3 Days in Istanbul: A Complete Itinerary & Travel Guide
Overview
As a solo female traveler, I was a little hesitant about visiting Istanbul on my own, even just for a weekend. My time living in Morocco had left me with the impression that, in a country with a predominantly Muslim population, I should expect a fair amount of unwanted attention as a woman—even in major metropolitan areas.
However, while this was not a zero-incident trip, my time in Istanbul was truly wonderful. Nearly everyone I met was genuinely kind, and the city was full of interesting places to explore. I’m not usually someone who makes “vacation friends,” but the city’s energy—and how welcoming everyone was—made it fun to meet new people wherever I went.
It was such an incredible trip that I knew I had to return for longer stay to give Istanbul—and hopefully the rest of Turkey—its due.
A more detailed guide is coming soon (July 2026!), but for now, here’s my weekend itinerary for Istanbul—perfect for a solo female traveler on a budget.
Turkish History
The modern Republic of Turkey, as it exists today, was founded in 1923. Turkish history, however, dates back thousands of years, most recently and perhaps most famously through the Ottoman Empire.
After World War I, the empire was significantly weakened, and following the Turkish War of Independence (1920–1922), Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded the republic and instituted sweeping reforms aimed at modernizing the country along Western secular and parliamentary lines.
Turkey joined NATO in 1952 and is a long-standing candidate country for membership in the European Union. Its geographic position (straddling Europe and Asia) and its long-standing ties to the West remain central as Turkey continues to pursue EU membership and strengthen its global position.
Formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, Istanbul itself has served as the capital of three major empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—making it one of the most historically layered cities in the world. Much of the city today—from grand mosques and palaces to public baths and bazaars—dates back to the Ottoman period.
Culture
During my time in the city, I found Istanbul to be bustling and fast-paced, yet filled with warm, friendly people. The city attracts a huge number of tourists, so you’ll see people from all over the world.
Turkey is widely known for its culture of hospitality, which I found to be true firsthand. Expect locals to be fairly direct—sometimes coming across as blunt—but ultimately warm and welcoming.
While Istanbul is relatively liberal compared to other parts of Turkey, modest dress is still appreciated in mosques and more traditional neighborhoods.
Language
Turkish is the official language of Turkey, with the vast majority of the population speaking it as a first language. There is also a significant Kurdish-speaking population, particularly in eastern Turkey.
Many people also speak English, though proficiency varies; English is more commonly spoken in larger, tourist-heavy cities like Istanbul and among younger generations. That said, learning a few basic Turkish phrases is appreciated and often leads to warmer interactions.
Currency
The Turkish lira (TRY) is the official currency of Turkey. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, and contactless payments are common in shops, restaurants, and public transit.
You can often get by without cash in Istanbul if you stick to major shops and restaurants, but I still used cash for small vendors like the dondurma stand, some smaller shops near the bazaars, and the shuttle bus back to the airport. I recommend having roughly 500-1000 lira per day on hand for convenience.
When withdrawing cash, opt for ATMs over currency exchange offices for better rates. Turkey has experienced significant inflation in recent years, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date exchange rates before you travel.
Exchange Rate TRY: Wed, 14 Jan.
Logistics
Entry Requirements
To enter Turkey, your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date and have at least one blank page for stamps.
Visa-Exempt Nationalities: Citizens of many countries can stay in Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Visa-Required Nationalities: can obtain an e-Visa for tourism. As of 2025, e-Visas typically cost between 15–60 euro depending on nationality and are usually approved within 24–72 hours.
For work or study, you must apply for a specific visa through the Turkish Embassy or Consulate, which typically takes 5–15 business days (though processing can take longer).
To apply and/or check the status of your e-Visa applications, you can visit the official Turkish e-Visa site.
Do I need a visa for Istanbul?
You can check the visa requirements for your passport and destination on Passport Index’s Travel Visa Checker.
Data/Internet Coverage
Internet
Within major cities like Istanbul, mobile internet is widely available and reasonably fast, and provided through three main networks: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom.
You can find free WiFi in most hotels, cafes, and other public spaces, though speeds will vary. For up-to-date info on median mobile and broadband internet speeds, check out SpeedTest’s page on Turkey.
Phone Plans
If you’re looking for a US-based phone plan with international data included, T-Mobile and Verizon offer their “Unlimited Plus” plans, which are roughly the same cost and coverage.
Google Fi includes international data in its highest plan, but it’s not designed for extended travel over 90 days. After 60 days, you may receive automated suspension warnings. Based on my experience, customer support can be inconsistent, so I do not recommend using Google Fi for longer trips.
E-Sims
I recommend using e-SIMs instead of physical SIM cards for convenience, though physical SIMs from providers like Turkcell or Vodafone are also available.
Alternatively, there also are plenty of e-sim providers that provide data plans for Turkey, the Middle East, and/or global destinations. As a budget option, I’ve been using Orbit e-Sim across different countries/regions, and I’ve had great success so far.
Jetpac is another budget-friendly option, often offering 1GB for 1 euro over three days. I used it on a short trip in Italy, and it worked well for GPS and light data use.
Electricity
Turkey uses 2 outlet types, Type C and Type F, and uses a 220V, 50Hz power supply.
