Istanbul is a city full of culture and history, and it’s no wonder that many people choose to spend their holidays there. With so much to see and do, planning a four-day trip to Istanbul can be a daunting task. But don’t worry! With the right tips and tricks, you can create the perfect Istanbul itinerary that won’t break the bank.
In this blog post, Framey will share with you the best top tips for getting the most out of your trip to Istanbul in four days without spending a fortune.
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Arriving in Istanbul – Istanbul Itinerary
Whether you are coming to Istanbul by plane or by train, there are a variety of transport options to get you into the city. From the airport, you can catch a shuttle bus or taxi to your destination. Depending on the time of day, traffic can be quite congested, so it’s best to plan.
The metro is also a great way to get around the city quickly and affordably. The metro runs from 5:30 am-12:00 am every day and tickets can be purchased at the stations.
If you’re coming in by train, there are two main train stations in Istanbul – Haydarpasa and Sirkeci. Both of these stations have plenty of taxis and buses that will take you wherever you need to go.
When arriving in Istanbul, it’s important to remember that certain areas of the city can be dangerous and it’s best to stick to areas where there are plenty of people. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or lost, don’t hesitate to ask for help, many locals are more than happy to assist visitors with directions or information about the city.
Where to Stay in Istanbul – Istanbul Itinerary
When planning a trip to Istanbul, one of the most important things is to choose where to stay. Istanbul offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy boutique inns, hostels, and Airbnb apartments. Below are 12 of the best areas to stay in Istanbul.
1. Sultanahmet
This is one of the oldest parts of Istanbul and is home to major tourist attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. It is one of the best areas for first-time visitors and offers a wide range of accommodation options from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels.
2 Beyazit / Laleli
If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay close to the main tourist attractions, this is a great option. It is conveniently located near Sultanahmet and offers plenty of cheap hotels and hostels.
3. Eminonu / Sirkeci
This area is a great option for families who are looking for an affordable yet comfortable place to stay in Istanbul. It offers plenty of cozy guesthouses, budget hotels, and mid-range accommodation options.
4. Karakoy
This hip neighborhood is the “coolest” area in Istanbul. Located on the European side, it’s just a short walk away from the main attractions in Sultanahmet and offers plenty of trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are many budget-friendly hotels in this area, as well as some luxurious accommodation options.
5. Beyoglu
This popular neighborhood is the cultural heart of Istanbul and offers plenty of accommodation options for all budgets. With its vibrant nightlife, great restaurants, bars, and shopping options, it is a great place to stay for those who want to experience the best of what Istanbul has to offer.
6. Galata
If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Istanbul for nightlife, this is it. This lively district has plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues, as well as cozy boutique hotels and budget-friendly hostels.
Istanbul Itinerary: What to Do in Istanbul
Start your four days in Istanbul by immersing yourself in the bustling, vibrant city.
Day 1:
The first day should be dedicated to exploring the traditional sights of Istanbul. Visit the famous Grand Bazaar for some shopping, and then head to Spice Bazaar and then to the Blue Mosque.
Spend some time walking around Fatih and take in the hustle and bustle of local life.
Day 2:
Your second day in Istanbul should be dedicated to shopping. Take a trip to the Mall of Istanbul, where you can find an array of high street and designer stores. Relax after all that shopping with a Turkish bath massage at Cağaloğlu Hamamı before heading up to Camlica Hill for one of the best sunsets in Istanbul.
Day 3:
Get ready for some classic Istanbul activities on the third day. Start your morning with a sunrise from Nova Şantiye Cafe. After breakfast, head to Topkapi Palace Museum, which is filled with unique works of art, including a collection of holy relics from the Prophet Muhammad. Don’t forget to also take some memorable professional photos with Taht İstanbul.
Day 4:
Spend your last day in Istanbul taking it easy. Start your morning by visiting Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking example of Byzantine architecture. After spending some time marveling at its grandeur, take a stroll down Umbrella Street (Location: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Karatavuk Sk. 1 B, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey) and enjoy the colorful umbrellas overhead.
End your day in Istanbul with a special treat: rent a private boat and see the city from the water.
5 Quick Istanbul Tips – Istanbul Itinerary
- Make sure you’ll check out this itinerary in Istanbul for a beautiful holiday full of memorable memories!
- Be aware of the local currency, the Turkish lira. Make sure to bring enough cash and use it for purchasing items in Turkey.
- Try traditional Turkish dishes such as gözleme, a savory flatbread stuffed with your choice of ingredients, or kumpir, a baked potato dish served with various toppings.
- Book your accommodations in advance to save money, as prices tend to rise quickly during peak season.
- Get around using public transportation as much as possible. The metro system is convenient and relatively cheap compared to taxis or car rentals.
TOP 7 Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul – Istanbul Itinerary
- What’s the best time of year to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul is during the mild temperatures of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, you can expect warm days and cool nights, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 28°C.
- How should I dress in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a vibrant city with plenty of cultural and religious attractions. As such, it’s important to dress respectfully and appropriately. Women should cover their arms and legs while visiting religious sites and should avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing. Men should avoid shorts and tank tops.
- What is there to do in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. From iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, to bustling bazaars, museums, and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in this city.
- What is it like as a non-Muslim visiting Turkey?
Turkey is an incredibly welcoming and hospitable country, regardless of faith or religion. There are a few etiquette guidelines to keep in mind when visiting religious sites, such as covering your arms and legs, removing your shoes at certain mosques, and not taking photographs inside churches or monasteries. Otherwise, visitors are free to explore Istanbul without worry.
- Do I need a visa?
Travelers from most countries will need a visa to enter Turkey. Tickets can be obtained easily online, or at the Turkish embassy in your home country.
- Is Istanbul safe?
Istanbul is generally considered to be a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always best to exercise caution when traveling in any city. It’s advised to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas and be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
- Is Istanbul easy to get around?
Getting around Istanbul is relatively easy thanks to its extensive public transportation network. The Metro system is fast and efficient, with trains running throughout the day. Other forms of transport include buses, trams, dolmus (minibus) services, and taxis.
Departing Istanbul – Istanbul Itinerary
Whether you’re returning home or exploring another destination, it’s always hard to say goodbye to the amazing city of Istanbul. Make sure to get to the airport in plenty of time to catch your flight, as there can often be traffic delays.
There are several transportation options available for getting to Istanbul Airport. The Havabus is a comfortable and affordable option for getting there. It departs from Taksim Square every 30 minutes and takes approximately 90 minutes depending on the traffic. You can also take the metro from the Aksaray station, followed by a connecting bus to the airport. Another popular option is to hire a taxi. Taxis are readily available and are metered, so make sure to negotiate a fixed rate before you start your journey.
Before you leave Istanbul, make sure to take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping. Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are great places to pick up a few special items as a memory of your stay.
We hope that this guide has been helpful and that you have an incredible time during your stay in Istanbul.
Further Read: Shopping in Istanbul: the most famous places where tourists love to buy different things + a few more that you should not miss
Don’t you think these places to visit in Istanbul are really interesting?
If yes, plan a trip to Istanbul, head to your favorite destination, and spend some wonderful time with your family or friends!
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