Introduction
Istanbul is a city of contrasts, where East meets West and the old blends with the modern. It’s a place to be explored slowly, to get lost in its streets and bazaars, and to be surprised at every corner. This 3-day itinerary was put together to give you a taste of the best Istanbul has to offer, without rushing and with time to soak in the unique atmosphere of this fascinating city.
Day 1: The Historic Heart
Day one is dedicated to Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul. Here you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic monuments, all within a short distance of each other.
- Topkapi Palace: The former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Set aside a morning to explore its courtyards and pavilions.
- Hagia Sophia: An icon of Istanbul, once the largest church in Christendom and now a mosque. Its dome is breathtaking.
- Blue Mosque: Right opposite Hagia Sophia, this mosque impresses with its six minarets and more than 20,000 blue tiles.
- Gülhane Park: An oasis of calm in the middle of the city, perfect for a stroll in the late afternoon.
Day 2: Bazaars and Incredible Views
On day two, get ready for an immersion in local culture and breathtaking views.
- Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Get lost in its alleys and don’t be afraid to haggle.
- Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): An explosion of colour and aroma, where you can find spices, teas, Turkish delight and much more.
- Süleymaniye Mosque: A masterpiece by the architect Sinan, with a stunning view over the Golden Horn.
- Basilica Cistern: An impressive underground cistern with hundreds of columns.
Day 3: The Modern Side and the Bosphorus
Day three is for exploring the more modern side of Istanbul and for an unforgettable cruise along the Bosphorus.
- Bosphorus boat tour: A different perspective on the city, passing palaces, mosques and bridges.
- Beyoğlu neighbourhood: The heart of modern Istanbul, with its busy İstiklal Avenue and Taksim Square.
- Galata Tower: Climb to the top for a 360º panoramic view over Istanbul.
What you should know before you go
- Visa: Portuguese citizens don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Currency: The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- Transport: The city has a good public transport network, including metro, tram and bus. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card you can use across all of them.
- Cultural respect: When visiting mosques, remember to dress in clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Women should also cover their heads.
Where Multipark fits in
We know that planning a trip can be as exciting as the trip itself. And when you come back, full of memories and maybe with a Turkish rug in your luggage, the last thing you want to worry about is your car. That’s where Multipark comes in. Leave your car with us and head off to discover Istanbul with total peace of mind. plan your parking with Multipark
Conclusion
Istanbul is a city that stays with you. These 3 days are just the start of a great adventure. Let yourself be carried by the city’s rhythm, taste the local flavours and, above all, enjoy every moment. Safe travels!
