4-7 Day Istanbul Itinerary & Travel Guide
Table of Contents
Exploring Istanbul without a plan is like throwing a five-year-old kid into the middle of Grand Bazaar – you’ll find it mesmerizing, chaotic, and overwhelming.
Colorful buildings cluster around massive architectural masterpieces, narrow streets leading you from one characterful neighborhood to another.
Whether you’re in the Asian half or the European quarter, you’ll find cultural goodies like galleries, museums, festivals, and delicious noms.
This 4-day Istanbul itinerary will check off your bucket list of worldly wonders.
Lucky enough to stay a full week?
Read on for a 7-day Istanbul itinerary that you can boast about to your friends.
Istanbul Itinerary at a Glance
Arrive in Istanbul and unpack your bags in Sultanahmet. You’ll be exploring Topkapi Palace, a collection of museums, and Hagia Sophia.
Wake up early because you’ve got a full day! Visit the Blue Mosque, Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts, Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet Square, and end your night with a Whirling Dervishes show.
Start your morning with a strong coffee and stroll around Taksim Square. Check out Istiklal Street, the Flower Passage, Museum of Innocence, Pera Museum, Istanbul’s Museum of Modern Art, Galata Tower, and Galata Bridge.
Open up your wallets – today’s all about the shopping experience. Visit Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, swing over to Kariye Museum for a photo-op, and round of the night on a Bosphorus cruise.
Today you’ll be wandering the markets in Beşiktaş, visiting the Turkish Naval Museum, Dolmabahçe Palace, Yıldız Park, and Ortaköy Mosque.
Pack a light day bag and head to Cappadocia. Soar high above the skies in a hot air balloon and yes, you’ve guessed it – this is where all the insta-famous photos are taken.
The last stretch of your 7-day journey in Istanbul. Burn off all the goodies you’ve been munching on and go for a walking tour of Fener and Balat.
Map of the Itinerary for Istanbul
4-day Istanbul Itinerary
The golden rule of efficient travel is plotting a route with few to no repeats.
The silver rule is to center your accommodation where there are the most attractions, hence reducing travel time and cost (unless you prioritize quiet).
Put down your bags in Sultanahmet before you hit up the streets!
Day 1
INTERIOR OF TOPKAPI PALACE
Arrive in Sultanahmet
Begin your journey with a smooth landing into Istanbul International Airport, which delivers you straight into the European half and attraction-dotted district of Sultanahmet.
For a cheaper but longer commute into town, take the Havaist Bus Line HVIST-15 to Yenikapı Sahil and switch to a taxi for the last stretch.
Alternatively, private shuttles offer a safe and relaxed ride with fixed rates to counter any traffic.
Check-in and splash some water on your face before you head out for your first day in Istanbul.
Pick up some brochures or area maps from the reception if available; remember to bring your camera along.
Topkapi Palace
Head straight for Topkapi Palace – walk through the turreted entryway for marbled pillars, frescoed walls and royal luxury in one estate.
The white tiles and blue accents invite you into halls with gold accents, religious items, weaponry and jewelry.
One highlight not to be missed; the 86-karat Spoonmaker’s Diamond.
Hit up the outer walls for framed views of the Marmara Sea.
Take a Break & Grab a Lunch
Take a breather after. Indulge in Istanbul’s signature kebabs or sample local flavors with mezes.
Settle down somewhere cozy for your first taste of Turkish cuisine as you flip through your camera roll.
OR grab some street food and make for Gülhane Park. Smooth pavement takes you through patches of lavender, marigolds and man-made ponds. Nibble on lunch under the shade of its trees.
Archeological & Railway Museums
Not one, but three museums for you to choose from – Istanbul Archeological Museums is the park-adjacent attraction next on your list.
Truly one for the historians, you’ll find artifacts like the Sarcophagus of Alexander the Great and King Tabnit, Ottoman tiles and archaic sculptures.
More of a modern academic? Detour over to Istanbul’s Railway Museum to learn how engines have evolved. Better yet, it’s located at the final stop of the famous Orient Express.
