24 Hours in Istanbul: The Best 1 Day in Istanbul Itinerary
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Whatโs that? You only have ONE day in Istanbul? Just one day? One day to explore the entirety of this sprawling, magnificent megalopolis?
First thingโs first: donโt panic! (Maybe try saying โmegalopolisโ three times very fast - almost impossible to do).
Quick Istanbul Guide
In a hurry? Hereโs a handy guide to Istanbul to help you make the most of your trip!
๐ Best places to stay in Istanbul:
- NOA - Ali Hoca 6 (we've stayed here and recommend it!)
- Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul (luxury pick)
- Hotel Saint Sophia (gorgeous boutique hotel)
- Hostel Le Banc (budget, fabulous location)
๐ซ Top activities & tours in Istanbul:
- Topkapฤฑ Palace Guided Tour With Skip-the-Line-Ticket (top-rated tour!)
- Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide (totally worth it for fast-track entry)
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table (amazing evening experience)
๐ฌ Need an airport transfer?
๐ค๏ธ Best time to visit Istanbul:
- Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are lovely - perfect for exploring! Summer is hot ๐ฅต and super crowded. Winter - rainy, quiet and affordable.
๐ Don't forget:
- Stay connected with an Airalo eSIM!
We understand that you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. We totally get it - how do you even begin planning a realistic, well-rounded, one-day itinerary for Europeโs largest city? But donโt worry - it can be done, and weโre here to show you how.
Letโs cut to the chase: Istanbul is a mega-city with a history stretching back 3000 years and was the former capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
Long story short? There's a lot of stuff to see here and there is no way youโll be able to cover it all in one visit (or even in your lifetime). But thatโs not the goal!
(To put it in perspective, weโve lived in Istanbul for almost five years and we still havenโt โseenโ or โdoneโ everything).
In this Istanbul one day itinerary, youโll be able to tick off the must-see attractions in Istanbul whilst also being immersed in the cityโs culture. Youโll sample delicious local food, experience some jaw-dropping views and experience the magic of Istanbul.
See all the major attractions on the best one day trip Istanbul has to offer!
From thousand year old mosques and cathedral-like cisterns to hole-in-the-wall restaurants and elegant evening boat rides, our guide to Istanbul in one day gives you a taste of it all.
After visiting Istanbul four times and living in the city for several years weโll also tell you our honest opinion of whatโs overhyped and not worth spending much time on.
Weโve purposely tailored this itinerary to offer a wide range of experiences and attractions - it includes many of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul plus quirky, under-the-radar places to visit. You can easily customise this one-day itinerary to suit your own interests!
Youโll need comfy walking shoes to explore Istanbul in 1 day - it ainโt called the โCity on Seven Hillsโ for nothing! Wherever possible weโve also given you options for using Istanbulโs excellent public transport system (just in case you want to give your legs a break).
Finally weโve suggested approximate times for each stop on this 1 day in Istanbul itinerary but if you want to spend longer anywhere, please do so. We arenโt itinerary overlords!
Ready to dive in? ๐๐น๐ท
๐ 1 Day in Istanbul Itinerary: Summary
Istanbul is beautiful in all seasons, including winter.
This itinerary lays out what to do in Istanbul in one day, from 9am to 9pm (or later for you night owls), ensuring that you make the most of your time.
For the best experience, weโd recommend staying overnight at a hotel with breakfast included - this way you can start your day without a hassle.
If youโre short on time - for instance youโre on a 1 day layover in Istanbul or you just have half a day - you can tailor this itinerary to suit your interests and the time you have available.
As a side note, the Turkish Airlines layover in Istanbul is really good value - our friend Helen recently visited us in Istanbul on a layover on her way to Malaysia and she loved it!
Before we dive into the details, hereโs a quick summary of whatโs packed into this one day Istanbul itinerary. The times are just a guide.
Read on for full details of the itinerary, transport information and useful tips!
๐ Morning to early afternoon (9am - 2pm, includes a snack before a proper lunch later):
Major historical sites: Hagia Sophia > Blue Mosque > Basilica Cistern > Topkapฤฑ Palace
(Donโt worry if this looks like too much - all of these sites are tightly packed into one area).
โ Early afternoon to early evening (2.30pm - 6pm, includes an hour for lunch):
Epic views, shopping paradise & a famous bridge: Suleymaniye Mosque > Grand Bazaar/Spice Bazaar > Galata Bridge
๐ Evening and night time (6.30pm - 9pm or later):
Option 1: Galata Tower > ฤฐstiklal Caddesi > Taksim Square
Option 2: Evening dinner cruise on the Bosphorus
Option 3: Evening food tour
Read on for the full itinerary outlining how to spend a day in Istanbul!
โ Before You Embark On Your 1 Day Istanbul Itinerary: Must Have Resources For Travelling in Turkey!
Whether you have just 24 hours in Istanbul or youโre actually following a longer Turkey itinerary, the following apps and cards will help to make your visit go smoothly.
