Ultimate Istanbul Adventure: 2 Days of Budget Bliss!

Explore Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture without breaking the bank!

10 August 2023

Experience the vibrant and historic city of Istanbul, Turkey, on a limited budget. Explore the awe-inspiring landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage. Discover the traditional markets and indulge in delicious street food, all while enjoying affordable accommodation options and budget-friendly transportation choices.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Ancient Charm of Istanbul

  • Start your day at the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
  • Marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns within the Blue Mosque.
  • Get lost in the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of shops selling everything from carpets to spices. Bargain like a pro!
  • Refuel at Dürümzade, where mouthwatering kebabs are served with a side of friendly banter.
  • Climb the Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city – the perfect spot for that envy-inducing Instagram photo.
  • End your day with a traditional Turkish hammam experience at Cagaloglu Hamam, indulging in a pampering session fit for royalty.
Day 2

Unveiling the Modern Side of Istanbul

  • Witness the splendor of the Dolmabahçe Palace, a stunning blend of Ottoman and European architectural styles.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Istiklal Street, lined with trendy boutiques, street performers, and lively cafes.
  • Indulge in a feast of street food at Çiçek Pasaji, sampling delicious mezes, kebabs, and mouthwatering Turkish sweets.
  • Get immersed in art at the Istanbul Modern Museum, showcasing contemporary works by both local and international artists.
  • Embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise – an unforgettable journey weaving through the heart of Istanbul, revealing stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks.
  • Hotel Recommendation:
  • Budget travelers will feel at home at Cheers Hostel, a friendly and cozy accommodation in the heart of Sultanahmet. With dormitory-style rooms and a communal kitchen, it's a perfect place to meet fellow travelers and exchange tales of adventure. Plus, the rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline, making it the ultimate spot for a sunset chill session.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Istanbul, Turkey by plane is to fly into Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), depending on your airline and preferences. Both airports offer numerous domestic and international flights.

Car

Driving to Istanbul is possible if you are in a neighboring country, such as Bulgaria or Greece. You can cross the border and follow the E80 highway towards Istanbul. The exact route and duration will vary depending on your starting point.

Train

There is no direct train service to Istanbul from other countries, but you can take a train to a nearby city like Sofia, Bulgaria or Bucharest, Romania, then continue the journey by bus or plane to Istanbul.

Boat

If you are traveling from a nearby Mediterranean country, you can consider taking a ferry or cruise ship to Istanbul. There are no direct routes from major European ports, but you can find various cruises that include Istanbul as a stop on their itinerary.

Bus

Taking a bus to Istanbul is a convenient option, with many European cities offering direct routes. For example, you can take a bus from Athens, Greece to Istanbul by companies like KTEL or Karavostasi. The journey takes approximately 11-12 hours.

Destination

Istanbul

Welcome to a vibrant city where east meets west, kebabs meet sushi, and stray cats meet tourists with open arms. Get ready to explore the land of baklava-induced food comas and never-ending tea sessions - welcome to Istanbul!

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Uncover Istanbul's Hidden Marvels: 4 Days of Adventure

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul on a limited budget. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar for a taste of the city's unique atmosphere. Indulge in delicious street food and discover affordable accommodations in the charming neighborhoods of Sultanahmet or Beyoglu.

Unleashing Istanbul: A Budget-Friendly 5-Day Adventure

A trip to Istanbul on a limited budget is still an incredibly enriching experience. Start by exploring the historic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, which offer free or affordable entry. Enjoy delicious street food from local vendors and take advantage of the budget-friendly accommodations available in the city's vibrant neighborhoods.

Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Charm of Istanbul

A trip to Istanbul offers a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sights. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, marvel at the intricate architecture and stunning mosaics. Wander through the bustling bazaars, savor delicious Turkish cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

Embrace the Magic: A Day Trip to Istanbul, Turkey

A visit to Istanbul, Turkey offers a vibrant blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and iconic landmarks. Explore the stunning architecture of the UNESCO-listed Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, while immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. Indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine, take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus, and admire the stunning views from the top of the Galata Tower for an unforgettable trip.