Ultimate 4 Days In Istanbul Itinerary For An Epic Trip

Where to Stay During 4 Days in Istanbul

Choosing the right accommodation in the right area is key when traveling, especially in massive cities. To follow this Istanbul 4 days itinerary, you’ll want to stay in either the Eminonu or Galata districts – they’re super central and will save you a lot of travel time.

Eminonu is a good choice for hotels, with budget-friendly prices and an ideal location for exploring on foot and taking the metro or ferry to more remote areas.

Galata is also well located for sightseeing and is one of the best places to go out at night and enjoy Istanbul’s nightlife.

I’ve handpicked below the best hotels to stay in these 2 neighborhoods, whatever your travel style:

✅ Best Hotel – Empire Suite Hotel: Located in Eminonu district right close to Sirkeci station, this is the best value for money accommodation you could find! Great location close to the most famous sights and outstanding services for a reasonable price!

💰 Best Budget Hotel – Hostel Le Banc: This place is a steal, especially considering how close it is to Galata Tower! They’ve got awesome service (9.5 on Booking!) and offer both dormitory beds and private rooms at fantastic prices. Plus, the breakfast options are delicious!

✨ Best Luxury Hotel – The Bank Hotel Istanbul: You’ll have an unforgettable stay in this wonderful 5-star hotel. Located only 4-minute walk from Galata Tower, this hotel offers high-standard rooms with a wide choice for breakfast and excellent staff.

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Now that you know where you’ll be staying, let’s tackle the itinerary!
 

Day 1 – Discover Sultanahmet

For the first day of this 4 day Istanbul itinerary, I’m taking you to discover Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s old town. This is where you’ll find the city’s most iconic landmarks, making it the perfect starting point!

Let’s aim to get there by 9.30 am to beat the crowds and be able to execute today’s plan. You can grab breakfast at your hotel, or a local café, or just pack some snacks.

Since we’ll be visiting several mosques today, dressing right is key. Avoid wearing anything too short, and bring along a scarf to cover your head.

1. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is not just Istanbul’s most famous monument, but it’s also the most iconic and visited! And honestly, it’s my favorite mosque in town.
 

 
Dating back to the early 6th century, it started as a church and then, nearly a millennium later, was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans. This blend of Christian and Islamic influences gives Hagia Sophia its one-of-a-kind look, combining the features of a church with those of a mosque.

You can visit it for free when it’s not prayer time. It’s extremely popular, so the earlier you get there, the better to skip the long lines and the tourist rush inside.
 

2. Topkapi Palace

Just a stone’s throw from Hagia Sophia, a short stroll will take you to Topkapi Palace, arguably one of the most stunning palaces in Turkey. This historical gem, now a museum, was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans until the 19th century.
 

 
The most striking feature of Topkapi? Its massive size! Spanning roughly 45,000 square meters, the palace complex includes an array of buildings, pavilions, a harem, gardens, and even two mosques. Count about 3 hours if you really want to delve into all its nooks and crannies.

A visit to Topkapi allows you to learn more about the country’s history, thanks to its magnificent, eye-popping exhibitions. Plus, you’re treated to incredible views of the Bosphorus and the cityscape.

3. Blue Mosque

Right across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Camii, stands proudly as one of the largest mosques in Istanbul and Turkey. With 6 minarets and 13 domes, it’s an absolute marvel.
 

 
Built in the 17th century, it’s famously known as the Blue Mosque because of the stunning blue Iznik tiles that decorate its interior. Once you step inside, you’re treated to a shower of light filtered through some 200 stained-glass windows.

To fully appreciate its splendor and take the best photos, approach the mosque from the center of the Hippodrome rather than from the park. This way, you can fully soak in its grandeur.
 

4. Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is one of the two visitable underground cisterns in Istanbul, and it’s definitely the most beautiful one.
 

 
Built in 534 under Emperor Justinian, this massive cistern stretches 140 meters in length and 70 meters in width, with the capacity to hold 80,000 cubic meters of water. Its ceiling is held up by 336 enormous marble columns, making for a breathtaking sight.

