2 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 2 days in Istanbul:

Day 1:

• Start your day with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. This former church and mosque is now a museum and is a must-see attraction.
• After the Hagia Sophia, head to the Blue Mosque, which is just a short walk away. This stunning mosque is known for its intricate blue tiles and is a great place to take photos.
• Next, head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, spices, textiles, and more.
• For lunch, head to a local restaurant and try some traditional Turkish cuisine, such as kebabs, meze, or baklava.
• In the afternoon, take a Bosphorus cruise to see the city from the water. You'll pass by beautiful palaces, mosques, and bridges, and get a unique perspective of Istanbul.
• End your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Here, you can see the palace's stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and impressive collections of art and artifacts.

Day 2:

• Start your day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir that dates back to the Byzantine era. This unique attraction is known for its beautiful columns and eerie atmosphere.
• Next, head to the Spice Bazaar, another famous market in Istanbul. Here, you can shop for spices, teas, sweets, and other local products.
• For lunch, try some street food, such as simit (a sesame-covered bread) or doner kebab (a type of sandwich).
• In the afternoon, visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from Turkey's ancient civilizations.
• End your day with a visit to the Galata Tower, a medieval tower that offers stunning views of the city. You can climb to the top and enjoy a panoramic view of Istanbul at sunset.

Of course, there are many other things to see and do in Istanbul, but this itinerary should give you a good taste of the city's history, culture, and cuisine. Enjoy your trip!