Jetting off to Istanbul for a quick 72-hour whirlwind and stumped on how to cram a city of continents, cultures, and kebabs into such a short time? Don’t sweat it! I’ve meticulously handcrafted this 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary to lift the veil off this enigmatic city where East meets West without you having to spend weeks experiencing it all.

Following the footsteps of my previous guide on one day in Istanbul and two days in Istanbul, I’ll share an interactive map, some insider secrets, and tips that’ll have you navigating the city like a local.

So, if you’ve always yearned to visit Istanbul but weren’t sure how to maximize your time, this 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary is your treasure map to the city’s most dazzling gems.

Three Days in Istanbul Itinerary: Interactive Map

Detailed 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

Istanbul, a shining jewel in the crown of Turkey, or Türkiye as locals call it, is a city full of surprises.

Imagine a place where the old meets the new at every corner.

You can see ancient buildings one minute and find yourself in a hip cafe the next.

Now that you’re warmed up, let’s get down to business: your Detailed 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary that packs Istanbul’s essence in the best way possible!

Day 1 of 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary: Old European Side of Istanbul – Sultanahmet, Fener & Balat

You’ll start your first day of the Istanbul three-day itinerary in Sultanahmet, the reverberating heart of the city.

As the day evolves, you’ll immerse yourself in the charming and colorful streets of the multicultural quarters of Fener-Balat.

Woven into the fabric of rich culture and history, every nook of Sultanahmet’s historic district unfolds a unique story. It’s more than a location—it’s a captivating experience.

To make the most of your 72 hours in Istanbul, map out each day beforehand and see to it that you start super early.

8 am: Delight in Traditional Turkish Breakfast @ Begonville Cafe & Bistro

Indulging in a traditional Turkish Breakfast is akin to embarking on a culinary journey that excites the taste buds while encapsulating the culture of the destination.

This morning ritual in Turkey is a celebration of wholesome flavors and a cheerful vibe that brings loved ones together.

From freshly baked bread and pastries to savory cheeses, sweet jams, succulent olives, creamy yogurt, sun-ripened tomatoes, and a variety of egg preparations, the breakfast spread is loaded with diverse colors, textures, tastes, and nutrients.

I particularly liked Menemen, scrambled eggs with tomatoes and green peppers.

Served with a steaming glass of çay (Turkish tea), this breakfast experience transcends sustenance, becoming a cherished tradition that reflects the country’s warmth and hospitality.

How could you miss out on this?

Throughout our week-long stay in Istanbul, we had the pleasure of savoring a traditional Turkish breakfast each day. This delightful routine led us to explore some of the city’s finest restaurants celebrated for their sumptuous breakfast spreads.

Begonville Cafe & Bistro quickly became one of our favorites. They not only know the art of traditional breakfast but also the finesse of hospitality.

9 am: Explore Hippodrome & its Historical Ruins

Following a satisfying breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to the Hippodrome of Constantinople, also known as Sultanahmet Square, a central public square in Istanbul.

During the Byzantium period, the Hippodrome served as a hub for entertainment, chariot races, imperial ceremonies, festivities, and political gatherings.

As you saunter around a square, you can catch a glimpse of the remains of the remarkable monuments and statues that once adorned this square – the Obelisk of Theodosius aka the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk.

Today, this square lies at the heart of the Sultanahmet quarter, bordered by some of Istanbul’s most iconic historical treasures namely the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace.

Sultanahmet Park provides striking views, framing both the iconic sites of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, making it a favored locale for capturing picture-perfect snapshots.

9:30 am: Blue Mosque

With its cascading domes, intricate blue tiles (giving it its name), and an exquisite symmetrical layout, the Blue Mosque, aka the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, casts an unending enchantment upon all who visit.

Conceived by Sultan Ahmed I between 1609 and 1617 to rival the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque has etched itself as one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

This architectural marvel is an intricate fusion of Ottoman and Byzantine elements, boasting a majestic central dome encircled by smaller semi-domes, graceful arches, and an ensemble of six graceful minarets.

