Home
Map
Places
Experiences
Profile
Sign InSign Up

24-Hours Istanbul Itinerary

Experience the best of Istanbul in one day, from Byzantine wonders to Ottoman treasures. Enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine, marvel at architectural masterpieces, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this city that bridges two continents.


  • 08:00 - 09:00

    Breakfast at My Terrace Cafe and Restaurant

    Start your day with an authentic Turkish breakfast overlooking the historical peninsula.

    Everyday 8:30 AM-1 AM next day

    4.7
    4,973 Reviews
  • 09:00 - 09:05

    Walk to Hagia Sophia

    A short 5-minute walk from the restaurant to Hagia Sophia, taking you through the historical Sultanahmet district.

  • 09:05 - 10:00

    Hagia Sophia

    Explore this architectural marvel that has served as a Byzantine cathedral, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. Don't miss the spectacular dome and ancient mosaics.

    Magnificent Byzantine architecture

    24/7

    4.8
    133,399 Reviews€25

    The Hagia Sophia is a historic museum. It was originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in the 6th century, but was later converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire. Today, it is a museum and is open to the public. The Hagia Sophia is known for its beautiful and intricate architecture, which is a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited museums in Turkey. The Hagia Sophia is a popular destination for tourists and offers a unique and fascinating look at the rich history and culture of Istanbul.

  • 10:00 - 10:05

    Walk to Blue Mosque

    A 5-minute walk across Sultanahmet Square to the Blue Mosque, with great photo opportunities along the way.

  • 10:05 - 10:45

    Blue Mosque

    Visit this iconic Ottoman-era mosque known for its blue Iznik tiles and six minarets. Remember to dress modestly and respect prayer times.

    Iconic mosque with blue tiles

    4.7
    110,429 ReviewsFree

    The Blue Mosque is a historic mosque. It was built in the early 17th century and is known for its beautiful blue tile work, which gives the mosque its name. The mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and is one of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul. It is a popular destination for tourists and offers a unique and beautiful setting for visitors to explore. The Blue Mosque is also an important religious and cultural center for the city, and is still used for daily prayers and other religious ceremonies.

  • 10:45 - 10:52

    Walk to Basilica Cistern

    A 7-minute walk from Blue Mosque to the ancient underground water reservoir.

  • 10:52 - 11:30

    Basilica Cistern

    Discover this underground marvel with its forest of 336 marble columns and mysterious Medusa heads. The cool atmosphere provides a nice break from the Istanbul heat.

    Subterranean Water Wonder

    Everyday 9 AM-6:30 PM, 7:30 PM-10 PM

    4.6
    85,485 Reviews€24

    The Basilica Cistern is a large underground water storage facility. It was built in the 6th century and is one of the city's most famous landmarks. The cistern is made up of a network of underground vaults and columns, which were used to store water for the city. The cistern is known for its unique and beautiful architecture, and is a popular destination for tourists. Today, the cistern is a museum and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its underground vaults and learn about its history and significance.

  • 11:30 - 11:40

    Take the T1 Tram using T1

    Board the T1 tram at Sultanahmet station and ride to Eminönü station (3 stops, approximately 10 minutes).

  • 11:40 - 13:30

    Explore the Spice Bazaar

    Spend some time wandering through the colorful and aromatic Spice Bazaar near Eminönü before lunch.

  • 13:30 - 15:00

    Lunch at Tarihi Eminönü Derya Balıkçısı 1945

    Enjoy fresh seafood at this historic restaurant near the Galata Bridge. Try the famous fish sandwich (balık ekmek) or grilled sea bass for an authentic experience.

    Everyday 8 AM-10 PM

    4.1
    1,390 Reviews
  • 15:00 - 15:03

    Walk to Galata Bridge

    A short 3-minute walk from the restaurant to the iconic bridge.

  • 15:03 - 15:30

    Galata Bridge

    Walk across this historic bridge connecting the old and new parts of European Istanbul. Enjoy views of the Golden Horn and watch local fishermen try their luck.

    Historic bridge over Golden Horn

    24/7

    4.6
    38,310 ReviewsFree

    The Galata Bridge is a bridge that spans the Golden Horn in Istanbul. It was built in 1845 and is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. The bridge is used by both pedestrians and vehicles, and is a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The bridge is also home to a number of restaurants and shops, which offer a variety of local specialties and souvenirs.

  • 16:30 - 16:35

    Take the F2 Funicular using F2

    Board at Karaköy station and ride to Şişhane station. This short funicular ride saves you from a steep uphill walk.

  • 15:40 - 16:30

    Galata Tower

    Climb this 14th-century stone tower for panoramic views of Istanbul, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus. The tower is one of the city's most striking landmarks.

    Iconic tower with panoramic views

    Everyday 8:30 AM-10 PM

    4.6
    194,076 Reviews€30

    The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower. It was built in 1348 and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The tower is located in the Galata neighborhood, which was once a major commercial and cultural center. The tower is approximately 66 meters tall and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. It is a popular destination for tourists and offers a unique and historic experience for visitors. Today, the tower is a museum and a popular spot for dining and entertainment.

  • 16:35 - 16:45

    Take the T2 Nostalgic Tram using T2

    Board the historic red tram at Şişhane station and enjoy a ride along Istiklal Street to Galatasaray Lisesi station.

  • 16:45 - 17:45

    Istiklal Road

    Stroll down Istanbul's most famous pedestrian street, lined with historic buildings, shops, cafes, restaurants, and street performers.

    Bustling historic boulevard

    24/7

    4.6
    5,079 ReviewsFree

    This iconic pedestrian street in Beyoğlu is Istanbul’s heart of shopping, dining, and nightlife, buzzing day and night. Explore historical buildings, boutiques, galleries, theaters, cafes, and landmarks like the nostalgic red tram that connects Taksim Square to Galata Tower.

  • 17:45 - 17:55

    Continue on T2 Nostalgic Tram using T2

    Board the T2 tram at Galatasaray Lisesi station and continue to Taksim station, the end of the line.

  • 17:55 - 18:30

    Taksim Square

    Experience the beating heart of modern Istanbul. See the Republic Monument and take in the lively atmosphere of this important public space.

    Heart of modern Istanbul

    24/7

    4.4
    49,711 Reviews

    Taksim Square is a large public square located in the Beyoğlu district. It has been an important gathering place for centuries and has played a significant role in the city's history. The square was originally a military parade ground, but over time it became a commercial and cultural center. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Taksim Square was a major hub of economic and cultural activity in Istanbul, and was home to many important buildings, including the Ottoman Ministry of War and the Ottoman Bank. In the 1920s and 1930s, the square was the site of several political demonstrations and protests, and became a symbol of Turkish nationalism. Today, Taksim Square is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and continues to be an important gathering place for cultural and political events in Istanbul.

  • 18:30 - 19:30

    Free Time

    Enjoy some free time to rest or explore more of Beyoğlu area before dinner.

  • 19:30 - 21:00

    Dinner at Nevet Istanbul Rooftop Restaurant

    Conclude your day with a memorable dinner at this rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Istanbul. Enjoy Turkish cuisine and perhaps a traditional beverage while watching the city lights come alive.

    Sun, Sat: 8 AM-1:30 AM next day Mon-Fri: 12 PM-1:30 AM next day

    4.9
    931 Reviews