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Round off your Istanbul introduction with a visit to Hagia Sophia.
This cathedral-turned-mosque is impressively massive and decked out in beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Feast your eyes on the iconic dome before feeding the stomach.
Rest up! You have a long day tomorrow.
Day 2
the blue mosque (sultan ahmed mosque)
Blue Mosque
Your Sultanahmet adventures continue with a morning visit to the legendary Blue Mosque.
Try to count as many of the hand-painted blue tiles as you can – there are over 20,000 of these exquisite pieces. Remember to respect any rules in place!
Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts
Follow up the handicraft appreciation with a tour of the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, stuffed full with 9th-century to 19th-century art.
Architecture and artwork is a viewfinder into the country’s eclectic history. The textiles, ceramics and other art mediums demonstrate how cultures come and go.
Ibrahim Pasa, the hosting palace itself, is also worth a look-see.
Basilica Cistern
Because art isn’t the only featured accomplishment in Turkish history, your next stop is the Basilica Cistern.
Watch your step as you enter the cavernous underground complex.
Weave through the Corinthian columns and with every echoing step, marvel at how this Byzantine water system is built to hold up to 80,000m3 of water.
Sultanahmet Square
Resurface for air! Sultanahmet Square is an unmissable landmark thanks to the Hippodrome of Constantinople.
Pace your way down the large avenue, sides lined with leafy canopies.
Aside from people scattered here and there, other touristy sights include the German Fountain, Serpentine Column, and Egyptian Obelisk.
You can also rest your feet at the cafés in the area and people watch.
Whirling Dervishes & Nightlife
Start and end your day the same way – with culture in mind. Catch a Whirling Dervishes show for both entertainment and tradition.
Feel how the twirling and musical build-up create something spiritual.
If you emerge from the show high on the feels, there are several rooftop bars to help you ride it out.
Adamar Hotel Panoramic Restaurant, Rast Hotel and Seven Hills Restaurant offer stunning terrace views over Istanbul.
Day 3
sunset at galata tower
Stroll Around Taksim Square
Cross the channel to the other side of Istanbul! As gorgeous as the old town quarter is, there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy.
The region of Beyoglu wears a two-sided mask: vibe-y cobblestoned hangout by day, youthful party central at night.
Start off with a morning cuppa around Taksim Square; the rounded center looks like a real launching pad.
Tip your cap to the monument of the Republic and hop on the heritage tram line – hop off when you smell the perfect bakery to fuel up for a long day out.
A mish-mash of fonts decorate storefronts and street food stalls where vendors display islak and doner; the local beverage of choice, ayran, is the cold yogurt you need during summer.
Istiklal Street & Flower Passage
Maybe you’ll follow the trail of graffiti; maybe you’ll follow the crowds.
Long and pedestrian, Istiklal Street is a hubbub of activity. As the iconic red tram totters along the busiest street in Istanbul, people mill and spill out from restaurants, shops, cinemas and arcades.
Stroll through the domed roof of the Flower Passage (Çiçek Pasaj), pop into patisseries for Turkish desserts, snap photos of the narrow terraced buildings and mingle!
Museum of Innocence
The Museum of Innocence doesn’t come with unicorns or sweet-eyed babies like its name might suggest.
This one is for the literature lovers – a museum inspired by a literary masterpiece of the same name.
Novelist Orphan Pamuk probably never expected such a tribute, but fans and non-fans alike appreciate the wealth of cultural and material history in this space.
Pera Museum & Museum of Modern Art
OR turn towards this collection of art instead. The boldly colored walls of Pera Museum’s generous exhibition rooms lure you in with stretches of red, blue, and yellow.
The paintings, framed in gold, feature many portraits of lavishly dressed people alongside rich landscapes.
The museum’s three permanent collections are must-sees: Orientalist Paintings, Anatolian Weights and Measures, Kütahya Tiles and Ceramics.
Before your artistic sight fades, drop by the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
If the marbled exterior and wooden doorway isn’t pretty enough, the hanging canopy of books inside will hold your attention. Move forward in time with its contemporary art exhibitions.