Access to the mosque is offered without charge, and its doors are open every day from 8:30 to 19:00 during the warmer months and from 8:30 to 17:00 in the winter.

Guests are invited to explore the mosque’s splendor during non-prayer hours.

Given its status as a beloved Istanbul attraction, the Blue Mosque tends to draw substantial crowds. Thus, it’s advisable to plan an early visit to savor its beauty without the hustle and bustle.

Additionally, it’s important to note that the mosque remains an active site of worship, underscoring the significance of dressing modestly.

Both women and men are kindly requested to cover their arms, shoulders, and legs. For women, wearing a head covering is also recommended as a sign of respect.

10:30 am: Hagia Sophia

Facing the Blue Mosque stands the Hagia Sophia, aka Ayasofya, a monumental testament to history and architecture in Istanbul that unquestionably earns its spot on every tourist’s must-see list. It’s one of the best places to visit in Istanbul in 3 days.

With origins dating back to the distant year of 537 AD, this awe-inspiring architectural wonder has held roles as a cathedral, mosque, museum, and once again, a mosque.

Just ponder the weight of history that rests upon its ancient shoulders!

Within its venerable walls, stories of bygone eras are etched in every stone.

The profound beauty of its expansive dome, captivating interior, and the remarkable juxtaposition of Byzantine Christian mosaics and Islamic art is nothing short of captivating.

The Hagia Sophia welcomes visitors throughout the week, and the best part? Entry is complimentary.

As it now serves as a functional mosque, it gracefully closes its doors during prayer times, a testament to its enduring spiritual significance.

11:30 am: Behold the Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is a historic complex that regally hosted the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries, reigning as both their majestic residence and administrative heart.

It ushers us into the splendid world of the Ottoman Empire, a melange of luxury and influence.

Divided into six distinctive realms, this intricate expanse unfurls with enchanting courtyards, pavilions, grand halls, huge gardens, royal kitchens, a treasury, a library, and the famed imperial Harem.

A spellbinding intrigue lies within the Harem, perhaps the crown jewel that demands an extra step. An added fee opens the doors to this intimate domain, offering a glimpse into the private lives of the sultans.

It unveils a mosaic of chambers, quarters, and spaces for the sultan, his wives, concubines, and children.

The architecture weaves a collage of Islamic art, enriched with intricate tiles, flowing calligraphy, and lavish embellishments – a symphony of artistic allure that beckons you to linger.

While immersed, venture to Hagia Irene, the city’s second-largest church after the grandeur of Hagia Sophia.

Nestled within Topkapi Palace’s outer bounds, it harbors a legacy and architecture that are truly unparalleled.

Unlike its counterparts, this Byzantine-era marvel stands as a testament to time, untouched by the mantle of mosque or museum conversion.

Topkapi Palace’s opening hours sway with the seasons, so it’s wise to consult the official channels or glean information locally for the latest scoop.

2 pm: Lunch @ Matbah

Situated within the auditory proximity of Topkapi Palace, Matbah serves as an impeccable venue to taste the genuine flavors of Ottoman cuisine.

It captivated me with its refined & meticulously detailed decor that radiates a sense of history.

Furthermore, both the culinary offerings and service are of the highest caliber.

Not to mention, the gorgeous views from the open-air terrace simply add to the charm.

3 pm: Basilica Cistern

This one’s a masterpiece! Enigmatical, to say the least.

The Basilica Cistern, aka Yerebatan Sarnici, is a subterranean marvel of Byzantine engineering constructed under the auspices of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, designed to serve both the imperial palace and the citizens of Constantinople.

Comprising an awe-inspiring lattice of 336 marble columns, each approximately 9 meters in height, the cistern bears a roof graced by vaulted brick arches, a tour through its chambers offers invaluable insights into Istanbul’s ancient water management techniques.

The artful interplay of reflections on the water’s surface and the nuanced lighting contribute to an ethereal and mystical ambiance, inviting visitors into what feels like an alternate dimension.

