Where life is greatWhere life is greatWhere life is greatWhere life is great
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
    • Tips & stories
    • Adventures
  • Destinations
  • Contact Me
  • Presets Bundle
  • panoramic-cappadocia-banner
3-days-in-istanbul

How to spend 3 epic days in Istanbul

By Marta | Europe | 9 comments | 25 August, 2017 | 3
Share122
Tweet
Pin7.0K
7.1K Shares

Istanbul, one of the biggest cities in the World, with its population of 15 mln people, is also one of the most fascinating places I have visited. It is the only city that lies on two continents, where European spirit meets Islamic culture, and where Asia and Europe are interconnected. This summer, I decided it is the high time to visit this intriguing metropolis. If you are heading to Istanbul anytime soon, look no further – here is my list of best things to do In Istanbul split in 3 exciting days.

Contents

      • 0.0.1 Day 1
  • 1 EMBRACE THE CULTURE & HISTORY
    • 1.1 GALATA BRIDGE & KARAKOY
      • 1.1.1 Day 2
    • 1.2 SHOPPING & SOAKING
      • 1.2.1 Day 3
    • 1.3 BOSPHORUS TRIP
    • 1.4 WHERE TO SLEEP
    • 1.5 WHERE TO EAT
      • 1.5.1 TIPS
  • 2 PIN IT

Day 1

EMBRACE THE CULTURE & HISTORY

3-days-in-istanbul

I am sure it is no surprise to say that Istanbul is full of history. Start your day early and head to Sultanahmet, the old town of Istanbul, and you will be not only able to avoid queues but also take beautiful pictures without crowds.

Sultan Ahmet Camii was high on my list of places to see. You probably know it by the name of Blue Mosque which was given to it for its beautiful blue tiles that fill the interior. But also from the outside, the mosque is a stunning beauty. It is 400 years old, and it is one of only two mosques in Turkey that have six minarets.

3-days-in-istanbul

To visit you need to check the prayers time as the mosque closes for visits at that point. Men should wear long sleeves, while women should cover their shoulders, knees, and hair. Anyway, whatever you wear, most likely you will be given an extra layer of clothing at the entrance.

3-days-in-istanbul

OUTFIT IDEAS:

After that, head to majestic Hagia Sophia. This museum/mosque/church was my favorite architectural piece in Istanbul. It is incredible to think of the amount of history this place went through. Built first as a cathedral in the 6th century in Constantinople, later converted to a mosque during Ottoman period and now serving as a museum. It has survived riot, fire, and an earthquake! Inside you can see Christian mosaics next to monograms of the four caliphs, wall paintings showing different emperors and even Viking’s inscriptions on the gallery balustrade! I highly recommend renting an audio guide to understand the unusual history of this place.

3-epic-days-in-istanbul

Just next to Hagia Sophia is Basilica Cistern, the largest of ancient cisterns and the primary water reservoir of Constantinople. The cistern, with its 336 columns, can store 80 000 m3 of water. The main attractions of the cistern are two Medusa column of unknown origins. The cistern was featured in Dan Brown’s Inferno movie, which was the main reason I had to see it ๐Ÿ˜‰

topkapi
3-epic-days-in-istanbul-topkapi-palace

One of my personal favorites was Topkapi Palace, which for more than 300 years served as a residence of sultans and his concubines. ย The palace complex consists of four main courtyards and many smaller buildings and was home to more than 5000 people (500 of which were Sultan’sย lovers ;)). For me, the main attraction was visiting Harem (home to female members of the family) where the real fight for power took place.

GALATA BRIDGE & KARAKOY

fourseasons-istanbul
galata-sunset-istanbul

Time to eat and time to enjoy the city vibe! Head to Four Seasons rooftop bar and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea with a view of Hagia Sophia. Afterwards, it is time to go to Galata bridge to catch that perfect sunset and stare at the boats full of tourists cruising back and forth. Don’t be tempted to eat your dinner on the passage under the bridge; we are heading to so much cooler place: Karakoy! Karakoy is a district full of hip cafes, designer boutiques, and modern restaurants! I had so much fun walking around, eating mussels from the street vendors and dancing in an open-air disco. Also, not far from here is Taksim Square, the 5th Avenue of Istanbul.

