Istanbul boasts centuries of history, culture, traditions, postcards, and incredible views. It is the only city in the world on two continents, Europe and Asia. It is undoubtedly a must-visit destination.
In this article, I will share my suggested itinerary for 1 to 4 days in Istanbul, tips on restaurants, hotels, and more.
4-Day Istanbul Itinerary
Day 1 in Istanbul
Start your day at Topkapi Palace, where Ottoman sultans ruled until the 19th century. The grand complex is a stunning showcase of Islamic art with opulent courtyards.
Then head to the Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Istanbul, it was built on the foundations of two earlier churches and inaugurated by Emperor Justinian in 537. In the 15th century, the Ottomans converted it into a mosque, adding minarets, tombs, and fountains during this period.
Walk across the park from Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque.
The Blue Mosque is another popular landmark of Istanbul’s city center. It is one of the most famous religious buildings in the world. Its interior is adorned with İznik tiles.
Be sure to visit the Byzantine Hippodrome and appreciate the park’s monuments, including the Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Kaiser Wilhelm II Fountain, among others.
Day 2 in Istanbul
Start your second day by visiting the Basilica Cistern (also situated in Istanbul’s historic center). Istanbul is home to several ancient cisterns hidden beneath its streets and buildings. Of the two open to the public, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) is the largest.
Explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest markets in the world, attracting thousands of visitors each day. It is famous for its ceramics and carpets, it boasts 5,000 shops. Also, visit the Egyptian Bazaar.
Day 3 in Istanbul
On the third day, explore Beyoglu on foot. Start at the Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn, which connects old Istanbul to Beyoglu. Head up to the Galata Tower, where you’ll have incredible city views.
İstiklal Caddesi is the heart of Beyoglu. It’s a pedestrian-only area filled with restaurants, shops, and boutiques. Visit the famous Taksim Square.
End the day with a Bosphorus Sunset Luxury Yacht Cruise.
Day 4 in Istanbul
Start your day by visiting the beautiful Dolmabahçe Palace. Then head to Istanbul’s most fashionable neighborhood, Nisantasi.
In the afternoon visit Ortaköy, then take a ferry to the Asian side and visit the Çamlıca Mosque.
Related Tours:
- Istanbul Mosque Tour
- Transfers in Istanbul
- Istanbul Bosphorus Boat Cruise
- Turkish Coffee Workshop
- Tour of the Galata District
Main Districts of Istanbul
Istanbul European Side
1. Ortaköy and Besiktas
Besiktas is the larger of these two suburbs located along the Bosphorus with a concentration of Ottoman Palaces.
In summer, Ortaköy becomes the city´s central part, and many locals enjoy the bars and restaurants.
2. Nisantasi
Nisantasi is considered the most elegant neighborhood in Istanbul, home to several luxury brands and boutiques such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc.
There are also trendy cafés and restaurants.
3. Eminönü
Eminönü is the transportation hub of Istanbul.
4. Grand Bazaar and Galata Tower
In a city bridging two continents, trade has always played a crucial role, as evidenced by the numerous streets that stretch between the Grand Bazaar and the Galata Tower.
5. Beyoglu, Karaköy and Taksim
During the Ottoman period, Jews, Arabs, Greeks, and Armenians established communities in these areas. From the 16th century onward, European powers set up embassies here to advance their interests within the valuable territories of the Ottoman Empire.
İstiklal Avenue is a major thoroughfare running through Beyoglu, where an old tram travels its length. Former palaces and embassies now house various street brands. The avenue is bustling with bars and restaurants that attract tourists.
Taksim Square is the heart of Istanbul, while Karaköy is home to the city’s port and docks.
6. Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet Square is home to two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. This area was filled with monasteries and public buildings in the Byzantine Empire.
7. Levent
It is the financial heart of the city. It is home to several corporate skyscrapers and major financial institutions.
Istanbul Asian Side
1. Üsküdar and Kadiköy
Üsküdar and Kadiköy are two residential neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul, conveniently reached by ferry.
Off the Asian coast, you’ll find Kiz Kulesi on a small islet.
Must-Try Essential Turkish Foods
1. İskender kebap
Photo Credit: All Recipes
İskender Kebap is one of the most delicious Turkish dishes. The dish consists of a doner kebab made from thinly sliced grilled lamb with tomato sauce on bread slices and yogurt.
2. Mantı
Photo Credit: All Recipes
Mantı is a popular Turkish dumpling served with a yogurt and garlic sauce, seasoned with red pepper.
It’s a delicious and widely enjoyed dish in Turkey.
3. Turkish Breakfast
Photo Credit: Midpoint
Turkish Breakfast is a classic. It offers delicious options of cheese, olives, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, jam, honey, and breads such as the famous Simit.