Periodically, the venue serves as a backdrop for captivating events and exhibitions.

The cistern welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 to 22:00, with ticket prices varying based on the timing of your visit. The official website provides the most current details.

To avoid long queues, it’s advisable to visit either immediately upon opening or in the post-lunch hours (as you are seeing per this itinerary).

Another effective way to bypass the waiting line is by opting for a skip-the-line guided tour, which not only conserves time but also enriches your understanding of this ancient marvel’s history.

4 pm: Grand Bazaar

Do you love shopping? Most of us do! Even if you don’t (chances are rare), you’d still love to navigate Grand Bazaar.

More than a mere shopping destination, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, known locally as Kapalıçarşı, is a monumental institution that melds history, architecture, culture, and commerce into a singularly vibrant tapestry.

Established in 1461 under the decree of Sultan Mehmed, this marketplace has evolved over centuries into a global hub for trade, making it one of the oldest and most expansive covered bazaars in the world.

The labyrinthine layout of the bazaar serves as a captivating element of its charm.

Meandering through a complex network of courtyards and alleyways, visitors encounter an astonishing array of over 4,000 shops and stalls.

These purveyors offer an extensive selection of goods—from exquisite jewelry and fine textiles to ceramics, spices, gourmet teas, and coffee, as well as delectable confections like lokum.

You’ll also find a rich assortment of carpets, rugs, and a plethora of souvenirs.

Notably prevalent is the Nazar Boncuğu, a blue-and-white talismanic bead () deeply embedded in Turkish culture, available in diverse forms such as jewelry, accessories, and home decor.

The art of negotiation is an intrinsic aspect of shopping within this historical marketplace, where the skilled act of haggling often leads to acquiring items at more favorable prices.

As you navigate this extraordinary bazaar, it would be remiss not to appreciate the architectural grandeur that frames your experience.

The market is adorned with a series of domes and arches, along with facades that are an exemplar of intricate craftsmanship, adding yet another layer of allure to this iconic institution.

Grand Bazaar is open every day (except Sundays and religious & public holidays) from 9:00 to 19:00.

5 pm: Coffee & Baklava @ Hafiz Mustafa 1864

I’m quite sure that in your quest to search for Istanbul’s finest baklava on the internet, you’ve already come across the name Hafiz Mustafa.

Established in 1864 by Hadji Ismail Hakki Bey, this venerable institution has flourished across generations.

Hafız Mustafa, the founder’s son, perpetuated this culinary legacy, transforming a single outlet into a network of over 10 branches throughout Istanbul.

Serving as a sumptuous exemplar of Turkey’s culinary heritage, Hafiz Mustafa offers a staggering array of traditional confections, among which at least 25 different varieties of baklava stand out—my personal favorites being those infused with walnut and pistachio.

A quintessential experience here would be to pair a cup of Turkish coffee (Türk kahvesi) or Turkish tea (çay) with their renowned baklava.

Both coffee and tea are more than mere beverages in Istanbul; steeped in centuries of tradition that have transformed them into the rituals deeply entrenched in the daily lives of the locals.

Indeed, Turkish coffee culture has garnered global recognition, securing a place on UNESCO’s list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

During our trip through Istanbul, we made it a point to frequent numerous Hafiz Mustafa locations, including their flagship store in Sirkeci.

In fact, we couldn’t resist taking home an assortment of their signature red boxes, brimming with Turkish delight and baklava, as cherished gifts for family and friends, and of course, a few for us.

As informed by the knowledgeable staff at Hafiz Mustafa, baklava has a relatively brief shelf life of approximately 10 days. In contrast, Turkish delight remains enjoyable for up to a month.

6 pm: Spice Bazaar (Optional)

You can absolutely skip this one if you don’t have time or are not smitten with the bazaar scene.

For me, bustling marketplaces serve as my happy place, after all, a little shopping therapy never hurt anyone.

