How Many Days in Istanbul? The Perfect 3 Days in Istanbul Guide
- Naureen Chhipa
- Mar 23
- 24 min read
Istanbul is the most photogenic city we have yet traveled to. No matter where we found ourselves, the backdrop was always scenic! From views of the Black Sea with seagulls roaming free to epic-looking mosques and museums like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, to the exotic smells and colors of spices and teas found at the bazaars. Istanbul is chaotic yet calm, full of cultural traditions and religious beliefs. Istanbul is where old and new meet, and they live together in harmony. So, how many days do you need to explore Istanbul? We found 3 days in Istanbul to be ideal! We invite you to fall in love with this city, as we did, and to follow our journey as we roam, visiting some of the most iconic places and the not-so-well-known yet hidden gems that make the perfect 3 days in Istanbul guide.
Turkey is one of those countries that always looks picture-perfect! From the breathtaking rooftop views overlooking the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul to the delightful sunset walks along the Galata Bridge, which spans the Bosphorus Strait separating Europe and Asia, Turkey is a place that will take your breath away. Its captivating and surreal countryside will inspire your creativity and expand your senses. Our 3-day Istanbul itinerary will cover the best the city has to offer for first-time visitors, including the major landmarks and some hidden gems.
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Did you know Istanbul is the only city in the world straddled by two continents? Yeap! There are Asian and European sides in Istanbul. You can travel via ferry from Europe to Asia in only 25 min. This trip will cost you under $4 RT.
How Many Days in Istanbul? The Perfect 3 Days in Istanbul Guide for First-Time Visitors Visiting Turkey
Table of Contents:
General Information & All You Need to Know Before Visiting Istanbul
1.1. Documents Needed to Visit Istanbul, Turkey
1.2. Dress Code & Cultural Etiquette for Visiting Mosques in the Middle East
1.3. Safety in Istanbul
1.4. Dining Out, Nightlife, and Tipping in Istanbul and Turkey
Public and Private Transportation: How to Get Around in Istanbul
Extra Days in Istanbul? What to Do! 4 & 5 Day Itinerary Add-Ons
Things to Know Before Going to Istanbul, Turkey
Documents:
International travelers will need a valid passport to enter Turkey that will not expire within the next 6 months. As of 2026, U.S., E.U., and U.K. travelers visiting Turkey do not need a visa to enter the country if they plan to stay for 90 days or less.
🧿 Travel Tip: I recommend making a photocopy of your passport before leaving for your trip. Once at your destination, in this case the city of Istanbul, Turkey, leave your actual passport in the hotel's safe and carry a paper copy with you to show authorities if asked. Having a paper copy of your passport, instead of your actual passport, will give you peace of mind in case you lose it. You don't want to be stuck in a country with no way out if your passport gets stolen or lost, so spend the extra 5 minutes and make that photocopy!
Cultural Etiquette and Dress Code:
Islam is the predominant religion in Istanbul, with over 90% of the population identifying as Muslim. That said, it is very important that you observe proper etiquette and dress code when visiting Istanbul. The rules are more relaxed when walking around the streets, but they should nevertheless still be respected. You are a visitor in that country, don't be that "crass and rude American". Ok, enough scolding. So, what should you wear when entering a Mosque or religious site in Istanbul, Turkey?
Men's Dress Code for Visiting Istanbul:
No shorts above the knee, no hoodies, no tank tops or sleeveless shirts. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and shoes and hats must be removed first before entering or taking a tour of a traditional Turkish Mosque. Clothing should fit loosely to show respect and not draw attention. Also, avoid clothing with disrespectful logos or symbols when visiting Istanbul's old city in Turkey.
Amazon Men's Outfit Ideas for Istanbul
I created a shoppable guide to give you a visual idea of what to pack and wear if you're planning to visit some religious sites and Mosques in Istanbul. You have a sturdy pair of relaxed-fit cargo pants with pockets that you can also reuse during your travels since they're so versatile. The fit is relaxed and casual. You can pair your cargo pants with a cotton-heavy crew neck tee for a classic yet more casual look. Add a pair of linen loafers that, in addition to complementing the look, are also great for walking the city on foot, as they don't need to be broken in as much as a traditional pair of leather loafers. Layer with a wool-blend jacket. Add some accessories like a leather belt and a watch. You can take this outfit to the Blue Mosque, to Hagia Sophia, or out exploring the city, shopping at the Grand Bazaar, take it anywhere and be culturally appropriately dressed, no matter where you find yourself in Istanbul and Turkey.
