36 Hours in Istanbul: An Itinerary for the Curious and Cultured

Straddling two continents and centuries of layered history, Istanbul is a city that refuses to be rushed—but if you’ve only got 36 hours, you can still taste its magic. From Byzantine mosaics to rooftop rakı, here’s how to make every hour count in this mesmerizing, sensory-rich city.

Day 1: Afternoon Arrival + Old City Icons

2:00 PM – Arrive and Settle In
Check in to a boutique hotel in Sultanahmet or Karaköy—central, walkable, and rich with atmosphere. Drop your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to time travel.

3:00 PM – Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Double Feature
Start with the iconic Hagia Sophia, a marvel that’s been a church, mosque, and museum—currently a working mosque with jaw-dropping Byzantine architecture. Just across the square, step into the Blue Mosque, famous for its tilework and elegant domes. Both are free to enter, though respectful attire is a must.

5:00 PM – Sunset at the Galata Bridge
Walk across the Galata Bridge as fishermen cast lines over the Bosphorus and ferries drift beneath. Grab a simit (Turkish sesame bagel) from a street vendor and take in the layered skyline—minarets, palaces, and chaotic charm.