Whether you refer to it as Istanbul, Constantinople, Byzantium, or The City on Two Continents, the chance to spend two days in Istanbul is something to be cherished. This city is huge, sometimes bewildering, and completely enthralling; it is full of history, legends, excellent cuisine, and unending tea.

This year, we were fortunate to spend almost two months in Istanbul, where we explored the city and found several new places to eat. We have spent a lot of time researching the best places to eat in Istanbul and have put up this comprehensive 2-day schedule so that you don’t have to.

Day One Of Your Itinerary In Istanbul

One of the initial things you will notice when planning a trip to Istanbul is the sheer number of ancient sites, particularly in the Fatih district, that you must see on the initial day of your two-day stay.

Topkapı Palace Museum

Visiting Topkapi Palace should be a must-stop on any 2-day trip to Istanbul. Topkapi Palace, which served as the facility of the Ottoman for 400 years, is a must-see for any history buff visiting Istanbul. The impressive baroque structure is still standing and has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as Sultanahmet Mosque, seems to be a mosque and popular tourist destination located next to Topkapi Palace & just across the street from Hagia Sophia. Authentic blue tiles, painted by hand, cover the inner walls, earning the mosque its nickname, the Blue Mosque. Midway through the 17th century, construction began on Sultanahmet, the first imperial mosque to be constructed in almost 40 years.

With its five major domes, eight minor domes, and six minarets, the Blue Mosque continues to dominate the skyline of Istanbul. It is the final grand mosque of the Classical Period of Ottoman architecture. It represents the zenith of Ottoman mosque design, including Byzantine features from Hagia Sophia and conventional Islamic architecture.

Hippodrome of Constantinople

The Hippodrome of Constantinople formerly stood just outside the Blue Mosque. This goes back to the period when the region was used as a Hippodrome—a vast stadium for social and sports entertainments, including chariot races—during the Roman Empire. This region, now a vast pedestrian plaza named after Sultan Ahmet, is home to many historical landmarks. This won’t take long, and it’s free because they’re all just sitting there in the public plaza.

The obelisk by Thutmose III stands out as the most prominent structure. An ancient Egyptian obelisk dating back over 3,500 years, this monument was formerly part of the Karnak temple in Luxor. It was transported to its present place in the year 390 AD.

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, located next to the Basilica Cistern, was first an Orthodox cathedral, then a mosque, and a museum, and will once again become a mosque in 2020.

In AD 537, the Hagia Sophia was the tallest structure on Earth when it was constructed. When it was built, it was considered a technological wonder, and even by today’s standards, it’s a remarkable feat of engineering. Many of the city’s other mosques took design cues from it, so it’s no surprise that it’s considered a masterpiece of Byzantine construction.

Your Second Day In Istanbul

If you only have two days in Istanbul, it would make sense to do some exploring on foot on the second day.

Taksim Square

This massive pedestrian plaza at the start of Istiklal Avenue is known as Taksim Square. Fairs, exhibits, municipal concerts, and other events of many kinds have been held at Taksim Square throughout the year. It’s a great area to get a feel for the real Istanbul, and it’s particularly nice on nights during the summer.

The Dolmabahçe Palace

In the middle of the nineteenth century, this mansion was constructed in Beşiktaş on the banks of the Bosphorus. After the caliphate was abolished in 1924, the house was given to the Turkish Republic & served as the residence of the president, Ataturk, until his death.

Miniatürk

Many of Türkiye’s most important natural and historical attractions are represented in miniature at Miniatürk. It is enlightening, entertaining, and novel.

The Tower Of Galata

A 67-meter-tall building that was first erected in 528. In addition to being a well-visited landmark, the area immediately around the structure is home to several restaurants and shops. Get there early if you want a seat with a view of the Istanbul panorama since they go fast.

If you will only be in Istanbul for a short time, staying on the European shore makes the most sense. As the Asian side is more residential and commercial, you will find that you are much closer to all the major monuments. Consider one of these five establishments if you are in the mood for a luxurious stay. Lastly, read more about travel around the world here.