Women's Dress Code for Visiting Istanbul's Mosque and Religious Sites:
Women must cover their hair, shoulders, and knees when visiting any Mosque or religious sites in Istanbul, including Hagia Sophia. Avoid wearing tight or sheer clothing. A headscarf is required, and long skirts or loose pants that hit below the knees. No skinny jeans or shorts. If you forget to wear a skirt, they often have wraps available at the entrance that you can wrap around your jeans. I also recommend wearing socks, as you have to take your shoes off before entering the Mosque, and the floors can be cold to the touch.
Amazon Women's Outfit Ideas for Istanbul
I created an Amazon shoppable guide to give you ideas for outfitting for Istanbul, keeping in mind that you might visit some mosques. I love packing in a minimalist way, so getting the most out of my outfits is crucial! I mix and match most of my outfits to create several looks. For this mosque visit, I started off with a maxi flowy skirt in a neutral navy shade that I will later on rewear with a different top. I paired the skirt with a classic striped wool-blend crew-neck sweater, which I'll rewear with jeans another day. I like to walk a lot when I travel, so a pair of comfortable sneakers in a neutral shade hit the bill for me. I will wear these daily, but I always bring an extra pair of shoes, just in case. Never more than two, though! I told you I travel light ;) To cover your head, you can wear a regular scarf, but I found this amazing budget hijab on Amazon that I couldn't pass up. And some accessories that you can rewear complete the outfit. Here we have a leather crossbody bag with a matching belt to add some style to your skirt. A pair of hoop earrings and a layered necklace.
Safety in Istanbul:
Istanbul is a bustling city full of energy and excitement. The bazzars and streets are usually packed, so it's important never to leave your personal belongings unattended. If you practice common sense, you'll be fine. Every time I've traveled to Istanbul, I've never had any safety issues. People are polite and helpful for the most part. The only thing to keep an eye out for is being overcharged when buying things. If they know you're a tourist, some vendors might try to hustle you, but you can always haggle back ;)
Dining Out, Nightlife, and Tipping:
We loved our dining experience in Istanbul. If you love grilled meats and seafood, you'll be golden! Some must-try dishes include the iconic kebabs — Adana (spicy minced lamb), my favorite, and Iskender (lamb, pita, tomato sauce, and butter). We, of course, always finished every dish with a sweet bite of baklava. Tip: We learned this from a food tour we took in Istanbul. When eating your baklava, flip it upside down so the bottom moist part touches the roof of your mouth. By doing this, you'll get to taste all the different flavours more intensely. That's how the locals eat it, and after trying it once, I have to say, I can't go back!
The best nightlife areas in Istanbul we found were Beyoğlu on the European side and Kadıköy on the Asian side. Something to note when dining out: if you choose a traditional restaurant (where the best food is), many don't serve alcohol, so dinner and wine? forget about it! But you'll get plenty of delicious tea, though. The reason for this is that many of these establishments follow muslim guidelines. Another thing to point out is that Istanbul is very heavy with smoking. If you're not a smoker, ask for an indoor table. Almost every time we sat outside, we regretted it immediately.
Tipping in Istanbul is not mandatory, but it is encouraged if you receive good service. You can tip 10-15%, but always check your bill for an automatic service charge, which, in that case, tipping would not be necessary. Tipping in cash (Turkish Lira) when possible is best to ensure the tip goes directly to the staff. You can tip your tour guides, hotel staff, and restaurant staff, and when visiting a Hamam (Turkish Bath House).
How Many Days Do You Need to See Istanbul?
For us, 3 days in Istanbul was the perfect amount of time. You can also do 5 days in Istanbul if you decide to explore the Asian side and stay overnight there, or even a week in Istanbul by adding some nearby day trips and exploring the rest of Istanbul by boat!
How to Get to Istanbul: Public and Private Transportation
Taking the Public Metro from Istanbul Airport to the City Center
You can take the M11 Gayrettepe-Istanbul Metro Line. This will take you directly into the city center. You can find the metro station inside the airport.
Total travel time: About an hour.
Cost: About $5 (TRY 191) if purchasing an Istanbulkart (transportation card). You can also use contactless payment (tap-and-pay) for about $3 per trip.
Frequency: Trains run every 10 minutes during peak hours / every 20 minutes off-peak time, and operate between 6 am and midnight (12 am).
