Our visit to Istanbul was a last-minute addition to our itinerary, so we had just 2 days to explore, but we certainly made the best of them. If your time is short in Istanbul, here’s our whirlwind 2-day itinerary to make the most of your visit:
Day 1
Morning:
- Hagia Sophia: Start your day at the iconic Hagia Sophia. While the exterior is a work of art, the interior is stunning with its intricate mosaics and impressive dome. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Istanbul.
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): Walk to the nearby Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles. The atmosphere was both peaceful and bustling. Do remember to dress modestly with legs covered and women should bring a scarf to cover your hair. They also require you to remove your shoes, so keep that in mind when choosing your footwear for the day.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Ayasofya Kebap House, near Sultanahmet Square. They have traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, Köfte , baklava, and Turkish delight.
- Topkapi Palace: Visit the the former royal residence of the Ottoman sultans. Explore its opulent rooms, harem section, and the stunning views from the terraces. The palace grounds are vast, with lush gardens, courtyards, and numerous buildings. The terraces are great places to take some good photos, as they overlook the Bosphorus and you can see the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in the distance.
- Basilica Cistern: The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir beneath the streets of Istanbul. There’s dim lighting, dripping water, Medusa heads…eerie, yet interesting.
Evening:
- Grand Bazaar: Stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. There are leather goods, jewelry, carpets, spices, and more. This is a great place to buy gifts and souvenirs and bargaining is expected.
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner with at view Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop. They have good atmosphere, great food, and fabulous views.
Day 2
Morning:
- Dolmabahçe Palace: Explore the Dolmabahçe Palace, a grand Ottoman palace along the Bosphorus. Don’t miss the Crystal Staircase and the grand chandelier in the Ceremonial Hall.
- Galata Tower: Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. Be aware that the tower is quite narrow, which may make it challenging for people with mobility issues or claustrophobia. It’s a tight spiral staircase, so it can get a bit crowded.
Lunch:
- Ortaköy: Enjoy a casual lunch in Ortaköy, a charming neighborhood along the Bosphorus. Try a “kumpir” (loaded baked potato) from one of the street vendors.
Afternoon:
- Istiklal Avenue: Head to Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul’s bustling shopping and entertainment street. Explore the shops, galleries, and street performances.
- Bosphorus Cruise: I just love a city cruise and a cruise on the Bosphorus is no exception. Admire the city’s skyline, see iconic landmarks, and watch the sunset from a luxury yacht.
Evening:
- Dinner in Karaköy: For dinner, visit the trendy neighborhood of Karaköy and enjoy some fresh seafood at Octo.
- Istanbul’s Nightlife: If you’re up for it, experience Istanbul’s nightlife at Nardi’s Jazz Club, a cozy place with good music and ambiance.
So, there you go! Whatever you do, be sure to enjoy your time in this beautiful city!
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