Istanbul Weekend Trip: Best Activities to Do in 2 Days

The best itinerary for a weekend getaway in Istanbul. Must-see spots, dining, and hotel recommendations for Kadikoy, Eminonu, Karakoy, and Taksim.

Do you only have 48 hours and a thousand questions on your mind? Don’t worry, there’s so much to do in Istanbul that your weekend getaway will practically turn into a mini Netflix series! A delightful journey between two continents, unique street treats, and plenty of photo opportunities… What more could you ask for! Your route from the simit-scented streets of Kadıköy to the mesmerizing view of Galata Tower will provide your Instagram followers with content they’ll envy!

But how can you make the most of these 48 hours? Europa.tips is here to help. We’ve gathered all the tips you need to get lost in the charming streets of Kadıköy, enjoy a fish sandwich in Eminönü, sip your coffee in the trendy cafés of Karaköy, or join the vibrant nightlife of Taksim. And rest assured, you’ll encounter a little joke at every turn, because life is short and Istanbul was made for fun!

Day 1: Kadıköy and Eminönü – A Delicious Day Across Two Continents

Morning in Kadıköy – Turkish Breakfast in Moda

Taste Tour in the Streets of Kadıköy

To start your Istanbul journey on a high note, the Moda district in Kadıköy is the perfect choice in the early light of the day. Moda, one of the first spots that comes to mind when thinking about places to visit on the Asian side, will charm you with its streets and warm atmosphere. In the early hours, the aroma of freshly baked, crispy simit and freshly brewed tea invites you to the famous Turkish breakfast. In the cafés and restaurants near Moda’s seafront, you can savor dishes like menemen, eggs with sausage, or a variety of cheeses while experiencing the daily life of the locals.

After breakfast, you can explore Moda’s small boutiques and vintage shops and capture the colorful street art. As you wander through the narrow streets of Moda, don’t forget to give some love to the cats you encounter – after all, they are the true owners of Moda!

Midday at Kadıköy Bazaar – Time for Delicious Eats and Shopping After your delightful breakfast, if you’re feeling energized, it’s time to head to the Kadıköy Bazaar. This place is a true gastronomic paradise! Wander among the myriad of spice, olive, cheese, and fish stalls and get acquainted with local products. The famous fishmongers and pickle sellers of the bazaar are waiting for you. Also, be sure to try the pistachio baklava or the milk-based sweets from the dessert vendors. You can even pick up small souvenirs and delicious Turkish delights for your loved ones from Kadıköy.

Fenerbahçe Stadium in Kadıköy

Afternoon: A Magnificent Ferry Ride to Eminönü In the afternoon, embark on a unique journey from Kadıköy to the European side’s Eminönü by ferry. Don’t forget to breathe in the cool Bosphorus air while admiring the Bosphorus view and keep your camera ready. As seagulls accompany you, you might even feed them pieces of simit; but be careful, you wouldn’t want them to out-eat you!

As the ferry nears Eminönü, a silhouette steeped in history will greet you. Once you disembark, let yourself be drawn into the exotic spice aromas of the famous Egyptian Bazaar. Absorb the historical atmosphere of the bazaar as you stroll among the colorful spice and Turkish delight stalls, so much so that you’ll lose track of time.

Afternoon Snacks on Galata Bridge After the bazaar tour, direct your route to the historic Galata Bridge. Here, you can indulge in Istanbul’s most famous street food, the fish sandwich, for your second feast of the day. Additionally, try warm simit, corn, or roasted chestnuts available on the bridge. Chatting with the local fishermen on the Galata Bridge will make your day even more enjoyable.

Evening in Eminönü – Dinner with a Haliç View As evening falls, the magical atmosphere of Eminönü becomes even more enchanting. Settle in at one of the restaurants along the Haliç shoreline and let the stunning view lift the fatigue of the day. You might find it hard to choose between traditional Turkish kebabs, seafood, or a variety of mezes – because everything is delicious! And don’t forget to add Istanbul’s famous fermented turnip juice or ayran to your meal.

After dinner, take a short stroll under the softly glowing street lamps and enjoy a nostalgic walk through the historic streets of Eminönü. Rest assured, at the end of this unforgettable day, you’ll have wonderful photos and unique memories to cherish.