Departure points: Level -2 (transportation level) of the terminal.
How it works: The M11 line connects the IST Airport to Gayrettepe, with connections to other metro lines, such as the M2, for Taksim/Old City.
Benefits: Budget-friendly, fast with frequent departures.
Booking a Private Car or Shared Shuttle Van
If you prefer to be dropped off directly at your hotel (which is great when traveling with luggage), then this is the best option. A private car will pick you up directly at the airport.
Do you need a car when visiting Istanbul? (Renting a Car in Istanbul, Turkey)
If you're only visiting Istanbul, Turkey, you'll find it easier to get around using the metro. Uber also works in Istanbul if you get tired of walking. We only rented a car when we traveled outside of Istanbul. I really wanted to visit Cappadocia, and for that, a car was the way to go for us! The best part about renting a car is that you can make stops along the way and stay as long as you like. Because we had a car, we were able to visit the house of the Virgin Mary (one of the most peaceful places I've been to during my travels) and explore iconic sites like Ephesus and the hot springs of Pamukkale. Driving in Turkey made our travels fast and convenient. The highways are well-maintained, and by renting a car, we got to visit off-the-beaten-path locations that would have been less accessible by public bus.
Unique Experiences Worth Doing in Istanbul:
Top Things to Do in Istanbul | My favorite Guided Tours
You can't leave Turkey without experiencing a hamam, the "Turkish Bath". Hamams are embedded in Turkish history and in the way of life/lifestyle of the people of Turkey. I personally love them! It's a great way to relax after a long flight or a full day of exploring the city. If the hotel you're staying at doesn't have a Hamam, then this one here is a great option. By booking a package, you'll also get a massage, which I'm always up for!
Guys, you get to create your own scent and make a signature perfume! How cool is that?! Turkish perfumes are known for their rich ingredients and long-lasting, bold scent, and in this workshop, you'll get to learn all the secrets of good perfume-making. Click here for more information and the latest prices for perfume-making workshops in Istanbul.
See it all at your own pace with an expert local guide! I love this tour, especially if your time in Istanbul is limited. You can see the best of Istanbul in a short amount of time. Click here for more information and the latest prices on private guided tours in Istanbul.
My Favorite Food Tours in Istanbul and Where to Eat
This is one of my favorite "welcome to Istanbul" activities. You get to cruise and take in the beautiful sights of the city at night while sailing through the Bosphorus on a yacht! What? fancy you ;) The cruise includes a private table, a 3-course meal, and live music. Click here for more information and the latest prices on the Bosphorus dinner cruise.
I'm always up for a good walking food tour, and this is an excellent one! Not only will you get to try some staple Turkish dishes, but you'll also get to experience the iconic rooftop scene in Istanbul! Click here for more information and the latest prices.
This food tour is ideal for those wanting to explore the food scene in the European and Asian part of Istanbul in the saBeyoğlu Click here for more info and the latest prices.
What is the Best Location to Stay in Istanbul?
(The Best Area to Stay in Istanbul with Map)
There are 4 main neighborhoods to stay in if it's your first time visiting Istanbul, and a bonus one for return visitors or travelers spending more than a week in Istanbul.
Beyoğlu: Stay here for the best nightlife in Istanbul, with great dining options.
Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus ★★★★★ Mid-Range / Upscale | Beyoğlu Neighborhood
I am starting with this neighborhood because this is where we stayed on our last trip to Istanbul. We decided to stay at the Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus for convenience reasons. It has a great location, and the amenities were what we were looking for: a pool, a spa, a hammam (Turkish Bath), a rooftop bar overlooking the Bosphorus, and an in-house restaurant. Of course, we wanted to explore Istanbul fully, but after a long flight, it's always a good idea to chill and take in your surroundings. Every hotel we stayed at in Turkey had a hammam. We found this to be the best way to relax in the comfort of our hotel room after a full day of sightseeing. Plus, you won't have to go out of your way to visit one, unless, of course, you want to go to an old school traditional hammam, which can be found throughout the city if your hotel does not have one. Experiencing a hammam in Turkey is a must! They're so relaxing and a great way to exfoliate out all those toxins! Click here for the latest night rates.
Travel Tip: Bundle and Save! Did you know you can save $$ by booking your flight and hotel together? Click here for more information and the latest prices on flight & hotel bundles.
Karaköy: Stay here for a more central location with great public transportation.