๐ฑ Turkey eSIM: Say goodbye to expensive data roaming packages and instead install a cheap Turkey eSIM to have data wherever you are. Click here to check eSIM packages for Turkey on Airalo.
๐ Istanbulkart: This contactless transportation card allows you to use all public transport in Istanbul.
If you're arriving by air, you can purchase and top up an Istanbulkart at machines in both Sabiha Gรถkรงen and Istanbul Airports, as well as at machines and newsagents throughout the city. The card costs 130TL and is cheaper than using contactless bank cards or buying single tickets.
Each ride with an Istanbulkart costs 27TL, and one card can be shared by up to 5 people. Youโll need an Istanbulkart for this itinerary to use the tram, funicular, and nostalgic tram.
๐ฌ Google Translate: Istanbul is an international city but English is less prevalent than youโd think. Google Translate is super helpful plus youโll find that knowing a few Turkish words and phrases gets you a friendly reception here.
๐บ๏ธ Google Maps: Itโs pretty accurate for Istanbul and makes navigating across the city using tram, metro, bus, ferry and funicular much easier.
๐ Nobetci Eczane: The best app for finding on-duty pharmacies across Turkey, just in case you need to pick up any paracetamol, eye drops etc.
Some medications (like my asthma inhaler) are available over the counter without a prescription. Also always make sure you have good travel insurance!
๐ณ Wise International Debit Card: Get the best Turkish Lira exchange rates, free or super-low fee cash withdrawals and avoid sneaky transaction fees with a Wise Debit Card.
๐ The Best 1 Day Istanbul Itinerary
The Hagia Sophia: Start Your Day With an Icon
๐ Getting there: Sultanahmet is the closest tram stop to Hagia Sophia (the tram line connects to Taksim and Karakรถy). The Hagia Sophia is four minutesโ walk from the tram stop.
โญ Highlights: Gorgeous Islamic and Christian iconography and incredible Byzantine mosaics and frescoes of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and other historical Christian figures.
โ Visit time: 1 - 1.5 hours
๐ฐ Entrance fee: โฌ25 - but we recommend this skip-the-line ticket that includes the fee.
๐ง Dress code: Visitors must cover their shoulders and legs and women will need to wear a headscarf. You can rent a headscarf (โฌ1) and a cover for your body (โฌ3) from the ticket booth but itโs much easier and cheaper to wear mosque-friendly attire!
๐ Note: Hagia Sophia is extremely busy on Fridays.
Inside the magnificent Hagia Sophia.
This one day tour of Istanbul kicks off with the most impressive historical attraction in the entire city: the 1500-year-old Hagia Sophia.
Sometimes dubbed the eighth wonder of the world, this architectural marvel was built by Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD and reigned as the largest cathedral in the world for nearly 1000 years. Not too shabby.
As the crown jewel of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia set the blueprint for countless Eastern Orthodox churches across Turkey and Greece.
Incredibly, the Hagia Sophia took only 5 years and 10 months to complete (amazing what you can achieve with an army of 11,000 workers and no employment laws, eh?)
Despite being covered up for hundreds of years (and being mega old) the stunning mosaics are remarkably intact.
A mosaic of Jesus Christ In the upper gallery of the Hagia Sophia.
When Constantinople fell to the Ottomans in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque and remained that way for 500 years until 1935 when it reopened as a museum.
But the winds of change werenโt done blowing - in 2020, the Hagia Sophia became a mosque again and now operates as a sort of mosque-museum hybrid (hence the entrance fee).
Start your visit by admiring the stunning 180 foot (56-metre) high dome - considered revolutionary at the time of its construction - before moving on to the extraordinary mosaics that decorate the upper gallery of the Hagia Sophia.
Everywhere you look, youโll see the intertwining of Christian and Islamic influences - from crosses still visible on archways and frescoes of angels to Islamic calligraphy.
Keep an eye out for the Viking runes engraved into the marble parapet on the upper floor which says โHalfdan was hereโ. Tags clearly haven't changed that much in over 1000 years.
A cross near a window inside the Hagia Sophia.
Practical stuff
The Hagia Sophia opens to non-Muslim visitors at 9am, and as one of the top things to do in Istanbul, it naturally draws massive crowds.
Thatโs exactly why weโve made it your first stop - arriving early gives you the best shot at beating the queues.
However, these days there seems to be a queue at Hagia Sophia no matter the time of day or season. Weโre talking 1.5 - 2 hours and to be frank, ainโt nobody got time for that! (Especially you on this itinerary).
As you only have a day in Istanbul, queuing for hours isnโt the best use of your time. Thatโs why we highly recommend booking this skip-the-line ticket. Trust us, future you will thank you!
We used this when Vincentโs parents visited us last April, and it was a huge time-saver. While this ticket costs slightly more than a regular ticket, skipping the long queues makes it well worth the extra expense. It also comes with a free audio guide in 23 different languages.
Click here to book your skip-the-line ticket for Hagia Sophia.
The Hagia Sophia is a must-visit on any one day tour of Istanbul.
