Istanbul in 72 Hours: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary from Riyadh

Considering a quick trip to the transcontinental heart of Turkey? We have the ideal Istanbul 3-day itinerary from Riyadh to ensure you get to see and do as much as possible.

What makes flynas your travel partner of choice for Istanbul flights?

Hailed as the best low-cost airline in the Middle East for eight years running, we deliver award-winning services that transform your plane ride into a memorable experience.

Our cheap flights to Istanbul are unbeatable. You can also upgrade to premium class and enjoy outstanding perks and luxury. With us, you can customize your flight with unique options, including pre-ordered flight meals, lounge access, seat selection, and priority check-in and boarding.

So, hop on board, and we’ll get you to Istanbul in style and comfort in no time! Don’t forget to check out all our other amazing destinations.

72 Hours in Istanbul

A massive metropolis with a population of more than 15 million people, Istanbul can easily overwhelm visitors.

Our 3-day itinerary changes bewilderment into awe, and covers all the most amazing sights and activities this great city has to offer.

Istanbul’s Historic Core

Start by exploring layer upon layer of history in Istanbul’s compact Faith District. In Sultanahmet, you’ll find the Hagia Sophia, world-famous Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. A little further out are the Süleymaniye area with its 16th-century mosque, Zeyrek District and mosque showcasing Byzantine architecture, and the ancient Theodosian walls.

Day 1: Preplanning, Arrival, and Sightseeing

Book the earliest flight from Riyadh to Istanbul possible.

Before getting on your 4-hour flight to Istanbul, exchange your Saudi Riyals for Turkish Lira at King Khalid Airport, or at a bank or exchange bureau the day before your flight. This saves a lot of time.

Pre-book your stay at a hotel in Sultanahmet, the heart of the historic area, to avoid unnecessary travel and traffic jams.

Focus your activities on the walkable core of the area. Remember to pack a sturdy, comfortable pair of walking shoes!

We recommend booking a guided walking tour to take in all the major sights. Sultanahmet Square, once the nucleus of the Byzantine Empire, is a good place to start.

It’s a busy first day. A relaxed stroll through the beautiful Gülhane Park and an early dinner is the perfect way to end it.

Istanbul’s Modern Streets

The Beyoğlu and Karaköy districts define modern Istanbul and have many pedestrian-friendly streets. Quaint little boutique shops, cafés with all sorts of delicious things, old trams, street art, and great views … they’re all waiting to be explored on your second day in Istanbul.

Day 2: Exploring the Modern Side of Istanbul

Start your adventure in Taksim Square and venture down Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street with loads of shopping and coffee spots. From here, go to the Cihangir neighborhood with its vintage-type cafés and little boutique shops.

Enjoy the afternoon at the Galata Tower, with its astounding views, and the surrounding streets packed with designer shops. Karaköy is the place to go for waterfront views, a lunch-time bite, and interesting art scenes.

Spend the early evening in Moda with its relaxed atmosphere and take in a Bosphorus sunset. Round off your second day with dinner in Beyoğlu.

A Cruise and Stunning Scenery

Nothing ends a 3-day visit to Istanbul like a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, a water passage running between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

Day 3: Bosphorus Boat Cruise

Book a Bosphorus cruise for an iconic end to your Istanbul trip and see the city from a unique “angle”. The views are simply indescribable.

There are a variety of options from budget-friendly 2-hour tours to luxury sunset cruises that include a sumptuous dinner. You can even rent a private, luxury yacht!

Take in spectacular views like the Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus Bridge, and Maiden’s Tower. If you want to experience a sunset cruise, but your flight back to Riyadh is scheduled on your third day, we suggest swapping your Day 2 and Day 3 activities. You can always enjoy the modern streets before your boat cruise.

Transport (and Walking) Basics

You can travel by taxi, rental car, or train from the airport.

When on foot, explore the city by following walking loops to avoid retracing your steps. The key historic areas have curated walking loops. If you’re unsure, it’s best to book an official walking tour.

Your Ready-to-Book Checklist for a 3-Day Istanbul Adventure

Step 1: Pinpoint your dates and secure your Riyadh to Istanbul and return Istanbul to Riyadh flights.

Step 2: Book a hotel that allows easy accessibility to attractions and public transport. Sultanahmet and Galata are both central areas with outstanding hotels, such as the Romance Istanbul Hotel, Hotel Sultania, and Pera Palace Hotel.

Step 3: Decide how you’ll be traveling from and back to the airport — taxi, rental car, or train.

Step 4: Define your Day 1 plans. This is most likely the day on which delays may occur, so consider these as well. With Day 1 firmly planned, you have a good foundation for a wonderful Istanbul adventure.

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