You can check this cool website, Power Plugs & Sockets of the World, to see if you need a travel adapter or converter depending on where you live.
Safety Tips
How to Dress
Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, so modest dress is considered respectful—required in mosques—but Istanbul’s tourist areas are more liberal, and casual attire is common.
As a solo female traveler, I personally err on the side of caution, typically wearing pants and high-neck, long- or short-sleeved shirts.
I also brought a headscarf for mosque visits, though scarves are available for purchase nearby. Prices can be higher in tourist-heavy areas like Sultanahmet, where scarves are required for entry.
Unwanted Attention/Harassment
Unwanted attention, particularly from younger men, is definitely present in Istanbul. I had a few friends report being solicited or catcalled while walking the streets. However, most of the unwanted attention came from the street vendors vying for attention and pressuring you to come into their store. For me, this was more annoying than aggressive, barring one particular gentleman who got a little too close and felt owed a response from me specifically.
Exercise the normal precautions you would when out in public, but even late at night, I never felt unsafe walking along the main roads. In my experience, Istanbul is very doable as a solo female traveler.
Nighttime
Though my experience is limited, I felt safe walking around after dark. Bars I visited catered to tourists, so I never felt uncomfortable, and even around 1 a.m., there were plenty of people milling about the streets.
Food + Drink
Must-Try Foods
Turkish food is some of my favorite cuisine ever. It’s an incredible fusion of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian influences. There’s far too much of it to stuff into a single weekend (though, of course, feel free to try). My personal must-tries are pide, doner kebabs, mantı (Turkish dumplings), baklava, and a Turkish breakfast—more an experience than a single dish, but so wonderful.
Turkish delights are iconic. You’ll find them in every flavor under the sun while you’re there, and many shops sell them in boxes as souvenirs. While I personally find them a bit overrated, they’re worth trying so you can form your own opinion.
For the more adventurous, try Kokoreç: lamb or goat intestine wrapped around offal and slow-roasted, then chopped, spiced, and served as a sandwich.On its own, it can be a little dry, but paired with Ayran, it’s perfection.
Dondurma: Turkish Ice Cream
I also recommend trying Dondurma, Turkish ice cream, if you get the chance. Its rich flavor and slightly chewy texture make it a unique culinary experience. At tourist stands, the shopkeepers will usually put on a show for you, which is lots of fun.
Drinks
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Turkey if you didn’t try the Turkish coffee. The tea… feel free to skip. But I recommend doing a coffee-making workshop if you have the time: it’s a tourist trap, but a fun one, where you get to make your own Turkish coffee and learn about Turkish history over a couple of hours. Vendors sell Turkish coffee throughout the city, so you can enjoy the caffeine and a show no matter where you go.
Ayran, a salted yogurt drink, is refreshing and pairs especially well with Turkish meat dishes and sandwiches.
Turkey’s national drink is Raki is a strong, clear spirit that turns white when mixed with water. It’s made from fermented grapes flavored with anise, so it has a distinct flavor (if you can get past the burn, anyways). It’s usually served with chilled water or ice to show off the “louche” effect of turning white – which earns it the nickname of “lion’s milk”– and it is intended to be sipped slowly, not taken as a shot (something I learned after I tried it, worth noting).
How To Reach Istanbul
Below is an overview of how to get to the city center from Istanbul’s major arrival hubs using the most common transportation options.
From the Airports
I flew from Bucharest (OTP) to Istanbul (SAW) for about 100 euros roundtrip with a light fare that included only a personal item. Prices vary widely across Europe, but this was a good deal based on my research at the time.
Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Admittedly, I didn’t realize this at first and had planned my transport from IST—so when I landed at SAW, my GPS showed me nearly 50 miles off course.
Luckily both airports have reliable options for getting into the city center, including very affordable shuttles.
Airport Shuttles
There are shuttle buses from both airports to the city center costing roughly 275–400 lira (about 5–6 euros one-way). They have free Wi-Fi, free luggage storage under the bus and in overhead storage, and are air-conditioned. The buses can be confusing if you don’t speak Turkish, but very doable with a bit of patience.
You can pay by credit/debit card at the front of the bus or pay in cash.
Note: paying by card can cost roughly 100 lira more than paying in cash.
Havaist – Istanbul Airport
Havaist IST Airport Timetables
The main Havaist stop at Istanbul Airport is labeled “İstanbul Havalimanı.” Buses between the airport and Taksim Square run roughly every 1–2 hours, depending on the time of day. Tickets cost about 275 Lira as of 2025. Peron 12 runs direct to Aksaray, Peron 16 directto Taksim, and Peron 5 (Yenikapi/Kirazali) offers transfers to the Yenikapı or Kirazlı metros.
You can view the Havaist bus schedule here, which will also tell you the latest ticket price, travel time, and other information based on your bus line and stop.
Havabus – Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
You can use Havabus from Sabiha to get to and from Taksim, Kadikoy, and Yenisahra. I took the bus to Taksim and paid with credit card from the airport. The trip takes about 1½ hours, depending on traffic. You can find the list of departures times via the Havabus website.
Note: When returning to Sabiha Gökçen Airport via Taksim, the Havabus pick-up spot is not the Havabus Taksim location listed on Google Maps, but is the Taksim Airport Shuttle location around the corner, on the same street as Point Hotel Taksim.
