Istalbul itinerary 3days
I will briefly summarize the 3-day itinerary in Istanbul.
Day 1 - Explore the history of Turkey in the Old Town.
Day 2 - View the Bosporus Strait, the border between Europe and Asia, and have dinner in the new town
Day 3 - Asia district and Bebek , the hottest street for locals
Day 1 - Old town
The old town of Istanbul is a place where you can see its history at once. It is a place where all the important historical places that come to mind when you think of Istanbul are gathered. Starting with Sultan Ahmet Square, we will start with key attractions such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Sarayi.
If you visit in the order listed below, you can finish your schedule from about 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, find a restaurant with a panoramic view of the old town, and have dinner. Most of the distances can be reached on foot, and if it is difficult, use public transportation or a taxi.
Sultanahmet Square
Sultan Ahmet Square is the most important space in the Old City. It serves as a shelter for travelers and a passageway connecting other landmarks. Thanks to this geographical advantage, there are many cafes and restaurants around, and cultural events and performances are also held. A lot of tourists visit, and it's fun to see people from all over the world.
Sultan Ahmet Camii (Blue Mosque)
It is located in Sultan Ahmet Square. Commonly known as the Blue Mosque, it is the most famous place in Istanbul. Many Muslims who pray come to visit, and tourists also visit to see its beauty and history. Visitors are required to take off their shoes and cover their shoulders and legs, etc.
Hagia Sophia
Considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. When it was first built, it was built as a cathedral, but after the Ottoman Empire conquered the area, it was converted into a mosque. Thanks to this historical fact, you can feel like a mixture of Catholic and Muslim cultures.
Topkapı Sarayı
It was used as a palace where the sultans who ruled the region for 400 years lived. It is currently used as a museum that you can see the lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. The building itself is important, but it is also a good place to see the jewelry, pottery, and other relics inside. It also has a beautiful view overlooking the Bosporus Strait, so you can take great pictures, so make sure to visit it.
Yerebatan Underground Palace
It is the largest reservoir in Istanbul. Constructed in the 6th century, this place was built to collect and store rainwater to supply stable water. It is also known as a filming location for movies. The most famous one is the Medusa head carved pillar, which has a different shape for each pillar, so many travelers are coming to see this.
Grand Bazaar
It is the oldest and largest market in Istanbul. It is a place where travelers can buy various souvenirs when they visit and see the various cultures of Turkey.
Day 2 - Bosporus Strait and New Town
You can travel around the Bosporus Strait, the border between Europe and Asia, and the surrounding attractions. When moving across the strait, be sure to take the ferry, which has become a public transportation in Istanbul.
Yeni Camii
It is a place known as the New Mosque. It is close to the old town and is located near the waterfront. because It has been under construction for the longest time among the mosques in Istanbul, various architectural styles have been applied. It is not just a place of worship, but is in such a good location that it is used as a place for locals and tourists to gather.
Egyptian Bazaar
This bazaar right next to the New Mosque is smaller than the Grand Bazaar you heard on Day 1, but many people come and go because it is in a good location.
Eminonu Port
It is a marina for ferries and cruise ships that travel through the Bosporus Strait. Since it is right in front of Yeni camii, it is a must-use public transportation on the Day 2 schedule. There is also a small plaza right in front, where you can have a snack or drink and spend time looking at the sea.
Dolmabahce Palace
The building was built with the motif of the Palace of Versailles in France. It was used as the residence of the sultans. Because of the mix of different architectural styles, it is a place with an impressive exterior and beautiful gardens. Like a palace, the furniture inside is also luxuriously decorated. The palace seems to be floating on water and becomes a photo spot for many travelers.
Taksim Square
Taksim Square is considered to be the center of the new town. Since it is connected to the istkral street, the largest downtown area in Istanbul, it is a place you must visit while traveling. If you can only spend one day in Istanbul, it would be nice to start at the Taksim Square.
Galata Tower
It is an observatory where you can see the new and old towns at once. Currently, the Galata Tower Restaurant is located, where you can enjoy a wonderful night view and meal.
Day 3 - Asia District and Bebek
You already visited both the new and old towns of Istanbul. If the previous two areas were places for tourists, Day 3's Asian and Bebek districts are places that locals visit a lot.
Büyükada
It is the largest of the Princess Islands. Personally, the biggest advantage of this place is the quiet atmosphere. When you arrive here, you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. You can't use a car, and you can rent a bicycle or carriage to move around. There are churches and museums, so it's a good place to go around.
Bağdat Street
It is the busiest street in Asia district. Shopping malls and department stores are located here, making it a popular shopping street for locals and travelers. There are many entertainment venues such as bars and clubs along the street, so it is also a place where you can have a good time after sunset.
Kadıköy
It is a port city serving as a transportation hub for the Asian district along the Bophorus Strait. As people from Asia and Europe gather, there are many restaurants and shops.
Istanbul Maiden's Tower
It is a small island located at the southern entrance to the Bophorus Strait. It is known that it was used as a tower for defense, and has been used for various purposes for a long time. It is now famous as a place to watch the sunset thanks to its panoramic view.
Starbucks Bebek
Many travelers visit here after Nusret, one of Istanbul's most famous restaurant. people like this place because of the view overlooking the sea.
To the wrap up
Istanbul is a large city and a place where Asian and European cultures coexist, so it is an unfortunate place to visit for a short time. However, as explained earlier, there are many travelers who stop by the places they pass by, so you can see a lot only by referring to a well-planned itinerary.
No comments:
Post a Comment