Eminönü

Day 2: A Colorful Istanbul – A Delightful Day in Galata and Taksim

Morning: Good Morning Istanbul from Galata Tower! One of the best ways to explore Istanbul is to admire the city from above. And for that, the Galata Tower is definitely the place to be! It’s best to go early so you won’t have to wait in line to enter the Galata Tower. (Who wants to waste time standing in line, right?) Before ascending the tower, treat yourself to a delicious Turkish coffee or a sumptuous breakfast in one of Galata’s boutique cafés. I especially recommend not missing the boutique shops and design stores on Serdar-ı Ekrem Street, as they offer some really charming and unique souvenirs.

Late Morning: Art and History on the Streets of Karaköy After breakfast, take a short walk down to Karaköy and let yourself be captivated by the magic of its side streets. Here, you can admire vibrant graffiti and street art that will delight any enthusiast. It’s also the perfect spot to capture a few stunning shots for your Instagram profile! Additionally, you shouldn’t miss a baklava break at the popular Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Karaköy. Then, you can take a brief pause at Galataport by the seafront and savor the scent of the sea.

Istiklal Avenue

Evening: A Delicious Break in Taksim After wandering around, when hunger strikes, I recommend choosing one of the restaurants around Taksim that offer views of Istanbul. Especially at restaurants like 360 Istanbul or Leb-i Derya, you can both dine and enjoy the Bosphorus view. As you taste the dishes, enjoy the sunset and watch the lights of Istanbul – trust me, this moment will be unforgettable.

Night: Dive into the Fun in Nevizade and Asmalımescit And now it’s time for some night-time fun! Istanbul’s nightlife beats in Nevizade and Asmalımescit, where the venues are packed until dawn. You can have a fun evening accompanied by street musicians or sing along with your friends in the taverns. Whether you choose to dance in lively clubs or relax in quiet cafés to shake off the day’s fatigue – a little tip: pace your fun wisely, because the party in Istanbul never really ends!

Where to Stay in Istanbul? The Best Accommodation Tips for Istanbul

If you’re coming to Istanbul and are looking for budget accommodation options, you’re in luck! In Karaköy, Beyoğlu, and surrounding areas, you can find affordable hotels. For those who want to stay both economically and centrally, the Galata area is simply perfect. In the mornings, you can wake up and sip freshly brewed Turkish coffee in nearby cafés, and in the evenings, take a stroll into the colorful nights of the famous Istiklal Avenue. After all, if you travel, you want your wallet to be as comfortable as you are, right? (As they say, “The more you save, the more you travel!”) Especially for short getaways where you want to wisely use your budget, budget accommodation options in the heart of Istanbul are waiting for you!

If you prefer a bit more comfort and proclaim, “I demand luxury!”, then luxury and boutique hotels might be just what you need. There are many luxurious boutique hotels that will envelop you in their historical atmosphere and make you feel special. Particularly, hotels with views of the Galata Tower promise unforgettable memories for couples planning a romantic escape. Imagine a balcony with a view: watching the splendor of the Galata Tower in the first light of dawn while enjoying a lovely breakfast with your loved ones… It’s like a scene straight out of a movie, isn’t it? (You can book under Hotels with Galata views.)

If you say, “I love luxury but I don’t want to break the bank,” then boutique hotels might be the perfect option for you. Each one stands out with its unique style and charming decor, often located in the back streets of Galata and around Karaköy. These boutique hotels, housed in historic buildings, offer both elegance and warmth. Moreover, many of these boutique hotels are just a few minutes away from popular restaurants and bars. The moment you step out of your accommodation, you’re instantly immersed in Istanbul’s lively and vibrant streets!

If you’re thinking, “I came to travel, not to invest in a hotel room!” there’s also the unique alternative of hostels. Especially popular among backpackers who love to travel and meet fellow adventurers, hostel options in the Galata and Taksim areas are widespread. They provide affordable accommodation along with opportunities to socialize. Who knows, you might even meet your next travel companion here. (Maybe you’ll even plan your world tour here, who knows!)

If you say, “I can’t be confined to a hotel room, I’m used to the comfort of home,” don’t worry. In the heart of Istanbul, there are plenty of furnished apartments and Airbnb options available. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, there are many alternatives with spacious, budget-friendly living areas, kitchens, and lounges where you can feel right at home. Especially the apartments you find around Karaköy, Beyoğlu, and Cihangir are ideal for fully experiencing city life. Plus, you have the luxury of shopping at local markets and cooking your own meals at home! (Who knows, you might even be surprised – cooking in Istanbul is an adventure in itself!)

