How to visit Istanbul in one Day
- Alexander
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Istanbul wasn’t on my itinerary. In fact, I ended up here completely by accident, after missing a connecting flight to Pakistan. But looking back, I’m quite glad it happened. This unexpected layover turned into some memorable days in Turkey.
Istanbul is a city that doesn’t need much of an introduction: Straddling two continents, packed with history, culture, street food, chaos, and charm. But if you’re short on time, low on budget, or just suddenly find yourself here like I did, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start.
This post is for travelers like me: those passing through, stopping over, or visiting Istanbul for just a few days and wanting to make the most of it without drowning in tourist traps.
Here’s how to visit Istanbul in One Day. With no prep, low budget, and a curious mindset.
Table of Contents
🚕 How to get into Istanbul from the Airport
After missing a connecting flight, I found myself stranded at Istanbul Airport (IST) at 3 in the morning.
Once you exit the luggage area, you’ll enter a large hall filled with counters for sightseeing tours, car rentals, and currency exchange offices (with terrible exchange rates). The first buses into the city start running around 5 AM, so until then, here are your options:
🚌 Havaist Airport Shuttle
The most convienient way is to use the busses, which start from outside the Arrival Hall (take the stairs down). Depending on traffic it will take 60-90 mins and the busses will take you to different parts of the city. I paid around 90 TL for the ride and could pay in Cash.
🚇 Metro
The cheapest option. You can take line M11 from the airport. Later you’ll need to transfer to line M2 to reach the city centre. It costs 30 TL and you can only pay using Istanbulkart.
💳 Tip: Get an Istanbulkart
It’s a transport card that works on buses, metro, trams, and ferries. You’ll get it in Metro Stations and even some kiosks.
🚕 Taxi
Most expensive way. It will cost anything between 15-20 € to the city center. Agree on a price before getting in or use apps like Uber or BiTaksi.
✈️ What About Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)?
Istanbul actually has two major airports, and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is located on the Asian side of the city. While most international flights arrive at IST, you might also land at SAW. From there:
You can take a Havabus shuttle to Taksim or Kadıköy (expect it to take 30 minutes longer than from IST and cost a bit more).
Alternatively, take metro line M4 to Kadıköy, and from there continue by metro or ferry to reach the city center on the European side.
Want a full overview of Turkey? Check the Turkey Main Page here to find out more about Visa and Safety:
💰 Currency and ATMs
One of the first things you’ll need to do once arriving in Turkey is to organize Cash. Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TL or officially TRY), and cash is still widely used.
1 € = 43,45 TL
🏦 ATMs
ATMs are everywhere, especially in tourist areas and near transport hubs.
Most ATMs accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard)
Avoid ATMs at airports or in super touristy areas, as they often charge higher withdrawal fees or offer bad exchange rates.
Use official bank ATMs like Ziraat Bank, Garanti BBVA, or Akbank for better security and lower fees.
💸 Currency Exchange
Do not exchange money at the airport—the rates are ridiculously bad.
You’ll find better rates at exchange offices (called Döviz) in Sirkeci, Eminönü, and Grand Bazaar areas.
Many exchange offices offer no commission, but always double-check the buy/sell rate before handing over your cash.
💳 Credit & Debit Cards
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, chain stores, and public transport kiosks.
Still, it’s smart to carry some cash, especially for street food, local markets, and ferries.
🚃 What to Do In Istanbul in One or Two Days
If you’ve only got a day or two in Istanbul, don’t worry — that’s still enough time to soak in some of the city’s most iconic sights and experiences. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss, along with a few budget-friendly tips to make the most of your short stay.
Explore The Historic Peninsula
The Hagia Sophia is Istanbul’s most iconic landmark, blending Byzantine and Ottoman heritage under one massive dome. Originally built as a church in 537 AD, it later became a mosque, then a museum, and is now once again a functioning mosque. Inside, you’ll see grand chandeliers, Islamic calligraphy, and remnants of Christian mosaics. It’s located in the Sultanahmet district and easily reached by tram (T1 line) — just get off at the Sultanahmet stop.
Pro Tip: The Hagia Sophia entrance fee is 25€ for foreigners and crowded all year around. I personally would recommend to go to the Seven Hills resteraunt, a luxury place right in front of the moqsue. While it is one of the most expensive resteraunts in Istanbul, you can just go in, take the elevator to the top floor, take the last stair case to the roofterrace and just order a tea. I felt like an intruder but the staff didnt mind me coming just for a drink to enjoy the view. The Rooftop Terrace is located here.
