4 Days in Istanbul, Turkiye: Ultimate Travel Guide
Istanbul is one of the most visited cities by tourists every year, and after finally seeing it myself, it was easy to understand why!
After doing plenty of research, spending a week in Istanbul, and venturing all over the city, here’s my ideal 4-day itinerary for Istanbul.
I’ve included everything you need to know for first-time visitors, including airport transfers, the best things to do in Istanbul, restaurant recommendations, and much more!
With its rich cultural heritage, long-standing history, charming streets, romantic vibe, mouth-watering food, and unique location bridging Asia and Europe, Istanbul is a place you absolutely must visit at least once!
Quick Tips for Visiting Istanbul
Avoid Petty Crimes: Unfortunately, pickpocketing, taxi scams, and overcharging tourists for goods are common in Istanbul, so watch out.
Book Private Airport City Transfer: The best way to get into the city is by private transfer, it’s easy, convenient and you don’t have to worry about taxi scams at the airport. I used Bruno Travel, and they were great! – Fill in your info and look for Bruno Travel after you click the link.
Bus from Istanbul Airport to Taksim Square (Ataturk center): Another way to get into the city is by taking a bus from the airport. Most buses take you to Taksim Square, a transportation hub in the city centre, and from there you can walk to many hotels or take a taxi.
ESim with Airalo: Download the Airalo app and purchase an ESIM for your phone data so you’ll have data as soon as you land!
Carry Cash: Most places accept cards, but many street vendors, small shops, and restaurants don’t. It’s best to always carry some cash when touring around the city!
Watch out for ATM Skimming: This is a common scam in the city. It’s best to use ATMs inside a bank, convenience store, or shop.
Use WISE for easy payment: Sign up and use a WISE card to convert currency on the app for low conversion rates and access local cash from ATMs in the city.
Be Prepared to Barter: Unfortunately, many shops don’t have price signage, but some do, so if you want to avoid bargaining, stick to those shops.
Day 1 in Istanbul
Morning & Afternoon: Exploring Besiktas & Dolmabahce Palace
So you’ve just arrived in Istanbul, checked into your hotel, and are ready to explore this beautiful and historic city. First things first, make sure you have some cash on you!
On your first day, you’ll leave the city’s main center and head to Beşiktaş, a charming, less touristy area with plenty to explore.
As you arrive in the area, start with some breakfast or maybe a late lunch at Menemen Beşiktaş, a restaurant known for its wide variety of breakfast dishes. I highly recommend trying the menemen there—it’s a traditional dish made of a slightly thick egg mixture with tomato paste, peppers, and spices. Just give it a shot; trust me, you won’t regret it!
After breakfast, walk to Barbaros Square for a nice waterfront stroll before heading to the palace.
Time to visit the Dolmabahçe Palace, also known as the Ottoman Empire’s grand residence. Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance to skip the line and save some cash!
Located along the waterfront, you’ll first encounter a vast garden. As you step inside, the palace showcases original furniture, household items, descriptions, and more.
The palace is absolutely stunning and glamorous; as you wander around, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to the Ottoman Empire era.
Be sure to keep walking until you reach the end of the palace, where the portrait museum is located. This area is slightly hidden and can be easily missed if you’re in a rush!
This was by far the most fascinating attraction I visited in Istanbul. I was surprised to discover that most blogs and articles online don’t mention it when covering the top things to do in Istanbul.
Evening: İstiklal Caddesi & Taksim Square
Once you’ve returned to your hotel to freshen up and charge your phone, it’s time to go out for dinner and soak in Istanbul’s vibrant evening atmosphere!
If you’re hungry, visit one of the many restaurant recommendations in the area I’ve mentioned in the restaurant section of this guide below.
After dinner, start your walk along the famous İstiklal Caddesi, a charming street filled with clothing shops, dessert spots, restaurants, quiet side streets, and food vendors—everything you’d expect from a vibrant city walking street!
The street and its surroundings are very picturesque, from the beautiful architecture to the iconic red trams passing by, cobblestone side streets, and large windows displaying a wide variety of Turkish desserts for you to try. It was a lovely scene to take in!
As you make your way through this lively area, you’ll end up at Taksim Square, a large open transportation hub for the city. Here, you’ll find plenty of street food options and tons of photo opportunities!
Day 2 in Istanbul
Morning: Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque & Surroundings
Are you ready for day two in Istanbul? Your second day is full of the top attractions to experience in the city!