Wandering among these towering columns, with their reflections in the water and the enigmatic atmosphere all around, you’ll be mesmerized by the architecture that has stood the test of time.

5. Yeni Cami Mosque

Take a ten-minute stroll through the district’s lively streets to reach the magnificent Yeni Camii Mosque on the banks of the Bosphorus in Eminonu Square.
 

 
Despite its name, which means “New Mosque,” its construction dates back to 1597, and it wasn’t completed until 1665, delayed by numerous political and geographical challenges.

Now, Yeni Cami stands as one of the most beautiful mosques in the city. With its towering vaults, colorful stained glass, intricate tiles, and a lavish interior of marble and gold, it’s a masterpiece that’s unmissable.
 

6. Suleymaniye Mosque

Your final stop for the day is the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque. Just as beautiful as the others, it offers a breathtaking view of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and the Galata Bridge.
 

 
Built between 1550 and 1557 by the architect Sinan, this mosque is so much more than a place of worship. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and includes a complex with a hospital, kitchen, Quranic school, public baths, and more.

Located a fifteen-minute walk from Yeni Cami, it’s a little less crowded than the others, as it’s perched atop a hill. The climb is surely worth it for the peace and the views you’ll enjoy.

Tip: To cap off your day beautifully, I suggest staying in the Suleymaniye Mosque area for the evening. There are plenty of bars and restaurants, all with rooftops where you can enjoy the view, ideal for sunset. I tried Giriftar Cafe, which was amazing.

Day 2 – Fatih District & Galata

Day 2 is all about diving into the local Stamboulite lifestyle, where you’ll get to see a totally different side of the city compared to what we explored yesterday.

To fit in all the exciting experiences planned, aim to be at our first stop by 9 am. Comfort is key since we’ll be walking quite a bit, but there’s no mosque visit today, so feel free to dress in whatever style suits you best.
 

1. Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar

There’s nothing quite like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar for an authentic experience! Let’s kick off the day with a shopping spree there, where you can pick up some unique souvenirs to bring back home.
 

 
The Grand Bazaar is the world’s largest covered market, with some 60 streets and over 4,000 stores. You’ll find everything from silk garments and jewelry to leather goods and carpets. Just a stone’s throw away, the Spice (or Egyptian) Bazaar is your go-to spot for a colorful array of spices and fragrances.

If you like to bargain, then you’ll love it here, as it’s downright cultural. The listed prices are just the starting point and it’s not unusual to snag items for 50% off or even more. But it’s an art to be mastered!

2. Unwind in a Hammam

To relax after your shopping session, there’s nothing better than trying a hammam, an essential part of Turkish culture. Don’t worry, there are options for mixed and single-sex baths, and you’re welcome to wear a swimsuit in either.

Close to the Grand Bazaar, one of the top Turkish baths to check out is Vezneciler. Established in the 15th century, this historical bath offers a whole range of treatments in a stunning setting, complete with a cup of tea to finish off the ritual.

This relaxing break is sure to recharge you for the rest of your day’s adventures. Just remember to book ahead to ensure you get to experience this tradition.
 

3. Explore Balat/Fener

A fifteen-minute bus ride from the Vezneciler Historic Bath, you’ll discover the charming and picturesque neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, both proudly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
 

These areas were once the Christian and Jewish quarters of Constantinople and have now evolved into trendy, vibrant parts of Istanbul. You’ll be enchanted by the colorful Ottoman houses, beautiful religious buildings, hip shops and cafés, kids playing in the streets, and laundry fluttering from the windows, all adding to the area’s unique charm.

As you meander through these streets, you’re sure to find delightful surprises at every turn. Just be prepared to see lots of Instagrammers in the area.
 

4. Climb Galata Tower

From Fener, take the bus or ferry to the other side of Istanbul and discover the city’s most famous Galata Tower.
 

