3 Days In Istanbul: Your Turkish Long Weekend Itinerary
Istanbul was the first stop of our epic 10-day Turkey itinerary.
We spent 3 days in Istanbul exploring this incredible city that straddles two continents, diving headfirst into its rich history, colorful bazaars, and (my personal favorite) mouthwatering food scene.
I poured hours into planning the perfect Istanbul itinerary, and honestly, I think I nailed it.
Whether you’re planning a quick visit or making Istanbul part of a longer trip through Turkey, this three-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Europe’s largest city.
From the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to indulging in Turkish delights at the Grand Bazaar and eating Istanbul’s best street food, I’ve mapped out everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
Get ready to fall head over heels for this vibrant city.


Snapshot of Your 3 Days In Istanbul
If you’ve only got 3 days to explore this city, don’t worry—you can still see a ton and have an amazing time. Here’s a quick rundown of the itinerary.
Day 1:
City Guided Tour + Hagia Sophia + Galata Tower District + Istiklal Street
Day 2:
Food Tour + Grand Bazaar + Spice Bazaar
Day 3:
Blue Mosque + Topkapi Palace + Sunset Roof Top Dinner
Perfect 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary
Here’s how I’d spend 3 days in Istanbul to see the best of the city and make the most of your time. You can follow the itinerary we did or mix things up and swap in the alternatives I give. Do whatever works best for you.
Day One: Guided Tour + Hagia Sophia + Galata Tower District + Istiklal Street
Your first day in Istanbul is all about diving into the city’s rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and incredible local culture. It’s packed with unforgettable moments, amazing food, and sights you’ll be talking about for years.

Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast!
When we stayed at the Valide Sultan Konagi, their breakfast spread was out of this world. Don’t skip this traditional experience!
After breakfast, explore Istanbul with a private guided tour.
Booking a private guide turned out to be one of the best decisions we made.
It was surprisingly affordable and gave us a personalized experience we never could have had on our own or with a group. And, the best part was we got to customize the tour to what we wanted to see. Our guide was very open to changes in the itinerary.


One of our first stops was Hagia Sophia, the most iconic and impressive landmark in all of Istanbul.
Thanks to the city’s complex history, the architecture is a mix of both Christian and Islamic influences, making it one of the most fascinating buildings in the world. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a true masterpiece that has served as both a church and a mosque over the centuries.
One little detail I couldn’t help but notice was that none of the spires are the same. See if you spot it too!
Pro Tip: The line to enter Hagia Sophia is always long. If you don’t want to waste your precious time waiting, I highly recommend visiting with a guided tour or get a skip-the-line E-Pass. Plan to arrive before opening to be one of the first in line!
Opening Hours:
Apr 1 to Sept 31: 9 am to 7 pm
Oct 1 to Mar 31: 9 am to 5 pm
Closed on Mondays
Entrance Fees: entry is free as it is a mosque now.
Time required: 60 minutes

After Hagia Sophia, we stopped at the Hippodrome and the Egyptian Obelisk in Sultanahmet Square.
This was once a grand chariot racing arena during the Byzantine Empire, and standing there, you can almost imagine the crowds cheering as the races took place. The Obelisk standing in the middle is massive, and honestly, I still can’t imagine how on earth they managed to get it all the way from Egypt back then.
But the real magic of exploring Istanbul with a private guide was in the hidden gems only locals know about.


We visited the oldest mosque in the city, where the keeper invited us into his home to feast and celebrate the end of Ramadan with his family. It was such an intimate and authentic experience. Definitely one of our favorite moments of the trip.
Our guide also gave us a glimpse of local life by taking us to small neighborhood markets and a local hookah bar, where we got to relax and soak in the atmosphere alongside Istanbulites.
We truly can’t recommend hiring a local guide enough!
Time required for full tour: 4-7 hours
➡️ Click Here To Book Your Private Guided Tour!



Afternoon
After the tour, head over to the Galata District for the afternoon.
Cross the Galata Bridge, take in the views, and watch the local fishermen casting their lines. Then, make your way to the iconic Galata Tower.
The tower has an incredible 360-degree view of the city from its upper balcony, but we skipped going up because the line was insanely long, and I thought the entry fee was quite steep.
But you can still get some fun pictures with it from down the street in front of the tower. It gets pretty crowded right below, so just walk a little further down for a better shot.
This is definitely one of the trendiest areas in Istanbul, filled with funky bars, cozy cafés, and cool little shops. It’s a great spot to wander, grab a drink, and soak up the neighborhood’s unique vibe.
Opening Hours: 9 am to 6.30 pm daily
Entrance Fee: 650TL ($18 USD).
Time Required: 1-2 hours


Then, wander down to Istiklal Street, one of the liveliest shopping streets in Istanbul, all the way to Taksim Square.
This area is packed with street food stalls, lively shops where you can test your bartering skills, and street performers keeping the energy high.
We spent over an hour negotiating for a gorgeous handmade Turkish rug in one of the shops that we ended up buying as a wedding gift to ourselves.
Fun fact: We actually eloped in Cappadocia, Turkey, during this trip!