When those marketplaces are also cultural and historical treasures like the Spice Bazaar, the experience is an absolute steal.

Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar due to Egypt’s historical role as a prominent supplier of exotic goods, Spice Bazaar stands as another quintessential market in Istanbul.

This bazaar doesn’t merely offer spices; it presents an immersive, olfactory experience that is nothing short of a feast for the senses.

As you navigate it, you’ll be greeted by the heady fragrances and vivid hues of an extensive array of spices, herbs, and botanicals, punctuated by the ambient noise of shoppers haggling energetically with shopkeepers.

Alongside these, you’ll find an enticing selection of dried fruits, premium teas, assorted nuts, and traditional Turkish confections including lokum, commonly known as Turkish delight, and the ever-popular baklava.

The Spice Bazaar is open every day (except religious & public holidays) from 9:00 to 19:00.

7 pm: Explore the Colorful Streets of Fener & Balat

Spend your evening exploring Fener & Balat, two of Istanbul’s oldest, most picturesque, and multifaceted neighborhoods settled along the coast of Eminonu by the Golden Horn.

Exploring the historic colorful houses, diverse religious institutions, art galleries, vintage shops, and rustic cafes feels like wandering through a living museum.

The quintessential pastel-colored, two-storey wooden rowhouses, locally known as ‘cumba’, are scattered throughout Fener and Balat. Yet, Merdivenli Yokuş and Kiremit streets are particularly awash with these iconic houses, making them popular spots for photo enthusiasts.

Dominating the skyline, the Phanar Greek Orthodox Lyceum – a majestic redbrick structure – stands as Istanbul’s oldest surviving Greek Orthodox School.

Incir Agaci Cafe for its rainbow stairs, and Balat Antique Café featuring a canopy of colorful hanging umbrellas are also worth a stop.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history buff, or simply a traveler looking to bask in authentic vibes, Fener & Balat promise an unforgettable experience.

Heads Up: While the bohemian decor of Balat Antique Café lures many, we found the host’s policy restrictive. A board out front declares that photos are allowed only for patrons. We clicked the photograph from the outside as the reviews suggested the offerings as pricey and middling in quality.

9 pm: Dinner @ Old Balat Cafe & Kitchen

Conclude this eventful day with a relaxed and sumptuous evening repast at Old Balat Cafe & Kitchen.

Old Balat Cafe & Kitchen stands as a cherished culinary destination in Balat, and deservedly so.

With its charming ambiance, retro-inspired interiors, welcoming staff, and soul-satisfying cuisine, the café has garnered the affection of both local residents and international visitors.

Day 2 of 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary: Modern European Side of Istanbul: Galata, Karakoy, Istiklal, and Taksim Square

On the second day, you’ll delve into Istanbul’s contemporary heartbeat by visiting the Beyoğlu district—a vibrant hub that stands as a cornerstone of the city’s cultural, artistic, tourist, and historical landscape.

8 am: Breakfast @ Van Kahvalti Evi

Situated in Istanbul’s bohemian Cihangir neighborhood, this famous breakfast spot specializes in Van-style breakfast, a feast hailing from the eastern Van region of Turkey.

Boasting a warm and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant often buzzes with a mix of locals and travelers, all eager to indulge in a morning feast.

Additionally, the Van-style breakfast serves as a wonderful introduction to Turkey’s diverse food culture.

The flavors are authentic, and the ingredients are meticulously sourced to offer a genuine taste of Van cuisine.

The restaurant has garnered praise not just for its food, but also for maintaining a high level of service, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast keen on exploring regional Turkish flavors or someone who appreciates the fine art of breakfast, Van Kahvaltı Evi provides a memorable gastronomic journey that shouldn’t be missed.

A Walk Through Cihangir to Istiklal Avenue

Take a leisurely stroll to Istiklal Avenue from the restaurant (about 700m) while taking in the bohemian atmosphere, vibrant arts scene, and cosmopolitan character of Cihangir.

