Introduction
Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents. One afternoon you're wandering Byzantine domes on the European side, the next you're sipping tea in Asia after a short ferry ride. Four days is enough to cover the highlights without rushing.
Day 1 — Sultanahmet (Old City)
- Hagia Sophia — a mosque, then a church, then a museum, and now a mosque again. Go early to beat the crowds.
- Blue Mosque — right across the square, free to enter, remove shoes and dress modestly.
- Topkapi Palace — former home of Ottoman sultans; don't skip the Harem section.
- Basilica Cistern — an eerie underground reservoir with columns rising from the water.
Day 2 — Bazaars & Local Life
- Grand Bazaar — over 4,000 shops; bargaining is expected, start around half the asking price.
- Spice Bazaar — smaller and food-focused, great for Turkish delight and tea.
- Süleymaniye Mosque — quieter than the Blue Mosque, with incredible hilltop views over the Golden Horn.
Day 3 — Bosphorus & the Asian Side
- Take a ferry across the Bosphorus to Kadıköy for a more local, less touristy vibe.
- Walk the waterfront and eat at a neighborhood lokanta (casual Turkish eatery).
- Optional: a sunset Bosphorus cruise for skyline views from the water.
Day 4 — Modern Istanbul
- Istiklal Street & Taksim Square — shopping, cafes, street performers.
- Galata Tower — climb up for panoramic views of the Old City.
- Karaköy — trendy cafes and galleries, good for a slow last afternoon.
Essential Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Mid-range hotel | $60–90/night |
| Budget hostel | $15–25/night |
| Local meal | $8–12 |
| Istanbulkart transit | ~$1/ride |
| Grand Bazaar souvenir | $5–30 (bargain hard) |
Food to Try
- Simit (Turkish bagel) for breakfast
- Köfte (grilled meatballs)
- Balık ekmek (fish sandwich) by the Galata Bridge
- Turkish tea, everywhere, constantly
Practical Tips
- Best time to visit: April–May or September–October for mild weather and fewer crowds
- Getting around: Get an Istanbulkart — it works on trams, ferries, and buses
- Currency: Turkish Lira; cash is still useful for bazaars
- Safety: Generally safe for tourists, including families and solo travelers; standard city precautions apply