Galata Tower & Galata Bridge
Let your steps echo up the last three floors of Galata Tower so you can emerge into fresh air and panoramic views.
This 63-meter high defense tower is a stunning medieval build of stone and wrap-around terrace, its jutting spire an obvious landmark.
If you missed the sunset up high, catch the last rays on Galata Bridge. Spanning the Golden Horn, it takes from you one side of Istanbul to the other.
Look towards the seven hills of the city as seagulls call-out around you, and the scented apple tobacco of nargile cafes drift out from under the bridge.
Not feeling up to more walking?
Grab dinner at one of the restaurants and watch ferries duck their way between Eminönü and Karaköy.
Those with energy to spare can gallivant back into Galata proper for a night of debauchery. Follow the thumping bass into some of the city’s best clubs and bars.
Alternatively, flip the day around.
Begin your day with a morning stroll across Galata Bridge and end Day 3 with drinks at lively Taksim Square.
DAY 4
colorful lamps at grand bazaar
Shopping at Grand Bazaar
Don’t forget to buy souvenirs, whether for yourself or peeps back home!
For the folks getting ready to make their way back home, dedicate your last day to scouring the Grand Bazaar.
You could very well wander under the arched corridors for days, but here are some shops to start you off:
For the bling-bling: Timuçin Jewelry offers a wide selection of rare-cut diamonds, collectible pieces, brooches and vintage designs.
For that home redecorating you’ve been planning: Şişko Osman and Ethnicon show off stacks of carpets and kilims.
For antiques: Şalabi Antiques is a trustworthy trove of small items like mirrors and other personal objects while Epoque is all about iconography.
Historical maps and compasses can be found at Minyatür’s Nautical Instruments while Eski Fine Arts and Antiques is everything Ottoman Empire.
For home comfort: Bathrobes, towels, blankets and everything nice are available at Eğin Tekstil, Abdulla and Ottoamano.
To stock up on herbs and spices, swing over to Spice Bazaar. Remember to check if they’re allowed through customs back home.
Kariye Museum
For those with time to spare, make a detour to Kariye Museum (Chora Church) for more of Istanbul’s rich history.
The Byzantine monument might not look like anything special on the outside but its interior is filled with mosaics and frescoes.
Photos are a must!
Bosphorus Cruise
No 4-day Istanbul itinerary (or any number of days really) is complete without booking a Bosphorus Cruise; circle between Eminönü and Istinye or sail all the way out to the Black Sea during the night cruise.
Tip: Always check the ferry schedule when planning out your trip! Availability is dependent on the season and the night tour is only offered on Saturdays.
Rounding off your 4-day itinerary with a moonlit cruise is super romantic, but make sure you have enough time to pack up for your flight home.
Staying longer? Read on for the 7-day Istanbul itinerary.
Day 5
Dolmabahçe Palace Exterior
Markets at Beşiktaş & Turkish Naval Museum
Rise with the sun to celebrate your on-going travels.
Lean into the cradle of Beşiktaş with a morning visit to its cheerful market district.
Done nibbling at fresh fruit and pastry bites?
Head over to the Turkish Naval Museum and be impressed by its ship models, historic canons, battle exhibits and navigational tools.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the Ottoman Empire’s largest remaining treasures – you can easily get lost in some three hundred rooms of gold and crystal décor.
It’s Baroque! It’s Rococo! It’s Neoclassical! If there’s one architectural masterpiece to explore, this is it.
Pay some attention to the Clock Tower at the entrance too.
Because the ticket into Dolmabahçe Palace comes two-in-one, the Museum of Painting & Sculpture is next.
Marvel at more stunning oil paintings and sculptures, then take a break at the waterside café.
Yıldız Park & Ortaköy Mosque
Retreat into nature after all that manmade opulence – nearby Yıldız Park is a relaxing expanse of trees, green lawns and colorful spring flowers.
Once an imperial garden, it now acts as the perfect picnic grounds.
Whether you wander into Ortaköy Mosque or not, the elegant structure is one for the camera reel.
Given you have the time, peer at their collection of Islamic calligraphy. It’s also a great viewpoint of the Bosporus Bridge.