You can visit these attractions on your own, or if you prefer the convenience of a guided tour, consider this full-day Istanbul attraction tour.
Start your day by visiting the famous Hagia Sophia Mosque, a UNESCO-recognized must-see in Istanbul. Its incredible architecture features a massive dome and beautiful mosaics, showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.
Surrounding the Hagia Sophia is a lovely garden area where both tourists and locals relax and enjoy picnics among the historic mosques. Take a stroll, snap some photos, and soak it all in!
Just a short walk away is the Blue Mosque, another top attraction in Istanbul that dates back to the early 1600s. Known for its six minarets and stunning tiles, the Blue Mosque showcases the Ottoman Empire’s era to visitors.
Afternoon: The Grand Bazaar
For those who’d like to eat some lunch before continuing their adventures, walk over to Dürümcü Raif Usta, an authentic local eatery featuring sizzling kebabs and more. It’s conveniently on the way to the Grand Bazaar!
It’s time to visit the iconic Grand Bazaar of Istanbul, a market that seems to go on forever and features over 4000 shops!
Despite being built in the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is still one of the largest covered markets in the world.
There, you’ll find spices, local Turkish desserts to purchase, clothing, jewelry, and, honestly, almost anything you can think of! If you’re looking to buy souvenirs to take back home, this is the place to do just that!
Travel TIP: The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
Evening: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
To end your second action-packed day in the city, you’ll attend one of the many Bosphorus boat sunset tours!
On the Bosphorus sunset tour, you can expect stunning city views from both the European and Asia sides of Istanbul as you spot many of the city’s main attractions.
Consider the luxury yacht tour for those who prefer a smaller group with a more intimate feel.
Tours vary in the attractions you’ll see, but most last 2.5 to 3 hours and also feature dinner, drinks, and sometimes entertainment!
Day 3 in Istanbul
Morning: Üsküdar
On your third day in Istanbul, it’s time to hop on a ferry and explore the Asian side of this historic city, starting with Üsküdar.
This area is known for its rich history, charming landmarks, and a more local vibe, making it a refreshing escape from the tourist crowds. You’ll likely notice a dramatic price drop here for food compared to the European side, which is a nice bonus!
Must-see spots include the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, the iconic Maiden’s Tower, and the area’s local market.
As you stroll through this quaint neighborhood, don’t miss the stunning waterfront views—perfect for a leisurely walk while taking in the beauty of the Bosphorus.
Honestly, I had no plans to visit Üsküdar; it wasn’t even on my radar. But after meeting a new friend at a restaurant, we explored the city the next day together. He’d mentioned Uskudar and how it was a less touristy area in the city worth visiting!
Afternoon: Kadıköy
It’s time to move on to another area on the Asian side: Kadıköy, the most popular and bustling district in Istanbul’s Asia side. To get here from Üsküdar, you can take a taxi, hop on a bus, or, if you’re feeling adventurous like me, walk!
Kadıköy is known for its vibrant mix of locals, expats, and students, creating a lively community that’s hard to resist. As you wander around, you’ll notice an endless array of shops, cafes, and bars—it’s like they go on forever!
In the evening, Barlar Sokağı (Bar Street) comes alive with people dancing in the streets and restaurants buzzing with live music; it’s an absolute blast, especially if it’s your first time in the area.
I honestly fell in love with this charming district—the cobblestone streets lined with cozy shops and restaurants, tiny alleyways, and low-rise buildings with Italian-style balconies create such a picturesque atmosphere.
Kadikoy is lively yet more laidback at the exact time and, most notably, far less crowded than the European side of Istanbul. It gives you a sense of what the city was like decades before the tourist influx.
Evening: Karaköy
As evening falls on your third day, hop on a ferry from Kadıköy to Galata, located on the European side of Istanbul, right by the central Galata Bridge.
Once you return to the European side, you have two options: head straight to Karaköy to kick off your evening or stroll along the bottom of the Galata Bridge before heading to Karaköy.
Under the Galata Bridge, you’ll find various restaurants, bars, and shisha lounges that offer stunning panoramic views of the water—an excellent addition to your bucket list of things you’ve done in the city!
Karaköy is a laid-back area known for its cocktail lounges, shisha bars, late-night eateries, and more.
Take your time exploring, grab a delicious kebab if you’re hungry, enjoy a cup of tea while people-watching, or kick off the night with some drinks.