Hotel Momento Golden Horn ★★★★ Mid-Range | Karaköy, Beyoğlu Neighborhood
This is a great hotel for those with limited time in Istanbul, as it's near public transportation and centrally located, making it easy to explore the city. The hotel also offers great city and Bosphorus views from its rooftop. Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sultanahmet: Stay here if you want to stay in the "Old City." Best for sightseeing
White House Hotel Istanbul ★★★★ Mid-Range/ Upscale | Sultanahmet Neighborhood
This is my "I feel like royalty" moment when staying at this hotel. I kid you not, everything is so impeccable, and the attention to detail is on point! From their rooftop, you can get stunning views of Hagia Sophia, one of my favorite places in Istanbul. The hotel offers a prime locatioKadiköyect for exploring major landmarks on foot. Check prices here.
Kadiköy: Stay here if you want to stay and explore the Asian side of Istanbul.
Holiday Inn Istanbul by IHG ★★★★ Budget | Kadiköy (Asian side of Istanbul)
I only recommend staying here if you have 5 or more days in Istanbul and want to explore the Asian side or disconnect in a quiet area. I love this hotel because, for a budget price, you still get a spa. With that being said, keep in mind that you'll be a little more isolated from landmarks, nightlife, and restaurants. The neighborhood of Kadiköy has a more local feel.
✨Hidden Gem Neighborhood: Balat✨ Stay here for trendy cafés & old charm.
Istanbul Colorful Houses Balat Petrion Hotel ★★★ Budget | Fatih (Balat) Neighborhood
Balat is hands down my favorite neighborhood in Istanbul. Despite Balat being one of the oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, the vibe is very artsy with cobblestone streets and trendy cafés. Balat is also my favorite neighborhood for shopping for handmade ceramics and visiting modern art galleries. Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
We decided to visit during Tulip Season (late March-early May, depending on weather). During this time, the streets and mosques are filled with tulips, and spring is in full swing! The best time to visit Istanbul is from March to May and September to November. By visiting during this time, you'll find fewer crowds and better lodging rates (we were able to stay at 4- and 5-star hotels throughout Turkey for under $130 a night!). Try to avoid summer for the crowds and sweltering weather, and winter, where temperatures drop really low, and it gets exceedingly cold, which is less ideal for comfortable on-foot exploration.
Post-landing, head to your hotel, freshen up, and hang out there, exploring the amenities, or venture out to see what's nearby on foot! Istanbul is beautiful, and every corner is filled with fantastic architecture. We found this water fountain randomly while walking around. Have no set plans for your first half day here, simply relax. It's always a great way to start a trip! Do go to bed early and get a full 8hr sleep to avoid or minimize jet lag! Tomorrow we have an early start! ... NIGHT!
Sample Istanbul Itinerary Ideas
Day 1-- Taking care of all the tourist attractions, plus a hidden rooftop café.
Today, we're starting our day itinerary early. After visiting these places several times, I found this schedule to be the most efficient in saving time, getting in and out of places fast with fewer lines, and enjoying the site less crowded (especially if it's your first time visiting). To do this, we must start our day early and be in line first! Despite traveling during low season, Istanbul is a busy city, so yeah, during low season, it is way less crowded, but guess what, it is still pretty packed. Following this itinerary and traveling during the low season, I was able to see all the significant spots in 1 day, waiting in line at only 1 place (our last location) for about 20 min. Usually, lines at these spots range from 1 to 2.5 hours... yeah! Who has time for that?! But follow this guide, and you'll be golden... promise! From our first location to our last, we'll be walking for 45 minutes, covering 3.5 km. Travel Tip: It is always best to book your tickets in advance of your visit. By doing this, you'll get to skip the line or have a separate entrance with a shorter wait time.
Bring Comfortable shoes and proper attire to enter all mosques in the Middle East. Here's a guide to dressing appropriately. If you don't have a headscarf, they will provide one at the main entrance. Please always keep it on. We must respect different cultures, traditions, and values.
*Note: Jeans and pants are ok for women, just no tight leggings or anything above the knee.
7:45 am- Hippodrome Square: Open Air Museum - Free, open all day, every day!
We're starting at this square since it's open 24/7 and near our next attractions.
This square was an ancient Greek stadium used for entertainment and horse/chariot racing. Now a square to stroll around, people watch, and do some shopping while marveling at old Mosques, race courses, and ruins. At the end of the ancient hippodrome, you can find a German fountain built in Germany and brought over as a gift, piece by piece, in the 1900s.