Loiter around the waterfront for more spectacular sunset views.
For extra adventure points, grab a seafood dinner at this characterful neighborhood.
Day 6
hot air balloons, Cappadocia
Day Trip to Cappadocia
Plan a day trip to Cappadocia for gorgeous landscapes – you really want to see them.
Flying in is best (costing a reasonable $30-60 USD) as overnight buses take an average of 10 hours.
Muster up your courage for a hot air balloon ride!
The creak of the basket weave, the whoosh of hot air, the chilly nip of winds where you’re loitering up high all do little to distract from the spectacular view below.
Cappadocia is a fairytale kingdom made of underground chambers, fairy chimneys, river valleys, and epic ridges.
Spend an hour in the air alongside other colorful balloons before exploring on your own, whether by rental bikes or scooters.
Stay the night at a hotel carved into the rocks or return to Istanbul.
Go For an Authentic Turkish Bath
Back in Istanbul, treat yourself to an authentic Hamam experience.
The best Turkish baths are Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam and Kılıç Paşa Hamam.
The hush of spouting water will lull you into a relaxed mindset as you sink into the hot water baths; professional hands will scrub you clean of grime so you walk out feeling rejuvenated.
Day 7
Phanar Greek Orthodox College
Walking Tour of Fener
The narrow streets of Fener beckon with warm and brightly painted blocks of buildings, these low structures all bearing shops and cafes at the bottom, homes up top.
Yildirim Street and Vodina Street are welcoming beacons teaming with eateries so you can start your morning well-fed.
Climb uphill to reach the famously colorful gates of Camci Cesmesi Street – it’s a photo op if you’ve ever seen one.
More photo-taking opportunities come by in form of the Fener Greek High School for Boys, a gorgeous red silhouette that looks like a church.
St. George Church and the Fener Greek Patriarchate Church are other highlights, as well as the Venetian-inspired Bulgarian Church.
Walking Tour of Balat
Cross over to the quaint neighborhood of Balat for more lively small shops.
The Cifit Bazaar is its main attraction, decked out with antique and vintage stores. Agora Tavern is not to be missed as a famous landmark and historical diner either.
Take the Merdivenli Ramp up the restored UNESCO Cultural Heritage site of historical houses. Mint green, faded orange and salmon pink alternate up this row of old housing as you pose outside iron-grated doors.
Tip: Consider signing up for a walking tour so you know where the locals go.
Exploring Fener and Balat isn’t just about photo-taking; it’s also about ducking into family-run restaurants and interesting boutiques.
Clamber back to your hotel for a last-minute break before your flight or check off other attractions you didn’t previously find time for.
As your Istanbul trip draws to a close, enjoy one last stroll around Sultanahmet.
Best Time to Visit & Weather
BOSPHORUS STRAIT FERRY
Many people argue that summer vacation is the best time to visit (or the only time they can) but the crowds get overwhelming.
If June to early September are the only months you’re free, try to book accommodations ASAP and save up more – rates will go up.
Along with the increased rates is increased temperature and humidity, but hey, at least you’ll love mealtimes along the Bosphorus.
Shoulder seasons are in fact the best time to visit! April-May or mid-September to November offers temperatures between 12⁰C to 25⁰C.
Not only do you exchange sweltering heat for mild breezes, you get to scour the sights without bumping shoulders.
April delivers a sweet treat with the Tulip Festival.
To enjoy Istanbul slow and cold, December to March is low season. Hotel rates drop and so do waterfront temperatures.
While Christmas and New Year sees an uptick in activity, some tourist businesses (such as Bosphorus dinner cruises) may stop during the coldest weeks. It may be your chance to grab great discounts at the Grand Bazaar.
Where to Stay in Istanbul
COLORFUL BUILDINGS IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY
With Istanbul being the sprawling city it is, spare some thought for where is best to stay.
Here are 6 neighborhoods that accommodate various likes and dislikes, needs and wants – all with their own character.
Top Pick For Best Area
The Sultanahmet district is a great choice for first-timers to Istanbul.