If you are Muslim or a Turkish citizen you can visit the first floor of the Hagia Sophia. If youโre a non-Muslim tourist you can only visit the second floor - on the bright side, this is where most of the beautiful Byzantine frescoes and mosaics are.
This is basically what the ticket gives you access to and everyone - tourists, non-Muslims, Muslims and Turkish citizens - have to pay to enter this area.
Next stop after Hagia Sophia: Walk 1 minute to the Basilica Cistern.
The Basilica Cistern: Secrets Beneath the City
๐ถ Getting there: The Basilica Cistern is a 1 minute walk from the Hagia Sophia.
โญ Highlights: The upside-down Medusa heads and various art installations
โ Visit time: 30 - 45 minutes
๐ฐ Entrance fees: 990TL for foreign tourists, 220TL for domestic visitors. Weโd recommend getting these skip-the-line tickets for this attraction to save time.
The Basilica Cistern - you can see why it looks like a palace!
Your second stop on this one day in Istanbul itinerary is the cathedral-esque Basilica Cistern - because why not throw an underground palace into the mix?
Another architectural flex by Emperor Justinian I (seriously, did the man ever take a break?), this massive cistern was built in 532 to supply fresh water to the Great Palace and surrounding buildings.
Constructed using 336 mahoosive marble columns, the Basilica Cistern can store 80,000 cubic meters of water and is the largest cistern in Istanbul - so big, in fact, that it has its own artificial freshwater lake the size of two football fields.
Wander along the elevated walkways, gaze up at the vaulted ceilings, and take in the spooky atmosphere. Donโt be surprised if you spot fish swimming beneath your feet - theyโre part of the whole experience.
Without question the biggest attraction is the two upside-down Medusa heads, whose origins remain a mystery, along with the Peacock Eye Column.
One of the famous upside down Medusa heads
A spooky art installation in the Basilica Cistern.
Youโll also find some haunting art installations - our favourites include a giant hand rising from the water and a creepy Medusa sculpture that casts an ominous shadow.
Adding to the drama, the lighting inside shifts between green, red, and blue hues, occasionally plunging the space into near darkness - so watch your step unless you fancy a swim.
Since you're on a tight schedule for this one day tour in Istanbul, we highly recommend grabbing these skip-the-line tickets.
They include an audio guide, but being honest, the best part is breezing past a queue of 200 people and walking straight in. More time for marvelling at the architecture, less time stuck in line - which sounds like a win to us!
Click here to book skip-the-line tickets for the Basilica Cistern
Next stop on this one day Istanbul tour after the Basilica Cistern: The Blue Mosque. This is just a 5 minute walk away.
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Cami): Domes, Tiles and Ottoman Style
๐ถ Getting there: Walk past the ornate German Fountain and towards Sultanahmet Square to get to the Blue Mosque.
โญ Highlights: Spectacular Iznik tiles, stained glass windows and ornate dome.
โ Visit time: 30 - 45 minutes
๐ฐ Entrance fee: Free
๐ง Dress code: Men and women should cover their shoulders and legs and women will also require a headscarf. Headscarves and long body wraps are available for free near the entrance. If youโre wearing tight trousers like leggings with a short top youโll still need a body cover.
Remove your shoes when you enter and leave them on the shelves near the entrance doors or put them in your bag (we sometimes carry a plastic bag for this purpose).
๐ Note: The Blue Mosque closes during prayer times and is closed on Friday until 2.30pm. You can check prayer times here.
The spectacular Blue Mosque.
Another iconic building dominating Istanbulโs skyline, the world-famous Blue Mosque is the third stop on your Istanbul 1 day itinerary.
Built across from the Hagia Sophia, it was commissioned in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I, who, at just 19 years old, decided he wanted to build something to rival one of the greatest buildings in history. (Losing a few wars can do that to you).
He was so determined to realise his vision that he even rolled up his sleeves and helped with the construction.
A blend of Ottoman and Byzantine design, it took seven years to complete and was finally inaugurated in 1616.
When you step inside the mosque and look up, youโll immediately see where it gets its name from: over 20.000, handmade blue Iznik tiles cover the interior. There are apparently 50 different designs featuring tulips, trees and fruit.
The gorgeous tiled interior of the Blue Mosque.
And thatโs not all - over 200 beautiful stained glass windows and numerous grand chandeliers scatter light across the prayer hall, giving the mosque a serene and magical feel. No wonder it's considered one of the best things to do in Istanbul Turkey!
For a more detailed history of the Blue Mosque pick up a leaflet at the entrance. Alternatively, this informative 1 hour tour is a great option if you want to get the full backstory into the mosqueโs architecture and history.
Once youโve had your fill of the beauty inside, step out into Sultanahmet Square and take a moment to enjoy the epic view of the Hagia Sophia from the Blue Mosque. Itโs not a bad spot for a breather before tackling the next stop on your itinerary!
Next stop after the Blue Mosque on this Istanbul 1 Day Tour: Time for a snack!
Grab a Snack in Sultanahmet Square
Hopefully your hotel breakfast hasnโt worn off quite yet, but if you are starting to feel peckish, weโd recommend grabbing a snack in Sultanahmet Square just before you head to your next stop.
