taytrum travels

Istanbul, at the crossroads between Asia and Europe, is a really exciting city to visit.

I personally had been wanting to go to Turkey for such a long time. In September 2024, I finally crossed Istanbul off my bucket list.

Here I break down what to see, do, and eat in Istanbul with a two-day Istanbul itinerary.

Istanbul Significance

Istanbul holds a unique position as a city that bridges two continents, Europe and Asia. It is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, a famous and strategic waterway connecting the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.

Its strategic location has made it a center of economic commerce and politics for thousands of years. Historically known as Byzantium and then later Constantinople, it served as the capital of three major empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.

Today it remains a major world travel destination and transit hub (there are TWO large airports). In Istanbul there are many historic landmarks to see and great foods to sample.

Related: First Timer’s Guide to Istanbul

Where to Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul is a buzzing and hilly city. Deciding where to stay is a big part of the planning process for many. That’s what took the most time for me. Here are a few of the best Istanbul neighborhoods to stay in (no particular ranking order):

Sultanahmet (Old City)

The historic heart of Istanbul, this neighborhood is home to most of Istanbul’s famous landmarks. This neighborhood is walkable and a popular choice for first-time visitors interested in history.

Here you’ll find the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.

For an exceptional hotel in this neighborhood, check out the deluxe rooms in the Seven Hills Palace Hotel.

Beyoğlu (Taksim and Galata Area)

Beyoğlu is a cosmopolitan neighborhood with modern and historic infrastructure and design. It is perfect for nightlife, shopping, and the arts.

Highlights include İstiklal Avenue and Galata Tower. There are many winding streets to wander and tons of food options. This is where I stayed for my first visit to Istanbul and found it well located.

Check out the DeCamondo Galata Hotel for something classy and sophisticated or The Soul for something more budget friendly (but still excellently rated).

Kadıköy (Asian Side)

A more relaxed and local experience with excellent food is the Kadıköy neighborhood.

Here you’ll find the Kadıköy Market with street food and fresh produce. You’ll also see great views of the Bosphorus from ferries and promenades.

An excellent five star hotel in Kadıköy is the Wyndhym Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel.

Day One Istanbul Itinerary

Because Istanbul is so large, this 48 hour Istanbul itinerary is organized to reduce the amount of back and forth – meaning it packs many things together by neighborhood.

On the first day, we’re going to start with the must-see, heavy hitters on a trip to Istanbul (especially if it is your first time). For day one, first head to the Old City and start off with tickets to the Hagia Sophia.

1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Hagia Sophia is the most famous thing to see in Istanbul. Even if you only have a day in Istanbul, definitely carve out time to see the Hagia Sofia.

It is known for having been a church and a mosque. Today it is also a museum. It is really the epitome of the crossroads between Europe and Asia.

I recommend booking tickets online in advance to save a little time and money. Women will also need to cover their heads and dress modestly. You can purchase a paper headscarf at the Hagia Sophia if needed.

2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

If you only had 12 hours in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque would be one of those things that just must be on the itinerary. Renowned for its blue-tiled interior and domes, this mosque is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s still an active place of worship.

Entrance to the Blue Mosque is free, but there is usually a line.

It is within walking distance to the Hagia Sophia. You can even combine a visit to both mosques with a guided tour. The tour price is a bit more than the ticket to the Hagia Sophia, but comes with the bonus of an informative guide.

Women can get a reusable headscarf for free as they enter the mosque. Women should be dressed modestly. Shoes must also be removed to enter.

Lunch: Day One

Istanbul has some of the best rooftop views in the world. There are rooftop bars on many of the buildings. Queb Lounge is a good option nearby to the Blue Mosque. It is 5-10 minute walk from the Blue Mosque and has amazing views.

At Queb Lounge you can have a mixed mezze platter, kebab, baklava, kunefe, musakka, and many other popular Turkish entres and treats.

4. Grand Bazaar

Next, you’ll head over to the Grand Bazaar. One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, it features hundreds of shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.

The Grand Bazaar dates back to 1461, built shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.

Given its popularity, the Grand Bazaar is a bit of a tourist trap. Things are overpriced, but it is free to wander around inside. I still recommend going.

This is a great spot to sample some of Turkey’s popular dishes and bites like lokum.

