Istanbul tourist attractions – What to visit in Istanbul in 4 days?

Planning a vacation in Turkey and wondering what to visit in Istanbul?

Well, prepare to be impressed!

The city on 2 continents tells surprising stories that will fascinate you.

From the architecture, mosques, Bosphorus and bridges to the food, everything here is unique. You can’t compare Istanbul to anything else. It’s both beautiful and ugly, and clean and dirty and crowded and quiet.

So, let’s take a look at the sights we saw in Istanbul in 4 days in this city of contrasts!

Contents:

• Sights Istanbul – Day 1
• Things to do in Istanbul
• What we visited in Istanbul – Day 2
• Must see places in Instabul – Day 3
• What we visited on day 4
• Good restaurants Istanbul
• Other important things to know

Istanbul tourist places to visit in 4 days

We spent 4 days in Istanbul and, in order to organize ourselves well, we made a detailed itinerary.

Thus, we made the most of our time here and we can say that we visited as much of Istanbul’s sights as possible.

See what you can visit here!

Istanbul visiting places – Day 1

We drove to Istanbul, on the route Constanta – Burgas – Istanbul. Details about the route, vignettes and other taxes can be found in the dedicated section of the article.

Our accommodation, Santra Hotel, was located in the historic area of Istanbul, so this is where we started our exploration of the city.

Here’s what we visited in historic European Istanbul ⬇️

Blue Mosque – The Blue Mosque – Sultan Ahmed Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most impressive landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616, it stands out for its six minarets and interiors covered with more than 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, which gave it its name. Entry is free. However, being an active mosque, access is restricted during the five daily prayers. It is recommended to check prayer times before visiting.

Sultan Ahmed Square (Hippodrome)

Sultan Ahmed Square, also known as the former Hippodrome of Constantinople, is a place steeped in history. It was once the site of chariot races and important events. Today, you can see the Serpent’s Column, the Egyptian Obelisk and Constantine’s Column. Walk among them and feel the atmosphere of the ancient empire. It’s a perfect place to take photos and get a better understanding of the city’s past. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are nearby, so you can visit them all in one day.

Hagia Sofia Mosque

Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most impressive monuments, with a fascinating history that begins in 537, when it was built as a Byzantine church. It was then transformed into a mosque, then a museum, and since 2020 it has been a mosque again. Entry costs around €25 for tourists and tickets can be bought online or on site. It’s worth a visit for its grand architecture, huge dome, Byzantine mosaics and storied atmosphere. It’s a unique combination of Christian and Islamic elements, showing you the complexity of the city’s past.

👉 See here skip the line tickets Hagia Sofia

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years and is today one of Istanbul’s most visited sights. You can start your exploration in the outdoor gardens, which are free and offer a gorgeous view of the Bosphorus. If you want to go inside the palace and see the imperial chambers, harem, sultans’ jewelry and sacred relics, tickets cost around €25-30, depending on the areas you want to visit. It’s a place steeped in history and pomp, where you can get a better understanding of life at the Ottoman court.

👉 View tickets here Topkapi Palace and Harem Museum with audio guide

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cisterna is one of the most mysterious places in Istanbul, located right under the Old City. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian, the cistern was used to store water for the Imperial Palace. The atmosphere is magical: massive, subtly lit columns, still water and the famous Medusa heads carved in stone. You feel like you’re in an adventure movie. Entry costs around €15 and the visit lasts around 30-45 minutes. It’s an ideal place if you want to discover a different and lesser-known side of Istanbul.

👉 See here Basilica Cistern tickets with audio guide

Walk along the promenade

A stroll along the Bosphorus in Istanbul’s historic waterfront is an unforgettable experience. You have the blue waters that separate Europe from Asia on one side and the silhouettes of mosques and ancient city walls on the other. The air is crisp, boats pass quietly, and fishermen cast their lines from the shore. You can admire the Topkapi Palace from a distance, the towers of the old citadel or even the sunset that colors the sky orange and pink. It’s a great place to relax, take photos and take a quiet break between sightseeing.

We started our walk from the Blue Mosque area, but the most beautiful part of the waterfront is in the İBB Sarayburnu Parkı area. If you don’t have much time to walk, start there.

This is how we spent our first day in Istanbul. Wait until you see what Istanbul sights we visited on the other days!

