We did a 12-day trip combining Istanbul and Turkey, so if you are planning to do a combined trip like this, then this 3-day Istanbul itinerary will be perfect for you! 

İstanbul, Türkiye

FREE Istanbul 3-day Itinerary

This guide will make you fall in love with this magical city. It has everything covered from the best places to stay to the best food this city will offer.

Complete Guide to Istanbul, Turkey

Hello fellow travel enthusiasts! I'm a hotel lover through and through. Whether it's diving into online reviews or physically exploring the nooks and crannies of hotels, my passion runs deep. 

As a hotelier that graduated from Les Roches International School of Hotel Management and over 8+ years in the luxury hotel industry, I notice the details that make a stay truly memorable.

For me, a vacation is more than a destination; it's a chance to experience top-notch service and soak in the unique ambiance each hotel offers. 

I'm excited to share some of my absolute favorites with you—there is something for every budget, just genuine recommendations and a love for the extraordinary in every stay. 

♥️ I'd be so grateful if you subscribe to my Thatch profile, save this for your next trip, share it with a friend or contribute a small tip 🙏🏼

Best Hotels in Istanbul, Turkey🛎️ 

Short on time, and want to visit as much of Istanbul and Greece as possible? Then, this itinerary is perfect for you! Here is the outline:

Day 1-3: Istanbul
Day 4: Athens
Day 5: Mykonos
Day 6-7: Naxos
Day 8-9: Santorini
Day 10: Santorini/Heraklion
Day 11: Heraklion/Chania
Day 12: Chania 

Naxos, Naxos and Lesser Cyclades, Greece

Chania, Greece

Santorini, Greece

Mykonos, Mikonos, Greece

Heraklion, Greece

Athens, Greece

Greece

Crete, Greece

Istanbul & Greece PACKED 12-Day Itinerary 

Istanbul is a city close to my heart, and I've been lucky enough to visit it a few times. The mix of history, tradition, and today's bustling energy makes it a truly unique and exciting place.

Since Istanbul is quite big, I've gathered some top hotel picks to add a personal touch to your trip and make your experience in this historical gem even more awesome. 

Hotels were thoughtfully chosen based on location, experience, accommodation, and service quality. I've included hotels across different areas and with options for all budgets.

This guide is open and free, and if it helps you out, you can support my work by booking through the links provided here.

Choosing the right hotel can significantly impact your overall experience, so I hope you find the perfect match among these recommendations. Enjoy your stay in the city!


👉 How to use this guide:
This guide is organized by popular areas and the kind of experience you seek. Click on hotels on the interactive map or on the list below to find valuable information to help you make the best choice for your trip, as well as the booking link.

This guide will be regularly updated. Feel free to reach out, I'd love to hear your feedback or assist in planning your trip!

Where to stay in Istanbul: Best areas and hotels (FREE guide)

🌟Immerse yourself in the magic of Istanbul, where continents, cultures, and centuries blend harmoniously. Our one-week guide offers a curated journey through this enchanting city. 🏛️✨

Explore iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Enjoy unique views with Bosphorus cruises and the Galata Tower. 🌉🕌

Dive into local culture at bustling markets and trendy neighborhoods like Beyoğlu and Kadıköy. 🛍️☕ Visit the Grand Bazaar’s alleys and art-filled streets. For relaxation, head to the serene Princes’ Islands for beautiful beaches and bike rides. 🏝️🚴

Food lovers will delight in Istanbul's culinary scene, from Turkish breakfasts to street food and elegant dinners. 🍽️ End your days with stunning sunsets over the Bosphorus. 🌅

Let this guide help you experience the best of Istanbul, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Your unforgettable adventure awaits! 🌟✈️

This is a mobile friendly itinerary, so you can use it throughout your trip at any moment. This is the exact itinerary we used with my bf this year. I took all our experience and added what I wish we knew and completed all into this guide.

Follow this guide exactly for a guaranteed amazing set of experiences (of course, if weather conditions permitting). Or you can combine our insights with your own research to craft the trip of your dreams!

Tag me in the photos/videos you will take - I'd love to see your experience! @annaberdysh

One week of Istanbul 

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet

Set within a former prison with a neoclassical facade, this luxurious hotel seamlessly blends historical charm with elegant Ottoman decor for a truly unique stay. Enjoy stunning views of the Old City and immerse yourself in this captivating heritage of Istanbul.

🥐: continental breakfast

🌱: sustainable property  

Amazing experience in the Old Town. Close to all the touristic spots, incredible service and stay. I would highly recommend staying here for 2 nights, if it's in your budget. You can then switch to a different hotel in a different area of the city (a lot of visitors do this).

If you are bougie and want a luxury hotel!

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet

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