Metro
M11 Line – Istanbul Airport
The M11 Metro line runs from IST to Gayrettepe. To get to the city center, you would have to transfer, likely either from Gayrettepe or Kağıthane stations onto a bus. With transfers, this would cost about 89 lira and takes roughly 1 ½ hours.
M4 Line – Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
The M4 Metro line runs from SAW to Kadikoy and takes 59 minutes to the end of the line. If you’re trying to get to the European side, you will likely need to transfer to other lines before the terminal station.
To reach Taksim, for example, you can transfer at Kozyatağı and take the 129T bus toward Gümüşsuyu to the terminal stop. This trip would take about 2 hours for 89 Lira.
If you’re staying on the Asian side of Istanbul, the M4 line could be a convenient option, but personally I’d suggest the shuttles if you’re willing to pay a little extra for the convenience. (Metro tickets cost around 35 lira compared to 300-400 lira for the shuttle.)
Ride-Share/Taxis
If you’re looking for a private transfer, you can use ride-share apps like Uber or BiTaksi (for metered taxis) to book cars when you arrive. In Turkey, there are three levels of taxis: the basic orange taxis, the slightly more expensive (15% more than orange) turquoise taxis, and the luxury black taxis (70% higher fares than orange taxis). Taxis may not have card readers, so if you aren’t paying through the ride-share app, make sure to have local currency on hand.
Istanbul Airport
You can find specific info about fares and where to find the different taxis via the Istanbul Airport official website.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
The Sabiha Airport website doesn’t provide any specific info on where to find taxis. You can follow the signs at the airport that say Taxi/Taksi to get to the official stands.
I do not recommend trying to use the airport website or app for this 1) because its ‘map’ is completely useless and just directs you to a Google Maps pin of the whole airport and 2) the official taxi stand number and email provided are indeed ‘official,’ but according to many reviews online still tend to scam tourists.
From the Train Station
I know there’s an overnight train to Istanbul, but while there’s a part of me that thinks a sleeper car on a train would be romantic and dreamy, the practical part of me rejected the idea for a 2-day trip. That said, I still did extensive research on the train system in Istanbul and how to get to Istanbul city center from each of the major train stations.
Sirkeci Station was once the city’s main train station, however its international service was suspended in 2013 and now it serves mostly as a commuter line stop, servicing mainly the T1 Tram and the Marmaray rail line. Now Halkali Station is the main station, and Söğütlüçeşme Station is a small station, but it services many of the bullet trains to Ankara and Konya.
The Man in Seat 61 has an amazingly well-documented guide to traveling via Istanbul’s train stations if you’d like step-by-step instructions (with photos!) for transferring, buying tickets, and navigating the train stations if you need more info on city hopping from Istanbul.
Halkali Station
Halkali Station is currently Istanbul’s primary hub for international train arrivals, including the trains coming from Sofia, Bulgaria and Bucharest, Romania.
Metro
To get from Halkali Station to the city center via train/metro, your best bet is to get an Istanbulkart and transfer to the Marmaray train directly to Sirkeci Station (a 20-25 minute ride) or transfer at Yenikapi to the M2 metro to Taksim Square (roughly 45-60 minutes), depending on your accommodations. The Marmaray train runs approximately every 15 minutes from Halkali.
From Sirkeci, depending on where your accommodations are, you can also transfer to other Metro lines, such as the T1 line from Sirkeci that runs directly to Sultanahmet Square.
Bus
The BN1 Bus line runs from Halkali to Eminönü. However, traffic in Istanbul is famously bad, and you could easily find this bus ride is crowded and takes 1.5-2 hours or more. I haven’t used this personally, but the Mobiett app supposedly has real-time traffic data for public transportation that you can use to decide on a route and whether the bus would be an option. In most cases, I’d recommend the metro—the system is generally faster and more reliable than buses.
Ride-Share/Taxi
Same as with the airport, you can use ride-share apps like Uber or BiTaksi (for metered taxis) to book cars when you arrive. With taxis in Turkey, there are 3 ‘levels’ of taxis, the basic orange taxis, the slightly more expensive (15% more than orange) turquoise taxis, and the luxury black taxis (70% higher fares than orange taxis). Taxis may not have card readers, so if you aren’t paying through the ride-share app, make sure to have local currency on hand.
The ride from Halkali to Istanbul is roughly 15-25km, depending heavily on where you’re going. Also, again, Istanbul is notorious for its traffic, so your ride could be anywhere from 30 minutes to well over an hour.
From the Bus Stations
There are 3 bus stations in Istanbul that you are most likely to encounter in your travels. The largest, most popular, by far, is Esenler Bus Terminal, especially for international travel. If you are traveling domestically, however, you might find yourself going to Alibeyköy or Harem Stations instead.
İstanbul Esenler Bus Terminal Büyük Otogar
The largest intercity bus terminal in Turkey, Esenler Bus Terminal (or ‘Büyük Otogar’ – Grand Bus Terminal– in Turkish) is the main hub for bus travel in and out of the city, both domestically and internationally.
An important note is that the terminal itself is massive, with hundreds of different shops, restaurants, and even hotels housed within and around it. Hundreds of thousands of people pass through every single day. That can potentially make it overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time there. However, it also means you have a plethora of options for accessing the city and anywhere else you’d like to go.