Evening
Finish your day by exploring the street food scene in the Galata district before heading back to your hotel.
You’ve got to try the stuffed mussels and lamb intestine sandwiches—yes, lamb intestine! Don’t knock it till you try it. The flavors are incredible, and it’s such a fun way to explore Istanbul’s flavors.

Day Two: Food Tour + Grand Bazaar + Spice Bazaar
Day two in Istanbul is all about eating your way through the city and exploring its famous markets. From tasting incredible dishes on both continents to getting lost in the Grand Bazaar, it’s going to be a fun and delicious day!



Morning
Kick off your day with an amazing guided food tour that takes you to both the European and Asian side of the city.
Make sure you skip breakfast and show up hungry or with a hollow leg because you’ll be making at least 10 or 11 food stops along the way.
You’ll also get a quick glimpse and a brief history of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar during the tour, giving you a small taste of these iconic spots—but not enough time to fully explore them. But don’t worry, you’ll come back to them later in this itinerary.
Honestly, this was the best food tour we’ve ever done on all of our travels, and I’d say Istanbul’s food tours are an absolute must when visiting the city.
Time required: 6 hours
➡️ Click Here to Book Your Istanbul Food Tour!
Pro Tip: The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are closed on Sundays, so double-check the schedule when booking your food tour so you don’t miss it!


Afternoon
After your food tour, head back to the Grand Bazaar (one of the world’s oldest bazaars) and Spice Bazaar (also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) to really take your time exploring these iconic markets.
You could easily spend hours wandering through the endless stalls, hunting for gifts and souvenirs.
Just be sure to haggle! Prices are often marked up for tourists, so negotiating is part of the experience.
You’ll definitely want to grab some Turkish delights to bring home. My favorite flavor is rose!
Also, don’t leave without trying the baklava. It was so good that we ended up shipping some home because we just couldn’t get enough.
These markets are packed with history, color, and incredible flavors. The architecture is stunning, the atmosphere is lively, and the sellers aren’t too pushy. It’s a must-do experience in Istanbul!
Opening Hours: 9 am – 7 pm, Monday to Saturday, but closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Entrance Fee: Free
Time required: 1-2 hours


Evening
Wrap up your busy day with drinks and stunning sunset views from a rooftop bar near your hotel.
We went to Queb Rooftop Restaurant, and it was the perfect spot to unwind. The appetizers and drinks were fantastic, and the panoramic views of Istanbul at sunset were absolutely magical.
After stuffing yourself all day on your delicious food tour, you probably won’t want a full dinner. Just sip on a drink, soak in the views, and toast to another incredible day in this amazing city.


If you’re not ready to call it quits after your rooftop drinks, take a late-night stroll through the square between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
This spot is always lively, no matter the time of day, but at night, it feels extra special. The fountains put on a colorful light show, dancing in front of a glowing Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
And if you time it just right, you’ll hear the call to prayer echoing through the city.
At night, it sounds even more powerful and hauntingly beautiful. I still remember the first time I heard it was at night. It actually brought tears to my eyes.

Day Three: Blue Mosque + Topkapi Palace + Sunset Roof Top Dinner
On your last day in Istanbul, you’ll visit the iconic Blue Mosque, wander through Topkapi Palace, and finish with a rooftop dinner at sunset.
Morning
Start your last day with an early visit to the famous Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque) to beat the crowds.
This is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions, and for good reason—it’s absolutely stunning inside and out.
Its domes and spires make it one of the most photogenic buildings in the city, and the massive pillars inside are just as impressive. I’m also a sucker for intricate tile work, and the Blue Mosque’s designs are truly breathtaking.


After being covered in scaffolding for nine years, it finally reopened in April 2023, literally the day after we arrived in Istanbul!
There are mixed reviews out there, with some people saying it’s a bit underwhelming, but we didn’t think so at all. I say go see it for yourself and decide!
Don’t forget to dress appropriately, especially if you’re a woman. You’ll need to cover your arms, legs, and hair, and make sure to remove your shoes before entering.
Pro Tip: the lines get pretty long, so it’s best to go early. Since it’s an active mosque, it also closes for prayer several times a day, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
Opening hours: 24/7
Entrance Fee: Free
Time required: 45-60 minutes
Afterward, grab brunch and a Turkish coffee to fuel up for the day.
I highly recommend you get away from the touristy spots to eat! The food will be more affordable and generally much more authentic and cheaper.
Head to Garden 1897 Restaurant. It’s cozy, tucked away from the crowds, and the food is absolutely delicious.


Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the breathtaking Topkapi Palace, one of the city’s most impressive historical sites.
Built in the 15th century, this palace was once home to the Ottoman Sultans and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking through its grand halls, it’s easy to imagine the lavish lives of the royals who once lived here.
We spent three hours wandering through the palace, but honestly, you could spend an entire day taking it all in.
The intricate tile work is mind-blowing, and there’s so much to see, from ornate rooms to fascinating artifacts.