 
Built by the Genoese in the mid-14th century, the Galata Tower has a rich history. It started as a lookout for incoming ships, then served as a prison, and was even used as an astrological observation tower. In the 1960s, it underwent a makeover, adding a restaurant and an auditorium to its top floor.

The best time to visit Galata Tower is at sunset, although be prepared for a bit of a crowd. The wait might be long, but the breathtaking views from the panoramic deck are worth it. And after the climb, I invite you to explore the neighborhood around, the atmosphere is really cool.

5. Spend the evening in Karakoy

Karakoy is Istanbul’s trendiest neighborhood, situated at the foot of the Galata Tower and stretching from the banks of the Golden Horn to the Bosphorus.
 

 
This district, with its past as a hub for trade, carries a unique cultural heritage from the Ottoman Empire. Today, it’s home to some of the city’s most beautiful historic buildings, which have been transformed into cafés, boutiques, restaurants, bakeries… The vibe here is a bit artsy and bohemian, yet the shops and architecture have kept their authenticity.

Karakoy is also one of Istanbul’s nightlife hotspots. On weekend nights, it’s very lively and perfect for partying into the wee hours in pubs, bars, clubs, or music venues.

Read more: The Best Things to Do in Karakoy

Day 3 – Modern Istanbul & More

On day 3, we’ll be discovering the modern part of Istanbul, but that’s not all. We’ll head north along the Bosphorus and visit some of the city’s must-see attractions.

Just like the previous days, it’s best to start early and hit the road by 9 am. Today’s itinerary includes a mosque visit, so remember to dress appropriately and pack a headscarf along.
 

1. Istiklal & Taksim Square

Let’s kick off the day with a visit to the bustling Istiklal Avenue, a true meeting point in Istanbul for both locals and visitors.
 

 
This lively pedestrian street connects Taksim Square to Galata Tower and is famous for its arcades, shops, and eateries. Since this street is a haven for foodies, I suggest grabbing breakfast here. You should definitely try a Turkish Breakfast at Lades Menemen or some Turkish pastries at Hafiz Mustafa.

It’s on this street that you can also take photos of the iconic early 20th-century red tramway. You can even catch a ride on it to Taksim Square, where you’ll see the Republic Monument.
 

2. Dolmabahçe Palace

From Taksim Square, it’s a 10-minute bus ride or 20-minute walk to one of Turkey’s most beautiful castles, Dolmabahçe Palace.
 

 
This stunning 19th-century palace, situated right on the waterfront, was the Ottoman Empire’s first palace built in a European style. It served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans right up until the transition to a republic.

Now converted into a museum, this palace will amaze you with its prestige and luxury. It’s home to the largest collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the world and boasts a magnificent Baccarat crystal staircase. Allow 2-3 hours to fully appreciate its splendor, and perhaps enjoy a short break under the café’s beautiful glass roof.

3. Besiktas Self-Guided Walk

Let’s spend some more time in the vibrant Besiktas district, nestled right in the heart of the area bounded by Dolmabahçe Palace, Barbaros Avenue, and Ciragan Palace.

This district buzzes with energy all day long, offering a perfect mix of the old and new with its stunning palaces, historic mosques, modern shopping centers, and an array of restaurants, cafés, and bars. You’re sure to enjoy the lively vibe of the Fisherman’s Market or see the tomb of Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha. You might want to take the opportunity to grab a bite to eat, either street food or in a restaurant.

As you head north, you’ll come across Yildiz Park and its palace, an ideal spot for a peaceful break away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.
 

4. Ortakoy Mosque

Continuing our journey in the Besiktas area, let’s take a moment to explore the Ortakoy Mosque. It’s arguably the most picturesque mosque in Istanbul, set against a stunning backdrop, and it’s one of my personal favorites!
 

 
Built in the 19th century, the mosque showcases a Baroque architectural style, much in vogue in French and Italian palaces of the 18th century. Its exterior, complete with two minarets, is beautifully complemented by the Bosphorus Bridge in the distance. Inside, the mosque may be small, but it’s wonderfully bright, adorned with light colors and gilding.