Metro
Follow signs for the Metro (M1A Line) inside the station. Take the M1A Train and transfer. To reach Sultanahmet Square and the Old City, transfer at Zeytinburnu to the T1 Tram (Blue Line) towards Kabataş, getting off at Sultanahmet or surrounding stops. For Taksim Square, transfer at Yenikapı and to the M2 Metro line towards Hacıosman, stopping at Taksim. Trains run frequently, though with transfer, travel time can be anywhere from 30 to 50+ minutes.
Buses
The public IETT buses 33, 33B, and 33M run from Esensler to the city (rides run 15-30 Lira), and run to the major squares. Of course, they can get crowded and stuck in traffic, so check latest traffic data before you decide to use them.
Taxi
In the terminal, follow signs for Taksi/Taxi. Official taxis outside the main terminal building, often near the exits and metro connections (M1 line), but you should be able to find them easily, especially during peak times. Make sure if you use one to check that the drivers are using the meter (“taksimetre”) and follow the most straightforward route.
Ride-Share
There are designated public pick-up areas (“Yolcu Alım/Bırakma”) throughout the terminal, usually near the exits, so follow signs and double check the pin location on your app to make sure you aren’t getting lost in the massive terminal.
Alibeyköy Bus Station
Some Flixbuses to Istanbul will stop here instead of Esenler, though it’s mainly a domestic bus station for inter-city and intra-city travel. To get to the city center, you can either take the M7 metro line (Yenikapı – Mahmutbey) and transfer where needed (get off at Mecidiyeköy for Taksim Square) or the T5 Tram to the Eminönü or Sultanahmet area. There are also plenty of IETT buses (49Z, TM11,TM17, TM5) that pass through but, again, traffic makes driving times extremely variable, so it’s almost never the fastest/best way to travel.
Harem Otogar Station
This is a smaller bus station located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Many of the buses that go to Esenler also stop here. Depending on where in the city you’re located, this might be a more convenient stop, since a bus going from Ensler and stopping in Harem Station could take over an hour to drive between them, and metro/ferry options could get you to the Harem Station much faster. (For example, it takes roughly 35–50 minutes to reach Harem Station from Sultanahmet or Taksim Square.)
Public Transport In Istanbul
The public transportation in Istanbul is affordable and reliable. Being able to spend less than one euro to take a ferry with a scenic view of the Bosphorus was unreal. Most lines operate from 6-7am until 11pm–12am, so keep that in mind if you’re staying out later or earlier than that window.
Istanbul has the following modes of public transport: trams, funiculars, cable cars, buses, the metro, and ferries.
Figuring out which routes to take was fairly straightforward using Google Maps. I didn’t have any issues with inaccurate train times or anything like I’ve experienced in other places.
Worth noting that Turkey has experienced significant inflation in recent years, so public transport fares typically rise 2-3 times a year. So far, the prices are still far cheaper than most comparable public transport systems, and it’s a very good way to get around. That said, the one thing that sucks is needing a physical metro card to use it.
Istanbulkart – Istanbul’s Metro Card
You can buy them readily at any major transport hub and at metro stations around the city center, but the kiosks are notorious for being difficult to use, and sometimes your card won’t scan at certain stations (for no apparent reason) and sometimes you’re stuck either having to jump the turnstile or miss your train.
As of 2025, the physical card costs 165 lira (about 3.45 euros). You can load it with any amount of credit. Most modes of public transport are a fixed cost of 35 Turkish lira, but several are distance-based: the metrobus, Marmaray trains, the Istanbul Airport metro line, and most ferries.
For non-residents, the Istanbulkart will charge the maximum fare for all of these lines, regardless of destination. For example, the Marmaray line costs 59.76 lira per journey for tourists, regardless of how many stops you travel. You can find the most up-to-date cost of specific routes via the official IETT public transport site.
Buying a Physical Card via Kiosks
Barring any (inevitable) issues, at the kiosk, switch the machine to English (or the language of your choice) via the language icon on the bottom right of the screen and choose the UK flag or whichever one you need. Click Istanbulkart Buy, then Credit/Debit, then enter the amount of Lira you want on the card.
You can reload the card at kiosks as well, if needed, as well as check your remaining balance.
Alternative Options to the Istanbulkart
Single- and Multi-Ride Tickets
Instead of using the Istanbulkart, you can buy single-use tickets, which in 2025 are priced as follows:
- 1 ride: 50 Turkish lira
- 3 rides: 145 Turkish lira
- 5 rides: 205 Turkish lira
- 10 rides: 400 Turkish lira
Istanbulkart rides are only slightly less expensive at 35 Turkish lira, but come with the additional upfront cost of buying the card itself, which is 165 Turkish lira. So single-ride tickets may be worth considering, especially if you aren’t planning on using public transport frequently.
Also, for rides on higher-fare lines, you can pay using multiple single ride tickets (fare on the Marmaray line, for example, would cost 3 single-rider tickets and ferries to the Princes Islands would be 4).
Contactless Payments
Some stations/gates accept credit-card payments, but keep in mind that if they do, they will charge the maximum fare per ride.
