4 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Here's an ideal itinerary for 4 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 for any visitor to the city.
• After the Hagia Sophia, head to the Blue Mosque, which is just a short walk away. This stunning mosque is known for its intricate tile work and is a great place to learn about Islamic architecture.
• For lunch, head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here you can find everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.
• In the afternoon, take a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and take in some of the stunning architecture along the waterfront.

Day 2:

• Start your day with a visit to Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. This sprawling complex includes beautiful gardens, courtyards, and museums that showcase the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire.
• After Topkapi Palace, head to the nearby Basilica Cistern, an underground water storage system that dates back to the 6th century. This eerie and atmospheric space is a unique and fascinating attraction.
• For lunch, head to the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy, which is known for its cafes, restaurants, and street art.
• In the afternoon, visit the Istanbul Modern Museum, which showcases contemporary Turkish art. This is a great way to learn about the city's vibrant art scene.

Day 3:

• Start your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, another iconic market in Istanbul. Here you can find a wide variety of spices, teas, and sweets.
• After the Spice Bazaar, head to the nearby Galata Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. You can also visit the nearby Galata Bridge, which is a popular spot for fishing and street performers.
• For lunch, head to the neighborhood of Beyoglu, which is known for its cafes, bars, and restaurants.
• In the afternoon, visit the Chora Church, which is known for its stunning mosaics and frescoes. This church is a bit off the beaten path but is well worth the visit.

Day 4:

• Start your day with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace, another former residence of the Ottoman sultans. This palace is known for its opulent decor and beautiful gardens.
• After Dolmabahce Palace, head to the nearby Ortakoy neighborhood, which is known for its beautiful mosque and waterfront cafes.
• For lunch, head to the neighborhood of Kadikoy on the Asian side of the city. This neighborhood is known for its street food and lively atmosphere.
• In the afternoon, visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations. This is a great way to learn about the city's rich history.

I hope this itinerary gives you some ideas for your trip to Istanbul! Let me know if you have any questions or if there's anything else I can help you with.