4. Menemen
Photo Credit: Simit Saraya
Menemen is another specialty to try for breakfast. The dish includes eggs, tomatoes, green peppers and spices.
5. Köfte
Photo Credit: Midpoint
Köfte are fried meatballs made from ground beef or lamb. It is a popular Turkish dish often prepared for special occasions and parties, as the meatballs are easy to prepare.
6. Simit
Photo Credit: The House Café
Simit is a circular bread usually accompanied by tea or Ayran (a salty yogurt drink) and eaten for breakfast with preserved fruit or in savory mixes with cheese, pasty, and fresh vegetables.
7. Meze
Photo Credit: The House Café
Meze is a selection of small dishes often served at the beginning of a meal.
It often consists of white cheese, pepper paste with nuts, yogurt with herbs, cold eggplant salad, and yogurt with cucumber and garlic.
8. Turkish Coffee
Photo Credit: yucar studios
Turkish coffee is strong and a must-try in Turkey.
Extra finely ground roasted coffee beans are combined with cold water in a traditional coffee pot called a cezve or ibrik.
9. Turkish Tea
Photo Credit: Olga Pukhalskaya
Turkish tea is an important part of Turkish culture. The “Çay” is served in a small tulip-shaped cup.
The practice is rooted in the culture as a social experience and hospitality.
10. Turkish Wine
Photo Credit: Thomas George
Many people are surprised to learn that Turkey is a wine-producing country.
It is worth trying Turkish wine during your visit.
11. Lokum
Photo Credit: Şekerci Cafer Erol
Lokum, a traditional Turkish sweet invented over 200 years ago, is typically found in small cube shapes made from starch and sugar gel.
Some incorporate ingredients like cinnamon, dates, hazelnuts, or walnuts, but the classic favorite remains the combined with pistachios.
12. Baklava
Photo Credit: Karaköy Güllüoğlu
Baklava is a popular sweet treat in Turkey. Many ethnic groups claim the origin of this delicious pastry, but there is strong evidence that it originated from the Turkish tribes of Central Asia.
It is a rich and sweet dessert made of layers of pastry filled with chopped walnuts and pistachios.
Where to Buy Baklava in Istanbul
Photo Credit: Karaköy Güllüoğlu
Karaköy Güllüoğlu: The Güllüoğlu family has been in the Baklava business since 1820. The family business opened a shop in Karaköy in 1949 and has since gained a city-wide reputation for its exceptional Baklava. Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Kemankeş Cd. No:67, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye. Price: $$$.
Hafiz Mustafa: It is another place worth visiting to try Baklava, which has several branches throughout Istanbul. Hoca Paşa, Muradiye Cd. No:51, 34080 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye. Price: $$.
Çiğdem Pastanesi: It is home to some of the best Turkish desserts in Istanbul. It is located in the Sultanahmet area. Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No:62, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye. Price: $$.
Şekerci Cafer Erol Ortaköy: A must-see stop in Ortaköy. It is a short distance from the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Ortaköy, Dereboyu Cd. No:10/B, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye. Price: $$.
Where to Eat in Istanbul
1. Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler
Photo Credit: Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler
Nusr-et has several restaurants spread throughout Istanbul and other destinations in Turkey and around the world.
The menu offers several options for meat lovers, including lamb, steaks, filet mignon, burgers, and the famous Turkish dessert “baklava”.
Etiler, Nisbetiye Cd No:87, 34337 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.nusr-et.com.tr
Price: $$$$
2. Viyana Kahvesi Galata
Photo Credit: Viyana Kahvesi Galata
Viyana Kahvesi Galata is a famous café located near the Galata Tower.
The menu offers delicious options of sweets and cakes, with the highlight being the Viyana Sebastian – Bitter Çikolata.
Şahkulu, Şahkapısı Sk. No:16, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: viyanakahvesi.com
Price: $$
3. Süreyya Teras Lounge
Photo Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
With the iconic Hagia Sophia as its backdrop, the rooftop lounge is the perfect spot to socialize while enjoying artisanal cocktails or Turkish wines by the glass.
It also offers meze selections, sandwich options, and snacks.
Cankurtaran, Tevkifhane Sk. No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.fourseasons.com
Price: $$$$
4. The House Café
Photo Credit: The House Café
The House Café is one of my favorite cafés in Istanbul. It’s the place you always want to come back to. It has several locations in Turkey, including one in Nisantasi.
The menu offers Turkish and international cuisine and is updated twice a year during the summer and winter.