Public Transport Cards
I’ve seen ads for unlimited public transport cards within Istanbul that include travel between airports that you can purchase in 1-day, 3-day, 5-day, and so on intervals. However, the ones I’ve found start at 40 euros for the unlimited one-day pass, which is highway robbery. Unless you can find ones that are more affordably-priced, I wouldn’t bother.
Attractions
Hagia Sophia
Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
I have to admit, I personally was not compelled to spend 35 euros to enter a mosque, no matter how grand. I’ve seen plenty of them in Morocco, and, besides, the Blue Mosque was right there, with free entry.
If you do decide to go into the Hagia Sophia as a non-worshipping, foreign visitor, you will need to pay 25 euros for the entrance fee. Also, make sure you are wearing appropriately-modest clothing and bring a headscarf along if you’re a woman or you will have to buy garments at the front for a small fee: 1 euro for a headscarf and 3 euros for a body covering.
Regular admission tickets can be purchased only from the ticket booth. There are no official tickets online for visiting the Hagia Sophia –the official website will direct you to the vendor DEM MUSEUMS through GetYourGuide for a ‘Skip The Line’ option.
Opening hours are 9am – 7pm every day. The visitor section is closed Fridays from 12:30pm – 2:30pm for Friday prayers.
Blue Mosque
Cankurtaran, At Meydanı Cd No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Offering free entry to the public, the Blue Mosque is the smaller, slightly less grand sister to the Hagia Sophia. There’s a separate entrance for non-praying visitors that is closed off from the active part of the mosque, around the right side of the building and with clear signage. You will have to wait in line, although in my experience the line moved pretty quickly. I was inside in less than 5 minutes, though if it’s peak hours this will almost certainly take longer.
If you don’t have appropriate garments, including a headscarf, attendants will let you borrow items branded ‘PROPERTY OF BLUE MOSQUE’ in nice big letters, so that everyone knows you are normally a temptress and/or a hooligan. You can return the garments to the mosque on your way out, after snapping some pictures and/or admiring the beautiful architecture inside.
Topkapı Palace
Cankurtaran, Babı Hümayun Cad No: 1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Once again I was not compelled to enter a building that wanted to charge me 50 euros for the pleasure of entering it.
However, this UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site has a rich history, having served as home to the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 4 centuries up until the mid-19th century, and is now a massive museum with an extensive collection of historical and cultural artifacts.
If you decide to go, here’s what you need to know: the museum is open 9am – 6pm Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays), is closed on the first day of Ramadan, and the last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Standard tickets can only be bought in-person at the ticket stands or kiosks (credit card only), but plenty of third-party sites sell tickets with audio-guides and tours. The official Topkapi Palace website directs visitors to a guided tour via GetYourGuide.
Sultanahmet Square
Binbirdirek, Sultan Ahmet Parkı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
This area is the hub of several of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks –the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, the German fountain– and is in its own right an architectural marvel. You’ll find plenty of street food and vendors around the park, and you can take some truly stunning photos of the surrounding area.
Basilica Cistern
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
A spectacular underground water reservoir, this ancient historical site is known for stunning Byzantine artistry and atmospheric beauty. The Medusa heads, in particular, are well-loved. The Basilica Cistern is open every day from 9:00am – 10pm.
Tickets are 1500 lira until 7:30pm, when prices rise to 2400 lira. You can buy them at the museum or online through the Museum’s website using their outside vendor Passo.
Grand Bazaar
Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
The Grand Bazaar is, as the name implies, a huge market spanning over 60 streets, filled with thousands of vendors, and hundreds of thousands of shoppers passing through daily. It is one of the largest markets in the world, and it’s a beautiful, must-see sight during your stay.
The Bazaar is open from 8:30am to 19:00am Monday through Saturday There are also many different entrances to the Bazaar, so you can take your pick depending on your location beforehand.
That said, it gets extremely crowded during peak hours, and can be very overwhelming for anyone with sensory issues. If that’s a concern, I recommend going early in the morning, especially on weekdays, when the shops are just beginning to open and there aren’t crowds yet.
Also, do keep in mind that since this is such a huge tourist attraction, most of the prices there will be inflated tourist prices, and vendors may be aggressive in trying to get your attention. Just proceed with a normal amount of caution and you should be just fine.
Activities
Workshops – Turkish Coffee, Perfume-Making, and More
While I was in Istanbul, I did two workshops, one for Turkish tea and one for Turkish coffee. There are others that I wanted to try as well, including perfume-making and a mosaic lamp workshop. The Turkish tea workshop was extremely disappointing, but the Turkish coffee workshop is a must.
At any workshop worth its salt (and there are many throughout Istanbul), you usually get a small gift bag at the end and get to keep whatever you made.
For the coffee workshop, we drank the coffee we made, were given free drinks and snacks, and received a small gift bag with a ‘certificate of completion,’ a cup and saucer, a small bag of ground coffee, and a cezve to make coffee at home.
For the perfume and mosaic lamp workshops, snacks are served, and you get to take home whatever you make. Most of the workshops cost 20–30 euros, depending on the company and time of day.
My Turkish Coffee Workshop was through Fabrikafa Make & Coffee, which is on the Asian side of Istanbul in an adorable cafe that also serves drinks and breakfast if you feel compelled to go sans workshop. If you decide to book a workshop, they operate as Istanbul Workshops. They will also let you choose whether you want to meet at the workshop or meet the tour guide on the European side and travel together to the building, which is what I did and found it very convenient.
