Are you planning to spend 2 days in Istanbul? This is the itinerary for you!
Istanbul is an incredible metropolitan city. It straddles two continents, blending the ancient with the modern.
I spent 4 days in Istanbul last summer and loved my experience in this bustling city.
Imagine spending an afternoon in the swirling Grand Bazaar, filled with textiles, spices, and treasures. Or enjoying panorama views at sunset From the rooftop of 7 Hills Cafe.
Istanbul’s blend of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning views make it an unforgettable destination.
Some of the best things to do on your 2 day Istanbul itinerary include: neighborhood exploring in Balat and Cihangir, shopping in the Grand Bazaar, and visiting historic sites like the Blue Mosque or Basilica Cistern.
2 Days in Istanbul Itinerary
Day 1: Balat, Cihangir, and Iconic Views
Morning: Balat – Colorful Streets and Historic Charm
Begin your first day in Istanbul exploring the colorful neighborhood of Balat.
Known for its brightly painted buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, Balat is perfect for leisurely exploration.
As you wander through the neighborhood, you’ll come across famous photo spots like the Rainbow Stairs, which are brightly painted in a spectrum of colors, and offer a fun, colorful backdrop for your photos.
Balat is a great place to soak in local culture, with its mix of street art, history, and modern cafes. Be sure to visit the Fener Greek Patriarchate and St. George’s Church, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich religious history.
I took a morning walking tour of Balat during my Istanbul trip and loved the experience.
Nothing quite beats learning about the history and charm of a new place from a local. Free walking tours are generally one of my favorite ways to get my bearings set in a new set, and I especially enjoy it when I am solo traveling!
Afternoon: Serdar-ı Ekrem Street & Cihangir
Make your way towards the quiet, cobblestone Serdar-ı Ekrem Street. This is one of the most picturesque spots in Istanbul!
Galata Tower hovers in the background making for incredible photos… and just a cool ambiance.
You can also climb to the top of Galata Tower for about 30 Euros, but prices vary. I opted to save money and skipped the climb. (I had my panorama views fix at Seven Hills Cafe).
As you stroll, you’ll pass cafés, boutiques, and local shops—an area less crowded than the more famous streets of Istanbul, giving you a more relaxed experience.
Next, make your way to the bohemian neighborhood of Cihangir. It’s only a short walk away.
This area is known for its artistic vibe, with cozy cafés and galleries dotting the streets. Stop for lunch in one of the local cafés, and take some time to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this charming neighborhood.
Evening: Dinner in Karaköy
For dinner, head to Karaköy, a trendy area known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent dining options.
Dining at Oses Gurme was one of my favorite meals on my Istanbul trip. They are famous for their Kofte rolls!
After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the views of the Bosphorus and the illuminated Galata Bridge.
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Day 2: Sultanahmet Square and Grand Bazaar
Morning: Grand Bazaar
Begin your second and final day in Istanbul at the iconic Grand Bazaar. With over 3,000 shops, this lively marketplace offers everything from intricate carpets to unique Turkish ceramics. It’s a perfect spot for souvenir shopping and people-watching!
There are also tons of free Turkish delight samples. (However, I think this is just common in Turkey! I enjoyed Turkish delight samples beginning in Fethiye on Turkey’s coast). Yum!
You can get to the Grand Bazaar by hopping on the tram and getting off at Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı.
Afternoon: Sultanahmet Square
From the Grand Bazaar, take a 10-minute walk to Sultanahmet Square. This is considered the center of Istanbul’s historical district.
Some of the best things to do in the Square include the famous Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
The Blue Mosque is a must-see, famous for its stunning blue tiles and impressive domed architecture.
After exploring the mosque, you can walk to Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest architectural wonders in the world.
The building has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing beautiful mosaics and a grand dome.
Both mosques are directly right next to each other making it easy to visit both in one afternoon.
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Explore the Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern.
The Topkapi Palace is the former royal residence of Ottoman sultans. It features beautiful courtyards, the Harem, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait.
Alternatively, consider the underground Basilica Cistern. The cistern is famous for its grand columns, including the Medusa heads.
Both sites are also within walking distance. There are so many amazing things to do in Sultanahmet Square!
⭐Day 2 Tour Option: Old Town Tour
Evening: Sunset at Seven Hills Rooftop Café
Seven Hills Rooftop was one of my favorite things I did on my Istanbul trip! Sure, it’s touristy, but the view over Sultanahmet Square is unbeatable.
As a solo traveler, I didn’t need a reservation and easily landed a table for tea on the restaurant’s rooftop. However, I think I got lucky and recommend making a reservation if you have a group, especially for dinner.
There is also a section of the rooftop that offers flying dress photoshoots (with dress rentals on site) if this is something you are interested in. This is also a popular thing to do in Cappadocia.
Conclusion
In two days, Istanbul showcases its history, culture, and charm. From the iconic landmarks of Sultanahmet Square to the lively streets of Balat, you’ll experience the essence of this captivating city.
This itinerary ensures a perfect mix of sightseeing and discovery, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Istanbul.
I hope you have an amazing Istanbul trip!