This is a great place to try Istanbul street food and youโll see carts around the square selling all kinds of grab-and-go delights.
Mmmmโฆsimit, a popular street food in Istanbul.
You can buy simit (a type of sesame bagel) and have it plain or with cream cheese, olive paste or chocolate spread. Youโll see other stalls selling grilled corn (my fave) or roasted chestnuts.
You will be having a proper lunch after the next stop on this itinerary but your day trip in Istanbul wonโt be enjoyable if youโre hangry.
Next stop after your snack: Topkapฤฑ Palace - a 10 minute walk from Sultanahmet Square.
Topkapi Palace - Where Sultans Lived it Large
๐ถ Getting there: Topkapฤฑ Palace is a 10 minute walk from Sultanahmet Square through the Sultanahmet Park.
โญ Highlights: The ornate rooms of the palace Harem, the Imperial Treasury and the Chamber of Holy Relics.
โ Visit time: 2 hours
๐ฐ Entrance fee: 2000TL (includes access to the Palace, the Harem and Hagia Irene). We recommend this skip-the-line guided tour so you donโt have to queue.
๐ Note: The Topkapฤฑ Palace is closed on Tuesday.
The inside of Topkapi Palace is justโฆwow.
A day trip to Istanbul wouldnโt be complete without exploring the magnificent Topkapฤฑ Palace.
Built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed I after his conquest of Constantinople, Topkapฤฑ Palace was the lavish home of Ottoman sultans for 400 years and the empireโs political nerve centre.
At its peak, this sprawling complex housed around 4,000 people - courtiers, janissaries, concubines, and more. Inside, youโll find a maze of opulent chambers, council rooms, a treasury, a library, a portrait gallery, and the famous harem.
Since opening as a museum in 1924, Topkapฤฑ Palace has been giving visitors a rare glimpse into the MTV Cribs lifestyle of the Ottoman elite.
Take your time wandering through the maze of pavilions, courtyards, and chambers. Everything is exquisitely decorated with patterned tiles, stained glass windows and gold-leafed walls. So bling!
The most spectacular rooms are in the palace Harem, where the Sultanโs mother, wives and as many as 300 concubines lived.
History buffs should head for the Chamber of Holy Relics which holds scrolls belonging to John the Baptist.
Every room in Topkapi Palace is a feast for your eyes - you can see why all the best Istanbul one day tours include this on the itinerary!
The sultans certainly spared no expense when it came to their palaces.
Meanwhile, jewellery lovers will adore the Imperial Treasury, home to one of the largest diamonds in the world, the Spoonmakerโs Diamond, an 86-carat monster rock that puts most engagement rings to shame.
Since this itinerary is all about Istanbul in a day, aim to spend two hours here before moving on. But if you want to spend more time exploring the palace, go ahead!
If youโre lucky enough to have 2 days in Istanbul or more, carve out at least four hours to explore Topkapฤฑ Palace fully.
If you want to dive deeper into the palaceโs history, this 12pm guided tour lasts two hours (fitting perfectly with this itinerary) and gets you straight inside. One day tours in Istanbul are all about maximizing your time!
Click here to book this skip-the-line guided tour of Topkapฤฑ Palace.
Next stop after Topkapฤฑ Palace: Lunch at Pak Pide Salonu. You can either walk or take the tram (details below!)
Lunch at Pak Pide Salonu
๐ถ Getting there: From Topkapฤฑ Palace walk to the Gรผlhane tram stop and take the T1 tram to Eminรถnรผ. From here walk to the restaurant past the spice bazaar (this is included later on the itinerary).
Alternatively, follow this walking route - it will take you through Sirkeci, where you might spot the famous Sirkeci Train Station, once the grand final stop of the Orient Express.
โญ Highlights: Superb Turkish flavours, freshly cooked pizza and pide.
โ Visit time: 1 hour
Looking for the best pide (or pizza) in Istanbul? Youโll find it at Pak Pide Salonu!
Youโve ticked off four incredible sights on your 1 day tour of Istanbul, so now itโs time to refuel and relax.
Istanbul isnโt just about jaw-dropping history - itโs also about phenomenal food and friendly, hospitable folk. Grabbing lunch at a local spot is the perfect way to experience the city like a local.
Enter Pak Pide Salonu, where you can try freshly baked Turkish pide (aka Turkeyโs answer to pizza), cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
From regional specialties like Trabzon and Konya-style pides to the classic boat-shaped varieties, thereโs plenty to choose from. Not feeling adventurous? Theyโve got regular pizzas too.
Pak Pide Salonu is a no-frills joint - just friendly service, great food made right in front of you, and prices that wonโt break the bank. The best 1 day itinerary Istanbul has to offer wouldnโt be complete without a tasty meal!
A freshly baked egg and spicy ground beef pide at Pak Pide Salonu.
For drinks, you can sample traditional Turkish favourites like ayran (a salty yogurt drink) or ลalgam (fermented purple carrot and turnip juice). If that sounds a little too out there, donโt worry, there are fizzy drinks too. (We love the local stuff, so does that make us honorary Turks?)