Often likened to neighborhoods like SoHo in New York or Le Marais in Paris, the narrow, winding streets of Cihangir are filled with vintage boutiques, artisan coffee shops, charming bookstores, and a variety of international and Turkish eateries.

You’ll also pass through one of the oldest hammams in Istanbul, Aga Hamami.

9 am: Walk the Istiklal Street

As one of Istanbul’s most iconic pedestrian boulevards, a leisurely walk down this bustling street is practically mandatory.

Teeming with hubbub, Istiklal Avenue pulses with an irresistible energy you simply have to experience.

From quaint local boutiques to international high-end retailers, as well as an array of cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues like art galleries and museums, Istiklal is a medley of varied experiences.

Its appeal is only magnified at night when the street comes alive in a radiant glow, further enhanced by live musical performances that create an unforgettable atmosphere.

And of course, no visit would be complete without acknowledging the nostalgic red tram that serves as the avenue’s pièce de résistance.

Whether you choose to hop aboard for a historic journey, strike a pose for a memorable photo, or simply watch it glide by, the tram is undoubtedly a central part of Istiklal’s unique charm.

10 am: Taksim Square

As Istiklal Street comes to its grand finale, you’ll step into the bustling atmosphere of Taksim Square—modern Istanbul’s beating heart.

Insanely packed with people, the square is home to diverse restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and hotels, but its significance runs deeper than commerce and social gatherings.

The square serves as a focal point of historical, cultural, and political relevance, underscored by the monuments that adorn it.

Dominating the center of the square is the Republic Monument, an imposing structure that pays tribute to the formation of the Turkish Republic in 1923.

Enhancing the square’s aesthetic and cultural character are the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) and Taksim Gezi Park, both of which contribute to the square’s multi-layered appeal.

11 am: Galata Tower

The Galata Tower, with its distinctive conical crown, is a hallmark feature of Istanbul’s skyline, visible from multiple perspectives throughout the city.

Originally constructed in the 14th century, this venerable sentinel has been a silent witness to the ever-changing kaleidoscope of the modern history of Istanbul.

Now functioning as the Galata Kulesi Museum, the tower is much more than an ancient structure.

Its primary attraction is an observation deck located on the eighth floor, offering an unparalleled 360-degree panoramic view of the city as it meanders along the Bosphorus Strait.

To reach the observation deck, you can take an elevator up to the seventh floor and then proceed via a narrow, winding staircase.

As you make your way back to the ground level, each floor greets you with a curated array of historical exhibits and displays that enrich your understanding of the city’s past.

Keep in mind that both the opening hours and admission fees are subject to change; it’s advisable to consult the official website for the most current information.

12 pm: Explore the Lesser Known Gems of Karakoy

It’s time to step into the unique charm of Karakoy, an ever-dynamic neighborhood in Istanbul.

Begin your exploration at Salt Galata, situated on the renowned Bankalar Caddesi, just a short 240-meter stroll from the iconic Galata Tower via Bereketzade Cami Sokak.

Make your way down the artistic Kamondo Stairs to reach this multifaceted cultural hub.

Pause to appreciate the Kamondo Stairs, an architectural gem that elegantly blends Neo-Baroque and early Art Nouveau elements.

Conceived in the 1870s by Abraham Salomon Camondo, a Jewish Ottoman-Italian banker, the stairs were designed to provide an easier route between his residence, workplace, and his children’s school.

Bankalar Caddesi itself is a cobbled avenue lined with grand buildings, their elaborate facades a nod to another era as the Ottoman Empire’s financial district.

Several of these historic structures have been repurposed into art galleries, boutique hotels, and stylish restaurants.

Among them is Salt Galata, the former imperial Ottoman Bank headquarters, now a multifaceted cultural space featuring a library, museum, auditorium, workspaces, bookstore, café, and restaurant.

Continue your adventure with a 600-meter walk to Hoca Tahsin Sokak, known for its vibrant display of hanging umbrellas. Capture this Instagram-worthy scene before moving on.

