I must confess, Istanbul has been the subject of much discussion in recent years, with many admiring the city’s beauty. When I finally decided to visit for a few days, my expectations were understandably high. Istanbul did not disappoint – it is truly a stunning city. I arrived by bus from Izmir in the south of Turkey, using the Obilet website to compare ticket prices, and after almost 8 hours of travel, I reached the capital. Despite deciding not to have mobile data for internet access, I found that WiFi was readily available almost everywhere. For those with three days to spare and a love for walking, this is the perfect guide to follow. My first tip: Wear comfortable shoes and allow yourself to get lost. In a city like Istanbul, you don’t necessarily need a strict itinerary; you simply need to trust your instincts and explore. However, if you do need some guidance, don’t worry – here you can find all the tips you need. Personally, I prefer to explore in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially when visiting popular tourist spots, allowing me to bypass the long queues. My second tip: If you plan to visit the mosques, be sure to check the prayer times as they close during these periods, potentially causing long waits.
Unfortunately, I missed out on visiting two of the most significant places in Istanbul: the Hagia Sophia (with an entry fee of €25 just for the mosque visit) and the Topkapi Palace (with an entry fee of €35). Both were beyond my budget at the time, but I am determined to return and make the time (and money) to visit them.
Day 1 was filled with incredible experiences in Istanbul. Starting at the iconic Blue Mosque. As a respectful visitor, it’s important to adhere to the specific dress code, particularly for women. Fortunately, there are scarf rental spots outside most mosques. After removing my shoes and stepping inside, the mosque’s beauty and tranquility left a lasting impression.
Next, I made my way to the closest metro station to head to Taksim square. Following the tram line, I explored the captivating neighborhoods of Balo and Kabatas, eventually arriving at the Galata tower, unfortunately closed for renovation. Nonetheless, the view of Sultanahmet and Eminönü from the nearby sea was breathtaking.
Crossing the bridge, I discovered the charming Yeni Cami mosque, which quickly became a personal favorite. I even found a “secret steps path” to the first floor, offering a unique view of the prayer area. Not far from there, the Egyptian Bazaar welcomed me with a vibrant mix of aromas, despite the bustling crowds.
The warm late April weather made a trip to Gülhane Park a truly delightful experience, surrounded by vibrant tulips and the opportunity to explore a small, free cistern. It was a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and rich cultural experiences.
Day 2: Start your day by taking a leisurely walk around the Eminönü area and head to the Sirkeci train station, a historical connection point between Istanbul, Paris, and London through the iconic Oriental Express train. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the locomotive just outside the station. You can then hop on a public transport ferry at the nearby Sehir Hatlari line, close to the tram T1 Eminönü, to reach the vibrant Asian district of Kadıköy. You can even consider taking a budget-friendly Bosphorus cruise for around 5€. Once in Kadıköy, explore its diverse range of restaurants, shops, and captivating street art. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ferry from the same harbor to the largest of the Princess Islands, Adalar, where you can’t rely on taxis but can rent a bike or tuk-tuk to explore the area. Remember to check the ferry schedule to avoid getting stranded on the island overnight. For a touch of romance, wait for the sunset on your return journey to Istanbul city center aboard the same economical ferry, enjoying the captivating nightlife views. The 30-minute journey offers an affordable way to admire the illuminated mosques from the sea, providing a unique and enchanting experience.
Last day/Day 3: Embracing the Colors. Let’s begin with the captivating lights shade emanating from the Cistern. An early start is advisable to bypass long queues, especially on hot days – once inside, the cooling ambience is truly refreshing. The Cistern is undeniably stunning, ranking among the top attractions in Istanbul. The vibrant colors guide me to Balat and its distinctive houses. While not essential for those on a tight schedule, I firmly believe that preferences are subjective – what may not appeal to me might fascinate you instead. Returning to Sultanahmet, a visit to Suleymaniye Mosque offers a gorgeous bay view. Close by lies the Grand Bazaar, a haven for avid shoppers, albeit with a word of caution regarding price scrutiny. Concluding these remarkable three days of sheer beauty, a nighttime stroll around Sultanahmet Square offers an enhanced perspective of the illuminated mosques, exuding a truly magical aura.
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