3-Day Turkey city break in Istanbul

Your exciting city break begins as soon as you arrive in the beautiful city of Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 2 nights.

Journey into the unknown at Gülhane Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 59,778 reviews.

When the afternoon arrives, make your way to the hotel of your choice in downtown Istanbul. Check-in at hotels in Turkey normally starts around 2 to 3 PM. Each accommodation option in Istanbul offers a unique blend of comfort and style in addition to prime access to the city’s top attractions.

You have plenty of options for restaurants and bars in Istanbul. So when you’re hungry or need a break from exploring, all you have to do is take your pick.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Hanzade Terrace Restaurant, an acclaimed dining establishment in Istanbul. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 5,898 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Mivan Restaurant & Cafe while experiencing the best of Istanbul. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,913 discerning diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Arch Bistro, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 798 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Harab'be Cafe. It is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 2,610 customers.

Celebrate the start of your 3-day city break in Istanbul with a toast!

As day 2 dawns in Istanbul, embark on another day of exploration and adventure. Discover the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights at your own pace. With 1 night left, the possibilities for discovery are endless.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Topkapi Palace Museum. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 95,040 visitors. Each year, around 1,932,726 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Hagia Sophia. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 127,439 reviews.

While in Istanbul, we also recommend a visit to Grand Bazaar. This bazaar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 145,525 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Mısır Çarşısı. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 164,946 travelers, this bazaar is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Istanbul.

Make your way to Galata Tower, perhaps the most famous tower in Istanbul. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 169,479 reviews.

If you’re keen to experience more memorable moments in Istanbul, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Istanbul below.

Exploring can easily make you lose track of time. Make sure to grab something to eat and use this opportunity to learn more about Istanbul's food culture.

Make sure to book a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,112 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Divella Bistro Restaurant during your stay in Istanbul. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,711 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Turkish Cuisine, a renowned dining destination in Istanbul. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,399 satisfied guests.

As the day draws to a close, bask in the tranquility of Istanbul by night. With memories made and adventures ahead, rest well and embrace the journey anew tomorrow.

Your city break in Istanbul is coming to an end, and it's soon time to say goodbye to the city. Before you leave, make sure to capture a few last moments to cherish your rejuvenating vacation in Turkey.

Depending on how much time you have to spare on your departure day, you may want to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Downtown Istanbul offers excellent shopping opportunities and is the perfect place to browse for souvenirs and gifts to bring home. Take a walk and discover unique items you can purchase to remind you of your city break in Istanbul.

If you can catch a later flight today, we recommend visiting some of the attractions you may not yet have had the time to explore. This extra time will let you discover more iconic landmarks and hidden gems in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet Square is an attraction you could visit on your last day in Istanbul. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,938 visitors.

Before you conclude your city break in Istanbul, drop by a top-rated restaurant for your last chance at a memorable dining experience in the city. Savor the destination's vibrant atmosphere over a delicious meal.

If you look forward to a delicious meal, consider a top-rated restaurant like İstanbul kebab cafe & restaurant. This restaurant is rated at an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,220 customers.

Previous customers have praised and rated this restaurant an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,078 reviews.

As your city break in Istanbul draws to a close, cherish the memories you've made. With your travel plans in place, you're all set for a safe journey home. Until next time, take care and safe travels!