Three Perfect Days in Istanbul

Istanbul rewards those who slow down. Three days is enough to see the great monuments, cruise the Bosphorus and still find time for a long dinner on the Asian side.

Day 1: The Historic Peninsula

Start early at Hagia Sophia, then cross the square to the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. After lunch, spend the afternoon in Topkapı Palace, where the Ottoman sultans ruled for nearly four centuries. End the day with the cool, columned silence of the Basilica Cistern.

Day 2: Bazaars and the Bosphorus

Lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar in the morning, then walk down through the old commercial streets to the Spice Bazaar. In the afternoon, a private boat or a classic ferry takes you along the Bosphorus, past Dolmabahçe Palace, waterside mansions and the Rumeli Fortress.

Day 3: Galata, Balat and Kadıköy

Climb the Galata Tower for the view, browse the galleries of Karaköy, then head up the Golden Horn to the colourful streets of Balat and Fener. As the sun sets, take the ferry to Kadıköy for its food market and lively evening atmosphere.