Istanbul: A 3-Day Itinerary for First-Timers (2025 Edition)

Only have 3 days in Istanbul? Many travelers do. Istanbul is a popular stop on the way to other parts of Turkey. Luckily, the city works well for short trips. You can visit major landmarks, walk through lively areas and enjoy local food in just 72 hours.

This 3-day itinerary is made for first-time visitors. It helps you explore the most famous places and neighborhoods. It includes history, culture and fun. All you need is a travel card and good walking shoes.

Day 1: Sultanahmet – Explore the Old City

Is Sultanahmet good for sightseeing?
Yes. Most of Istanbul’s top sights are here. You can visit them by walking.

• Morning: Start with Hagia Sophia. It is one of Istanbul’s most visited landmarks. Come early to avoid the long line. Walk across the square to Blue Mosque. It is a working mosque. Dress modestly and follow the rules. Then head to the Basilica Cistern. It is an old underground water system with a magical feeling.
• Afternoon: Visit Topkapi Palace. It was home to the Ottoman sultans. The Harem section has extra stories to explore. Enjoy lunch with a view of the Bosphorus at a nearby cafe. Try Turkish pide or grilled fish.
• Evening: Relax in Gulhane Park, then walk to Eminonu Pier. Take a short Bosphorus cruise at sunset. The boat ride shows you both the European and Asian sides of the city. If you want a better experience, book a place on our Private Bosphorus Sunset Tour with a guide and snacks.

Why start here?
Sultanahmet is the center of old Istanbul. You can visit many places in a short time. It also helps you understand the city's long history.

Day 2: Galata, Karakoy and Taksim – Feel the City’s Energy

How to reach Galata from Sultanahmet?
You can take the T1 tram or walk across Galata Bridge.

• Morning: Start at Galata Tower. Go up to the top if the line is not too long. You will see a full view of the city. Walk through the narrow streets of Galata. This area is full of local cafes, bookstores and music shops.
• Afternoon: Walk to Karakoy, one of the coolest places in Istanbul. Have lunch at a small restaurant. Try meze plates or grilled octopus. If you enjoy art, visit Istanbul Modern Museum. Then explore Cihangir, a quiet area with old buildings and cats everywhere.
• Evening: Walk to Istiklal Street. This is the main shopping street in Istanbul. It is busy day and night. Visit Cicek Pasaji for dinner or walk to Nevizade Street for live music and street food. If you want to explore more, book our Istanbul Street Food Tour to enjoy a guided local experience.

Why visit these places?
These areas show the modern face of Istanbul. They are active, full of life and very different from Sultanahmet.

Day 3: Kadikoy and Uskudar – Discover the Asian Side

Is the Asian side of Istanbul worth visiting?
Yes. It is more local and calm. Many travelers say it is the best part of the city.

• Morning: Take a ferry to Kadikoy. It is a busy local area with lots of character. Visit Kadikoy Market for olives, cheese, Turkish delight and coffee. Have breakfast in Moda. You can find small cafes with fresh simit, eggs and tea.
• Afternoon: Walk to Moda Park and enjoy views of the Marmara Sea. Sit on the rocks and watch the ferries pass. Stop for ice cream or cold lemonade. Visit some local bookstores or vintage shops. The pace here is much slower than the European side.
• Evening: Take a short ferry to Uskudar. Walk by the seaside and visit Maiden’s Tower from the shore. Enjoy tea at one of the small cafes on the coast. Watch the sun set behind the city skyline. This is a peaceful way to end your trip. To make it even better, try our Asian Side Sunset Walking Tour with stops in Kadikoy, Moda and Uskudar.

Why finish here?
The Asian side gives you a full picture of Istanbul life. It is less touristy and offers a local view of the city.

Common Questions

Where is the best area to stay in Istanbul for 3 days?

• Stay in Sultanahmet if you want to walk to the top sights.
• Stay in Beyoglu or Taksim if you enjoy shopping and nightlife.
• Stay in Kadikoy if you want a local and quiet place.
• Check our Istanbul Hotel Guide 2025 for more ideas and hotel tours.

Is a guide needed for a short trip?
You can explore alone. But a guide helps you save time and understand more.

How to use transport in Istanbul?
Get an Istanbulkart at the airport or metro station. It works on trams, ferries, metros and buses. Use Google Maps or Moovit to check routes.

Istanbul is big, exciting and full of stories. This 3-day itinerary helps first-time visitors enjoy the highlights without stress. You will visit world-famous landmarks, eat great food and see two continents.

Want to explore Istanbul with a local? Try one of our top-rated walking tours in Sultanahmet, Taksim or Kadikoy. Make your 72 hours in Istanbul easy, fun and unforgettable. Book your experience now and start your adventure.