After magical days in Cappadocia, my cousins and I spent three days in Istanbul. We stayed in an Airbnb in Taşkasap, which was safe but far from the main attractions and lacked nearby amenities.

Istanbul is big and busy, but easy to explore. The metro is great, especially for airport trips, though we chose to see most of the city on foot.

Day 1 – Getting Settled & The Grand Bazaar

Our first day was half travel, half exploring. We grabbed a quick, delicious kebab for lunch, cheap, simple, and made sweeter when the owner took a photo with us.

We spent the afternoon at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, a massive, lively spot where you can find everything from lamps and spices to jewellery. Even if you’re not shopping, wandering its colourful alleys is a must.

After a few hours, we had tea near a beautiful mosque, then returned to our apartment for a quiet dinner.

Day 2 – Mosques, Views & The Heart of the City

The next day was our big sightseeing day, and we truly walked miles!

We began at the impressive Süleymaniye Mosque (free of charge), home to Sultan Süleyman’s tombs. Open to visitors with provided coverings if needed, it’s peaceful, massive, and offers stunning city views, especially at sunset.

From there, we crossed the river toward Galata Tower, a historic former prison turned lookout point. Skipping the entrance fee, we explored the lively streets full of colourful shops and cafés.

We headed to Dolmabahçe Palace, meeting a local friend for lunch by the Bosphorus Strait in this calm, green, and elegant part of the city.

In the afternoon, we visited Istanbul’s heart near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The Blue Mosque impresses with its beautiful blue tiles and large size, while Hagia Sophia shows the city’s long and rich history.

We only went inside the Blue Mosque (free of charge), as Hagia Sophia was closed, but the area was stunning, lively, and full of gardens and shops. On the way back, we crossed a bridge where locals were fishing at sunset, a simple yet beautiful scene.

For dinner, we went to Rokka Pizza Falafel, a small local spot recommended by a friend. The food was delicious, cheap, the service excellent, highly recommended!

Day 3 – On to the Next Stop

Our time in Istanbul was short but full. The mix of history, culture, and modern life makes this city truly unique, it’s a place where every corner tells a story.

The next morning, we headed to the airport for our final stop from our Türkiye adventure: Antalya.

Fun fact: Hagia Sophia was the world’s largest Christian church for almost 1,000 years before becoming a mosque. When Sultan Ahmed I built the Blue Mosque in 1609, he placed it across from Hagia Sophia to match its size and beauty. Today, both stand side by side as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, open to everyone.