Day 4 in Istanbul
Morning: Topkapi Palace Museum
Are you ready for your last day in Istanbul? Don’t worry—your final day won’t be as busy as the previous ones!
Start your morning by visiting the Topkapi Palace Museum next to the Hagia Sophia you explored the other day.
Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the world of the Ottoman sultans as you stroll through lush gardens and captivating courtyards, surrounded by intricate architecture that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Afternoon: Last Minute Souvenier & Sweets Shopping
With so much to do in Istanbul, don’t forget to make some time to buy souvenirs, sweets, and clothing!
The city is famous for delicately crafted desserts, cotton clothing, and more. You can’t leave Istanbul without a small box of Turkish delights to take home. Also, many dessert shops offer gift packaging for your purchases.
If you forget to buy what you want, head back to the Grand Bazaar—make sure it’s open since it’s closed on Sundays—or stroll along İstiklal Caddesi for more shopping options!
Evening: Eminönü Meydani Square
To end your perfect four days in Istanbul, spend your last evening at Eminonu Maydani Square, a large area full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Many locals come here in the evening to relax and enjoy the Bosphorus water views!
For those in the mood for a last evening drink, I recommend The Bank Roof Bar, a chic rooftop bar with exceptional views and tasty craft cocktails, the perfect way to spend your last evening in the city!
Where to Stay in Istanbul
The areas I’ve mentioned below are the most central and convenient places to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors who want to experience the city to the fullest!
If you’re looking for the most central of the five areas mentioned below, it would have to be the Galata, Taksim Square, and Eminonu area but near the bridge in the Eminonu area.
For those looking to stay in a more local area, Kadıköy is excellent. However, you will be taking the ferry daily to see the majority of Istanbul’s main attractions, so it’s important to factor that in!
| Areas in Istanbul | Which Area is Best for You? |
| Galata | Galata is known for the historic Galata Tower, this charming area next to Taksim has a hip vibe with unique shops and cafes, making it great for travelers seeking a trendy atmosphere. |
| Taksim Square | Taksim Square is the vibrant center of modern Istanbul, filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being in the action and experiencing contemporary city life. |
| Sultanahmet | Home to iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet is the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history. |
| Eminönü | A bustling waterfront area near the Spice Bazaar and New Mosque, Eminönü offers a mix of shopping and local culture. It’s also a major transport hub for easy access to ferries across the Bosphorus. |
| Kadıköy | On the Asian side, Kadıköy boasts a lively scene with cafes, shops, and nightlife. It’s perfect for foodies and those wanting a more local experience away from tourist crowds. |
How to Get Around Istanbul
There are plenty of ways to get around Istanbul, each offering conveniences. Istanbul is very walkable, the only downside is that some parts of the Galata area are quite hilly!
Please be aware that taxi scams are common in Istanbul, and most drivers don’t speak any English, so I wouldn’t recommend taking a taxi personally.
Trains & Subways: The easiest way to get around Istanbul is via its extensive network of trains and subways. The metro, tram, and Marmaray lines efficiently connect most parts of the city and are budget-friendly. Be sure to use your Istanbulkart card for seamless travel.
Ferries: Ferries are a scenic way to navigate Istanbul, connecting the European and Asian sides. Operated by Şehir Hatları, they’re affordable and offer stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Taxis or Taxi Apps: Apps like BiTaksi operate similarly to Uber, providing a convenient option for getting around the city without the hassle of finding a cab on the street. Regular taxis are yellow in Istanbul.
Buses: Istanbul’s bus system, operated by IETT, connects many neighborhoods and key areas like Eminönü, Taksim, and Kadıköy. Buses are affordable, but travel times are slow and inconvenient due to traffic.
Where to Eat in Istanbul
The #1 reason I was most excited about visiting Istanbul was the local cuisine. I travel for my stomach, I say sometimes.
Turkish food is famous worldwide, and there’s no better place to experience it to the fullest than Istanbul!
From casual kebab shops, Michelin-awarded restaurants, fine dining establishments, and street-side snacks like rice-filled muscles, the city offers a wide and exciting variety of restaurants to experience. Oh, and you can’t forget all the dazzling dessert shops, too!
- Şehzade Cağ Kebap: One of the most famous kebap restaurants in Istanbul.
- Galata Simit Shop: Known as the most legendary Simit shop in the city.
- Rakofoli Ocakbaşı: Excellent fine-dining Turkish restaurant with stunning views.