Again, there are other workshop companies, but I had an awesome experience with them and can give a definite recommendation.
Bosphorus Cruise
There are countless variations of this tour available online, and since this is pretty much exclusively a tourist (particularly a foreign tourist) activity, you’ll find the prices a bit inflated compared to other activities in Turkey, though far cheaper than a similar tour within Europe.
I paid about 40 euros through GetYourGuide for an evening dinner cruise which included hotel pick-up and drop-off via a shuttle van to and from the dock, a three-course meal and unlimited drinks, plus a ‘traditional Turkish show,’ which involved dancing, a whirling dervish performance, knife throwing, and more.
The food was largely spectacular, the drinks were strong, and the entire night was well worth the 40 euros. It may not be the most authentic Turkish experience, but it is a great amount of fun, so I genuinely recommend doing it anyway. I went by myself and made friends with the other single ladies at my table and had a wonderful night.
You can find cheaper options, I’m sure, if you just want to ride on a cruise ship, or if you don’t want to include the transport to and from your hotel, etc. Just look around and make sure that whatever price you’re paying is fair for whatever services you are choosing.
Walking Tours
Viaurbis comes highly rated and offers English-language walking tours every day at 10:00am, 10:30am, and 2pm. The tour is approximately two and a half hours and covers the most famous sights in Old Town. The meeting spot is Sultanahmet Park, near the decorative pool, ending at Little Hagia Sophia Mosque. Like most free walking tours, this one is tips-based, so make sure to bring cash to tip your guide at the end.
There’s also Free Istanbul Tours, which has 2 different free walking tour options along with paid tours and activities through their website. The Old Town tour runs every day at 10:00, and 14:30 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays. They also have an Alternative Tour, which is supposed to cover more of Turkish culture and history, that runs at 14:30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, starting at Corlulu Ali Pasha and ending outside the Grand Bazaar. For both tours, they run two and a half hours, and the the website states that each participant should tip at least 500 lira.
Accommodation
There’s no shortage of hotels and hostels in Istanbul, especially around Taksim, which is where I stayed. I recommend finding a place that serves a free Turkish breakfast if you want to save time hunting for food in the mornings before heading out. You’ll be able to find accommodation in nearly any price range.
Chillout Lya Hostel Bar and Lounge
Toprak Lule sokak No:1, Beyoglu Istanbul
Price: 50 euros for two nights in a private room
I loved the hostel where I stayed. It’s within walking distance of Taksim Square (15–20 minutes), as well as plenty of other destinations and public transport. The staff there were wonderful, and I was able to check in very late at night without any issue. They also had a small restaurant and bar, a cute board game selection, plus an outdoor smoking area.
Was the place fancy? Not even slightly. The building is extremely outdated, and the private room I stayed in had a bit of a musty smell. But it was a private room with a working fridge, a clean bathroom, and AC for 25 euros a night, and whether or not that’s cheap by Turkish standards, it was perfect for me. Plus, it’s in the city center and breakfast was included — and genuinely phenomenal — a buffet set up with an omelet station and lots of fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.
Honestly, I can’t recommend it enough. I booked through Hostelworld because I had a cashback offer through my credit card, but they have their own website as well.
Alternative Options
When I’m looking for a hotel/hostel, I usually use Booking.com, since they consistently list lower-budget options that Expedia often doesn’t. Depending on your price range, you will find no shortage of options within any price range. I recommend staying near Taksim if you’re new to Istanbul due to its central location and easy access to public transport.
If you want somewhere a little quieter, I’d recommend staying on the Asian side. It feels more local and laid-back, though getting to most major tourist attractions may take a bit longer than if you stayed on the European side.
Weekend Trip Itinerary!
So you’re going to Istanbul! This itinerary is based entirely on my own experience in the city. I spent about 48 hours total and packed in as much as possible, but travel is always a choose-your-own-adventure. Take what sounds good, skip what doesn’t, and adjust as needed.
Day 1
Arrival and Late Night Bites
Once you’ve made it to the city center, checked into your hotel, and you finally have a chance to remember that you’re starving, hit up 1932 Cihangir Doyum Mantı for a late-night dumpling meal.
Dinner: 1932 Cihangir Doyum Mantı
Firuzağa, Firuzağa Cami Sk., 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
I researched the best places for mantı before arriving, and 1932 consistently came up as a recommendation from locals and tourists alike. They’re open every day from 9am–11pm, and their menu included different dumpling options (boiled/fried, spinach, potatoes, etc.), gozleme, and a solid selection of starters.
If it’s your first time trying mantı: get the classic boiled version, or order the tasting plate if you’re not traveling solo or have a place to store leftovers. Portions are generous and the food is flavorful and hearty. You can eat there (cozy, classic brick-oven pizza shop vibes) or order it to go.
Day 2
Turkish Coffee Workshop, Walking Tour, Basilica Cistern
Breakfast: Yiğit Sofram Gözleme ve Kahvaltı
Kılıçalipaşa Mahallesi Sıraselviler Caddesi, Yeni Yuva Sk. 31 A, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
I had breakfast at my hostel, but for other breakfast options, I recommend Yiğit Sofram Gözleme ve Kahvaltı. They have a traditional Turkish breakfast for 2+ people as well as a nice array of single-person options. Their gözleme varieties are also worth a look.
