3 (+2)-day itinerary of Istanbul for the most important places

(with transportation information and where to capture the best photos)

How many days should you visit Istanbul?
I suggest a minimum of 3 days, and 2 more if you want to make it perfect. Here is your plan:

Day 1: Sultanahmet District

Morning:

Hagia Sophia: Once a church, later a mosque, then a museum and now a mosque again, Hagia Sophia is a testament to Istanbul’s layered history. Its massive dome and beautiful mosaics have awed visitors for centuries. It’s an architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the city’s role as a bridge between East and West.

- Take the T1 tram line to Sultanahmet Station. For photos, capture the stunning exterior from Sultanahmet Square and the intricate interior mosaics.

Blue Mosque: Known for its six minarets and striking blue tiles that adorn its interior walls, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, is a functioning mosque and a highlight of Ottoman architecture.

- Just a short walk from Hagia Sophia. The courtyard offers a great angle for photos of the mosque’s impressive minarets and domes.

Midday:

Basilica Cistern: This ancient underground cistern, built in the 6th century, once supplied water to Istanbul. Today, it’s famous for its eerie atmosphere, forest of columns, and the Medusa head sculptures.

- A short walk from the Blue Mosque. Inside, the dimly lit atmosphere creates a mysterious vibe, perfect for atmospheric shots. Don’t miss the Medusa head columns.

Afternoon:

Topkapi Palace: The opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, Topkapi Palace is filled with lush courtyards, intricate Iznik tiles, and precious relics. It offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Ottoman era.

- Within walking distance. Photograph the palace’s ornate architecture and the panoramic view of the Bosphorus from the palace gardens.

Evening:

Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to jewelry. It’s a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and history.

- Take the T1 tram line to Beyazıt, which is close to the Grand Bazaar. Capture the vibrant colors and bustling activity of the market.

Day 2: Beyoğlu District and Galata

Morning:

Dolmabahçe Palace: This 19th-century palace blends traditional Ottoman architecture with European styles and is known for its lavish decor and the grand Ceremonial Hall. It marks the shift from the medieval Topkapi to a more modern, European-influenced era.

- Take the T1 tram line to Kabataş, then a short walk to the palace. The palace’s grandeur and the Bosphorus backdrop make for excellent photos.

Midday:

Istiklal Street: This bustling pedestrian street in the heart of Istanbul is lined with historic buildings, shops, cafes, and street performers. It’s a cultural center that reflects the city’s dynamic and cosmopolitan spirit.

- You can walk or take the nostalgic tram running along the street. Capture the lively street scenes and historic buildings.

Afternoon:

Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, Galata Tower is a city landmark that’s stood for centuries. It provides a unique vantage point for photographs and a glimpse into Istanbul’s Genoese past.

- Take the T2 or T3 tunnel line or walk from Istiklal Street. The top of the tower offers 360-degree views, perfect for panoramic shots of Istanbul.

Evening:

Karaköy and Galata Bridge: The Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn and connects the old city with modern neighborhoods. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering great views and fresh seafood.

- Walk down from Galata Tower. Photograph the fishermen on the bridge at sunset and the city lights reflecting on the water.

Day 3: Bosphorus and Asian Side

Morning:

Spice Bazaar: Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this market is famous for its variety of spices, herbs, and Turkish delights. It’s a sensory overload with its colors, smells, and tastes that epitomize the exotic aspects of Istanbul.

- Take the T1 tram line to Eminönü. The market is a feast for the eyes with its arrays of spices and Turkish delights.

Midday:

Bosphorus Cruise: A cruise on the Bosphorus Strait offers a chance to see Istanbul’s skyline from the water, including palaces, mosques, and bridges. It’s a relaxing way to appreciate the city’s geography.

- Depart from Eminönü or Beşiktaş. Capture the skyline, palaces, and fortresses lining the strait.