5. Basilica Cistern

This underground complex features a maze of illuminated columns and famous Medusa heads.

Built in 532 CE during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, the Basilica Cistern is a prominent example of Byzantine engineering.

If you’re visiting in the summer, this could be a great thing to see to escape the heat.

I opted to skip the Basilica Cistern due to the ticket cost at about $30 per person, but I’ve heard from friends that have gone that it is really cool.

If you have 48 hours in Istanbul with kids, I think they’ll especially love visiting the Basilica Cistern.

8. Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

This Istanbul market is filled with aromatic spices, dried fruits, teas, and Turkish delights. There are a lot of covered and enclosed markets and stalls, making it a good choice if the weather is bad.

While the shop owners do of course want you to buy or sample their products, I didn’t find this market to be overwhelming or shop owners to be excessively pushy or confrontational.

It’s a great place to wander around and pick up yummy Istanbul souvenirs.

Related: Budget-Friendly Things to do in Dubai

9. Explore Balat

For the next stop, you’ll need to hop in a cab or catch the bus. We’re heading northwest to a different neighborhood. Balat is one of Istanbul’s most colorful neighborhoods and it is growing in popularity especially among Instagrammers.

Balat was home to Istanbul’s Jewish community for centuries, with synagogues like Ahrida Synagogue.

Be sure to wander on over to the popular Coloured Houses of Balat (Balat Renkli Evler). While Balat is cool, there isn’t actually too much to do over here besides wander and snap photos. There are some shops and restaurants, but it is mostly residential.

Dinner: Day One

For dinner in Istanbul on day one, stay in Balat and eat at Old Balat Cafe and Kitchen. From the outside it is a bit underwhelming, but it is cozy inside and the food is delicious. You can even see the kitchen from most tables. There are many vegetarian options. They even end the meal with free tea and baklava.

Day Two Istanbul Itinerary

For day two in Istanbul, you’ll revisit the popular Old City briefly and then head over to a new area.

1. Topkapi Palace

First, start with the famous Topkapi Palace. For nearly 400 years (1465–1856), Topkapi Palace was the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.

Topkapi Palace became a museum in 1924, following the establishment of the Turkish Republic by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

The palace’s location has great views of the Bosphorus.

In all honesty, I skipped Topkapi Palace because the ticket price is about $60 per person for foreign visitors. It felt too expensive for me, but for many people this is a can’t miss Istanbul landmark.

2. Taksim Square

After Topkapi, you’ll catch a taxi or the bus to head over Taksim Square (about 20 minutes by car). Taksim Square is a historic large plaza in Istanbul and is considered the city’s main gathering place.

At the center of the square stands the Republic Monument (Cumhuriyet Anıtı), erected in 1928 to commemorate the founding of the Turkish Republic. It features Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the country’s founder.

Taksim has been a focal point for historical events and political demonstrations. In the 1980s and 1990s, protests were often centered around democratic rights.

The iconic red trams run through the plaza. Recently, the impressive Taksim Mosque officially opened in 2021.

The square is a great spot to people-watch and meander. If you need a snack, there are also a lot of street vendors and chain cafes around.

2. İstiklal Avenue

İstiklal Avenue is one of the busiest streets in the world, with nearly 3 million visitors per day on weekends.

This is a popular, main avenue in Istanbul along which you’ll find Homer Books, a famous bookshop. You’ll also find lots of touristy souvenir shops here if you’re looking for a magnet, keychain, or other goodie.

There is also a historic red tram on the avenue. The nostalgic red tram is a revival of an old tramway that operated from the late 19th century until 1961. This same tram later returned and loops through Taksim Square.

Keep an eye out for the popular ice cream storefronts. The hawkers here famously serve ice cream scoops out to guests on a long stick and perform tricks and flips, keeping the treat just out of the client’s grasp. Purchase and play along for fun.

Lunch: Day Two

Just off of Istiklal Caddesi is Cicek Pasaji, a pretty covered area with shops and restaurants. This is a perfect spot for a break after a lot of walking and have lunch at Bilice Kebap.

3. Galata Tower

Further down the way, you’ll see Galata Tower. At the Galata Tower you can climb up for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, including the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. There is also a small museum at the base. Admission in 2024 was over $30, so I honestly skipped it but it is cool to see from the ground.