At sunset, this mosque is simply breathtaking. It’s no wonder that couples and newlyweds flock here for the perfect photoshoot backdrop.

5. Cruise the Bosphorus at Night

A Bosphorus cruise is an incredible way to experience Istanbul, giving you a glimpse of both its European and Asian sides.
 

 
As you sail, you’ll be treated to views of stunning palaces and historic buildings lining the shores. Among the various cruise choices, I highly suggest this 3-hour sunset cruise, which sets sail from the port of Kabatas, just a quick 15-minute bus ride from the Ortakoy Mosque.

This cruise isn’t just a sightseeing journey; it’s an immersive cultural experience. You’ll get to enjoy delicious Turkish dishes and watch a traditional dance show, all while soaking in the breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul.

Day 4 – Exploring the Asian side

On this final day in Istanbul, we’re venturing out to explore the city’s Asian side, known as Anatolia. Conventional guidebooks tend to overlook this part of the city, even though it’s brimming with places to see and things to do.

To make the most of this day, I suggest starting around 9 am so you can take your time. You might need to use transportation a bit more than on the other days, and remember to pack your scarf (yes, we’ve got one more mosque to check out!).
 

1. Çamlica Mosque

Perched on a promontory in Uskudar, the Çamlıca Mosque isn’t just any mosque – it’s the largest in Turkey!
 

 
This beautiful mosque was completed in 2019, making it a new addition to the city’s skyline, visible even from the European side. Its dimensions are remarkable: 6 minarets, a 72-meter central dome, and no less than 17,000 square meters of hand-woven carpets cover its floor, which can accommodate up to 25,000 people, 63,000 with the inner courtyard.

But the Çamlıca Mosque is more than just a place of worship, it’s a complex that includes a museum dedicated to Islamic arts, an art gallery, a library, and studios for artists.

2. Beylerbeyi Palace

Just a brief 20-minute bus ride from the Çamlıca Mosque, you’ll find the charming Beylerbeyi Palace.
 

 
Completed in 1865, this palace shares a touch of Dolmabahçe’s elegance with its marble facade and scenic riverside location, yet it’s more humble. It used to be the summer residence for sultans and has since been transformed into a museum. The palace features six grand halls, 24 rooms, and lovely courtyards open to the public.

The palace also boasts an attractive garden and offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge, making it a must-visit spot.

3. Explore Kuzguncuk

Kuzguncuk, a picturesque and authentic neighborhood, is just a quick 15-minute bus ride from Beylerbeyi Palace.
 

 
This area initially provided refuge to Jews escaping Europe during the Inquisition and later became a hub for Armenian and Greek communities. Today, Kuzguncuk has preserved its traditional charm with its vibrant Ottoman wooden houses, and it’s also become a hip area, filled with trendy cafés and restaurants.

You can have lunch here, then set off to explore the traditional houses that make this neighborhood so special.
 

4. Sunset at the Maiden’s Tower

The must-see monument on the Asian side is the Maiden’s Tower or Kiz Kulesi in Turkish. And there’s no better way to end this Istanbul 4-day itinerary.
 

 
This lighthouse was built on a small island on the Bosphorus in 408 B.C. by the Athenian general Alcibiades to keep an eye on enemy ships. Over time, it underwent various modifications by the Byzantines and later the Ottomans and now stands as one of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks.

Today, you can hop on a small boat to visit it, enjoy a coffee, or even dine in its restaurant. Or, it’s just as delightful to admire it from the shore, especially during a breathtaking sunset.

4-Day Istanbul FREE Map

I’ve made a map of this 4-day itinerary (the same one I used!) to make it super easy for you to follow, especially while you’re exploring.

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Tips to Know Before Traveling to Istanbul

Here are a few useful info & tips to know before going to Istanbul:

1. Visa: Depending on your country of origin, you may or may not need a visa to enter Turkey (US citizens need one for example). Don’t panic though, the process is simple, check here whether you need to apply for a visa here.