karakoy-istanbul

Day 2

SHOPPING & SOAKING

grand-bazaar-istanbul

Day Two is everything a girl needs which is shopping and some spa time, or rather Turkish bath time! Grand Bazaar is situated not far from Sultanahmet Square, so you can easily reach it by walking from the old town. Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and the biggest covered market in the World! It consists of 61 streets and 4000 shops so that you will find something for yourself. Indulge yourself in the pleasure of tasting Turkish delight, baklavas, apple teas and walking around Spice Souk. Also, don’t forget to buy a magic lamp for your house!

baths-istanbul

After long and, let’s be honest, exhausting shopping/price negotiation marathon, it is time to relax. The best present you can give yourself in Istanbul is to go to Turkish baths! We went to Suleymaniye Hammam, baths from 1557 and it was such a fun experience!

At the entrance, we were given a key to our locker and some funny swimsuits (bikini top and boxers for me and similar boxers for Mateusz ;)). We were then taken to the hammam, where we were chilling in a hot sauna and pouring water on each other. It was quite a strange experience as outside was almost as hot as inside the hammam. But talking about strange experiences, the weirdest was yet to come. From the hammam, we were taken to a room with marble beds where two men were scrubbing our bodies to remove all the dirt. After the body scrub, we were given a gentle soap message plus hair wash! I didn’t know about that, so I kept my braids on, and the poor man had a tough time trying to unbraid ๐Ÿ˜‰ But wow! I have never felt so clean in my entire life ๐Ÿ˜‰

3-days-in-istanbul

Suleyman Mosque is located just next to Suleymaniye Hammam, and it is so worth visiting! Much less touristy than Blue Mosque, similarly beautiful.

abandonded-rooftop-3-epic-days-in-istanbul

Also, you might encounter an interesting surprise on your way out of Grand Bazaar. Istanbul is full of abandoned rooftops that offer some of the best views of the city. How to find an abandoned rooftop? Easy, just type Buyuk Valide Han in Google Maps. You will know you found the place when you see a man sitting next to the locked gate and shouting “Hello! Rooftop? 2 lira!”. Take the leap; it is so worth the money!

Day 3

3-epic-days-in-istanbul-bosphorus

BOSPHORUS TRIP

When visiting the city for the first time, I always like to see it from different angles, especially if possible from the sea level. Reserve one full day for either a trip of Bosphorus or a trip to Princes’ Islands. Opt for a trip that goes to the Asian site and makes a stop for a refreshing swim in the Black Sea. Another option is Princes’ Islands – an oasis of peace. All motorized vehicles are banned here, so if you fancy some relaxing day far from the bustling metropolia, Princes’ Islands are your call.

WHERE TO SLEEP

marta-empresszoehotel-istanbul
empress-zoe-istanbul
empress-zoe-istanbul

I stayed at Hotel Empress Zoe in the middle of Istanbul’s old town. Hotel Empress Zoe consists of a few old Turkish townhouses build around ivy-covered ruins of ancient Turkish Baths. It is the only hotel in the old town of Istanbul that has a garden! It is like a tranquil urban oasis in the middle of the tourist district.

The hotel itself It is old and modern at the same time. I love how they incorporated the traditional details into the design, such as Turkish tapestries, antique furniture, and wall paintings. The hotel has 25 rooms, and each of them has its unique feel. More about Hotel Empress Zoe coming soon :).

hotel-empress-zoe

WHERE TO EAT

cooking-alaturka

For a typical Turkish feast, head straight to Cooking Alaturka. Indulge yourself in the variety of delicious local food and authentic, friendly atmosphere! If you have time, come earlier and take part in a cooking class where you will learn how to prepare typical Turkish dishes!

3-epic-days-in-istanbul

You can’t leave Istanbul without trying a good kebab. Hoca Pasa Sk. is a famous kebab street in Istanbul full of high-quality food. Kebab looks a little bit different in Turkey than in Europe. Basically, it is a grilled lamb meat with fries and pepper put in a flat bread. Delicious and much more healthy than our European version!

Another good spot for foodies is Karakoy. From street food to hip cafes, everybody will find sth for themselves.

Last but not least, a perfect place for hookah is Palatium cafe in Sultanahmet.

OUTFIT IDEAS:

TIPS

Buy Museum Pass for 85 lira. It will save you not only money but also time spent in queues!

READ
Skydive Dubai - OMG, I just jumped out of the plane!

Always negotiate the price!

Istanbul is very safe! Don’t worry too much, just go!