Harbiye, Atiye Sk. No:10, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: thehousecafe.com
Price: $$$
5. Ouzo Roof Restaurant
Photo Credit: Ouzo Roof Restaurant
Ouzo Istanbul Restaurant offers stunning views of the Marmara, especially captivating at sunset.
The menu features a mix of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.
Fenerbahçe, Fener Kalamış Cd. No:38, 34726 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.ouzorestaurant.com
Price: $$$$
6. Aqua Istanbul Restaurant
Photo Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At The Bosphorus
Aqua Restaurant, located in the luxurious Four Seasons Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul, boasts a picturesque terrace with stunning views of the Bosphorus.
The restaurant serves Turkish Breakfast from 7:00 am to 10:00 am, and Mediterranean seafood, enhanced with a distinctly Turkish influence for dinner from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Yıldız, Çırağan Cd. NO. 28, 34349 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.fourseasons.com
Price: $$$$
7. BigChefs Nişantaşı City’s AVM
Photo Credit: BigChefs Nişantaşı City’s AVM
Founded in Ankara in 2007, Big Chefs Café & Brasserie expanded into a restaurant chain by 2009, now boasting over 60 locations in Turkey and internationally.
The breakfast menu offers pancakes, fruit salad with grains, yogurt, and Turkish breakfast options. For lunch and dinner, the menu features a variety of dishes including pasta, meat, wraps, and fajitas.
Teşvikiye, Teşvikiye Cd. No:162, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.bigchefs.com.tr
Price: $$$
8. Feriye Lokantasi
Photo Credit: Feriye Lokantasi
The Feriye Palace Istanbul Restaurant, located along the Bosphorus, had its interior renovated, combining modernity with stately touches.
Its location offers incredible views and offers excellent service and food. It is surrounded by windows that can be opened during the summer, and there is a fireplace area, for the colder winter days.
The menu features classic dishes from Turkish cuisine and international cuisine.
Yıldız, Çırağan Cd. No:44, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: feriye.com
Price: $$$$
9. Ali Ocakbaşı Gümüşsuyu
Photo Credit: Ali Ocakbaşı Gümüşsuyu
Ali Ocakbaşı Gümüşsuyu is the place to try traditional Turkish grill.
The terrace is the highlight of the place, offering incredible views of the Bosphorus.
The restaurant’s menu includes classic meze (a variety of appetizers), various types of kebabs, and grilled meats, and there are also vegetarian options.
Gümüşsuyu, İnönü Cd. No:22, 34870 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.aliocakbasi.com
Price: $$$
10. Midpoint
Photo Credit: Midpoint
Midpoint is a chain of restaurants spread across Turkey.
The menu offers options for Turkish food, burgers, snacks, salads, quesadillas, pasta, and pizzas.
Tomtom, İstiklal Cd. No: 187, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: www.midpoint.com.tr
Price: $$$
Where to Stay in Istanbul
1. Hotel Marriott Istambul Sisli
Photo Credit: Hotel Marriott Istambul Sisli
The Marriott Istanbul Sisli Hotel is the hotel I stayed at, offering easy walking access to the upscale Nisantasi area and just 3 km from Dolmabahçe Palace.
The spacious rooms have a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle, coffee maker, hairdryer, air conditioning, and toiletries.
The hotel has a year-round indoor pool, a gym, and a spa.
Merkez, Abide-i Hürriyet Cd No:142, 34381 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye
2. The Galata Istanbul Hotel – MGallery by Sofitel
Photo Credit: The Galata Istanbul Hotel – MGallery by Sofitel
The Galata Istanbul Hotel – MGallery by Sofitel is an elegant, great-value hotel located in a building that was the headquarters of the Italian bank La Banque de Constantinople. It is a few steps from the Galata Tower.
Rooms feature a flat-screen TV, a safe, a coffee maker, and a minibar.
The hotel has a gym and a spa.
Arap Cami, Bankalar Cd. No:21, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
3. The Marmara Taksim
Photo Credit: The Marmara Taksim
The Marmara Taksim is located in a modern building near the Taksim Square.
Rooms have a flat-screen TV, a safe, an electric kettle, and a minibar.
The hotel has a gym, spa, sauna, and swimming pool.
Gümüşsuyu, Osmanlı Sk. No:1 D:B, 34437 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
4. Hotel Lazzoni
Photo Credit: Hotel Lazzoni
Hotel Lazzoni Istanbul is located 10 minutes from the old city center and 15 minutes from the financial district, offering excellent value for money.
The hotel features all the elements of luxury. Each room is uniquely decorated and furnished by the Lazzoni Group.