Famous attractions and sights are all within reach, and there are many restaurants and cafés in the area.
Sultanahmet (Old Town)
Best for First-Timers & Central Location
What’s it like living in historical excess? Book your stay at Sultanahmet where the historical and cultural pulse of Istanbul is.
It’s the perfect base for first-time visitors, network of feels-y streets leading you to unmissable attractions – the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and nearby Grand Bazaar are only a few on the list.
Countless shops, restaurants and cafés ensure you’re well-fueled; the lack of nightlife guarantees a laid-back night with plenty of sleep!
The Bazaar District
Best for Shopping
If shopping is the theme of your trip, park yourself close to paradise for easy and consistent access. After all, you don’t want to lug your happy finds across the city.
There are plenty of accommodations within the vicinity of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.
Just steps away are priceless finds at one of the oldest covered markets in the world. It’s a riot of color and noise as you dip between clothing stalls, hanging trinkets, the sweet scent of Turkish sweets and more.
Families will find the Bazaar District a convenient place as well, since you’re close to both shopping comforts and the main attractions in Sultanahmet.
Taksim
Best for Luxury & 5-Star Hotels
Home to vivid Istiklal Avenue, Taksim is known for its bustling hub of luxury shops. Taksim Square too teems with trendy crowds.
Many who stay in the area look towards either convenience or luxury; it is well-connected to the rest of the city and hosts various hotel chains.
5-star hotels are the norm, from international brands like Hyatt to Point Hotel.
If you want to be in the midst of everything, Taksim is your choice.
Şişli
Best for Quiet Retreat
For somewhere quieter, the district of Şişli is stunning and serene.
Within the large expanse is the neighborhood of Beşiktaş which leads you right up to Bosphorus.
Seafood marks the cuisine foodie scene alongside a fish bazaar.
Dolmabahçe Palace is another highlight not to be missed.
Like most waterfront locations, expect an array of luxurious hotels with spectacular skyline views. Further inland are medium-priced to budget stays.
Galata
Best for Partying & Nightlife
Within the wider region of Beyoglu is colorful Galata a.k.a party central.
In the day, Galata is a stunning presentation of cobbled streets, fresh juice stalls, rainbow-streaked buildings and countless restaurants.
Galata Tower, Galata Bridge and Istiklal Street make up the famous trio of landmarks.
Once night falls, Galata transforms into its diva garb; pubs open for business while clubs blast music until early music.
Eclectic accommodations and entertainment venues make it a great choice for young travelers.
Karaköy
Best for Trendy Vibes With Waterfront Views
Charm is abound at Karaköy! Get away from the cloying crowds to relax along the waterfront.
Once a prolific port, it is one of the best ferry connects between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Here you’ll find plenty of cafés and outside terraces, and buildings that are characterful but age-worn.
Not only can you enjoy an international mix of cuisines, budget hotels are the trend. The interesting architecture hosts cool B&Bs too.
How to Get There
People walking on Istiklal Avenue
Unless you’re road-tripping through Turkey or cruising around those exotic Greek islands, chances are you’ll glide down an airport runway.
There are direct flights into Istanbul from overseas, most likely between Turkish Airlines, Air France and Lufthansa.
Touchdown at one of the two international airports: the newly minted Istanbul International Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
The former is located in the European side while the latter is 50km out from the Asian quarters.
Getting Around Istanbul
Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
Even seasoned travelers will find Istanbul’s traffic an agent of chaos and terror – but get familiar with its public transport and you’ll actually get somewhere.
The key is to avoid the streets during peak hours.
Note that public transport is run by the IETT company; look up schedules and more information online.
Get a City Transport Card
Hassle-free travel card for Istanbul's public transportation network.
No need to carry loose change – just swipe at the station and you're good to go!
Includes the metro, tram, bus, and ferry.
By Ferry / Sea Bus
The classic ferry proves to be the best connecting route between Istanbul’s two islands – you get to skip the cars!
Combine sightseeing and quick commute with a cruise over Bosphorus Strait.
Beşiktas, Kabataş and Karaköy are the three main ferry stations on the European side, while the corresponding station is Kadıköy Ferry Station.