8:30 am- Sultan Ahmed Mosque, aka- The Blue Mosque- Free to Enter
The Blue Mosque opens at 8:30 am. I suggest arriving a little bit earlier
(It's a short walk from the Hippodrome. We arrived around 8:15 am, and although very tempted to visit all the nearby shops, we curbed that urge and instead roamed around right outside the Mosque. Most of the perks included: getting some crowd-free photos, reading all the guidelines and rules (I know, nerd! but respecting the culture is important to us while traveling), using the restrooms, and being first in line! The Blue Mosque is still an active Muslim Prayer Mosque. There's a restricted area where non- Muslim visitors can't enter; this is where prayer takes place. The Blue Mosque, built between 1609 and 1616, is called "Blue Mosque" because of all the blue tiles that decorate its interior. Another thing to note is that you're not allowed in during prayer, so always check the schedule for prayer times and holidays. Travel Tip: Bundle and save! If you're visiting several landmarks, buy a multi-pass that includes skip-the-line access and a tour guide to explain the history of each place you visit. Here's my favorite, the Blue Mosque guided tour included:
Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Tour ➡️ Click for info & Prices
9:15 am -- Hagia Sophia ➡️ Booking a Guided Skip-the-Line Tour Recommended
Hagia Sophia-- a must visit!! This place took my breath away... It's gone through so many changes throughout time. From a Greek Orthodox Christian Church, it became an Ottoman Imperial Mosque, which is now a Museum! When writing about this place, the first words that came to mind were change, layers, and harmony. Hagia Sophia is one of the most important Byzantine structures ever built. When you visit, you can see traces of old Christianity — walls and artwork recovered from when they were initially painted — that's when the word layers came to mind. When Hagia Sophia was under Christian rule, Christian wall murals were found throughout the structure. When the Muslim faith took over and turned it into a Mosque, they painted over everything because they did not believe in worshiping figures with faces. After, they decided to relocate the Mosque due to the orientation of Hagia Sophia. In the Muslim religion, all Muslims pray for unity, facing the Kaaba in Mecca, which is called the Qibla. The direction should be facing the Kaaba for Muslims worldwide, and Hagia Sophia did not have the right orientation. That's why now Hagia Sophia stands as a Museum. Hagia Sophia is important in Istanbul because it's a melting pot of different religions that now live together under the same structure, tolerating each other in perfect harmony. P.S: When visiting Hagia Sophia, make sure to stop before you exit at one of the far-right end columns, insert your thumb, and rotate counterclockwise. Legend has it that anyone who does this will return to beautiful ISTANBUL...
10:30 am - Snack and natural juice break with some people watching
Take a break from all your site seeing, especially if you've accomplished seeing 3 major spots before noon.. go you! Take a break on the grounds of Hagia Sophia, buy some local freshly squeezed pomegranate juice...my fav! If pomegranate alone is too tart, you can always mix it with orange or simply get a freshly squeezed orange juice. This is also a great spot to try a simit (a famous Turkish on-the-go snack, also known as "Turkish Bagel"). After grabbing your snack, find one of the many benches in the area, sit, and people-watch.
11:30 am- Visit the Basilica Cistern (underground cistern) a.k.a. "The Sunken Place."
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide ➡️ Click here now to book your spot.
Visit the most extensive surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul--The Basilica Cistern. These underground cisterns are hidden beneath the city and were used to provide water filtration for nearby buildings. Now that they're no longer in use and have very little water left, visitors can enter and walk through them. I've visited these cisterns twice, once in 2012 and in 2019, and both experiences were similar yet a bit different. The walkthrough in 2012 was mysterious and a bit haunting, with dark, grungy-looking pillars along the way. It was also way less popular, therefore mostly empty, and I remember having the entire place to myself! Now, the complete experience, although still a bit creepy, is way more touristy. There's even a photo op section where you can dress up in costumes and pretend you're a Sultan or Sultana. One thing remains the same... It's an eerie feeling due to the structure, lighting, and a couple of upside-down/sideways Medusa head pillars at the end. Legend has it that, after it was a cistern and before it was open to the public, it was filled with trash and corpses!
12:15 pm -- Walk around, get lost, and have a coffee break!
It's no secret that one of my favorite things to do when traveling is getting lost! I find so many hidden gems that way. I highly encourage you to do the same! It always helps to have a couple of points for guidance, so here they are... Walk around Yerabatan Caddesi Street-- you'll find super cute, colorful houses, streets, and shops there. Make sure to stop at Maya's Corner Café for some coffee and continue strolling around...
