3 Days in Istanbul: A Crash Course in Beauty, Baklava & Ancient Wonder

Istanbul doesn't just welcome the wanderer – its charm stays with you. It leaves its rich history in your mind and serene echoes of the call to prayer etched in your soul.

Every turn in this city is a beautiful contradiction: when the scent of grilled fish on Galata Bridge meets the wafting incense of centuries-old churches; ancient minarets rise above trendy rooftop cafés; and time bends in backstreets where baklava is still made the way someone's great-grandmother insisted it must be.

For a comfortable and authentic stay in Istanbul, base yourself at any Mercure hotel in the city, where you’ll find spas, spacious rooms and suites, and fitness centres that allow you to take care of yourself while away from home.

Whether you’re staying 3 days in Istanbul or longer, Mercure puts you in the heart of it all, with beautiful views and a perfect base. 

Sitting at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul’s rich history from Byzantine to Ottoman times is shaped by its unique location. Its vibrant modern culture, old alleyways, and sacred mosques make it an exciting trip anytime of the year.

An Istanbul three-day itinerary lets you enjoy must-see sights and local experiences without feeling too rushed.

Whether you’re here solo, with family, or your significant other, you’ll be able to take in all the beautiful sights and experiences with just 3 days in Istanbul.

This guide captures both the iconic landmarks and local hidden gems, so you can explore the city like a local. Pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. 

Begin your Istanbul three-day itinerary in Sultanahmet, which is basically the city’s historic core. Start early at Hagia Sophia – it’s not an overstatement to say this is one of the most historically significant buildings in the world.

Pronounced Aya Sofia, this icon has been a cathedral, a mosque, a museum, and now a mosque again. It’s a stunning blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, and a symbol of Istanbul’s layered spiritual history.

After that, you can explore the beautiful Blue Mosque next door, then head over to the Topkapi Palace and check out its timeless Ottoman beauty. In this luxurious palace, you’ll get a feel of how the Sultans and their families used to live. The palace hides secret rooms, beautiful private baths, sprawling chambers for every family member (and wife), and gardens so heavenly you’ll seriously consider never leaving Istanbul.

For lunch, enjoy traditional Turkish char-grilled fish, steak, or mezze at Sultanahmet Rooftop, which has breathtaking views of the Bosporus.

In the afternoon, enjoy a 15-minute walk from the Sultanahmet area to the Grand Bazaar to soak in the lively atmosphere and shop for souvenirs. Here you can also try Basterma at one of the stalls. It’s a Turkish beef cured with garlic, cumin, and other local spices. It's similar to carpaccio or pastrami, but more flavourful. 

Last but not least, take a 10-minute walk to the Sultan Suleyman Hammam Traditional Bath, where you can indulge in some well-earned relaxation after a history-packed day.

If you’re still in the mood for a little more local atmosphere after your hammam, finish off the day with a stroll along the Bosporus waterfront and grab some char-grilled corn or roasted chestnuts from one of the street vendors.

Now you’ve officially explored the historical highlights of Istanbul's European side just like a local.

Today, make time to visit the historic district of Balat on the European side. This humble area is known for its mix of Ottoman-era wooden buildings, brightly coloured homes, as well as restored churches and synagogues.

After that, cross the Golden Horn by ferry to discover Galata, where you can climb the iconic Galata Tower for panoramic city views. You should also wander through this trendy area and grab lunch at a local café.

If you’re into it, you can check out Pop Culture Toys & Collectables in Galata. They have a rare selection of collectables for every age and style. There are other shops as well, including local boutiques and elegant perfumeries selling local brands, such as Atelier Rebul (try the mandarin sorbet body spray – you’ll thank us later).

For dinner, consider a rooftop restaurant in Karaköy. Just a 10-minute walk from the Galata area, Yelkenci Karaköy is a great seafood spot to eat and take in the beautiful views of the city and the Bosporus.

Finally, take a taxi or walk over to the bustling Istiklal Caddesi – the street that never sleeps. You can find everything here, from delicious baklava at the famous Hafiz Mustafa dessert shop to trendy sneaker stores and local fashion favourites. It’s also connected to the famous Taksim Square and one of the liveliest streets in the city, so make sure you don’t miss the vibes.

We told you: this Istanbul three-day itinerary won’t leave anything out.

Start your day by taking a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul, where you can explore the charming historic districts of Uskudar & Kadikoy.

Beylerbeyi Palace sits in Uskudar, just behind the Bosporus Bridge. The majestic Mihrimah Sultan Mosque is also in Uskudar. This 16th century Ottoman mosque overlooks the waterfront and is a must-see on the Asian side.

Just next door, Kadikoy is known for its lively markets and boho vibes. Explore the local shops, sample street food, and visit quaint cafés.

End your Istanbul three-day itinerary with dinner at Villa Bosporus, where you can admire the beautiful Bosporus views on this last night.

Bonus: if you have time, and you’re planning to return to the European side of the city, head to the lively Besiktas district, where you can find the famous Ortakoy mosque. This breathtaking beauty sits right on the water and has stunning views of the city. It’s also great for selfies at sunset. 

If you're planning to spend 3 days in Istanbul, grab an Istanbulkart for easy access to trams, buses, and ferries. Ferries are not just scenic, they’re a fun and affordable way to cross the Bosporus. For airport transfers, Havaist buses are reliable and budget-friendly. Taxis are fine too, just make sure the driver uses the meter. The Istanbul Tourist Pass might be worth it if you plan to visit multiple attractions throughout your 3 days in Istanbul.

When visiting mosques, dress modestly and bring a scarf to cover your hair if you’re a woman. Some mosques may lend you hair coverings, but it’s better to bring your own just in case. Men should also wear long pants and cover their shoulders and everyone should remove their shoes before entering. 

It’s a good idea to carry some cash for street food and markets, although most places do accept cards. Istanbul is generally safe, but stay alert in crowded areas. The best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

This Istanbul three-day itinerary is a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to explore, get a little lost, and make your own version of a perfect trip. That’s where the magic usually happens.