As you walk through Karakoy’s lively avenues, you are sure to be captivated by the vivid street art and murals that punctuate its historic architecture, encapsulating the essence of a modern Istanbul.

Just 400 meters away, you’ll encounter Tophane Square, home to iconic landmarks like the Tophane Fountain, Kilic Ali Pasha Mosque, and the Nusretiye Mosque, among others.

Close by is Galataport, where you can indulge in a peaceful waterfront stroll, relishing views of the magnificent Bosphorus Bridge.

Before leaving Karakoy, treat yourself to delectable baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a legendary sweet shop that’s earned its reputation as the best baklava maker in the city.

A brief five-minute taxi ride will take you to your next gastronomic stop, Sabrosa Restaurant.

PS: You have the flexibility to enjoy lunch before delving into the splendors of Dolmabahce Palace, or you can opt to tour the palace first and then settle in for a leisurely meal. The choice is yours.

2 pm: Lunch @ Sabrosa Restaurant

A main restaurant at Swissotel the Bosphorus, Sabrosa is well-known for its scrumptious food, excellent services, beautiful ambiance, and breathtaking views over Bosphorus.

3 pm: Dolmabahce Palace

Situated along the Bosphorus coastline, Dolmabahce Palace entices you with its magnificent scale, historic narratives, and sweeping waterfront vistas.

As Turkey’s grandest and most awe-inspiring royal residence, Dolmabahce holds a pivotal place in Ottoman history.

However, it’s not just its historical relevance that draws crowds; the palace’s extravagant elegance and cutting-edge architectural style make it even more appealing.

Every part of the palace, from its carefully crafted front to its fancy rooms, its grand crystal stairs, and the biggest chandelier you’ll ever see, shows just how much care went into making it luxurious.

The palace welcomes visitors from 9:00 to 16:00 daily, except for Mondays, and can only be explored through a guided tour.

To make the most of your visit and sidestep lengthy queues, I recommend reserving a skip-the-line tour in advance.

6 pm: Explore the Hidden Gem of Arnavutkoy

Arnavutkoy holds a special place in my heart as one of Istanbul’s best-kept secrets.

It’s not overrun with tourists, which makes it a perfect spot to experience the city’s authentic culture and distinctive characteristics.

Arnavutkoy’s intrinsic beauty, authentic atmosphere, and relaxed ambiance make it a haven for travelers and photographers in search of experiences that stray from the conventional tourist path.

Originally home to Albanian immigrants—its name literally means ‘Albanian Village’—Arnavutkoy is a cultural gem waiting to be discovered.

As you meander through its quaint, cobblestone streets, adorned with impeccably preserved Ottoman-era houses and mansions, you’ll encounter artistic boutiques, galleries, and fashionable cafes.

These elements combine to create an enriching cultural experience that stands apart.

Additionally, the neighborhood’s idyllic location along the Bosphorus shore offers captivating waterfront views, further enhancing its appeal.

7 pm: Coffee @ Doorstep

Snuggled in the heart of Arnavutkoy, this quaint café is a hidden gem.

With its chic interiors and inviting sidewalk setting, it offers more than just a cup of coffee.

Indulge in scrumptious cakes and savor the rich flavors of expertly brewed coffee in an atmosphere that charms both locals and visitors alike.

8 pm: Take a Stroll Along the Waterfront

A walk from Arnavutkoy to Bebek along the seaside is a delightful experience that opens up a chance to absorb the local vibe, scenic beauty, and cultural landmarks of both neighborhoods.

This stretch of the Bosphorus offers some of Istanbul’s most stunning views, with the waterfront on one side and a mix of modern and traditional architecture on the other.

If you time it right, you might catch a gorgeous sunset or see the Bosphorus Bridge beautifully lit at night.

The Bebek Park at the end is an excellent place to relax after your walk. It offers more fabulous views and an opportunity to catch your breath in a lush, green setting.