Accommodation options in Istanbul are endless. Whether it’s budget, luxury, boutique, or furnished – there’s an ideal choice for everyone. The key is to choose the experience you’re looking for. So, pack your suitcase and enjoy your stay in Istanbul!

What to Eat in Istanbul?

What should you eat in Istanbul? Here’s the guide that spans from Anatolia to the Ottoman Empire, sure to delight your taste buds!

Istanbul is a treasure trove when it comes to flavors. From the elegance of Ottoman palace cuisine to the village dishes of Anatolia, from street treats to spots that capture the hearts of dessert lovers – every corner of the city tells a flavor story. In this article, I will answer the question What to eat in Istanbul? in detail, steering away from the typical tourist recommendations, so you can experience eating like a true Istanbuler.

Discover the Hidden Delicacies in Istanbul’s Side Streets

Historic Ottoman Cuisine – A Kingdom of Flavors

If you want to explore the tastes left over from the Ottoman palace cuisine, you’re in the right city and reading the right article. Our first stop isn’t the historic Sultanahmet Köftecisi – everyone already knows that! Our goal is to introduce you to the lesser-known spots that will delight your palate. For instance, at Asitane Restaurant, you must try the almond chicken and Hünkar Beğendi for an unforgettable taste of Ottoman palace cuisine. You might even shed a tear while eating – but don’t worry, it’s not just because of the prices, but sheer happiness!

A second option is the Kanaat Lokantası in Üsküdar. Here you can find authentic Ottoman dishes; especially when it comes to Roast Lamb and İskender Kebab, they are very ambitious. With just one bite, you’ll be saying, “I’m so glad I read this article!” (Yes, I’m trying to be modest, but what can I say – I’m right!)

Flavors from Anatolia in Istanbul

It’s absolutely possible to taste the rich culinary traditions of Anatolia in Istanbul. Especially in the Kadıköy and Ümraniye areas, there are spots serving authentic Anatolian flavors. For example, at Kadıköy Çiya Sofrası, trying the Antep-style stuffed dumplings and stuffed ribs is almost a must. After the meal, the waiter might jokingly ask, “Brother, is it on the house or not?” – so don’t be surprised.

Another recommendation is not the Kanaat Lokantası in Ümraniye – don’t mix it up, it’s different! Here, my favorites are the Anatolian-style stew and the wood-fired flatbread. And don’t say, “What are the Aegean herbs doing in Anatolian cuisine?”, because the meze prepared with Aegean herbs are also fantastic here.

Istanbul’s Street Food

Istanbul is also famous for its street food. Eminönü, Karaköy, and Taksim are veritable gastronomic paradises when it comes to eating on the streets. The fish sandwich at Eminönü Square is a classic, but I recommend trying the stuffed mussels in Karaköy or the kokoreç from the carts in Kadıköy. Don’t ask for the secret behind the deliciousness of stuffed mussels; just say, “Once you take a bite, it magically disappears!” And kokoreç, which settles debates on whether it should or shouldn’t be eaten, might just become addictive after one try – so be cautious!

Shall we open a separate paragraph for dessert lovers? Let’s do it. Although Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Beyoğlu is on everyone’s radar, the traditional boza at Vefa Bozacısı—especially on cold days—will have you exclaiming, “Oh, that’s it!” On the Anatolian side, in Ümraniye, the künefe at Hasanpaşa Tatlıcısı, which comes to the rescue during any dessert crisis, is truly magnificent.

In Summary

Is it hard for you to choose between a peaceful morning in the relaxed streets of Kadıköy, delightful street treats steeped in the history of Eminönü, engaging conversations in the stylish cafés of Karaköy, and the vibrant nightlife of Taksim? If you’re captivated by historical textures and authentic flavors, then direct your route towards Eminönü and Kadıköy. If you want to experience Istanbul’s trendiest spots and dive into the city’s dynamic atmosphere, then Karaköy and Taksim are perfect for you!

Remember, every route offers its own adventure and a unique experience. Whether you savor the street food or join in the nightlife, this weekend getaway will carve a special place for Istanbul in your heart. Enjoy it and create plenty of unforgettable memories!

1 Likes

Publish Date: 12 Mar 2025

| Author: Europa Tips

| Category: Weekend Getaways , Cultural Journeys