Things to do in Istanbul – Activities

Yes, Istanbul is a city that offers something for everyone. However, apart from the popular attractions to visit, here are some ideas of activities not to miss when you come here. They’re sure to make your vacation more enjoyable:

Bosphorus Cruise

We did this cruise on day 3, and we go into more detail there. It is an activity that we 100% recommend. It lasts 3 hours and starts at 20:30. You get your meal included, with appetizer, main course, dessert and soft drinks included. You can also enjoy traditional Turkish dancing. And admiring the illuminated buildings at night, including the Bosphorus Bridge, is worth every penny. Remember to book a few days in advance.

Private Turkish bath, massage and spa in the Old Town

Indulge in an authentic relaxing experience in a private Turkish bath right in the heart of Istanbul’s Old Town. For 30 minutes, enjoy a traditional steam bath, followed by washing and lathering in a spectacular oriental setting. Then you enter a warm sauna and steam bath for 40 minutes – perfect for opening your pores and purifying your skin.

Once your body is completely relaxed, the next part is a favorite of many: the massage. You can choose between 30, 50 or 75 minutes of deep massage, invigorating your muscles and restoring inner balance. And for an extra glow, you’ll also receive a gentle facial mask, leaving your complexion smooth and fresh.

Istanbul tourist attractions – Day 2

Day 2 was dedicated to modern European Istanbul. It was a full, interesting day with lots of surprises.

Ataturk Bridge

The Atatürk Bridge is one of Istanbul’s most famous bridges, linking the old city to the modern part, crossing the Golden Horn estuary. It has a great view of the historic neighborhoods and the water, always full of boats and fishermen. On day 2, we crossed this bridge to reach the other side of the city and discover a different face of Istanbul, more lively and full of contrasts. The bridge walk offers a different perspective and a moment of respite between two worlds – the historical and the contemporary.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, located in the Beyoğlu neighborhood. Built in the 14th century by the Genoese, it offers a spectacular view of the city and the Bosphorus. Climbing the tower is a memorable experience, especially at sunset when the light bathes Istanbul’s rooftops in a warm hue. Entry costs around 650 Turkish lira (around €20) for tourists. You can take the elevator up to near the top, and then a few steps take you to the circular terrace, where a breathtaking 360-degree view is said to await. We didn’t climb it, as we had many sights on our list to see. But it’s worth a try.

👉 See here Galata Tower tickets with skip the line

Istiklal pedestrian street

The pedestrianized Istiklal is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and lively thoroughfares, stretching for about 1.4 kilometers between Taksim Square and Galata Tower. The buildings on Istiklal impress with their eclectic architecture, with neoclassical, baroque and art nouveau influences, reflecting the cosmopolitan period of the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th century. The street is lined with elegant shops, historic cafés, art galleries and churches hidden between buildings. The atmosphere is always lively, and the classic red tram running through the street adds a special charm to your stroll.

Taksim Square

Taksim Square is the modern heart of Istanbul, a bustling place where locals and tourists alike meet. It is known for its bustling atmosphere, but also for the cultural and social events that take place here. In the middle of the square is the Republic Monument, dedicated to the founding of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. This is where the famous Istiklal Street starts and nearby are hotels, restaurants and iconic buildings. The square is a symbol of the modern city.

Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is a symbol of Ottoman opulence on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Built in the 19th century, it combines European and Ottoman architectural styles. You can visit the stately rooms, harem, gardens and art museums. The palace is open daily between 09:00 and 17:00 (except Mondays and Thursdays). At the Dolmabahçe Palace, you can enter the small front garden for free and enjoy the beautiful view of the Bosphorus. Entrance to the palace costs about 1,500 Turkish lira, which is about €50, depending on the exchange rate. Again, we didn’t go in because it was Monday. But the palace is gorgeous inside, from what we saw in the pictures. So really worth seeing.

👉 See here entrance tickets Dolmabahce Palace and Harem

Galata Bridge

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The Galata Bridge is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, connecting the historic Sultanahmet district with the more modern area of Beyoğlu. First built in the 15th century and rebuilt several times throughout history, the bridge stretches some 500 meters long. Above, fishermen cast their rods into the Bosphorus, and below, the bridge houses restaurants and cafes, offering a magnificent view of the city and the water. It’s a perfect place for a stroll or a stop to enjoy Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere.

Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar)

The Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar, is a fascinating destination located in Istanbul’s Eminönü neighborhood. Built in the 17th century, this historic bazaar is the perfect place to discover a wide range of spices, herbs, nuts, dried fruits and traditional Turkish sweets. The atmosphere is vibrant with inviting smells that invite you to explore every corner of this colorful and lively place. Here you can find everything from aromatic teas and rare spices to cosmetics made from natural ingredients. The prices are steep, though. We got our spices and teas from the supermarket at prices ten times cheaper.