PIN IT

3-epic-days-in-istanbul
Share122
Tweet
Pin7.0K
7.1K Shares
europe, middle east, Turkey

Marta

Marta is the author of Where Life is Great - travel blog featuring unique adventures around the globe, travel tips, funny travel stories & one of a kind flight hacking course. She teaches how to live a life full of travels and how to find the sweetest deals for flight tickets.

More posts by Marta

Related Post

  • full moon night routine

    This easy night routine guarantees early morning success

    By Marta | 0 comment

    In the last blog post, I shared with you my morning routine and the benefits of waking up at 5 am. It is important to mention that waking up so early wouldnโ€™t be possible ifRead more

  • Where to stay in Istanbul

    By Marta | 1 comment

    Contents1 Hotels I love: Hotel Empress Zoe in Istanbul2 What is so unique about it?3 Why I love it?4 PIN IT Hotels I love: Hotel Empress Zoe in Istanbul For my adventures, I always tryRead more

  • Madrid_city_breaks11

    Madrid 2 days: the ultimate itinerary!

    By Marta | 4 comments

    In 2011, I arrived in Madrid for my student exchange and it’s my pleasure to show you my favourite spots in the city for your Madrid 2 days escape! I stayed six months in theRead more

  • Rotterdam-The Netherlands

    3 charming towns to visit in the Netherlands + 1 cheese town you can’t miss!

    By Marta | 2 comments

    This blog post contains an important message from my Dutch friends: “There is so much more to see in the Netherlands than just Amsterdam”. I have been wondering lately, why a vast majority of bloggersRead more

  • skydive-dubai-main

    Skydive Dubai – OMG, I just jumped out of the plane!

    By Marta | 2 comments

    I am not gonna lie to you, skydiving has never been on my bucket list. For some reason, jumping out of an airplane at 13 000 feet with a man strapped to my back didn’tRead more

  • Weekend in Bucharest

    Weekend in Bucharest – Top things to do

    By Marta | 3 comments

    Contents1 What to do in Bucharest:1.1 //1// Pamper yourself in Therme Bucuresti1.2 //2// Visit Palace of Parlament1.3 //3// Join the free walking tour1.4 //4// Go to a market and buy handicrafts1.5 //5// Hunt for vampiresRead more

Flight hacker, adventurer, camera addict.
Leave your comfort zone far behind,
I will show you how!

ABOUT ME
World Map Placeholder
World Map

Categories

Adventures Asia Blogging tips Europe Flight hacking Inspiration Instagram Lifestyle New North America Outfits

wherelifeisgreat

Marta Ostoja | Travel Blogger
One of my favorite beaches in Zakynthos - Pelagaki One of my favorite beaches in Zakynthos - Pelagaki beach ๐Ÿ˜ it is so beautiful, with crystal clear water and little white rocks. 

Pelagaki beach is not only stunning but also very unique. First of all, the water has a high density of sulfur. But I havenโ€™t felt the smell that much. Secondly, two geese are living on the beach. They swim in the sea, chill on the beach and have their own โ€œall you can eatโ€ buffet there. How crazy is that? 

You can find more fun stuff to do in Zakynthos on my blog โ˜บ๏ธ
Happy anniversary to us, my love ๐Ÿฅฐ Cheers to an Happy anniversary to us, my love ๐Ÿฅฐ Cheers to another year of love and happiness ๐Ÿฅ‚

This picture was taken on Saturday exactly in front of the cathedral where we got married a few years ago ๐Ÿ˜ I like how this picture looks planned but it was a very spontaneous moment - I had the flower crown and the dress because of Midsummerโ€™s day celebration ๐Ÿ™Š
#weddinganniversary #married #happyanniversary
Tropic like it is hot ๐Ÿ˜… New picture from our lo Tropic like it is hot ๐Ÿ˜… New picture from our lovely stay at @junglelodgetikal best place to chill after the day of sightseeing Tikal ruins in full โ˜€๏ธ
We made it to Tikal - Mayan ruins in the middle of We made it to Tikal - Mayan ruins in the middle of Guatemalan jungle ๐Ÿ’ There is no better place to stay in Tikal than @junglelodgetikal - it is right in the jungle just a few steps from the temples ๐Ÿ˜ it is truly an unforgettable experience - when we first heard monkeys in the middle of the night we thought itโ€™s pumas or jaguars ๐Ÿ˜ฑ (video to follow). You really get close connection to the surrounding rainforest! Best part - you can just walk around the ruins any time you want as you get a pass for the whole day. Our room is specious with outdoors shower and  private outdoors jacuzzi to relax after whole day of discovering Mayan ruins ๐Ÿ˜ Bottomline sleeping in @junglelodgetikal in Tikal is a bucket list experience!
Thank you for love everyday โค๏ธ Thank you for love everyday โค๏ธ
Days like this should last forever ๐Ÿ˜ Is Guatema Days like this should last forever ๐Ÿ˜ Is Guatemala on your travel list for 2022? @lafortunaatitlan
Hard to put into words exactly how much I love thi Hard to put into words exactly how much I love this hotel. Truly a special place ๐Ÿ˜ The moment you arrive you are just in awe and the whole stress just melts off. 

