Istanbul, where East meets West, is an underrated gem for solo female travellers. I spent 3 nights and 2 days exploring this vibrant city, and it exceeded all my expectations. I was very skeptical about visiting Istanbul as a solo female, however it felt incredibly safe, even in the evenings! While some areas, like the Grand Bazaar, can be hectic and overwhelming; other areas, such as Balat and Ortakoy, offer a relaxed vibe where you can enjoy a coffee and chill with the cats.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, culture, and adventure, Istanbul is a must-visit. Here’s how I made the most of my stay!

About My Trip: Tips and Practical Info

I visited Istanbul at the beginning of September and enjoyed 2 and a half days exploring this vibrant city The weather reached 24-28°C in the afternoons which is still hot for September. While I unfortunately did not get time to visit everywhere that I wanted, I will give some details on what I did do!

• Accommodation: I stayed in Meg Hotel in Istanbul and would highly recommend. It is very central being only a 3 minute walk to a tram & train station. It is only a 15 minute walk to the Blue Mosque. There is a wonderful rooftop terrace where you can enjoy direct views of the Bosphorus with Galata tower in the distance.
• Getting from the airport to Istanbul: I flew into Istanbul (IST) airport, which is a 40 minute drive from Istanbul city centre. I would recommend booking your transfer in advance. I booked my transfer via booking.com however you can also book through your hotel or accommodation.
• Public Transport: Public transport in Istanbul is well-connected, efficient and cheap! I only spent €10 across my 3 days. At any tram or train station, buy an IstanbulKart from one of the yellow machines. You can top this up as needed; and you tap it to enter any trams/trains/buses/ferries.
• Cost: The cost of food, public transport and accommodation was all very reasonable and fairly-priced. However, tourist attractions such as Galata Tower were extremely expensive. Before entering any attractions, I would recommend reading some reviews to see if you think it will be worth the money.

What To Do In Istanbul

Galata Tower

My first stop in Istanbul was Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Standing 63 meters tall, the medieval stone tower was originally built in 1348 by the Genoese as part of their fortifications. The tower is beautiful to look at from the outside. However to enter, it costs €30 and in my opinion, it was definitely not worth it. I felt that the interior had been stripped of any history and authenticity. You are simply paying €30 to get a nice view from the top.

I would recommend taking in the view from below while enjoying the world-famous San Sebastian Cheesecake (it is worth the hype btw) and some Turkish tea. All of the cafes along this street offer San Sebastian Cheesecake and an incredible view of the Galata Tower – be sure to pick a seat outside with a good view!

Balat

Balat is my favourite area in Istanbul. It is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and colourful neighbourhoods, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, charming historical houses, and lively atmosphere. Balat has a rich history as one of the city’s oldest districts and was once home to Jewish, Greek, and Armenian communities. Today, the area is famous for its bright, pastel-colored homes with bay windows, as well as its eclectic mix of antique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés.

Click here for the exact google map location of the famous colourful houses.

Balat is a perfect spot for photography, street art, and soaking in Istanbul’s blend of old and new. Whether you’re exploring its historic churches or enjoying a coffee at a trendy café, Balat offers a unique, offbeat charm that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city.

Galata Bridge

Galata Bridge is a bustling landmark in Istanbul, connecting the historic Sultanahmet district with the lively Galata area across the Golden Horn. This iconic bridge, spanning approximately 490 meters, has a rich history and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The upper level features a wide pedestrian walkway, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and watch as fishermen line the sides, casting their lines into the waters below.

Beneath the bridge, a variety of restaurants serve up delicious local cuisine, particularly the famous balık ekmek (fish sandwiches), made from freshly grilled fish. Diners can enjoy their meals while taking in picturesque views of the Golden Horn and the historic skyline, especially during sunset. Whether you’re looking to savor authentic flavours or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, Galata Bridge and its surrounding areas offer an unforgettable experience.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The mosque is famous for its striking blue tiles that adorn the interior, giving it its popular name. Arrive early morning to enjoy the surroundings without hoards of other tourists.

As an active place of worship, the Blue Mosque remains open to visitors (with no entry fee) outside of prayer times, allowing guests to appreciate its architectural marvels and historical significance. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting, as a sign of respect. This means no tight clothing and covering your knees, shoulders and head/hair. Whether you’re marvelling at its exquisite design or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, the Blue Mosque is a must-visit destination that embodies the heart and soul of Istanbul.

Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, Ortaköy

Büyük Mecidiye Mosque is a stunning location for photographers, especially at sunset or sunrise. The mosque is located right by the waterfront, providing a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus and the iconic Bosphorus Bridge. I visited this location at around 11am and while there were a few tourists, it was not very crowded. It is a little bit out from the centre of Istanbul however it is a beautiful spot and worth a visit. Click here for the exact location of the above pic.

Grand Bazaar

If you visit Istanbul, you must visit the Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, spanning over 30,000 square meters with more than 4,000 shops. Visitors to the Grand Bazaar can find everything from traditional Turkish carpets, ceramics, and jewellery to spices, textiles, and leather goods. Just a tip that many the vendors outside of the Grand Bazaar are usually cheaper!

Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs or simply looking to experience the hustle and bustle of this historic market, the Grand Bazaar is an unforgettable highlight of any trip to Istanbul.

Meg Hotel

Meg Hotel in Istanbul is definitely a hidden gem. It is a lovely boutique hotel located just a 3 minute walk from both a tram and train station. You can also take a short walk through Gülhane Park and reach the Blue Mosque in about 10 minutes. The above pics are taken from the hotel’s rooftop terrace. The perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy some Baklava.