This tour is repeated every friday-sunday, with possibility to arrange for your dates. Feel free to message for specific dates 🎉 Looking for 4 more girls or 2 couples to join my weekly repeating Istanbul Highlights tour on a budget! 😊 Experience Istanbul with a passionate local! Born and raised here, I’ve guided guests worldwide through the city’s highlights. Also in Croatia and Netherlands. This long weekend, explore Istanbul’s top attractions on a budget-friendly, all-inclusive tour. Perfect for those short on time, and it helps me save for my Master’s degree! 😇 This trip is perfect for a long weekend on a budget, offering an in-depth experience of Istanbul with a local guide. Explore key neighborhoods—Taksim, Eminönü, Sultanahmet, Karaköy, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and Sarıyer. Discover historic and modern sites, including the Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, a Bosphorus ferry tour, local food tastings, and more!
I’m Luna, 25, from Istanbul. A traveler at heart and ship captain by study, I’ve lived in Croatia and the Netherlands. I’ve toured Turkey extensively, guiding visitors and sharing Istanbul’s rich history.
Our stay will be in an Airbnb apartment featuring 2 private bedrooms, each with a double bed (shared by 2 people). The house includes a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living room with a large work table, Netflix, and a big TV for relaxing. Located in Sariyer, a quiet coastal area, it's just a short walk to the Bosphorus. Perfect for a peaceful retreat in vibrant Istanbul! A private room upgrade is available upon request for an additional charge. Any questions about the trip? You can let me know in the Q&A section!
What's included?
2 nights accommodation in Airbnb
Complimentary drinks and snacks at home
2 days car + gas + parking
Walking tours in all neighbourhoods
Local tips and trick from a local guide
Your Booking includes free protection from Trip cancellations. Learn More
Traveller, ship captain, have done many trips around Europe, Turkiye, Balkans 🚀
You can chat with Aylin Luna once you reserve your spot.
Trip Itinerary
1
Yeniköy
Day 1
Arrival & Rest Arrive, relax, and settle into your cozy Airbnb in Yeniköy, where you’ll have some free time to freshen up and prepare for an amazing weekend ahead. Get ready to explore Istanbul like never before! Evening Adventure Begins At 18:00, our journey kicks off! We’ll hop in the car and head to our first destination, where the magic of Istanbul begins. Your adventure is just starting, and there's so much to discover!
2
Beşiktaş
Day 1
Let’s dive into the local life by walking through Beşiktaş, a neighborhood full of energy, trendy cafes, and bustling markets. After soaking in the vibe, we’ll take a ferry to the Asian side and explore more! It's a 30 minutes ferry ride.
3
Kadıköy
Day 1
Welcome to Kadıköy, a cool and vibrant area perfect for art, cafes, and street art. We’ll explore together and I’ll show you the best spots for a delicious dinner. Afterward, we’ll take the ferry back.
4
Yeniköy
Day 1-2
End your first day by chilling at our peaceful home in Yeniköy, a charming, quieter part of Istanbul. Enjoy some downtime, relax, and recharge for another exciting day in this magical city!
5
Taksim Square
Day 2
Start the day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Taksim Square. Feel the pulse of Istanbul as we explore its iconic landmarks and lively streets, perfect for getting a true feel of the city!
6
İstiklal Caddesi
Day 2
From Taksim, we’ll stroll down İstiklal Street, a lively avenue lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. It’s a perfect place to shop or just soak in the energy of Istanbul’s heartbeat!
7
Galata Tower
Day 2
As we continue, we’ll pass the historic Galata Tower. For those interested, we can buy tickets and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul, offering you the chance to capture the city from above!
8
Karaköy
Day 2
Next, we’ll head to Karaköy, a vibrant area with a trendy vibe. We’ll have time to relax and enjoy a delicious lunch or drink, depending on the group’s choice. Then we’ll visit the upscale Galata Port Mall.
9
The Blue Mosque
Day 2
Start the morning with a visit to the breathtaking Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Its name comes from the blue tiles that adorn its interior. The mosque was designed to rival the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, with its large central dome, cascading domes, and six minarets, making it a remarkable example of Islamic design. As you explore, take time to appreciate the serene courtyard and the rich symbolism of the mosque's architecture, reflecting Ottoman elegance and piety.
