront and is home to the imposing Ortaköy Mosque and numerous cafes and markets.
     • Çamlıca Hill
       You can enjoy great views of the city from here; Çamlıca Hill on the Asian Side is one of the best choices to have panoramic views of Istanbul.
     • Süleymaniye Mosque
       Thanks to its genius architect, Mimar Sinan, it is the largest mosque in Istanbul. You can expect tranquility here, and the view over the Golden Horn is wonderful.
     • Chora Church (Kariye Museum)
       Famous for its superior Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, the Chora Church marks signatures of artistic achievements of the Byzantine period.
     • Misir Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar)
       The colorful and fragrant market consists of spice, sweet, and local food stalls; it’s a perfect place to come find some souvenirs.
     • Yıldız Park
       Peace in a sea of green, Yıldız Park is a location found in Beşiktaş. Magnificent gardens decorated with walking paths give the locals a chance to rest from the hectic life of the city.
     • Pera Museum
       A museum in the district of Beyoğlu housing works on varying themes from the Ottoman and Orientalist periods, as well as trade gallery exhibitions.
     • Princes’ Islands
       Located not so far away from Istanbul, the Princes’ Islands are a photogenic location surrounded by historic mansions and old-fashioned horse-drawn carriages.
     • Istanbul Modern
       Istanbul Modern is the leading modern art museum in Turkey. It has organized a lot of modern art exhibits and has been pioneering new positions about contemporary Turkish art.
     • Bebek
       A small and beauteous neighborhood on the Bosporus that attracts strollers to right-bankers for its cafés and breathtaking seafront, congenial promenade, and lively atmosphere.
     • Emirgan Park
       Emirgan Park is the location of the annual Tulip Festival every spring. It is a large and scenic park with beautiful gardens that hold panoramic views of the Bosporus.
     • Rahmi M. Koç Museum
       An industrial museum on the Golden Horn, with a unique collection of vintage automobiles, machinery, and maritime artifacts.
     • Istanbul Aquarium
       One of the biggest thematic aquariums in the world. The richness of the marine life and its interactive settings make it very enjoyable for families.
     • Taksim Square
       One of the most important cultural and commercial hubs in Taksim Square, it is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic sites, and it seems to act as a convergence point for many events and activities within the city.
     • Galata Bridge
       In front of the Golden Horn, the outlook of the city is beautifully held by the Galata Bridge, with restaurants and fishing spots lining its both sides, making it a lively place.
     • Istanbul Archaeological Museums
       This large complex adorns the ancient artifacts from different civilizations, among which are the most remarkable-Alexander Sarcophagus and the Sphinx of Nemrut.
     • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
       It is located into Sultanahmet. There, artifacts are featured that symbolize Islamic art-in particular, calligraphy and textiles and ceramics, which reflect culturally full blaze of this area.
     • Küçük Ayasofya Mosque (Church of the Saints Sergius and Bacchus)
       Commonly known as the “Kucuk Ayasofya Camii,” this mosque is an ex-Byzantine church and an architectural masterpiece.
     • Istanbul Sapphire
       One of the tallest buildings in Istanbul is the Sapphire. It has its observation deck, high in the sky, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
     • Cihangir
       Cihangir – a bohemian neighborhood with an artistic ambience, and has many small and attractive cafés, art galleries, and romantic streets with a view of the Bosporus panorama.
     • Sirkeci Train Station
       A historic station that has once served as the terminus of the renowned Orient Express. The station is classically designed and is, in fact, one among the historic buildings of the metropolis .
     • Hippodrome of Constantinople
       This was the center of Byzantine public life, and from chariot races to executions, everything was carried out here. Today, visitors can see the likes of the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column among the many other remains.
     • Theodosius Cistern
       Also dating to this period, this little-visited ancient underground cistern provides an interesting insight into the water management systems of Byzantine Istanbul.
     • Yeralti Çarşısı (Underground Bazaar)
       Just below the Galata Tower, a small market offers every kind of good in a unique, underground location.
     • Kadıköy Pazarı
       A very lively local market on the Asian side. Here you would find fresh food and lots of local products with a great atmosphere.
     • Çukurcuma
       Most of the antique shops and vintage stores, with the great vibes in the streets and hidden gems all over.
     • Müze Gazhane
       A former gasworks building flips its operation on its head to turn it into a cultural one: Müze Gazhane is a cultural center and museum, offering diverse exhibitions and events, and a distinctly unique space for carrying on cultural activities.
     • Gülhane Park
       Gülhane Park is a historic garden right next to the Topkapi Palace where one can find a relaxed green area with the most magnificent view and walking paths.
     • Süleymaniye Hamamı
       A traditional Turkish bath with a rather historic setting and designed by Mimar Sinan.
     • Karaköy
       An increasingly trendy district where history meets modern times: Karaköy has many fashionable cafes, art galleries, and beautiful views of the sea.
     • Cemaat Mektebi
       An old educational building with very unique architecture; you can gain insight about Istanbul’s educational and cultural history.
   • Visitor’s Guide: Practical Advice for Istanbul
     • Getting Around Istanbul
       How to get around the city efficiently, whether you use public transport, taxi, or walking routes.
     • Finding Accommodations in Istanbul, from Luxury to Budget
       What you need to know about finding great places to stay in Istanbul, including superb luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and cozy guesthouses.
     • Eating in Istanbul: Diverse Dining Scene
       Best ways to sample Istanbul’s huge culinary offerings—advice on signature dishes, recommended restaurants, eating local.
     • Cultural Etiquette in Istanbul
       Vital do’s and don’ts with respect to local customs and traditions pertaining to dress code, social norms, and religion.
     • Safety and Health Tips for Istanbul
       Information on how to keep yourself safe and healthy during your visit—things like emergency contacts, health precautions, and traveling safety.
   • Suggestions and solutions
     Your travel style and desire to explore will be decisive in determining how long you will stay in Istanbul. Whether you have a single day or a month. Istanbul offers a wide variety of colorful experiences that appeal to every traveler. Istanbul promises unforgettable times and holidays with its historical sites, 24-hour living, lively markets, quiet islands, and modern art scenes.By following our comprehensive guide, you can maximize your time in Istanbul. If you decide to make an unforgettable visit to this extraordinary city, you can create an itinerary with our guide.We hope this guide helped you plan an amazing trip to Istanbul!If you still have questions or need further advice, feel free to ask us.We will be happy to assist.