Hidden and secluded which is what I like, eco friendly,  with great eye for design, perfect spot for sunset and with 3 cute dogs running around ๐Ÿ•๐Ÿ˜

Just sipping a glass of wine on the porch, listening to the sounds of the night or playing a game of cards or reading in the upstairs loft... it is just a couple of examples of memories that will stick with me for a long time. ๐Ÿ˜ @lafortunaatitlan
Welcome to Lake Atitlan - a deep, cobalt lake surr Welcome to Lake Atitlan - a deep, cobalt lake surrounded by dozens of tiny villages and looming volcanoes ๐ŸŒ‹

There are so many beautiful places to stay around the Lake Atitlan in Guatemala but if you are looking for a true paradise, look no further than @lafortunaatitlan ๐Ÿ˜

@lafortunaatitlan is only accessible by boat and itโ€™s a true oasis from busy city life. Everywhere you look, you see greenery, palm trees and flowers ๐ŸŒบ 

Itโ€™s a true pleasure to get off grid for a while and surround yourself in nature and wellness ๐Ÿ˜ #lafortuna #guatemala #lakeatitlan
Hello from Guatemala ๐Ÿ‘‹๐Ÿป On the 1st of Januar Hello from Guatemala ๐Ÿ‘‹๐Ÿป On the 1st of January we jumped on the plane to Guatemala and have been here since then. 
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡น
I am completely in awe with this country, itโ€™s beautiful landscapes and friendly locals. So much that we decided to stay here at least for upcoming weeks- canโ€™t wait to share with you what life is like in Guate โ˜บ๏ธ and hopefully inspire you to visit ๐Ÿคž๐Ÿป
Another year around the sun! Happy Birthday to me Another year around the sun! Happy Birthday to me ๐Ÿฅณ @discoversoneva #sonevajani #soneva25 #discoversoneva #maldives #maldivesislands #birthdaygirl
Watch out - pilot Marta is flying this seaplane ๐Ÿ˜œ
We took advantage of snapping these pictures while we were picking up other guests from @discoversoneva resort ๐Ÿ˜ Which one is your favorite?
#discoversoneva #experiencesoneva #sonevajani
First thing that came to my mind when I arrived at First thing that came to my mind when I arrived at @discoversoneva was โ€œI want to live hereโ€ ๐Ÿ˜…๐Ÿ˜ Seriously, there are so many cool design solutions & creative ideas everywhere in the villa, that make you wonder โ€œhow could I live without that my entire life?โ€ For example, a button that opens the roof so that you can watch the stars โœจ from the comfort of your bed ๐Ÿคฉ #mindblown 
P.S. Video with all cool design solutions from #sonevajani coming at you next ๐Ÿ™Œ
#discoversoneva #experiencesoneva #soneva25
Follow @wherelifeisgreat on Instagram
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
    • Tips & stories
    • Adventures
  • Destinations
  • Contact Me
  • Presets Bundle

Recent Posts

  • Myzythis beach from drone
    25 January, 2022
    0

    15 fun things to do in Zante

  • one-day-in-budapest
    12 October, 2021
    0

    How to spend one day in Budapest – The Ultimate Itinerary

  • Floating breakfast in Meandros, Zakynthos
    10 September, 2021
    0

    Where to stay in Zakynthos: Meandros Boutique Hotel & Spa review

wherelifeisgreat

Marta Ostoja | Travel Blogger
One of my favorite beaches in Zakynthos - Pelagaki One of my favorite beaches in Zakynthos - Pelagaki beach ๐Ÿ˜ it is so beautiful, with crystal clear water and little white rocks. 