After lunch, take a quick detour to Saฤฤฑr Han, a historical inn just across the street that is now home to handicraft workshops and Eirene Tower Sanat Galerisi, a watchtower-turned-art-gallery.
This is the perfect place to browse traditional Turkish arts and crafts before heading to your next stop.
Next stop on this one day tour in Istanbul after Pak Pide Salonu: Sรผleymaniye Mosque which is a 5-10 minute walk away.
Sรผleymaniye: The Mosque With the Million Dollar View
๐ถ Getting there: From Pak Pide Salonu, follow this route to Sรผleymaniye. Itโs a 5-10 minute walk uphill - hopefully the carbs youโve just had will fuel your legs!
โญ Highlights: Amazing view over the water towards the Galata Tower, serene courtyard and gardens and a beautiful mosque.
โ Visit time: 30-45 minutes
๐ฐ Entrance fee: Free
๐ง Dress code: Men and women should ensure their shoulders and legs are covered and women will also need to wear a headscarf. If youโre wearing tight pants like leggings with a short top youโll still need to cover up.
Before entering, remove your shoes and place them on the shelves by the entrance or carry them in your bag.
๐ Note: Sรผleymaniye Mosque will be busy on Fridays.
The inside of Sรผleymaniye Mosque is just as stunning as the views of the city outside.
Most day tours of Istanbul skip Sรผleymaniye Mosque (probably because itโs on a hill and so considered โtoo far out") but we think thatโs a big mistake. Not only does it offer some of the best views over Istanbul, but the complex and the mosque itself are beautiful.
Sรผleymaniye was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent, under whose reign the Ottoman Empire reached the pinnacle of its political and economic powers, and designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan.
[Sinan built a staggering 374 structures across the empire. We always try to tell ourselves weโve got the same โ24 hours in a dayโ as Sinan.]
Completed in 1557, this massive complex originally consisted of a mosque, four madrasas (Islamic religious schools), a primary school, a hospital, a medical school, a hamam (Turkish bathhouse), a public kitchen, a cemetery and even a guesthouse!
The view of Istanbul from Sรผleymaniye Mosque.
Incredibly many of these buildings have survived and the hamam has recently been restored - perfect if you fancy a (pricey) scrub-down in a historical building.
As you walk through the courtyard, stop to admire the breathtaking view of the Golden Horn and the Galata Tower over the cascading domes of Sรผleymaniyeโs madrasas - now part of the Ibn Haldun University Campus.
Inside, Sรผleymaniye Mosque is simply decorated but still beautiful - the calligraphy on the dome and patterns on the stained glass windows at the front of the mosque are particularly gorgeous.
For more information about the history and architecture of the mosque just ask one of the friendly volunteers - students from the nearby university - who offer excellent free tours. Or pick up one of the leaflets (available in multiple languages) inside.
Next stop after Sรผleymaniye Mosque: The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is a 10 minute walk away.
The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar: Chaos, Colour and Killer Deals
๐ถ Getting there: Walk 10 minutes downhill from Sรผleymaniye to Lรผtfallah Kapฤฑsฤฑ - this is one of the many entrances to the Grand Bazaar. Alternatively, walk a tiny bit further and enter the Spice Bazaar (aka the Egyptian Bazaar).
โญ Highlights: Shopping paradise. Turkish handicrafts, spices, souvenirs, ceramicsโฆanything you want, youโll find.
โ Visit time: 1 hour. Try not to get lost as this will make your visit longer
๐ฐ Entrance fee: Free but youโll probably end up buying something!
๐ Note: The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
The Grand Bazaar - anything you want, theyโve got it!
The next stop on your 24 hours Istanbul itinerary takes you from the peaceful calm of Sรผleymaniye straight into the cacophony and chaos of Istanbulโs bazaar district.
First up, the Grand Bazaar - the world's largest covered market. With 4,000 shops and 65 alleyways, itโs like a miniature city.
The original 15th-century bazaar, built under Mehmet I, was much smaller, but things clearly escalated over the last 500 years!
What's for sale? Everything. From hand-painted ceramics, Turkish rugs and colourful lanterns to jewellery, shoes, souvenirs and even second hand mobiles.
Navigating the Grand Bazaar is an adventure in itself. Vendors call out to you from every direction, thereโs thousands of stalls, lights andโฆcrowds.
With 22 entrances/exits, this place is a maze, so make a mental note of where you came in and keep an eye out for the exits.
Jazz up your home decor with something from the Grand Bazaar.
The Antique Market is perfect for people who love vintage or unusual antique items.
Thereโs no agenda here - just explore and stop at any shop that takes your fancy. Donโt forget to haggle - itโs a Turkish tradition! (Just say โindirimโ for a discount and see where it gets you).
The main streets of the bazaar are very touristy and overpriced so weโd suggest wandering into some of the side alleys instead (keeping an eye on the time of course.)
Love shopping? Then feel free to stay longer and swap out some of this itineraryโs evening stops.
