How to Experience the Best of Istanbul in 3 Days
Istanbul is a city of history, culture and vibrant energy where East meets west. Istanbul is for both the history fan, the foodie, the lover of the charmer street. This city has breathtaking mosques, bustling bazaars and stunning Bosphorus views to offer.
If you are going to travel to Turkey for a short period, you can apply for your Turkey Visa in advance to avoid any hassle. With less than three days to spare, you can visit Istanbul’s top attractions, sample the delicious food and explore its rich history. Find out the best ways to spend 3 days in Istanbul.
Here’s how to experience the best of Istanbul in just 3 days.
Day 1: Discover Istanbul’s Historic Heart
1. Visit the Majestic Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most famous attractions. This architectural masterpiece was a church, then a mosque, and finally a museum, all products of the city’s history that stack up. It has a massive dome, intricate mosaics and breathtaking interiors that all come together to really reflect both Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
2. Explore the Blue Mosque
The stunning Blue Mosque is just across from Hagia Sophia and is so named for the beautiful blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interiors. So be aware when visiting, it’s a functioning mosque. The six minarets and the peaceful ambiance inside are to be taken in.
3. Visit Topkapi Palace Step into History
Topkapi Palace was once home to Ottoman sultans and it is still a glimpse into royal life with its opulent courtyards, treasury and sacred relics. Don’t forget to enjoy the views of the Bosphorus from the palace grounds.
4. Wander through the Grand Bazaar
End your first day wandering aimlessly in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Its shopper’s paradise with more than 4,000 shops selling goodies and all kind of souvenirs and from jewelry and carpets to spices, everything.
Day 2: Experience the Cultural and Modern Side of Istanbul
1. Marvel at the Beauty of Dolmabahce Palace
Day two begins with Dolmabahçe Palace, a symbol of Ottoman elegance and European style architecture. It is one of the most impressive palaces in Turkey with lavish chandeliers, grand staircases and stunning seaside location.
2. Enjoy a Bosphorus Cruise
Cruising the Bosphorus is a must do when visiting Istanbul. Irrespective of if you choose to take a ferry ride for a short while or want to go for a long tour and see the city’s skyline, historic palaces and charming waterfront houses from a bird’s eye view, you will have a treat.
3. Stroll through Istiklal Street and Taksim Square
Istiklal Street is a busy shopping and entertainment hub with historic buildings, cafes and boutiques in Istanbul. Ride on the nostalgic red tram and feel the lively atmosphere before going to Taksim Square, the center of modern Istanbul.
4. Savor Istanbul’s Street Food
Finish your day with a food tour that will sample Istanbul’s best street food. Malta samutbeer (the delicious meze), simit (Turkish sesame bread), balik ekmek (fish sandwich), and the best Turkish döner are all worth trying. And don’t forget, that a cup of traditional Turkish tea and some baklava should not be missed.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Local Experiences
1. Explore the Vibrant Balat and Fener Neighborhoods
Your last day in Istanbul should be spent wandering around Balat and Fener, the colorful and historic districts. These neighborhoods are old virginal looking ones with charming streets, vintage cafes and beautiful old churches.
2. Visit the Magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque
Istanbul’s most beautiful mosque is Süleymaniye Mosque, a peaceful retreat with city views. This masterpiece is less crowded than the Blue Mosque but equally beautiful and was built by the famous architect Mimar Sinan.
3. Relax at a Traditional Turkish Hammam
Wrapping yourself away after days of discovery, relax in a Turkish bath. Visit a historic of Cagaloglu Hamam or Çemberlitaş Hamam to experience a relaxing steam bath and a traditional scrub in an authentic spa.
4. Wrap up Your Trip at the Spice Bazaar
Before leaving, stop by the Spice Bazaar to buy last minute items. Aromatic spices, Turkish delight and local teas, all these are the perfect souvenirs to take home a taste of Istanbul.
Conclusion
Istanbul is not a place you can visit in three days, even though it may seem like it, but if you have a well-planned itinerary, you can make the most out of these three days. Every corner of Istanbul has something extraordinary left for it from its rich history, stunning architecture, its vibrant neighborhoods and mouth-watering cuisine.
Therefore, if you are planning your trip soon, then you must apply for your Turkey Visa from India in advance to avoid any last minute hassle. Situated on the shores of the Bosphorus, the two continents of Asia and Europe meet in Istanbul, fused together with a rich past and always delightful in the present.