As you can see, Day 2 in Istanbul was spiced with everything. Full, but beautiful. And we still had a lot to see and discover in Istanbul.

Must see places in Istanbul – Day 3

Day 3 in Istanbul was dedicated to the Asian side. To get here, we crossed the Galata Bridge and took the ferry. It runs on public transportation. The price per person for one trip was 8 lei. So, for only 8 lei you can cross the Bosphorus and enjoy a breathtaking view.

Here’s what we visited on the Asian side of Istanbul:

Beylerbeyi Palace

Beylerbeyi Palace is an architectural jewel located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul. Built between 1861 and 1865 during the reign of Sultan Abdulaziz, the palace served as a summer residence for the Ottoman imperial family. Its architecture combines European and Ottoman styles, and the interior is decorated with crystal chandeliers and fine Chinese vases, reflecting the opulence of the era.

The palace gardens are an oasis of greenery, with landscaped terraces, fountains and a spectacular view of the Bosphorus. Entry to the garden costs about 8 lei per person. We only entered the garden and it was wonderful. Entrance to the palace costs about 350 Turkish lira for foreign visitors. The palace is open daily between 9:00 am and 5:30 pm, except Mondays.

We walked from the ferry to the palace, but it was a long walk. Better to take a bus.

👉 See here entrance tickets Beylerbeyi Palace and Gardens

Çamlıca Mosque

Çamlıca Mosque is the largest mosque in Turkey, located on Çamlıca Hill, from where you can enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the city. Recently built between 2013-2019 in the traditional Ottoman style, it can accommodate up to 60,000 worshippers. The complex includes a library, museums, and a religious education center, and the inner courtyard is surrounded by carefully landscaped gardens. Admission is free and the mosque is open for visits daily except during prayer times.

To get here you have to take the bus. The mosque is located on Çamlıca Hill and would be very difficult to reach on foot.

We didn’t have much time to explore the Asian area, so these 2 sights were all we saw here. The truth is that the area is much less touristy than the European one.

If we had more time, we would have explored the Moda and Yeldeğirmeni neighborhoods and went to the Fanar Greek Orthodox Fanar College. If you have time, put them on your list.

But we rushed to catch the Bosphorus night cruise ❣️

Night cruise on the Bosphorus

We ended day 3 in Istanbul in the best way – with a Bosphorus cruise. We wanted to see the city lit up at night, right from the Bosphorus. So the idea of this cruise was wonderful. The cruise started at 20:30 and lasted about 3 hours. I got the ticket from GetYourGuide and included dinner with appetizer, main course, dessert and soft drinks. You also have the show included, with traditional dances and Turkish music.

What we enjoyed most about this activity were the traditional dances. They were varied dances and very entertaining. 100% worth it for the view and the dances. It’s good to book the experience a few days in advance so that places are not sold out.

👉 View Bosphorus cruise tickets here!

Istanbul sights we visited on day 4

We had seen a lot of Istanbul’s sights by day 4, but there was one very important sight left on our list – the Grand Bazaar!

Istanbul Grand Bazaar

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, known as Kapalıçarșı, is one of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world. It was built in 1461 on the orders of Sultan Mehmed II, immediately after the conquest of Constantinople. Today, the bazaar covers an impressive area, with over 60 interior alleyways and some 4,000 shops. Here you can buy almost anything: jewelry, carpets, hand-painted pottery, spices, souvenirs, leather, textiles and many other traditional products. It’s a labyrinth of oriental trade. Every day, the Grand Bazaar attracts between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors and is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions.

We got here around 09:00 in the morning, so it wasn’t very crowded. At 12:00, you could barely walk. And if you come in the evening, it’s even more complicated.

The prices are high, like for tourists. Spices and teas you can’t touch. Not to mention clothes or anything else. From here I only bought Dubai chocolate, at a very good price. However, better is in the supermarket.

Instead, step outside the covered bazaar and wander the streets around the bazaar. Here you’ll find similar products at much lower prices. You can also bargain very well for bags, towels, jewelry or sweets.

We spent 3 hours in the bazaar, got souvenirs for home and were ready to say goodbye to this charming city.

Don’t forget to save this article to your account on the website so that you always have it handy when visiting Istanbul.

Read below to find out where to eat well in Istanbul!