2. Currency & payment: In Turkey, the currency is the Turkish lira. The exchange rate is rarely advantageous at airports, so it’s best to exchange a little change for immediate expenses (metro, cab, food) and change more in town. There are also ATMs everywhere in town, just beware of exchange fees.

3. Best time to visit: The best time to travel to Istanbul is during the shoulder seasons, especially from April to early June and from September to October. If you can, avoid visiting during the high season (July-August) due to the crowds and heat.

4. Airports: Istanbul has 2 airports, Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side, and Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side. Shuttle buses and subways link these airports to the city center in around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

5. Getting around: For navigating Istanbul and using the transport system (subway, tram, bus, ferry), simply buy an Istanbulkart from a machine and top it up with the amount you want. In the city center, avoid using cars and buses because the traffic can be quite hectic. And just so you know, Uber is available in Turkey if you find yourself needing it.
 

The Istanbulkart

6. Internet: You won’t find Wi-Fi everywhere in Istanbul. To avoid getting lost when getting around Istanbul, I recommend you buy an eSim or Pocket wifi for the duration of your stay. It’ll make a huge difference in your travel experience!

7. Dress code: You can dress as you like in Istanbul, except in mosques, where you have to cover up. So always carry a scarf with you in case you want to visit a mosque!

8. Safety: Istanbul is a safe city where you’re unlikely to face any major security issues. As with any big city, the usual precautions apply – keep an eye on your luggage and personal belongings, and it’s best not to wander alone at night in secluded areas. Concerns about terrorism exist, but Istanbul isn’t more dangerous in this regard than cities like Paris or London.

Read more: 20+ Best Tips to Travel Turkey

FAQ About Visiting Istanbul in 4 Days

Is 4 days enough in Istanbul?

Spending four days in Istanbul is enough to visit the must-see monuments, discover some cool neighborhoods, do some shopping, taste traditional food, and set foot on the Asian shore. But as I’ve already said several times through this post, Istanbul is incredibly huge! So to really see everything, you’d need at least a good week of sightseeing.

Depending on what you’re after and your pace of visit, four days could be plenty especially as the city is a great short city trip destination. As you’ve seen, this 4-day itinerary covers a lot of things and I think it’s enough. But if traveling with young kids, it might be a good idea to add an extra day just to keep things relaxed.

In any case, whether you have more or less than 4 days, Istanbul is always worth a visit! 

Only have a single day in Istanbul? Check out this 24-hour itinerary now! 

Which area in Istanbul is best to stay for tourists?

The best areas to stay in Istanbul for tourists are:

• Sultanahmet, Istanbul Old Town. This is where you’ll find the most famous monuments and attractions such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. It’s a bit more expensive than in other areas though.
• Galata district, where the Galata Tower is located, is central and ideal for going out. What’s more, it’s just a stone’s throw from the Karakoy district, another great hotspot.
• Eminonu hits the sweet spot with 3 perfect perks: it’s right in the city center, affordable prices, and a peaceful atmosphere for a good night’s sleep!

What are the best foods to try in Istanbul?

Turkish cuisine is absolutely delicious, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with all the amazing options! But in my opinion, the must-try dishes on a trip to Istanbul are the following:

• Turkish breakfast: this is more like a hearty brunch than a breakfast! Trying one is the best way to sample a bunch of traditional dishes all at once.
• Balik ekmek: it’s a small fish sandwich you can easily find along the Bosphorus River, simply delicious!
• Borek: This savory pastry comes in all sorts of varieties, like with cheese, potatoes, spinach, or even meat.
• Turkish delights: also known as lokum, these fruit jelly cakes come in all colors and textures. It makes an ideal gift for your loved ones.
• Lahmacun: It looks like pizza, but its dough is very flat, in the style of the pita. It’s served with a slightly spicy tomato, parsley, and onion sauce, vegetarian or with meat.

The list could go on, but as long as you get to sample a bit of everything, you’re all set for a delicious experience!

Read more: Top 14 Must Eat in Istanbul

Turkish delights in the Spice Bazaar

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I hope you enjoy this 4 days Istanbul itinerary! If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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