Sütlüce, İmrahor Cd. No:14, 34445 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
5. Dosso Dossi Hotel Downtown
Photo Credit: Dosso Dossi Hotel Downtown
Dosso Dossi Hotel Istanbul Downtown is a more friendly-budget hotel in Fatih, the oldest residential area of Istanbul.
The hotel is close to the city’s main attractions, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia.
The hotel has 140 rooms in different categories, 9 meeting rooms, a sauna, a Turkish bath, an indoor pool, a massage room, a restaurant, and a bar.
34080, Akşemsettin Mahallesi, Adnan Menderes Bulvarı 46-48, 34040 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
6. Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
Photo Credit: Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus is a luxury hotel in the Şişli area, 30 minutes by public transport from Istanbul’s historic center.
The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, safe and minibar.
The hotel has a swimming pool, a gym, a sauna, and a spa.
Harbiye, Cumhuriyet Cd. No:50, 34367 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye
7. Hotel Innova Sultanahmet
Photo Credit: Hotel Innova Sultanahmet
The Innova Sultanahmet Istanbul Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel close to Istanbul’s historic peninsula, where the most famous antiquities from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras are located.
All rooms have a TV and a minibar.
The hotel features a restaurant serving traditional Turkish and international dishes and a café-bar where guests can enjoy light snacks, coffee, tea, and refreshing cold drinks.
Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. No:6 D:8, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
8. InterContinental Istanbul
Photo Credit: InterContinental Istanbul
InterContinental Istanbul is located 20 minutes from the shopping area of Nisantasi.
The rooms have a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee-making facilities.
The hotel has a swimming pool and a spa.
Gümüşsuyu, Asker Ocağı Cd. No:1, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
9. The Parma Hotel Taksim
Photo Credit: The Parma Hotel Taksim
The Parma Hotel Taksim offers great value for money in Taksim, close to Istiklal Avenue, one of Istanbul’s main shopping and social hubs.
The hotel has 56 deluxe rooms, 4 executive rooms, and 20 superior rooms. All rooms are equipped with a work desk and an LCD TV.
The spa offers separate men’s and women’s saunas, massage rooms, and a Turkish bath.
Kocatepe, Abdülhak Hamit Cd. No:22, 34437 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
10. Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Photo Credit: Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Swissôtel Bosphorus Istanbul is a 5-star hotel in Istanbul near Dolmabahçe Palace.
The hotel has 497 rooms and suites. The residential part of the Swissôtel, Swissôtel Living, offers long-term and short-term homes, with 63 luxury suites ranging from studios to three bedrooms.
The hotel has an award-winning spa and indoor and outdoor pools.
Vişnezade, Acısu Sk. No:19, 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Best Shopping Malls in Istanbul
Istinye Park Istambul: It was opened in 2007 and currently has 300 stores featuring luxury brands to offer the best to its customers. It is situated 20 km from Sultanahmet Square. Pınar, Katar Cd No:11, 34460 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Türkiye.
City’s Nisantasi: Situated in the heart of the Nisantasi neighborhood, it boasts 150 stores offering a selection of top national and international brands. Teşvikiye, Teşvikiye Cd. No:12, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye.
Zorlu Center: It features around 205 stores, including luxury brands like Dolce&Gabbana, Burberry, Dior, Fendi, and Prada, and fast fashion brands such as Zara. Levazım, Vadi Caddesi Zorlu Center No:2, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye.
Facts About Istanbul
Turkey’s official tourism website, Turkey Home, published a video with some facts about Istanbul that will surprise you. Check it out below.
- Istanbul is home to 3,113 Mosques;
- Istanbul is older than you think;
- The Grand Bazaar receives between 250 and 400 thousand visitors per day;
- It is rumored that in 1630, using fake wings and the wind from the Galata Tower, Ahmed Çelibi was the first person to “fly” from one continent to another;
- The Aqueduct of Valens carried water to the ancient city for over a thousand years;
- The Bosphorus is a natural strait that passes through Istanbul and separates Europe from Asia.
Top Reasons to Visit Istanbul
1. City of 3 Empires
Istanbul served as the capital of three empires: the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. Remnants of these empires can still be seen throughout the city.
2. City of Contrasts
In Istanbul, old and new blend together. Buildings with centuries of history are found alongside modern buildings.
3. City of Postcards
Istanbul is full of incredible postcards, among which stand out: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Topkapi Palace.
4. Breathtaking Views
In Istanbul, you’ll encounter breathtaking views. Whether cruising along the Bosphorus Strait or enjoying a 360º panoramic view from the Galata Tower, the city’s vistas are truly spectacular.
Istanbul Turkey Map
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See Also
12 Best Hotels in Fatih, Istanbul
15 Best Hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey
11 Top Beach Destinations and Hotels in Turkey