You can also opt for sea buses instead; these go to different areas on the Asian side and the islands as well.
By Metro
Metro is generally efficiency to the max since it is all underground; people traffic is limited to rush hour.
Istanbul’s metro system is denser on the European side, bringing you through all major neighborhoods. It also boasts a legend – the world’s second-oldest underground rail line still in use via Tünel.
Currently, the European line has 18 stations between Aksaray and the International Airport.
The Asian line is still a work in progress with an end goal of 19 stations.
By Marmaray Train
A new addition to the transport family, Marmaray is a great bypass that goes under the Bosphorus strait to link Kızılçeşme and Ayrılık Çeşmesi on the European and Asian sides.
In other words, it’s an alternative to crossing the bridge.
That said, it is pretty limited in terms of stops – use it for the jump but then switch to another transport to get to specific areas.
By Metrobus
Where pros are, cons follow. The metrobuses follow their own lanes, meaning they drive through the jams.
However, frequent stops and sardine-packed spaces make it a fairly uncomfortable ride with slow progress.
By Taxi
There are taxis loitering all over Istanbul; a comfortable and speedy option if traffic cooperates.
You’ll want to flag down taxis with logos on the car doors (meaning it is affiliated with a taxi stand) to avoid getting ripped off.
Still worried? The BiTaksi app (iOS | Android) will connect you to a trusted taxi nearby.
Where to Eat in Istanbul
galata bridge restaurants
Whether you’re digging into a balı ekmek at Eminönü or tucking into full-course meals, here are some Istanbul best eats.
Asitane Restaurant – calling on the Ottoman cuisine, this kitchen unveils traditional cooking methods, 200 lost recipes and a fascinating journey through Turkish history.
Altan Şekerleme – an 1865 relic that still sells classic Turkish sweets; try their Turkish delight done right or the akide şekeri rock candy.
Karaköy Lokantası – this iconic lunch spot serves an Ottoman palace specialty: slow-cooked beef on mashed eggplant, the hünkar beğendi.
1924 – curious about Russian fare? Order the borscht, stroganoff, chicken Kiev and pelmeni dumplings for an authentic meal.
Antiochia Concept – serving homey Southeast Turkish food, you can load up on kebab dishes and hot mezes at reasonable prices.
Pandeli – a legendary restaurant that started with piyaz and köfte, now known for its slow-cooked lamb, eggplant pie and oven-baked quince.
Inci Pastanesi – for its profiteroles.
Beyaz Fırın – for a delightful breakfast or dessert, this bakery-café is topnotch!
Mikla – offers sweeping views, locally-sourced ingredients and fine dining that combines Turkish and Scandinavian techniques.
Aheste – enjoy meze-style dishes with a twist! From three-course tasting menus to vegetable-only options, this atmospheric eatery is a tavern made modern.
Istanbul Tips for Tourists
heritage red tram, taksim
- Check if you need a tourist visa! It’s super easy to do online – you simply apply online, pay and print it out.
- Mosque etiquette is essential; respect the culture and religion. Dressing modestly is a must, with women covering their heads with a scarf. Don’t run or yell and stay behind the wooden barriers. Remove your shoes at the door.
- Carry socks with you – you’ll want them when traversing mosques barefoot.
- Street food is a MUST. This is non-negotiable.
- Dress in layers; Istanbul can get real chilly.
- Weekdays are better to explore Istanbul.
Final Thoughts
This itinerary for Istanbul is laid out for you district by district – you could also explore the city based on theme or by ticking off your bucket list of top places to visit in Istanbul.
With each area so distinct from each other, exploring one piece at a time allows you to delve deeper into their individual histories and charm.
Consult the locals! Follow them to their favorite tea gardens, taverns or coffeehouses, the parks and hidden alcoves.
Wander off the main roads or embrace the chaos of every street market. Try succulent meat dishes and wash them down with aniseed brandy.
Istanbul’s blend of cultures is eye-opening to say the least – every traveler’s duty is to experience it.
We hope you found this travel guide to Istanbul useful.
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