- Dürümcü Raif Usta: A local-style eatery known for its various charcoal meats.
- Sa Va Anatolian Breakfast House: The best Turkish breakfast restaurant in Istanbul.
- Güvenç Konyalı: Popular restaurant famous for its slow-cooked meat dishes & pies.
- Dürümce Taksim: Delicious late-night kebab shops famous for their wraps.
- Kızılkayalar Taksim: Street-side restaurant famous for its wet burger street food.
- Reks Kokoreç: Restaurant in Kadıköy famous for their kokorec sandwiches & plates.
- Borsam Taşfırın Bahariye: Iconic lahmacun restaurant with two locations in Istanbul.
Foods You Must Try
No matter which area of Istanbul you find yourself in, you can’t help but see how much of a food-driven atmosphere it is here.
The aroma of grilled meats, the simit bread smell from bakeries, the sight of fresh muscles served at street side stalls!
There are many famous foods in Istanbul you should consider trying during your trip here. Below, I’ve compiled a list of must-try foods in the city.
- Donar Kebab: A deliciously seasoned meat cooked slowly, served in a pita.
- Simit Bread: A circular Turkish bread coated in sesame seeds, known for its crunchy exterior and soft interior.
- Kofte: Turkish meatballs made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs, often grilled or fried.
- Lahmacun: A thin flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs.
- Balık Ekmek: A popular fish sandwich made with grilled mackerel, served on bread with onions and lemon.
- Turkish Breakfast: A lavish spread featuring cheeses, olives, fresh vegetables, bread, jams, and tea, a delightful morning feast.
- Menemen: Traditional breakfast dish of scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes and green peppers.
- Kokoreç: Street food made from seasoned lamb intestines, grilled and served on bread.
- Islak Hamburger: Known as the “wet burger,” they’re soaked in a tomato/garlic sauce.
Where to Go Shopping in Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the best cities to go shopping in the world, the city is known for it’s belend of both modern and tradition markets, malls and boutique shopping stores.
From upscale malls to charming boutiques, and of course, it has many outdoor bazaar markets, notably the Grand Bazaar.
- Grand Bazaar: One of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewelry to spices—don’t forget to haggle on price!
- İstiklal Caddesi: A bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and boutiques offering international brands and local treasures.
- Mall of Istanbul: A massive shopping center that combines entertainment, food, and art.
- Istinye Park: Upscale mall featuring a mix of luxury, popular brands, and beautiful outdoor spaces.
- Kanyon Shopping Mall: Known for its unique design and variety of shops, it’s a perfect place to relax and shop.
- Forum Istanbul: Home to world-famous brands and the Istanbul Sea Life Aquarium—definitely worth checking out if you’re with kids!
- Akmerkez: A classic favorite among locals, offering a great mix of shopping and dining options.
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
Istanbul experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing its own charm, with spring being especially delightful as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and vibrant colors.
The best times to visit Istanbul are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city’s rich history.
Spring: March to May
Spring typically kicks off around mid-April, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (65°F) to 27°C (81°F). It’s a beautiful time to witness the city’s awakening, with tulips and other flowers in full bloom.
Summer: June to August
Summer can be hot and humid, with average highs around 28°C (82°F) and peaks over 30°C (86°F) in August. While many locals escape the heat, tourists flock to enjoy lively outdoor events and stunning Bosphorus cruises.
Autumn: September to November
Autumn offers comfortable temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F), making it another favorite season for visitors. The fall foliage adds a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing.
Winter: December to February
Winters in Istanbul are cool, with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 12°C (54°F). While snow is rare, the city often experiences rainy days, but fewer tourists mean you can explore popular attractions without the crowds.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, that wraps up an exciting action full four days in one of the most visited cities in the world!
Istanbul is a city that will leave an unforgettable impression on you after your visit, thanks to its vast size, distinctive layout, captivating charm, and breathtaking historic architecture.
After Istanbul and Bodrum, I can’t wait to come back and explore more places in Turkey!
Don’t forget to sit back and take it all in during your four busy days in Istanbul—maybe with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee in hand, heated by sand, another must-try!
There’s something for everyone here, and running out of things to do in Istanbul is impossible. Whether you want to wander the lively streets, dine at a chic rooftop, soak in the Bosphorus views, or dance the night away, Istanbul offers it all!
Happy & Safe Travels
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