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Istanbul Trip Planner
Where Europe meets Asia across the Bosphorus.
Free to start — no account needed.
- Best time
- April–May and September–October — mild and pleasant
- Ideal length
- 3–4 days
- Currency
- Turkish Lira (TRY)
- Language
- Turkish
Istanbul straddles two continents and layers Byzantine and Ottoman empires on top of a thriving modern city. The historic peninsula of Sultanahmet holds most of the icons within walking distance, but the real magic is crossing the Bosphorus by ferry and getting lost in the bazaars. Build your Istanbul itinerary around prayer times, since the great mosques close to visitors five times a day.
Top things to do in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Facing each other in Sultanahmet — a cathedral-turned-mosque and its six-minaret rival.
Topkapı Palace
The Ottoman sultans' palace, with harem, treasury, and Bosphorus views.
Grand & Spice Bazaars
Thousands of stalls of carpets, lamps, and spices — haggling expected.
Bosphorus cruise
A ferry between the continents, past palaces and waterfront mansions.
Sample Istanbul itinerary
Day 1 · Sultanahmet
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar.
Day 2 · Palace & bazaars
Topkapı Palace, the Spice Bazaar, then a Bosphorus ferry at sunset.
Day 3 · Modern side
Cross to Beyoğlu for İstiklal Avenue, the Galata Tower, and Karaköy's cafés.
Istanbul travel tips
- ✓Dress modestly for mosques — women should carry a scarf, and shoes come off at the door.
- ✓Get an Istanbulkart for the trams, ferries, and funiculars that link the sights.
- ✓Haggle in the bazaars but stay friendly; start around half the first price.
- ✓Mosques close to tourists during the five daily prayers — check times and plan around them.
Istanbul trip planning FAQ
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
Three to four days covers the historic peninsula, a Bosphorus cruise, and the modern Beyoğlu side.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds than the hot, busy summer.
Is Istanbul safe for tourists?
Generally yes — use normal city precautions against pickpockets in crowded bazaars and on transit.