The view in the picture below can be found from the second floor of Viyana Kahvesi Galata.

4. Bosphorus Cruise

Next, you’ll head over to a further away area of the city: Beşiktaş. You’ll find waterfront opportunities here to take a boat ride to see the city from the water. You’ll pass charming waterfront neighborhoods and the Bosphorus Bridge. It is a good way to see a lot of the city from a relaxing vantage point.

This was surprisingly better than expected and is quite affordable. You cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. There are a few indoor and outdoor decks on the boats.

Cruising the Bosphorus can be done at night too and even includes a dinner on some tours.

5. Ortaköy Square

Head to Ortaköy Square to see the pretty Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Located along the Bosphorus in the Beşiktaş district, this area is also a popular local hang out with lots of street vendors.

Surprisingly, one of the most popular foods to eat here is a custom loaded baked potato (kumpir). Great snack idea.

You can also catch a boat for a Bosphorus cruise from Ortaköy Square.

6. Yildiz Parki at Besiktas

Later, head to Yildiz Parki for a calm and pleasant walk around a park. Head to Çikolata Mahzeni for a little dessert and Turkish tea.

If you have the time and energy, you can check out the Dolmabahçe Palace very close by.

7. Turkish Spa and Bath

With 48 hours in Istanbul, you have a bit more time to relax. A Turkish bath is a great way to appreciate the extra time.

This is especially a great option for 48 hours in Istanbul for couples.

Unlike a sauna, a hammam uses warm, humid air to open pores and cleanse the skin. The highlight is the scrubbing session with a rough mitt (kese) that removes dead skin.

Dinner: Day Two

For dinner, I highly recommend Molto Bene Galata, an Italian restaurant with great atmosphere and excellent service. Located off of a smaller street, the setting is more intimate. They have amazing pizza and pasta. Reservations are recommended!

How to Get to Istanbul

Getting to Istanbul depends on your starting place and preferred method of travel. Here I detail three common ways to get there: air, sea, and land.

Istanbul by Air

Istanbul Airport (IST): The city’s main international gateway, serving flights from most major cities worldwide.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Located on the Asian side, it primarily handles domestic and regional international flights.

Verify which airport you are using – especially for the flight out of Istanbul!

Use taxis, airport shuttles (Havaist for IST, Havabus for SAW), or public transportation (metro lines or buses) to get from the airport to the city. In both cases, the airports are pretty far from the center of the city.

I used a taxi for simplicity. While more expensive, I arrived late and was exhausted. There’s an 11-hour difference between Istanbul and where I live, so with that and nearly a whole day of travel, I didn’t want to wait for public transit. It was worth the expense in my opinion. If you arrive from Europe or arrive at a better time in the day, you may be able to cut down on that expense.

Istanbul by Land

Train: If you’re already in Europe, you can travel to Istanbul via international rail connections like the Balkan Express or other regional trains. Istanbul’s Halkalı station serves international routes, and you can connect to the city center using Marmaray trains.

Bus: Long-distance buses are popular affordable options for travel from European cities, the Balkans, or neighboring countries. Major bus terminals like Esenler Otogar link Istanbul with domestic and international destinations.

Istanbul by Sea

Cruise ships often dock at Istanbul’s Galataport. In fact many small river cruises through Europe start in Istanbul. Additionally, ferries connect Istanbul with nearby cities like Bursa or Yalova.

Getting Around in Istanbul

After London, Istanbul has the second-oldest underground railway system in the world. The Tünel, which opened in 1875, is still in operation and runs a short but steep route in the Karaköy district.

There is good public transit in Istanbul, as well as many taxis and Uber. I primarily used taxis. Uber was less reliable.

Summary

Whether you have 24 hours in Istanbul or two days, this itinerary is geared to help you efficiently organize your quick visit to Istanbul.

From the Hagia Sofia to a refreshing Turkish bath, this two-day Istanbul itinerary features the must-see sites, but saves room for little Turkish coffee and tea stops along the way. Browse Homer Books and people watch in Taksim Square. Wander through the bazaars and enjoy plenty of great Turkish food. You’ll just be scratching the surface of Istanbul.

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