10
Eminönü Meydanı
Day 2
Next, we’ll explore Eminönü Square, a lively hub known for its street vendors and beautiful waterfront views. Historically, Eminönü has been a vital port since the Byzantine era and became the commercial center of Istanbul under the Ottoman Empire. It is located near the old Eminönü Dock, where merchants from all over the world used to unload goods for the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. While here, don’t forget to check out the famous Yeni Camii (New Mosque), an Ottoman masterpiece built in the 17th century, which stands proudly in the square, offering a glimpse of Istanbul’s Ottoman heritage.
11
Grand Bazaar
Day 2
Prepare to shop ‘til you drop at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, dating back to 1455. Commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II, it was constructed after the conquest of Constantinople to cater to the growing demand for commercial exchange. The Grand Bazaar spans over 60 streets and is home to more than 4,000 shops. This bustling labyrinth has been a commercial and cultural crossroads for centuries, connecting East and West. Take time to explore its colorful alleys, where you’ll find everything from handmade carpets to intricate jewelry, spices, and textiles. The vibrant atmosphere reflects the rich history of trade in the heart of the city.
12
Egyptian Bazaar
Day 2
Next, let your senses run wild at the Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşısı), built in 1664 during the reign of Sultan Mehmed IV. This lively market once served as the primary spice trade center of the Ottoman Empire. As you wander through the colorful stalls filled with exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delights, you’ll be reminded of Istanbul's role as a key stop along the historic Silk Road and Spice Route. Merchants from all over the world used to bring spices, herbs, and dried fruits to this market, and its aromatic air still tells the story of the empire’s vast reach and its cultural exchanges with Asia and Europe.
13
Gülhane Park
Day 2
After the markets, take a peaceful stroll through Gülhane Park, a lush urban oasis that was once part of the Topkapi Palace grounds. Originally the imperial garden of the Ottoman sultans, this park has been a serene retreat for the royalty since the 15th century. Today, it offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with its beautiful flowerbeds, tall trees, and shady paths. The park also holds historical significance, as it was here that the Ottoman Tanzimat reforms were declared in 1839, marking a pivotal moment in the empire’s modernization efforts. Enjoy the calm atmosphere while reflecting on its rich history.
14
Topkapi Palace Museum
Day 2
We’ll finish the day with a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace, which served as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, from 1465 to 1856. This grand palace complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a showcase of Ottoman power, wealth, and culture. As you explore its stunning courtyards and chambers, you’ll see incredible artifacts such as the Holy Relics of the Prophet Muhammad, Ottoman treasure collections, and the Imperial Harem. The palace’s architecture reflects the grandeur and opulence of the Ottoman Empire, with intricate tile work, lush gardens, and grand gates. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and luxury of the sultans, as well as the political and cultural center of the empire.
15
Yeniköy
Day 2-3
We’ll end the day back at our cozy home after today’s adventures. The evening plan is flexible and can be tailored to what the group feels like doing! Whether we want to dive into Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife, enjoy a chill evening at a rooftop bar with a stunning view, or experience a traditional belly dancer show—there are plenty of exciting options to choose from. Let’s discuss and decide together, ensuring the night ends on a high note!
16
İstinye Sahili
Day 3
On the final day, we’ll wrap up our tour with a delicious traditional Turkish breakfast at a beautiful Bosphorus-view restaurant near İstinye Coast. Enjoy the stunning views as we indulge in a feast of local flavors. After a relaxing meal, we’ll say our goodbyes. Thank you for joining this unforgettable Istanbul weekend adventure—hope you loved every moment of it! Safe travels, and hope to see you again soon!
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Apartments
3 days trip
Yeniköy, Beşiktaş & 14 more
Transportation
Car, Boat, Trekking
What's excluded?
Flights
Payments for food and meals in&out tours
Entry fees for museums etc.
Any personal expenses
Drinks
Why JoinMyTrip?
Trusted platform used by 150K+ TripMates
Have A Question? Live Chat with our experts 24x7
Unique Trips hosted by Experienced Travellers
Secure Payments to ensure your money is always safe
Show All 24 Photos 
Turkey
Travel with a local experience guide 
2 nights accommodation in Airbnb 
Phone Verified
Identity Verified
15 Countries
1 Trips Completed
Flights 
Trusted platform used by 150K+ TripMates 
Have A Question?
Unique Trips hosted by Experienced Travellers 
Secure Payments to ensure your money is always safe 
Special Price only for the next booking!