My favorite part of the palace was the Harem! The details in the tile, the colors, and the history behind it make it a must-see.
And don’t forget to wander through the gardens! They’re quiet, beautifully kept, and the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle of the city.
Entrance Fees:
- Topkapi Palace + Harem: 1,700 TL ($47.50 USD) for foreign visitors
- Harem only: 500 TL ($14 USD) extra for foreign visitorsEvening


After a long day of exploring and walking, head back to your hotel to freshen up before dinner.
For your final evening, treat yourself to a sunset dinner at Seven Hills Restaurant. Not only does it serve some of the best seafood dishes we had in Istanbul, but it also offers the best views of the city.
This is the spot to get that famous rooftop photo with the seagulls you see on the gram. The waiters are absolute pros at snapping the perfect shot!
But beyond the photo op, the food and views really stole the show for us. It was the perfect way to wrap up our last day in Istanbul and toast to an amazing trip.

If You Have More Time in Istanbul
If you’re lucky enough to have extra time in Istanbul, there’s plenty more to explore. Here are a few must-try experiences we ran out of time for but definitely deserve a spot on your Istanbul bucket list:
- Try a Turkish Bath at a Hammam – Treat yourself to a traditional Turkish bath experience. It’ll be one of the most unique experiences you’ll ever have.
- Take a Bosphorus Cruise – See the city from the water while cruising between Europe and Asia. The views of the skyline, palaces, and bridges are absolutely stunning.
- Visit the Basilica Cistern – Explore this underground wonder with its eerie lighting and famous Medusa head columns. It’s a unique and fascinating spot you won’t forget!
- Photograph the Ortaköy Mosque – One of the most photographed mosques in Istanbul, it sits right on the Bosphorus with the bridge as its backdrop. It’s especially stunning at sunset!


Where To Stay
If it’s your first trip to Istanbul, I highly recommend staying in the Sultanahmet neighborhood. It’s close to all the main attractions, like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, and everything is within walking distance.
📍Valide Sultan Konagi – This budget-friendly hotel is such a great find. The traditional Turkish breakfast is amazing, and the terrace views of the Bosphorus Strait are beautiful. It’s in a quiet spot but still super close to all the main attractions. My husband and I stayed here, and we absolutely loved it!
📍Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton – This midrange hotel is in a prime location, just steps from the Hagia Sophia. Their spa is stunning and perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring.
📍Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet – If you’re looking for a luxury stay, this place is incredible. The rooftop terrace has some of the best views of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it unforgettable.
If you are still unsure about where to stay, Check out this guide that breaks down the best neighborhoods and places to stay in Istanbul!

Getting Around Istanbul
First things first—getting from the airport to the city takes some time. If you’re taking an Uber, taxi or bus, expect it to be about 1 hour and 30 minutes before you reach the city center, depending on traffic.
Once you’re in the city, getting around Istanbul is pretty easy.
Public transportation:
It’s super affordable and will get you just about anywhere – buses, trams, metros, and ferries are all part of the system.
Just grab an Istanbulkart, a reloadable travel card that works across all public transport. Each ride costs about 20–45 TL (roughly $0.60–$1.30).
Public transportation is efficient but crazy overcrowded any time of the day, so be prepared for standing room only.
🚨 Scan Alert! – Buy your Istanbulkart directly from the machines at stations—never from someone on the street or inside the subway. If someone offers to sell you one, walk away.
Walking:
It is another great option, especially in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, where many of the main attractions are within walking distance.
We loved wandering through the city—it’s the best way to take in all the sights and sounds. Just make sure you wear comfy shoes because those hilly streets are no joke!
Taxis and Uber:
Uber is available in Istanbul, but we found lots of negative reviews, and even our local guide warned us against taking Uber or the taxis.
Scams are a big issue, like drivers quoting inflated rates or saying the meter is broken.
Private Transfers:
For something more reliable, private transfers like Welcome Pickups are a great option. We used them for airport transfers, and it was stress-free, with friendly drivers who spoke great English.
Pro Tip: Grab a free map from the airport when you arrive. It’ll make navigating the city much easier!

FAQs
Got more questions? Here are some quick answers to common questions about visiting Istanbul to help you plan your trip!
How many days are needed in Istanbul?
I recommend spending at least three days in Istanbul to see the main attractions and enjoy the city’s unique culture. If you have more time, even better—you’ll find plenty to explore.
Is Istanbul affordable to visit?
Yes, Istanbul still remains one of the more affordable European cities to visit despite its inflation crisis in 2023. Since then, the inflation has stabilized but remains higher than it was three years ago. You can still easily stick to a budget or splurge as much as you want to.
Is Istanbul friendly to tourists?
Absolutely! We found the locals to be incredibly friendly and always willing to help, whether we were asking for directions or just chatting about the city.
This post is part of my Turkey travel series! If you’re planning a trip and want more tips on where to go and what to do, check out these guides below.
33 Key Things to Know Before Going to Turkey + Scams to Avoid
Best Time to Visit Turkey: Balloons, Beaches, and Insider Tips

That’s a Wrap
If you’re planning 3 days in Istanbul, I can honestly say you’re in for an amazing trip, especially if you follow this itinerary. From wandering through iconic landmarks to enjoying rooftop sunsets, it hits all the highlights.
I loved every moment of our time here, and I know you will, too. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Istanbul is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
I hope you have the best time.
Catch ya later!