2:00 pm-- Visit The Grand Bazaar | Bucket List Places to Visit in Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul Grand Bazaar From Rooftop to the Secret Passages ➡️ Click to book a guided visit
Ideal for shopping, haggling here is a form of art! You can find just about anything at this bazaar, just make sure to always negotiate the price! Top Tip: Always carry Turkish change (coins) with ya! You'll need them to use the restrooms, and this bazaar has a few stalls!
3:15 pm-Have Coffee at "Under the Roof" Turkish coffee Shop
(Buyuk Valide Han no.40)
Have a cup of coffee or tea at this hidden café with fantastic rooftop views of Istanbul... Finding this spot was a total adventure, as this café is hidden inside an abandoned building where artists work and create art. There were no signs and barely any people, just a large, abandoned-looking building and two backpackers searching for open air and heights. We kept feeling we were not supposed to be there, looking for doors leading to a secret rooftop that offered spectacular views-- and then, after almost giving up, it happened! We found a diamond in the rough... The cutest, run-down, vintage café with windows overlooking picturesque Istanbul. Find this spot near the Grand Bazaar; there are also many alfresco rooftop coffee shops in the area. A tour can take you to the best ones offering jaw-dropping views of Istanbul ➡️ Find cafés here.
4 pm-- Have lunch at Sehzade Cag Kebap
What makes this place unique is how they cook their kebab, horizontally instead of the traditional vertical way. The meat was juicy and tender, and the extra add-on sauces are a must! Our meal was delicious, we're definitely going back!
5 pm-- Visit the Topkapi Palace and the adjacent Harem Apartments
Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Dolmabahce Palace Combo Skip-the-line Ticket ➡️ Click here to book
The Harem Apartments at the Topkapi Palace-- Honestly speaking, this was my favorite part after visiting the entire palace. There's an additional fee to attend this part, which sucks, but in my opinion, this area is way better than the palace itself. The Apartments are full of color, exciting tiles, and designs. I could picture it back in the day as I walked by, all the luxury, freedom, and abundant beauty. The Harem Apartments were where all the sultan's lived together with their families. They were a bit more protected by high walls than the other areas surrounding the palace. Lines at the palace can be long, just a heads up!
7 pm —You can walk back to where we had lunch and try a different restaurant there. That general area is full of them! Have a relaxing night, stroll, and people-watch. --end of day1
Day 2-- Visiting a local neighborhood while overloading on cute cafés, spicing things up, and getting even more scenic views...
Today we're having breakfast in Balat-- The Jewish Quarter of Istanbul and my new favorite neighborhood! This area is filled with cute cafés, antique shops, and hidden treasures. Still not super touristy, you genuinely do get that "local" feel here. Start your morning by roaming the area. Go antique shopping and get lost! We also found terrific handmade mugs here.
Favorite Guided Tour for Balat:
Istanbul: Fener, Balat, Old Greek, and Jewish Quarter Tour ➡️ Check prices here.
Here are our favorite two cafés, so be sure to check them out!
Maison Balat -- This cozy café is filled with antiques and nostalgic memorabilia. It's quirky, fun, and the cakes are delicious! Our favorite part was a single table across the street, so romantic! But go during a quiet time, when the street is not super busy, or at night for some major candlelit coffee/tea-sipping... Yum!
Velvet Café-- Obsessed with these Teacups! After visiting a handful of cafés in Balat, I have to say this was our favorite. This café is so cute!! See any missing teacups from the shelf? It's because you can pick which teacup you want to have your tea in! How cool is that!?!
Tea, Spice & Everything Nice! With a full belly, head over to my favorite bazaar in Istanbul:
The Spice Bazaar (Spice Market)
Turkey is hands down one of the most picturesque countries we've visited! Walk the Galata Bridge overlooking the Strait of Bosphorus that separates Europe and Asia. The walk is only about 10 min, and the views will take your breath away, inspire your creativity, and expand your instincts...Did you know Istanbul is the only city in the world straddled by two continents? Yeap! There's an Asian Side
and a European Side in Istanbul! Make sure to take your time and even snack on a simit (Turkish bagel) while enjoying the views. Heads up: There will be a lot of seagulls in the area. This is a great time to take some awesome pics... give the slow-motion on your phone a try on videos, you'll thank me later. I got so many epic and stunning shots/videos!
