3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), the former residence of Ottoman sultans. The palace offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and houses many historical artifacts. Enjoy breakfast at Cafe Rumist, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious Turkish breakfast options.

Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and textiles. For lunch, head to Nusr-Et Steakhouse, famous for its high-quality meats.

Visit the beautiful Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) in the evening to witness its stunning architecture under the night sky. Enjoy dinner at Mikla Restaurant, which offers panoramic views of Istanbul along with contemporary Turkish cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant neighborhood of Balat. This area is known for its colorful houses and charming streets. Have breakfast at Cafe Privato, which serves traditional Turkish breakfast with a modern twist.

Head over to the modern side of Istanbul by visiting the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). This museum showcases contemporary Turkish art. For lunch, try out Karaköy Lokantası, known for its delicious mezes and seafood dishes.

End your trip with a scenic view from the top of the historic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi). The tower offers panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline. Enjoy dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree, which specializes in creative mezes that are perfect for sharing.