2 Days in Istanbul with the Perfect 2 Day Itinerary

Istanbul is one of the most popular cities in Türkiye. With a population of over 14 million, in Türkiye, it’s known as the city that never sleeps. People come to Istanbul for all sorts of reasons; entertainment, monuments in Istanbul having history, business and more. But one thing they all have in common is that they’re looking for ways to make the most of their time in the city. If you only have 2 days in Istanbul, you might wonder what to do in Istanbul in 2 days.

First time in Istanbul? To help first-time visitors we’ve prepared an Istanbul two day itinerary to ensure an enjoyable trip. In this blog, we will go over the most important things to see in Istanbul in 2 days. If you have more time, check out our blog about 7 days in Istanbul!

Here’s how to plan your trip day by day:

First Day in Your Istanbul Itinerary

On the first day of Istanbul 2 day itinerary, one of the first things you’ll notice when you start to plan your trip to Istanbul is just how many must-see places to visit in Istanbul of historic interest there are, especially in the Fatih region. Therefore, on the first day of your trip to Istanbul, we recommend you focus on the historic sites:

• Hagia Sophia Museum
• Topkapı Palace Museum
• Basilica Cistern
• The Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar

Before we start, I gathered some of the tours taking place on Day 1 you might be interested in.

1. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is the first place you should visit on arrival in Fatih. This important historic building was built in the old city centre between 532-537 during the reign of the Byzantine Empire.

Hagia Sophia became a mosque again in 2020 with the Presidential decree. On 24th of July, 2020, Friday prayers were performed again after 86 years. Visitors wishing to see the Hagia Sophia can enter without an entrance fee from now on. Please keep in mind that there are five prayer times for a day, you might want to visit the Hagia Sophia besides these times.

Don’t forget that since it’s a mosque again, women and men have to wear clothes according to Islamic rules. For men and women, legs and arms need to be covered, and no shorts or skirts above the ankle. Also, your clothes should not be tight fitting. And women have to cover their heads.

2. Topkapı Palace Museum

In your Istanbul 2 days itinerary, you should definitely include Topkapi Palace. A must-see for all visitors with an interest in history, one of the palaces in Istanbul, Topkapi Palace was the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. It still survives to this day and the imposing baroque-style building is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Basilica Cistern

The biggest covered cistern in Istanbul will fascinate you with its modern aesthetic lighting system. You’ll also see an ancient Medusa head statue as you walk through the cistern.  The ceiling is bricked and cross-vaulted.

Basilica Cistern was actually under the bigger restoration of its time, yet it opened its doors to visitors on 22 July 2022. Nowadays there are many exhibitions held in the Basilica Cistern and it offers you a magical experience.

4. The Grand Bazaar

No doubt you’ll want to visit an authentic bazaar to help you get to know the oriental culture of Istanbul? You can buy Turkish coffee in Istanbul, various authentic kitchen utensils, textiles, sweets and gold from this historic bazaar shopping in Istanbul that has been in existence for nearly 300 years and contains approximately 4000 shops.

5. Spice Bazaar

One of the oldest covered bazaars in Istanbul where you’ll find many reasonably priced products. A nice place to visit, especially for buying authentic souvenirs in Istanbul.

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Second Day in Your Istanbul Itinerary

On your second day of 2 days in Istanbul, it may make sense to get to know the streets of the city better and walk around in open spaces. You can see these places as photo points in Istanbul. Therefore we have selected the following destinations for you.

• Istiklal Avenue
• Taksim Square
• Galata Tower
• Gülhane Park
• Miniatürk

1. Istiklal Avenue

The most important point of Beyoğlu in terms of culture, art, and vitality is Istiklal Avenue. This street is approximately 1.4 kilometers long and other neighborhoods in Beyoğlu can be reached via the side streets leading off of it. Many famous brand shops are located on this lively street.

2. Taksim Square

Taksim Square is the name given to this very large pedestrian area located at the entrance to Istiklal Avenue. Throughout the year Taksim Square has been a host to many fairs, exhibitions, municipal concerts, and much more. It’s a delightful place to visit, especially on summer evenings, and will give you a glimpse of the true Istanbul.

3. Galata Tower

Built in 528, this structure is 67 meters high and remains intact. There are many cafes and boutiques around the building and it is a very popular tourist attraction. You may have to wait a little while to get a seat from which to look out at the panoramic best viewpoints of Istanbul.

4. Gülhane Park

Many Turkish poets have written poems and songs inspired by these beautiful historic parks in Istanbul. Whether you’re taking a stroll or just sitting on a bench watching the world go by, you’ll enjoy a moment of peace and tranquillity just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of the city.

5. Miniatürk

Miniatürk displays miniature versions of many of the key natural and historic treasures of Türkiye. It’s an informative, enjoyable, and original experience.

After a short trip to Istanbul, you can dine at a restaurant located at the high point of Beyoglu and gaze out at the view of Istanbul as long as your heart desires.