If you have 3 days in Istanbul or more weโd encourage you to spend more time exploring the bazaar as there are historic caravanserais, bookstores, hidden restaurants and unique shops that most visitors will miss. This bazaar food tour is a great way to explore the area if youโve got extra time.
If the Grand Bazaar sounds like too much chaos, head straight to the Spice Bazaar instead. Smaller (just 85 shops), itโs the go-to spot for spices, fruit teas, Turkish delight and fragrant soaps.
Next stop on this Istanbul one day trip after the Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar: Galata Bridge. This is 5 minutesโ walk from the Spice Bazaar.
Galata Bridge: More Than Just a Crossing
๐ถ Getting there: From the Spice Bazaar walk 5 minutes to the start of Galata Bridge.
โญ Highlights: Watching local fisherman reeling in their catch and amazing views especially at sunset.
โ Visit time: 15-30 minutes
Fisherman hoping for fish to bite at the Galata Bridge in winter.
Connecting Istanbulโs Old City to the modern neighbourhoods in Beyoฤlu, the Galata Bridge has been rebuilt at least five times.
Walking across it gives you an authentic taste of Istanbul life. Come rain or shine youโll see fishermen casting their lines into the water or patiently waiting for their next catch.
Nearby, street vendors serve up balฤฑk ekmek (fish sandwiches made with freshly caught fish), grilled corn and roasted chestnuts - perfect if youโre starting to feel peckish. (And far better than the restaurants below the bridge which are extortionate tourist traps).
Whilst you can walk across Galata Bridge in about 15 minutes, weโd suggest lingering to see the ferries passing by and to just people-watch. The views of Istanbul from the bridge are amazing, so make sure you snap some photos too!
The sunset at Galata Bridge is pretty much guaranteed to be breathtaking!
Galata Bridge is also our favourite place to watch the sunset over the Golden Horn all year round. Itโs always spectacular.
If youโre tired of walking or want to skip the bridge entirely, you can walk to Eminonu tram station from the Spice Bazaar and take the T1 tram to Karakรถy instead.
Next stop on your one day trip in Istanbul - After the Galata Bridge you have three options:
Option 1 (Galata Tower - Istiklal Avenue - Taksim Square): Head to the Galata Tower for 360ยฐ views of Istanbul at night, followed by dinner in Galata, shopping and nightlife on Istiklal Avenue and finishing in Taksim Square.
Option 2 (Bosphorus Dinner Cruise): Enjoy a three course meal with live entertainment plus a chance to see more Istanbul sights from the water!
Option 3 (Food Tour): Try Istanbulโs famous street food, enjoy drinks in a rooftop cafe and taste a wide range of Turkish dishes at a historic restaurant with an expert local guide.
The Galata Tower at sunset.
Weโd go with Option 1 - take in the best panoramic views of Istanbul from Galata Tower, enjoy dinner in the picturesque Galata district with its cozy cafes and restaurants, shop or have drinks on the famous Istiklal Avenue, and top it all off with dessert in Taksim Square.
But itโs really up to you!
Option 1: Galata Tower - Istiklal Avenue - Taksim Square
Galata Tower: A Little Effort, Big Reward
๐ Getting there: From Galata Bridge walk to the Tรผnel station (an underpass connects Galata Bridge to the other side of the road - this isnโt shown on Google Maps).
From here take the historical funicular (itโs the world's second oldest subway!) from Karakรถy to the top of Galata. You then walk downhill to the Galata Tower.
Alternatively use the underpass to get to the bottom of Galata hill and then follow this route up to the Galata Tower. Itโs steep but the bonus is that youโll pass lots of shops, cafes and restaurants on the way. You can always stop for a break!
โญ Highlights: Incredible panoramic view of the whole of Istanbul from the observation balcony and interesting exhibits detailing the towerโs history.
โ Visit time: 1 hour
๐ฐ Entrance fee: โฌ30. Sunset and evening are popular times to visit the tower so weโd recommend booking this skip-the-line ticket to save time.
The spectacular Galata Tower.
Originally built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian, the first Galata Tower was destroyed in 1204 when the Crusaders sacked Constantinople - led, rather dramatically, by a 97-year-old blind man.
Rebuilt in 1348 by the Genoese and named Christea Turris (Tower of Christ), the structure later fell into Ottoman hands after the 1453 conquest.
Over the years, it served as a prison, a fire watchtower, and - ironically - was twice damaged by fire. The final blow came in 1875 when a massive storm ripped off its wooden and lead roof.
The poor Galata Tower stood roofless for nearly a century until the late 1960s, when it was finally restored and opened to the public. At some point, a restaurant popped up on the top floor so you could have dinner with a view.
After a major restoration in 2020-2021, the restaurant was scrapped, and a small museum, spread across four floors, was set up inside.
The view from the top of the Galata Tower is definitely worth climbing a few stairs for!
Looking up at the 220 foot (67 metre) Galata Tower you may worry that you skipped too many leg days, but donโt panic - thereโs a lift that whisks you up to the 6th floor.