Morning: Turkish Coffee Workshop
Aziz Mahmut Hüdayi, Gülfem Sk. No:15, 34672 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye
You can take your pick of offerings from Istanbul Workshops. They run sessions throughout the day. I recommend the Turkish Coffee Workshop at 10am. You’ll meet outside Sirkeci Metro Station, near Merhaba Pastaneleri Sirkeci. (If you only want something light, you could also grab a breakfast pastry from Merhaba.)
At 10am, your guide will take you to the Asian side of Istanbul, followed by a short walk to Fabrikafa, where the workshop takes place. At the end of the 2-3 hour workshop (depending on which you choose), you’ll receive a lovely gift bag to take with you.
Lunch: Dürümcü Ayhan Usta
Aziz Mahmut Hüdayi, Açık Türbe Mektebi Sk. NO:4A, 34674 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye
Since you’re already on the Asian side of Istanbul, I recommend stopping by one of the many nearby restaurants. Many of them are casual, fast-food-style spots that cater to a mostly local crowd. Dürümcü Ayhan Usta, for example, is right around the corner from the workshop location, though you could also just walk around and choose whatever looks good.
Most places also have seating (including Ayhan Usta), but you could also grab takeout and wander down to the dock to watch the ferries or ride one back to the European side while you eat.
Afternoon: Free Walking Tour at 2pm
Cankurtaran, At Meydanı Cd No:5, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Take a walking tour to get a crash course in the city from a local guide who can also answer questions about Istanbul’s history or where to get the best baklava (jury’s still out—it’s all good). The tour through Viaurbis passes many of Istanbul’s most famous sights, starting at Sultanahmet Square and ending at Little Hagia Sophia Mosque (it also mentions Pasion Turca, a nearby gift shop).
Dinner: N’EVET İstanbul Rooftop Restaurant & Roof Bar
Katip Mustafa Çelebi, Tel Sk. 29/1, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
N’EVET is on the pricier side by Turkish standards, but it offers a great selection of Turkish dishes and a gorgeous rooftop view. I recommend the wrapped beyti, especially if you’re a pistachio fan. They accept reservations, are open until 1:30am, and serve breakfast/brunch on weekends from 8am–12pm. You can view their menu via their website.
Nighttime: Basilica Cistern Evening Admission
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Tickets to the Basilica Cistern are more expensive in the evening after 6:30pm (around 2000 lira).They’re known as ‘Night Shift’ tickets and typically can’t be purchased in advance online. If you’re someone who likes a spooky, dark atmosphere, it’s worth a look. They also occasionally host surprise concerts with live music.
If you’d rather not spend the extra money on the evening tickets, you can also go earlier in the day (any time before 6:00pm), and have dinner afterward.
Day 3
Egyptian & Grand Bazaars, Topkapı Palace/GülhanePark, Sultanahmet Square, Evening Dinner Cruise
Breakfast: Lades Menemen
This was a low-key but well-rated restaurant near my hotel. It’s a great place to try menemen in just about any variety you can imagine. It’s also relatively affordable for such a touristy part of town. They also have other options if you aren’t in a menemen mood, including pastries and a few Turkish breakfast staples.
Morning: Egyptian Bazaar + Gülhane Park/Topkapı Palace + Sultanahmet Square
Egyptian Bazaar
Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Once you’re ready, make your way over across the bridge and towards the Egyptian Bazaar. The Egyptian Bazaar isn’t quite as famous or massive as the Grand Bazaar, but it’s still large, beautiful, and worth exploring for a bit. This is where I did most of my souvenir shopping, mainly at shops with clearly labeled, fixed prices.
Gülhane Park
Cankurtaran, Kennedy Cad., 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
When you’re finished shopping, take public transport or brave the steep uphill walk toward Topkapı Palace. If you aren’t interested in spending that much on admission (I wasn’t), head to Gülhane Park instead: it’s on the way to the palace and is a beautiful public park with plenty of greenery and some fun street food to try (the street corn is a personal must).
Sultanahmet Square
Binbirdirek, Sultan Ahmet Parkı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
The square itself is the centerpoint for entering Istanbul’s most famous mosques. It’s also a stunning sight in its own right. Take a stroll around the fountain, perhaps with some roasted corn or simit from one of the many street vendors.
Blue Mosque
Cankurtaran, At Meydanı Cd No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Entrance into the Blue Mosque is free. If you’re a non-worshipping visitor, you’ll enter through the designated visitor entrance around the back.You’re expected to dress modestly, and if you don’t have proper coverage (including a headscarf for women), attendants will provide what you need before you enter, free of charge.
Hagia Sophia
Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
You can buy tickets online through DEM Museums (for a slight upcharge) or in person on arrival. Again, you’ll need to be dressed modestly, and if you aren’t, you’ll need to pay a small fee for proper garments (headscarf: 1 euro; body cover: 3 euros).
Lunch: Kral Kokorec Sirkeci for the Brave, Gaziantep Közde for the Hungry
A friend told me I had to try kokoreç—slow-roasted lamb or goat intestine wrapped around offal. I am the kind of person who will try anything once, so I was intrigued. The shop I found that was best known for it was right by the bazaar, so I stopped in for lunch.
