Istanbul 2 Day Itinerary

Istanbul 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Historic Peninsula

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Kaymakamya, located in the Sultanahmet district.
  • Sightseeing: Visit the iconic Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Museum, two of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, located just steps away from each other.
  • Sightseeing: Take a short walk to the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir that dates back to the Byzantine era.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local eatery known for its delicious meatballs and traditional Turkish dishes.
  • Sightseeing: Visit the Topkapi Palace Museum, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, which houses an extensive collection of treasures, relics, and artifacts.
  • Activity: Take a relaxing boat trip on the Bosphorus Strait to admire the city’s skyline from the water.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Dine at Norikahane Balıkçısı, a seafood restaurant located on the Istiklal Street, for some delicious fresh fish and seafood dishes.
  • Entertainment: Explore the vibrant nightlife in Beyoğlu district, with a visit to Istiklal Avenue and the hip Tünel Street.

Day 2: Discover Modern Istanbul

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at Eleos Patisserie, located in the Karaköy district, offering an array of delicious pastries and coffees.
  • Sightseeing: Visit the Taksim Square and the nearby Atatürk Cultural Center, a multi-purpose arts complex designed by the renowned architect Louis Kahn.
  • Activity: Take a stroll through the charming neighborhood of Balat, home to many historical Orthodox churches and vibrant street art.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Savor a meal at Hamdi Restaurant in the Eminönü district, famous for its traditional Turkish dishes such as lamb shanks and grilled octopus.
  • Sightseeing: Visit the Rumeli Hisarı, a massive fortress built by Sultan Mehmed II before the conquest of Constantinople in 1453.
  • Activity: Take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands, a chain of nine idyllic islands where cars are banned, and explore them by bike or horse-drawn carriage.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Dine at Çiya Sofrası, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Kadıköy district, offering a variety of Anatolian dishes and flavors.
  • Entertainment: Experience the lively nightlife in Kadıköy at Moda Beach or at one of the many bars and clubs in the neighborhood.

Things to know:

  • Istanbul is a vibrant and bustling city, with plenty of things to see and do. It’s best to plan ahead and prioritize your must-see attractions.
  • The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • Istanbul’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. The İstanbulkart is a rechargeable smart card that can be used for buses, trams, metros, and ferries throughout the city.
  • Tipping is customary in Istanbul, with 10% being the standard amount.
  • English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but it’s always helpful to learn a few phrases in Turkish.

Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!