4 days in Istanbul
Where two continents meet over tea on the Bosphorus. A 4-day plan.
Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, and feels like a capital of both. Byzantine domes, Ottoman palaces and bazaars give way to buzzing cafés in Karaköy and Kadıköy.
Day by day
Day 1: Sultanahmet
Visit Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern, then unwind in a historic hammam.
Day 2: Palace and bazaars
Tour Topkapı Palace, get lost in the Grand Bazaar, see Süleymaniye Mosque and finish at the Spice Bazaar with a fish sandwich by the Galata Bridge.
Day 3: The Bosphorus
Take a public ferry up the Bosphorus, then explore Karaköy, Galata Tower and İstiklal Avenue.
Day 4: The Asian side
Cross to Kadıköy for its market, lunch at Çiya Sofrası and walk the seafront at Moda.
Make it work
- Best months: Apr–May, Sep–Oct. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Çiya Sofrası, Karaköy Güllüoğlu, Pandeli.
- Getting around: Buy an İstanbulkart for trams, metro, buses and ferries.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.