The 24-Hour Destination: Istanbul

Early morning: Sultanahmet, to see Hagia Sophia from the outside and walk before the crowds. Check visiting arrangements first.

Breakfast: a traditional Turkish breakfast in a small cafe, taken slowly.

Mid-morning: the Basilica Cistern or a museum, depending on opening hours.

Lunch: a simple meal in a local restaurant, or a fish sandwich by the water, if open.

Afternoon: a ferry across the Bosphorus to the Asian side, with a walk in a neighbourhood such as Kadıköy.

Evening: the old bazaars at closing time, then a meal. In Ramadan, an iftar table is a meaningful way to spend sunset if you are invited.

What to skip if short on time: extra museums; see one major sight and spend the rest on the water and in neighbourhoods.

Prices, opening hours and fees are not listed here and must be confirmed locally.