From there, climb two short staircases to the 8th-floor observation deck, where youโll be rewarded with an incredible 360ยฐ view of Istanbulโs iconic landmarks, the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn. Weโve been up three times, and I still spend forever snapping photos.
On the way down, youโll take the stairs, which can get pretty narrow. If your knees protest, take a break at the museum exhibits - our favourites include a section of the massive iron chain that once protected the Golden Horn from invaders and a cool scale model of Istanbul on the 7th floor.
(Pro-tip: If you have serious mobility issues, the staff will let you use the lift back down - my parents got this VIP treatment.)
Part of the famous chain that was used by the Byzantines to protect the Golden Horn.
Evenings at Galata Tower are very popular, and the line to buy tickets is often long and moves at a snailโs pace. Weโd suggest avoiding this by booking this skip-the-line ticket which saves a ton of time.
Next stop on this one day tour of Istanbul after Galata Tower: Dinner or light meal in the Galata area, right near the tower.
Dinner or a Snack Around Galata Tower
๐ถ Getting there: There are cafes and restaurants all around the tower - weโll recommend some places to go!
โญ Highlights: Delicious food and drinks with a Galata Tower view.
โ Visit time: 1 - 1.5 hours
Customers enjoying tasty baked treats at ลirin Fฤฑrฤฑn Bakery.
After descending the tower, make your way to Bรผyuk Hendek Caddesi, the charming cafe-lined street right in front of Galata Tower. This is where youโll see the famous view of Galata Tower peeking out from between the colourful buildings on a cobbled street.
The vibes on Bรผyuk Hendek street are positively Parisian - there are so many cafes to choose from! We love the coffee and pastries at the pretty Galata ลirin Firin bakery - grab a pavement table for views of the street and Galata Tower.
If youโre feeling hungrier, ลirin Firin also serves quiches, omelettes, burgers, sandwiches and pastas.
For superb Turkish flavours paired with a stellar view, head to Gรผney Restaurant right by the Galata Tower. The hot and cold mezzes, kebabs and desserts are top-notch. It's a popular spot, so consider reserving a table online in advance.
Next stop after dinner in Galata: Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square. You can walk or take the nostalgic tram.
Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square - Istanbulโs Buzzing Soul
๐ถ Getting there: From the Galata area, walk up Galip Dede road to the start of Istiklal Avenue.
โญ Highlights: Shopping, restaurants, historic passageways, lots of nightlife (bars, clubs, pubs and taverns), street performers and even a nostalgic tram!
โ Visit time: 1-1.5 hours or more, if you want to party the night away!
Istiklal Caddesi is always pretty crowded!
Often called the beating heart of the city, Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) is the second-to-last stop on your itinerary.
This 1.4km pedestrian street, once known as the Grand Avenue of Pera, is lined with stunning Ottoman-era buildings in styles ranging from neoclassical to art nouveau.
A staggering three million people walk through this famous avenue everyday! If youโve got the energy, join the throng and take it all in (donโt worry, weโve got a shortcut if your feet are screaming for mercy).
By day, Istiklal is a lively mix of chain clothing stores, restaurants, bookstores, art galleries, and historic passageways hiding vintage shops and tiny cafes. At night, the bars, pubs and nightclubs come to life and they are packed until the wee hours.
St Anthonyโs Catholic Church on Istiklal Avenue
At first glance, you might think all signs of old Istanbul have vanished - but look closer.
The imposing gates of the Galatasaray High School, the second oldest educational institution in Turkey, mark the middle of the avenue. Numerous churches dot the street and historic passageways like รiรงek and Suriye Pasaji lead to taverns and tea houses.
Film buffs should peek into the 1948 Atlas Cinema, once the largest cinema in Beyoglu. Recently restored, it shows Turkish and international films.
Want to experience Istanbulโs nightlife scene? We recommend trying the delicious and potent cocktails at Flekk. For live music, the more traditional James Joyce Irish Pub should do the trick!
If you prefer your drinks more caffeinated than fermented, head to Mandabatmaz, one of Istanbulโs best cafes and famous for its Turkish coffee or the cosy Turkish-German Bookstore & Cafe.
The nostalgic red tram is popular with tourists and with kids!
If your legs are begging for a break, hop on the nostalgic red tram from Tรผnel station - itโs slow (pedestrians rule this street), but that just means more time to enjoy the sights before reaching Taksim Square in about 15-20 minutes.
If youโre not partying till late on Istiklal, your 1 day in Istanbul itinerary ends at Taksim Square, a historic meeting place and former political hotspot.
Treat yourself to a slice of baklava and a glass of รงay at Hafiz Mustafa 1864, stroll around the Republic Monument, or admire the enormous Taksim Mosque.
And just like that, youโve wrapped up an epic day trip around Istanbul! Youโve seen the sights, tasted the flavours, and walked the streets - this truly is the best day tour Istanbul has to offer.
Option 2: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise - Sailing Between Continents
๐ Getting there: Pick up from your hotel or meet at a designated meeting point.
โญ Highlights: Fantastic night time views of Istanbulโs skyline and attractions from the water, live entertainment and a three course Turkish meal.