Restaurants in Istanbul where we ate very well

Istanbul is also about good food, richness of tastes and flavors. In our 4 days in Istanbul, we tried several restaurants and we tell you below where we ate well in the city on the Bosphorus:

Massa Bistro

Massa Bistro is a traditional restaurant located right next to the Blue Mosque, in the historic Istanbul area. It’s a little removed from the hustle and bustle of the main street, but close enough to the main attractions. The place is beautifully decorated in Ottoman style. Here we enjoyed traditional appetizers and kebab mix served under the fire flame. We also tasted the very popular clay jug stew, which was very good. And, to make it nice and tasty, we also had the lamb loin with mash, a delicacy. Don’t miss out on the desserts either, everything is very good – from the kunefe and baclavale to the pistachio pie.

🎁 We also have a GIFT for you – Go here and mention TURISTULLIBER and get 20% discount on the whole bill!

Loti Roof Lounge & Bistro

For dinner on day 2 in Istanbul we stopped at Loti Roof Lounge & Bistro. The location is ultra-central, also in historic Istanbul. The restaurant is on the 6th floor of a 4* hotel. They also have the possibility to sit on the ground floor, but the terrace is very nice, so it’s worth going upstairs, especially to admire the sunset.

The service and food here is superlative. The appetizer was delicious, especially the burrata salad. Then we indulged in sushi, among the best sushi I’ve ever had. For the main course we had lamb chop and roast beef – finger licking good. And the desserts – TOP! And if you add the gorgeous view, it becomes a place not to be missed.

Last Ottoman Cafe Restaurant

On our last day in Instanbul we went for lunch at the Last Ottoman Cafe Restaurant, near the Grand Bazaar. We wanted to treat ourselves to a traditional lunch again, and we chose very well. This is a real hidden gem, so don’t miss it. You’re greeted with lentil soup on the house. Then we got our hot starter – onion rings and mushroom stew. And for the main course, we chose the kebab platter. It was the best idea, because we tasted a bit of each one. And the taste of the meat here is second to none. At the end we got complimentary tea and baclavale. Very hospitable and welcoming.

🎁 And here we have a GIFT for you – Go to Last Ottoman Cafe Restaurant and mention TURISTULLIBER and get 15% discount on the whole bill!

What else did we eat well in Istanbul?

And that’s not all. While in Istanbul, I tried other delicacies:

Kumpir

Kumpir is Istanbul’s traditional potato, baked and then stuffed with all sorts of ingredients – olives, carrot salad, tomato sauce, mushrooms or whatever. We tried it at Patsosis, a place on the pedestrianized Istiklal. It costs about 45 lei.

Pide & Lahmacun

Pide and good lahmacun (Turkish pizza) we ate in the Asian area, near Beylerbeyi Palace, at Ziya Sark Sofrasi. Very good food at decent prices.

Baclavale

I had the best baclavale at Mustafa. They’re not very sweet and not overly sweet or overly sweet. They’re a bit on the pricier side, but worth a try.

Other important things to know when visiting Istanbul

Below I leave you with some general recommendations or information about the road, taxes, how to be safe and other things we find useful:

• You don’t need a passport to visit Istanbul. Your ID card is enough.
• Turks are known for stricter controls at customs. Expect them to check your trunk and ask what’s in your suitcases.
• At customs you’ll get a stamp sheet saying you’ve entered the country. Keep it because they will ask for it when you leave Turkey.
• Change money into Turkish lira in Romania. The exchange is much better in the country. Keep in mind, though, that you can pay with your card most everywhere, maybe not in some places in the bazaar.
• If you come by car and the car is not in your name, you need a special power of attorney translated into Turkish and legalized at the Turkish consulate. It costs around 300 lei. Get it early.
• Buy the vignette at the border and stick it on the windshield in a visible place. It costs about 60 lei.
• Don’t use your car to get around Istanbul. Traffic is a problem. Use trams and buses. You can pay everywhere with your card directly on public transportation. You don’t need another travel card.
• Beware of scam merchants. Refuse additional services if you are not told the price because you will end up overcharged. For example, if you’re on a cruise and they ask if you want your photo taken, ask how much it costs. Always make sure you know the price of everything you’re offered.
• Don’t forget that you can enjoy a ride on the Bosphorus for just 8 lei if you take the ferry. It works just like public transportation.
• Be ready to bargain in the bazaar for the products you want. Prices are usually 50% higher than the price you could bargain for.

Write your thoughts about Istanbul in the comments!