They offered takeout, but I sat inside the small restaurant area, which had a simple condiment spread that included pepperoncinis. I ordered the pide and an ayran to drink. The pide itself was honestly dry, but I ended up (and you’re definitely not supposed to do this) pouring the ayran directly onto the sandwich as a sauce, which improved the experience tenfold. Definitely worth trying something new.
If you aren’t feeling particularly adventurous, there are plenty of other options nearby. I recommend Gaziantep Közde Künefe Kebap Salonu, which is around the corner, but it’s likely hard to go wrong when you’re surrounded by so much good food.
Afternoon: Grand Bazaar and Dondurma
Grand Bazaar
Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
After lunch, make your way—either on foot or by public transport (the metro runs directly to one of the main entrances)—to the bazaar. Walk around and enjoy the sights of the world’s largest covered market, with its countless shops and stalls. Beware the pushy vendors, but do sample the teas and goodies where you can!
Bena Ice Cream
This is a hole-in-the-wall shop that caters mostly to locals. When I went during lunchtime, I waited in a fast-moving line of workers on their lunch break ordering sandwiches to go. But they also have Dondurma (Turkish ice cream) in a little designed bowl set in the counter. I got a small vanilla cone, and while it lacked the fanfare of the touristy dondurma stands, it was delicious and about a third of the price.
Grab yourself a scoop after you’ve had your fill of the Grand Bazaar.
Dinner: Evening Cruise on the Bosphorus Sea
There are a million different tour companies running dinner cruises on the Bosphorus. If dinner cruises aren’t your thing, I’d still recommend taking a cruise—you can find tickets for just the boat ride for around 7 euros.
I booked with the company Turkol through GetYourGuide for around 40 euros, which included add-ons for unlimited drinks and hotel pick-up and drop-off. This gave me the chance to try rakı, which I recommend at least once—just maybe don’t drink it as quickly as I did after two glasses of wine. You can also book cruises in person or potentially through your hotel (though I wouldn’t recommend it—booking online gave me peace of mind). Whichever option you choose, it promises to be a splendid night along a truly beautiful river.
Day 4
Leaving Istanbul
Breakfast: Çeşme Bazlama Kahvaltı Nişantaşı 1
Teşvikiye, Osman F. Seden Sk. No:8, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye
As a solo traveler, it can be hard to find places that serve the full Turkish breakfast spread to just one person, which is why I opted for an unlimited breakfast on my last day—no minimum group required.
Çeşme Bazlama Kahvaltı is highly-rated, and it earns its reputation for sure. When you arrive, you’re immediately brought Turkish tea and a huge spread of small plates that you can try and refill as you please (just let your waiter know thing(s) you’d like more of. There’s also a jam service with 30+ options to choose from (the rose and milk jams were my favorite unique picks). Periodically, chefs also come around offering different pastries, like gözleme, to sample. They also offer additional food and drink options for an extra cost, like coffee, smoothies, and simit.
Departure
How you get to the airport, train station, or bus terminal is ultimately up to you. I took the Havaist bus back to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, which worked out great and took about 1½ hours total.
I gave myself two hours for airport security, which ended up taking only about 30 minutes, and then killed time at the Burger King in the terminal using the free WiFi until boarding.
See the section above on getting to and from the city center for more detailed advice on leaving Istanbul.
Survival language
Below are some basic Turkish greetings and polite phrases worth knowing. Most locals don’t expect foreign visitors to speak Turkish at all, but a little effort goes a long way and is always appreciated.
I’ve also included a few phrases that are helpful if you decide to take a taxi during your time in Istanbul. Never forget to ask for the meter.
| English Phrase | Turkish Phrase | Approx. Pronunciation |
| Hello (formal: new people or group) | Merhaba | mehr-hah-bah |
| Hello (informal: friends, family, etc.) | Selam | seh-lahm |
| Goodbye (formal — said by the person leaving) | Hoşça kalın | hosh-cha kah-luhn |
| Goodbye (informal — said by the person leaving) | Hoşça kalın | hosh-cha kahl |
| Goodbye (general / informal both ways) | Görüşürüz | guh-roo-shoo-rooz |
| Yes | Evet | eh-vet |
| No | Hayır | hah-yur |
| Thank you | Teşekkür ederim | teh-shehk-kyur eh-deh-reem |
| Thanks | Teşekkürler | teh-shehk-kyur-lehr |
| Please | Lütfen | loot-fehn |
| Excuse me | Afedersiniz | ah-feh-dehr-see-neez |
| Nice to meet you | Memnun oldum | mem-noon ol-doom |
| Cheers! (lit. ‘to your health!’) | Şerefe! | sheh-reh-feh |
| Turn on the meter, please (for taxi drivers) | Taksimetreyi açın, lütfen | Taks-im-et-rey-ee ah-char-mis-in-iz, lutf-en |
| How much is it? | Ne kadar | neh ka-dar? |
Final Thoughts
Istanbul is one of the most lovely cities I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. I can truly say I didn’t expect to fall in love with it as much as I did, but the city’s beauty and its people’s kindness and hospitality won me over easily and without effort. If you get the chance to visit or stay in this wonderful place, I hope you take the time to explore as much as you can and experience all it has to offer.