Just across from the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) is famous for its six minarets and striking blue İznik tiles. It’s still an active place of worship, so dress modestly and avoid prayer times when visiting. The spacious interior, with its high domes and stained-glass windows, is truly breathtaking.
The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water reservoir built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. It’s atmospheric, dimly lit, and home to hundreds of marble columns — including two famous Medusa heads used as column bases. It’s a cool, quiet escape from the busy streets above. Located a short walk from Hagia Sophia and accessible from the Sultanahmet tram stop.
The Basilica Cistern entrance fee is 1.300 TL during daytime and 2.000 TL starting from 19:30.
Note that the Istanbul Museum Pass is not valid here.
The Blue Mosque is free for all visitors outside of Prayer Times
Wander Through the Grand Bazaar & Spice Market
Checking out the Grand Bazaar is a must when visiting the city. It’s one of the largest and oldest in the worldand getting lost here is simply part of the experience. Over 4,000 shops are selling everything from carpets and ceramics to gold jewelry and handmade lanterns. Remember though that in comparison to other places in the middle east Istanbul has a lot of Tourists and you will need to haggle for everything.
Take the ferry over to Asia
In case you spent a second day in Istanbul! One of the most unique things about Istanbul is that it spans two continents — and crossing from Europe to Asia is as easy (and cheap) as hopping on a ferry. From Eminönü or Karaköy, you can take a public ferry across the Bosphorus to Kadıköy or Üsküdar. The ride costs just a few lira with an Istanbulkart, and the views of the city skyline, mosques, and sea traffic are stunning.
Once you arrive, explore Kadıköy’s lively food scene, local markets, and trendy cafés, or just stroll along the waterfront for a more laid-back, authentic vibe away from the tourist crowds of Sultanahmet. It’s a perfect half-day trip and a great way to experience a different side of the city.
Take the ferry back around sunset for golden-hour views of the skyline — it’s one of the cheapest and most scenic experiences in Istanbul.
Some Extra Ideas
Once part of the royal palace grounds, Gülhane Park is now a public park filled with tree-lined paths, flower beds, and locals relaxing with tea. It’s a great place to take a break from sightseeing and completely free.
While walking around Hagia Sophia I spotted a rooftop terrace in the distance. Out of curiosity I walked there and found myself standing in front of the Seven Hills Resteraunt (already mentioned above). Waiting to get stopped and being kicked out I just took an elevator to the top and ended up on the rooftop terrace. Up on the rooftop terrace, I was greeted not only by a breathtaking view of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, but also by a swarm of seagulls. Apparently, the staff let guests use leftover food to feed the birds midair. I just ordered a tea, the cheapest drink for 50 TL and ended up with one of the most surreal views of Istanbul, sipping on tea sorrunded by seagulls.
🔗 Find the seven Hills Resteraunt here
🍲 Food in Istanbul
Istanbul is a dream destination for food lovers — and the best part is, you don’t need to spend a lot to eat well.
Budget
Lion Balık Dürüm (Karaköy)
Grilled mackerel paired with fresh vegetables and spices, all wrapped in warm bread. Prices are around 15–20 TL per Sandwich.
Tarihi Kalkanoğlu Pilavcısı (Beyoğlu)
Traditional Turkish Food. Very limited variety but amazing Rice, Beans and Beef. A meal is around 22 TL
Hidden Corners
Helvetia (Asmalımescit)
A no-frills, canteen-style spot serving home-cooked Turkish meals. Mostly locals, daily changing dishes. Prices range from 20–30 TL.
Van Kahvaltı Evi (Cihangir)
Traditional Turkish breakfast spread with cheeses, olives, jams, and tea. Cozy atmosphere. A typical breakfast set is 25–35 TL.
Dervis Coffee 2
Located in the literal center of Istanbul this Resteraunt still seems to be quite hidden. Cheap turkish breakfast is served here as well as Shisha troughout the day.
Amazing Views
Seven Hills Restaurant (Sultanahmet)
Crazy Views over Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Meals are pricey, but ordering just a tea (around 50 TL) lets you enjoy the view without splurging.
Final Thoughts
Even with just one or two days, you can get a real taste of Istanbul. From visiting the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia to sipping tea with views over two continents or simply wandering through the Grand Bazaar. Of course, it’s only a small glimpse of what Turkey has to offer, but it’s a great way to spend a layover.
Alex
Welcome off the beaten path!
I’m Alex, a 23 year old traveler who loves to explore the corners of the world, that still seem to be untouched. In this Blog I want to share my experiences with you.