โ Visit time: 3 - 4 hours
Seeing Istanbul from the water is an unforgettable experience.
A trip to Istanbul isnโt complete without spending time on the water, but with a full day Istanbul tour, thereโs no time for a leisurely daytime ferry ride.
Thatโs where this Bosphorus Dinner Cruise comes in. Offering a fantastic three-course Turkish meal and live entertainment, it also lets you take in Istanbulโs top attractions from the water - including some on the Asian side, such as the Maidenโs Tower and Beylerbeyi Palace.
At night, Istanbulโs illuminated skyline is breathtaking, especially from the Bosphorus. These dinner cruises last 3-4 hours, with various packages available, including VIP lounge seating, unlimited drinks, and hotel pickup.
Itโs the perfect way to cap off your Istanbul in 24 hours itinerary in style.
Option 3: Night Time Food Tour - Eat Like a Local
๐ถ Getting there: This tour departs from Sirkeci station.
โญ Highlights: Trying Istanbulโs street food, enjoying a panoramic view from a rooftop cafe and visiting a historical Turkish restaurant to try an array of traditional dishes.
โ Visit time: 3 hours
Turkish pickles and pickle juice are some of the things weโve tried on a food tour in Istanbul.
If you have more than one day in Istanbul, we highly recommend joining a food tour. They typically last 5-6 hours and are one of the best ways to understand the cityโs culture and history.
(We love them so much we even put together a whole guide to the best food tours in Istanbul!)
But just because you only have a 24 hour layover in Istanbul doesnโt mean you have to miss out on its incredible flavours!
This fantastic nighttime food tour takes you well off the tourist trail in just three hours.
With a local guide leading the way, you'll sip traditional drinks at a rooftop cafe, sample some of the city's best street food, and dine at a legendary 130-year-old restaurant where youโll feast on over 10 Turkish dishes. And to top it all off? A show-stopping flaming dessert!
Youโll also get the stories and cultural significance behind every bite you take.
The former waiting room of the old Sirkeci Station almost feels like a church.
If this sounds like your kind of experience, we suggest wrapping up the itinerary a little early (at the Spice Bazaar) and heading to Sirkeci Train Station, where the tour kicks off at 6:30pm.
Got time to kill? Take a stroll around the historical station - once the final stop of the Orient Express - and enjoy a glass of รงay in its old-world restaurant while you wait.
๐ Until Next Time, Istanbul!
AND WE ARE DONE! We hope that this one day itinerary for seeing the highlights of Istanbul in a day helps you plan your trip.
Remember, this isnโt a rigid checklist - no oneโs going to chase you down with a clipboard if you skip a stop!
Pick what interests you most and enjoy the experience at your own pace. The goal isnโt just to see everything, but to leave with a deeper appreciation of this incredible city.
And hey, whatever you miss this time just gives you the perfect excuse to return. ๐
If you've spent 1 day in Istanbul, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Let us know in the comments below!
Before you go check out some of our other Istanbul and Turkey/Tรผrkiye guides:
๐ Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul: Coolest Neighbourhoods & Top Hotels
๐ซ How to Get from Istanbul Airport to the City Centre
๐ The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary 10 Days
โต 11 Best Bosphorus Cruise Tours in Istanbul
๐๏ธ Where to Stay in Izmir: Best Izmir Districts, Top Hotels + Useful Tips
๐ Things to Do in Mardin: Turkeyโs City of Golden Stone
๐น๐ท The Best Places to Visit in Turkey
๐ท Visit the Istanbul Tulip Festival
๐ Best Quotes About Istanbul
๐ Sirkeci Station: Discover Istanbul's Orient Express Station
๐ช 18 Best Festivals in Istanbul
๐ Cappadocia in Winter: 7 Reasons to Visit + 16 Amazing Things to Do
๐๏ธ Zelve Open Air Museum Cappadocia: A Complete Guide
๐ฏ Where to Find the Best Baklava in Istanbul
๐ฎ Where to Find the Best Turkish Rice Pudding in Istanbul (&Other Classic Puds!)
๐ Christmas in Istanbul: All You Need to Know for a Magical Stay
โ 9 Awesome Reasons to Spend Winter in Istanbul
๐ณ Best Breakfast in Istanbul - 16 Incredible Places to Try
โ 12 Things You Need To Do in Istanbul
โ๏ธ How to Get From SAW Airport to Istanbul City Center
๐ Explore Balat Istanbul: An Insider's Guide to One of Istanbul's Most Unique Neighbourhoods
๐ Best Vegan Fast Food in Istanbul
๐ฅ Where to Find the Best Vegan Turkish Breakfast in Istanbul
๐ฅ 26 Must-Try Gaziantep Foods
๐ผ๏ธ 14 Top Things To Do in Gaziantep
๐ Off the Eaten Track: The Best Street Food in Istanbul
๐ฅฆ Vegan Istanbul: The Best Under-the-Radar Restaurants
Find more travel tips and useful information on Turkey here.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Click here to discover more of our favourite places around the world.
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