Originally Posted by johnny_cl

Definitely don't bother with a car, it would be way more hassle than it's worth. Public transport is good and easy plus with limited time you won't need to travel distances where a car would be useful. 12-15 hours is perfect time to be able to explore the main sights and try out the local food (FYI the IGA lounge is fine but not a destination to turn up early for in my experience).

I'd take a taxi to Sultanahmet (or could do the Havaist bus to Aksaray and change onto the tram from there) and spend the afternoon at Tokapi Palace and Haiga Sofya Mosque. Take the tram a few stops to Beyazit and explore the Grand Bazaar as you make your way down the hill towards Eminonu to enjoy views of the city across the water. Stop for a fish sandwich, tea etc near Galata Bridge if you want, and call into the Spice Bazaar.

Walk over Galata Bridge and take the furnicular up the hill to Begolu, passing by the Galata Tower and enjoy the atmosphere. Now in Begolu, in the evening you can find one of the many meyhanes to have an evening meal of mezze and raki. After a leisurely meal continue walking up Istiklal Street towards Taksim Square, enjoying the hustle and bustle. From Taksim Square find the Havaist airport coach stop and transfer back to the airport in the evening.

Originally Posted by Stgermainparis

I am going to look at spots over by historic area but need to minimize expenses bc headed to Greek Islands next and that’s costing me a fortune. Sure wish I could do Four Seasons in IST! The family of 5 kills me bc of the need for two rooms. Sigh. With only two nights or so maybe we do need to be in historic district to cut down on moving around in taxis etc. I do like to just walk out of hotel and be in the thick of things.