Churches, Churning Ferries, & Cold Baklava: 3 Days in Istanbul

Is it possible to tackle Istanbul in just three days? When our friends Steve and Dani arrived with a detailed historical wish list, we combined forces to create the ultimate Istanbul itinerary—blending legendary historical landmarks with the local lifestyle we've come to love in our new hometown. From the historic, jaw-dropping mosaics of the newly reopened Kariye Mosque (Chora Church) to the modern waterfront of Galataport, we hit the pavement running. We cross the Bosphorus by ferry to explore the bustling local life in Kadıköy and Üsküdar, dive deep into the chaotic labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar, debate the controversial merits of "cold baklava," and even make a few furry friends who take their mosque security duties very seriously. Grab a glass of çay and join us for a whirlwind three days in Istanbul! 📬 Subscribe to Kitson Postcards so you don't miss our next adventure. We're packing our bags and heading across the border into the dramatic landscapes of Georgia (with a surprise side trip you won't want to miss)! #IstanbulTravel #TurkeyVlog #KariyeMosque #IstanbulItinerary #travelstorytelling 0:00 - Intro: The Ultimate Istanbul Collaboration 1:35 - Day 1: Ancient Highlights & The Modern Galataport 3:26 - Crossing the Bosphorus: Evening in Kadıköy 4:50 - Day 2: Kariye Mosque Mosaics & Dani Nerds Out 6:50 - Labyrinths, Rainbow Stairs, & The Bloody Church 7:42 - A Powerful Call to Prayer in Üsküdar 8:27 - The Great Cold Baklava Debate & Kebab Secrets 10:06 - Day 3: Sensory Overload at the Spice Market 10:40 - Süleymaniye Mosque & Shoe Security Cat 12:01 - Getting Lost in the Grand Bazaar & Hookah Breaks 13:07 - Outro: Next Stop, Georgia!