Don’t forget to try some of the street food you’ll find along the way. From roasted chestnuts to corn on the cob, local vendors offer snacks that are both delicious and ideal for eating on the go.

9 pm: Conclude Your Evening with a Fulfilling Meal

Numerous restaurants and cafes are conveniently situated beside the beach and Bebek Park, serving up outstanding choices for food and drinks.

I highly recommend checking out Divan Bebek Brasserie, Frontiere İstanbul, and Mangerie for A-one dining experiences.

Day 3 of 3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary: Asian Side of Istanbul: Kadikoy and Uskudar

Day 3 of your Istanbul 3 day itinerary is going to show you a more authentic side of Istanbul – the Asian or Anatolian Side.

A short 20-minute journey across the Bosphorus is the most beautiful way to travel between Istanbul’s European and Asian sides.

It gives you a different (read gorgeous) perspective of the historic monuments of Sultanahmet so make sure your camera is ready!

You can board a ferry from Eminonu, Karakoy, or Besiktas to Kadikoy. It runs pretty frequently like every 15 minutes or so from 6:40 to 21:30 on weekdays. The start time differs on weekends. You can check the updated information on their official website.

It makes sense to catch the 8:30 or 8:45 ferry to reach Kadikoy by 9:00. Remember, time is of the essence for you.

Predominantly embracing a residential and suburban character, Kadikoy offers an ideal setting for leisurely and relaxed exploration.

Following a whirlwind of two days spent exploring, you can now fully indulge in the art of unhurried travel.

As soon as you get off the ferry, don’t miss the sight of Haydarpasa Train Station, a striking Ottoman-era building. Located just off the shore in the Kadıköy, it’s one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. If you want to admire its beautiful interiors, you can do it at the end of your Kadikoy exploration.

9:30 am: Breakfast @ Brekkie Breakfast Club

Should you find yourself yet to enjoy your morning meal, Brekkie Breakfast Club presents itself as an excellent choice for a satisfying breakfast.

The restaurant offers a delectable Western/European-style breakfast, providing a welcome change from Turkish cuisine for a spell. Their croissants stand out as the finest in the town.

10:30 am: Amble the Neighborhood of Kadikoy

After you finish your breakfast, take a leisurely walk through Moda Sahil Park along the coast of the Sea of Marmara to reach Moda Caddesi aka Moda Avenue or Moda Street.

Dotted with an overwhelming variety of nightlife venues, vintage shops, secondhand bookstores, stylish cafes, and fine eateries, it’s natural that Moda Caddesi is often hailed as the proud emblem and the star attraction of the neighborhood of Moda.

While here, you must stop by Meshur Dondurmacı Ali Usta for ice cream and Dem Moda for a refreshing cup of tea.

As you walk a little further, you’ll find yourself on Kadife Street aka Bar Street, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with cafes, bistros, pubs, and live music bars – it comes alive after dark.

While you explore a bit more down the path, you’ll arrive at Bahariye Street, another vibrant street that captures the essence of Kadikoy’s dynamic character. The most notable building here is Sureyya Opera House aka Sureyya Cultural Center.

You’ll notice a bronze statue of a fighting bull just where Bahariye Street ends – this statue of the bull at the center of Kadikoy Altiyol holds an interesting history and makes for a great photo opportunity.

It’s time to venture into Kadikoy Market aka Kadikoy Pazari for a delightful sensory experience. Immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and an array of local products is like diving into the vibrant heartbeat of the neighborhood’s daily existence.

If you are a bookworm and have a special love for second-hand books like me, you must take a bit of detour to Akmar Passage (Akmar Kadikoy Sahaf), a modest collection of indoor shops brimming with oodles of used books and all things vintage, exuding an unassuming charm.

While wandering through the streets and alleys of Kadikoy, you must have discovered colorful murals, graffiti, and artistic expressions that add character to the neighborhood.

If you want to explore more of the vibrant street art scene Kadikoy is known for, walk for about 900 meters to arrive at Yeldegirmeni, an art enthusiast’s haven.