One-Day Istanbul Transit Itinerary
#springwander #istanbul
Arriving in Istanbul at 6 AM, I took advantage of the Turkish Airlines transit program, which offers a free city tour. By 8 AM, our bus departed from the airport, heading toward the heart of the city.
Our first stop was near Dolmabahçe Palace, where we enjoyed a traditional Turkish breakfast—menemen (Turkish-style scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers), fresh bread, olives, cheese, and, of course, Turkish tea. After breakfast, we entered Dolmabahçe Palace, marveling at its lavish interior, crystal chandeliers, and grand halls that once housed Ottoman sultans.
From there, we took a stroll along Galata Port, a beautifully renovated waterfront area with scenic views of the Bosphorus. A short walk led us to Galata Tower, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We climbed to the top, taking in panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, where Europe and Asia meet.
Next, we crossed the Bosphorus to Üsküdar, experiencing the Asian side of the city. A brief visit allowed us to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the views of the Maiden’s Tower from the shore. Afterward, we headed back to the European side to explore the bustling Egyptian Bazaar, filled with the scent of spices, dried fruits, and Turkish delights.
For the midday prayers, we visited the Blue Mosque, admiring its grand domes and intricate tilework. Afterward, we took a short break at Hafız Mustafa, a legendary sweet shop, where we enjoyed authentic Turkish desserts like baklava and künefe, paired with Turkish tea.
Recharged, we walked to Hagia Sophia, once a Byzantine cathedral, then an Ottoman mosque, and now a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history. The grandeur of its massive dome and intricate mosaics left a lasting impression. From there, we continued to Topkapı Palace, where we explored the royal chambers, treasury, and courtyards, imagining the lives of Ottoman sultans who once ruled from here.
Before heading back to the airport, we took a relaxing walk through Gülhane Park, soaking in the greenery and reflecting on the day’s journey. By the late afternoon, it was time to return to the airport, marking the end of an unforgettable layover in Istanbul.
It's worth going, you can see the whole picture of Istanbul. It was a rainy day when we went there, and the weather was not very good when taking pictures. If you go on a sunny day, or go when the sun is setting, the scenery will definitely be very good!
Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's iconic landmarks; with nine floors, it's also one of the tallest buildings in the city. [View] This former military defense watchtower offers travelers a breathtaking view. Ascending to the top floor via elevator, you'll enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and more. The city's beauty is especially breathtaking at sunset and at night. [Fun] The tower also features a restaurant, cafe, and bar, making the views even more enjoyable. [Value for Money] To be honest, the 30 Euro entrance fee isn't cheap. 😝 ⏰ 8:30 AM - 10:00 PM. If the entrance is crowded, there's a queue, so plan your visit with plenty of time. The neighborhood below the tower is also a great place to explore. 😎
Galata Tower is a must-visit when in Istanbul. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is the perfect spot to truly appreciate the beauty of Istanbul. We visited in the evening and absolutely loved the scenery. The skip-the-line ticket from Trip.com, though a bit pricey, was worth it as it saved us from waiting in the very long line at the ticket office.
Galada Stone Tower Review | Istanbul must punch in the romantic landmark, worth crying! 💫 Is it worth going? Yu Chong is over! Recommended index: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sisters, promise me! When you come to Istanbul, you must rush to the Galada Stone Tower! This is not only a fairy seat overlooking the city, but also a great landmark with history and romance! Whether it is a 360° panoramic view of the day, or the Golden Horn Bay under the sunset, or even the magical night view after the night lights are on, you can brush the circle of friends in minutes! Key points: although there are too many people in line (especially during sunset time!), the shock after the summit is definitely worth it! The highlight is the big reveal - why must you go? 1. God's perspective of the intersection of Eurasia 🌍 Standing on the top of the 9-story tower, Bosphorus Strait, Golden Horn Bay, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Cathedral... Istanbul's "Old European City" and "New Asian City" have a panoramic view! Especially at dusk, the sunset dyes the sea into the orange sea, and every shot is a movie! (Remember to bring a wide-angle lens!) 2. The millennium-old time and space shuttle 🏰 This tower has gone through thousands of years from the Byzantine lighthouse to the Genoa fortress, and then to the Ottoman prison! There is also a small exhibition inside the tower, telling how it changed from a wooden tower to a stone tower, and even witnessing the "first flight" of humans - someone glided 6 kilometers from the tower to the Asian area in the 17th century, super cool! 3. Nightlife ceiling 🍸 Do you think it's just a view? The restaurant and nightclub at the top of the tower are hidden games! While eating Turkish barbecue, watching belly dance performances, with the night view of the Strait, the atmosphere is full! It is recommended to climb the tower in the evening, a get sunset + night view double experience ~ 4. The perfect end of Independence Street 🛍️ The tower is located at the end of Independence Street, which is super fire. After visiting the Chao brand store and the retro tram, you can punch in on the way! The surrounding alleys are full of literary cafes and treasure shops. Take pictures and Taoshouxin! - Wear a suggestion: wear a light-colored skirt! The skirt is flying when the wind is strong, and the quaint background of the stone tower is super-matched ~👗 - Photo seat: The tower top terrace is clockwise around, and there are surprises at every angle! The Blue Mosque and the Strait Bridge must be photographed! 🌉 - Avoid the pit guide: Don't wear high heels! The sloped stone road in front of the tower is super difficult to walk, and there is a small fan when queuing (squeezing people in summer) - Ticket guide: It is more cost-effective to buy a joint ticket in advance (Istanbul Museum Pass), buy about 39 euros in a single, and the official website can be booked ~ Summary: Galada Stone Tower is the soul landmark of Istanbul, historical control, Photography parties and romantic stars can't resist! Promise me, put it on the must-go list, feel the wonder of "left-hand Europe, right-hand Asia"! 💙 📍 Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, Beyo ğlu 🕒 Time: 8:30-22:00 (peak season may be extended) 🚇 Transportation: light rail T1 to Karakoy Station, walk uphill for 10 minutes (just practice hips!)
The Galatia Tower is a watchtower in the Beyuru district of Istanbul, Turkey, named after its area. Founded in 1348, the 67-meter-high watchtower was built at the highest point of the Galatian wall and was the tallest building in Constantinople at that time.
I began to search for the first stop - Galata with various software. On the detour, a few Asian faces made me feel uneasy and rising. The approaching eyes were not curiosity but research. The persistent strong wind did not make the fishermen on the bridge fewer. After 45 degrees of uphill and downhill * N times, I finally found it. As the highest point of sightseeing in Istanbul, the scenery was really good, and the good news was clouds. It began to disperse.
Galatata is located in the new city of Istanbul, across the sea from the old city. It is also one of the iconic buildings in Istanbul and has a long history. The best experience was to go to Galatata and have a good view of Istanbul. And don't worry about not climbing, there are elevators upstairs. It's so beautiful to overlook Istanbul from Galatata. Five-star recommendation! You have to go and see.
Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) is a lighthouse built by Byzantine Emperor Anastasius in 507. It was originally built of wood and later burned down during the Crusades. It was not until 1348 that it was rebuilt by the Genoese with stone. This ancient tower, which has experienced many vicissitudes, has also served several functions: guard tower, prison, and observatory. From the Galata Tower, you can have a bird's eye view of part of Istanbul.