Afternoon:

Üsküdar and Kadıköy: Üsküdar is known for its historic mosques, and Kadıköy for its vibrant market and bohemian atmosphere. Both districts showcase the more relaxed pace and local lifestyle of the Asian side of Istanbul.

- Take a ferry from Eminönü or Beşiktaş to Üsküdar. Later, take a ferry or Marmaray to Kadıköy. The Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi) is a great photo spot, especially at sunset.

Evening:

Moda: A charming neighborhood in Kadıköy, Moda is known for its seaside promenades, tea gardens, and trendy cafes. It’s a great place to experience the local youth culture and enjoy the sunset over the Marmara Sea.

- Take the tram or a dolmuş (shared taxi) from Kadıköy to Moda. The Moda seaside offers beautiful sunset views.

General Tips:

- Always carry some cash for public transportation if you’re not using an Istanbulkart (recommended).

- Traffic can be heavy (by car), especially during rush hours, so plan accordingly. Better use public transport.

- For the best light for your photos, aim for the “golden hours” during sunrise and sunset.

- Be respectful when taking photos, especially of people ( no pictures without their permission or in places of worship).

Enjoy your exploration of Istanbul and take nice pictures!

If you have two additional days in Istanbul, you can explore some of the city’s other notable sights and even venture a bit further afield. Here’s a 2-day extended itinerary:

Day 4: Historical Areas and Cultural Experiences

Morning:

Chora Church (Kariye Museum): This building’s inner walls and ceilings are adorned with some of the finest Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the visit for its art and historical significance.

- Take bus 28 from Eminönü to Edirnekapı. Best Photo Ops: Capture the intricate mosaics inside Chora Church

Midday:

Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Pierre Loti Hill: The mosque is a sacred site for Muslims, while Pierre Loti Hill, named after the famous French novelist, offers one of the best views of the Golden Horn. It’s a great place to reflect and enjoy the quieter side of Istanbul.

- Take bus 99A or 99 from Edirnekapı. Visit the mosque, an important Islamic site, and then take the cable car or walk up to Pierre Loti Hill for a coffee with a view. Best Photo Ops: The panoramic views from Pierre Loti Hill

Afternoon:

The Walls of Constantinople: These ancient walls are a testament to Istanbul’s long history as a fortified city. Walking along them gives a sense of the city’s past and the many sieges it has withstood.

- You can walk along some of the remaining sections of the city’s ancient defensive walls, which once protected the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Best Photo Ops: The historic texture of the Constantinople walls

Evening:

Balat and Fener Greek Orthodox College: These neighborhoods are among Istanbul’s oldest, with a mix of Jewish, Greek, and Armenian heritage. The area has a unique charm, with its historical buildings and local life that’s both vibrant and traditional.

- Take bus 55T back towards the city center. Best Photo Ops: The vibrant streets of Balat.

Day 5: Princes’ Islands and Asian Side Continued

Morning and afternoon:

Princes’ Islands (Buyukada): The largest of the Princes’ Islands, Buyukada offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. With no cars allowed, it’s a throwback to a slower pace of life, with beautiful nature and architecture.

- Take a ferry from Kabataş or Bostancı. Rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island, known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful old mansions, and pine forests.

Evening:

Bağdat Avenue (Bağdat Caddesi): ): Comparable to Paris’s Champs-Élysées, this avenue on the Asian side of Istanbul is a trendy spot for shopping and dining. It’s a snapshot of modern, cosmopolitan Istanbul life.

- Take a ferry back to the Asian side and a bus or taxi to Bağdat Avenue. Best Photo Ops: The ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands offers great shots of the Istanbul skyline. On Buyukada, photograph the Victorian-era mansions and the serene environment. Bağdat Avenue is perfect for street photography and capturing the local lifestyle.

These additional 2 days allow you to delve deeper into Istanbul’s diverse districts and to experience the city’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern life.

Enjoy!

Ted Goehring

CEO Tedder-Global.com