After crossing the bridge, we tasted different types of baklava at one of our favorite spots in Istanbul, Baklavaci Köskeroglu! Tip: When eating baklava, you have to turn it upside down so the moist part touches the roof of your mouth... try it! We learned this trick from a local, and it has completely changed the way we eat baklava now. The flavors explode in your mouth instantly! It's pure perfection! So damn good!
End your day exploring around the Galata Tower. You can climb up for more epic views of Istanbul. This general area is great for shopping and nightlife. Find a spot and have dinner here. Make sure to check out Istiklal Caddesi, one of Istanbul's most famous avenues. You can also take an Istanbul City Walk Tour covering a visit to the Galata Tower, Istiklal Street (one of Istanbul's most famous avenues) & Karaköy. Click here for info on walking tours.
Day 3-- Become a local while still being a tourist;
In other words, try to connect, understand, and start a conversation with the locals...
Colorful Awareness 📍#therainbowstairsofistanbul
These stairs were first painted in May 2013 and can be found all throughout Istanbul. It became a city-wide movement to combat oppression. It's not a symbol of gay pride, it was not created to enhance everyone's Instagram but to send a message, to be heard when freedom of speech was not-- IS NOT permitted. Did you know jails in Turkey are mostly filled with journalists, not criminals? The majority of inmates are reporters and journalists, that's the case right now! Visiting these stairs was vital to me because I found them full of power and communal expression. They scream so loud, and they're so beautiful! I visited the original stairs, run-down, not as popular, faded, old, broken, to see where it all had started. The mood was heavy and sad, yet hopeful. You can find the more "trendy" rainbow stairs in Balat. Those were so brightly painted, full of young people taking selfies and Instagramming. The mood was fun, upbeat, and loud. That made me think of the culture we're living in, the Insta generation. I wondered if they knew why the stairs were created in the first place... I urge you to start doing a little research into the history of the new countries you visit. It will change the entire experience and give you a better understanding of why things are the way they are in every country. The original rainbow stairs are located on Salipazari Slope, linking Findikli/Karaköy and Cihangir, Beyoğlu.
Here are a few facts I learned about Turkey while speaking to a local:
Beyond its beauty, Turkey is a country that's still in struggle. In the political world, journalists have no freedom of speech. They often go to jail or get murdered for expressing their views. Makes me realize how lucky I am to live in a country where you can speak your mind... Terrorism is still present with groups all over the world. There's even an unnamed organization that its citizens fear. They act like regular people with no apparent affiliation, then infiltrate the schools to start brainwashing the kids at a young age. Their goal is for the next generation to take control of their beliefs. How scary that must be as a parent, not knowing you're sending your child to one of these schools, since they appear normal to the naked eye...
Domestic violence is another problem. In 2024, 440 women were killed in domestic violence. The conflict starts with the old and the new generations. Modern Turkish women want more freedom, while the older generation wants them to obey traditional customs. Arranged marriages are still a thing, but polygamy is banned. Despite Turkey mostly being a Muslim country, not all women wear a hijab, and that's culturally accepted. They can still hang out together and be friends; there's no seclusion or isolation based on religion.
Same-sex marriage is not legal in Turkey. Most same-sex couples fled to big cities like Istanbul, where holding hands in public is not a crime. Fun fact,t though, their biggest pop star since 1983 is Trans! YouTube one for her songs "Bülent Ersoy", she's a true fabulous diva, Fernando and I couldn't stop watching ⭐
Things to do on your last day in Istanbul:
If you've already completed all the sightseeing itineraries from above and did all the guided tours that interest you, here are some extra things to do on your last day in Istanbul:
After visiting the original rainbow stairs, head to the Dolmabahçe Palace —this palace is located on the European coast of the Strait of Istanbul. Built in the 1800s and set right next to the sea, this palace will simply take your breath away. It's like it's taken out of a fairy tale. After, head over to the Asian side of Istanbul. Now, you can do this two ways: By Taking a Bosphorus cruise. This cruise takes you through the Strait of Bosphorus, offering live music, dinner, and stunning views of Istanbul from a different perspective. Another option is taking the local ferry for only $2! That option won't serenade and dine you, but it will give you the chance to get off at the Asian side of Istanbul and explore! Try to check out their local market, and if you're planning on buying souvenirs to take home, this is definitely a spot where you can get them at half the price—shopping anyone?
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