Pelagaki beach is not only stunning but also very unique. First of all, the water has a high density of sulfur. But I havenโ€™t felt the smell that much. Secondly, two geese are living on the beach. They swim in the sea, chill on the beach and have their own โ€œall you can eatโ€ buffet there. How crazy is that? 

You can find more fun stuff to do in Zakynthos on my blog โ˜บ๏ธ
Happy anniversary to us, my love ๐Ÿฅฐ Cheers to an Happy anniversary to us, my love ๐Ÿฅฐ Cheers to another year of love and happiness ๐Ÿฅ‚

This picture was taken on Saturday exactly in front of the cathedral where we got married a few years ago ๐Ÿ˜ I like how this picture looks planned but it was a very spontaneous moment - I had the flower crown and the dress because of Midsummerโ€™s day celebration ๐Ÿ™Š
#weddinganniversary #married #happyanniversary
Tropic like it is hot ๐Ÿ˜… New picture from our lo Tropic like it is hot ๐Ÿ˜… New picture from our lovely stay at @junglelodgetikal best place to chill after the day of sightseeing Tikal ruins in full โ˜€๏ธ
We made it to Tikal - Mayan ruins in the middle of We made it to Tikal - Mayan ruins in the middle of Guatemalan jungle ๐Ÿ’ There is no better place to stay in Tikal than @junglelodgetikal - it is right in the jungle just a few steps from the temples ๐Ÿ˜ it is truly an unforgettable experience - when we first heard monkeys in the middle of the night we thought itโ€™s pumas or jaguars ๐Ÿ˜ฑ (video to follow). You really get close connection to the surrounding rainforest! Best part - you can just walk around the ruins any time you want as you get a pass for the whole day. Our room is specious with outdoors shower and  private outdoors jacuzzi to relax after whole day of discovering Mayan ruins ๐Ÿ˜ Bottomline sleeping in @junglelodgetikal in Tikal is a bucket list experience!
Thank you for love everyday โค๏ธ Thank you for love everyday โค๏ธ
Days like this should last forever ๐Ÿ˜ Is Guatema Days like this should last forever ๐Ÿ˜ Is Guatemala on your travel list for 2022? @lafortunaatitlan
Hard to put into words exactly how much I love thi Hard to put into words exactly how much I love this hotel. Truly a special place ๐Ÿ˜ The moment you arrive you are just in awe and the whole stress just melts off. 

Hidden and secluded which is what I like, eco friendly,  with great eye for design, perfect spot for sunset and with 3 cute dogs running around ๐Ÿ•๐Ÿ˜

Just sipping a glass of wine on the porch, listening to the sounds of the night or playing a game of cards or reading in the upstairs loft... it is just a couple of examples of memories that will stick with me for a long time. ๐Ÿ˜ @lafortunaatitlan
Welcome to Lake Atitlan - a deep, cobalt lake surr Welcome to Lake Atitlan - a deep, cobalt lake surrounded by dozens of tiny villages and looming volcanoes ๐ŸŒ‹

There are so many beautiful places to stay around the Lake Atitlan in Guatemala but if you are looking for a true paradise, look no further than @lafortunaatitlan ๐Ÿ˜

@lafortunaatitlan is only accessible by boat and itโ€™s a true oasis from busy city life. Everywhere you look, you see greenery, palm trees and flowers ๐ŸŒบ 

Itโ€™s a true pleasure to get off grid for a while and surround yourself in nature and wellness ๐Ÿ˜ #lafortuna #guatemala #lakeatitlan
Hello from Guatemala ๐Ÿ‘‹๐Ÿป On the 1st of Januar Hello from Guatemala ๐Ÿ‘‹๐Ÿป On the 1st of January we jumped on the plane to Guatemala and have been here since then. 
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡น
I am completely in awe with this country, itโ€™s beautiful landscapes and friendly locals. So much that we decided to stay here at least for upcoming weeks- canโ€™t wait to share with you what life is like in Guate โ˜บ๏ธ and hopefully inspire you to visit ๐Ÿคž๐Ÿป
Copyright 2016 โ’ธ Where Life is Great | All Rights Reserved
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
    • Tips & stories
    • Adventures
  • Destinations
  • Contact Me
  • Presets Bundle
Where life is great