Take an early direct flight from Tehran (Imam Khomeini) to Istanbul (Istanbul Airport IST or Sabiha SAW) to maximise your first day; direct flights typically take ~3–3.5 hours. Book seats for four and confirm passport/visa entry requirements before departure.
Transfer from IST to your Sultanahmet hotel; request an airport pick‑up for a private vehicle for convenience with four people. If you arrive early, most hotels will hold luggage if early check‑in isn't available.
Traditional Turkish meatballs in the heart of Sultanahmet; fast, local and good value — a great introduction to Turkish flavours. Restaurants are normally open lunchtime from around 11:30–15:00.
Check in to a recommended 4‑star in Sultanahmet such as Hotel Sultania or Armada Hotel (two double rooms for four); standard check‑in is usually from 2pm — ask for early check‑in if you need it.
Visit Hagia Sophia and the surrounding Sultanahmet Square to see the exterior and interior (Hagia Sophia functions as a mosque now; visiting times are available outside prayer periods — check the daily prayer schedule). It's one of the city's essential sights.
Stop by the Blue Mosque opposite Hagia Sophia; it's a working mosque so access is closed briefly for the five daily prayers — try to visit outside prayer times (generally open to visitors mid‑morning and late afternoon evenings).
Rooftop dining with views of Hagia Sophia and the Sea of Marmara; book a table in advance for sunset views. Kitchen typically serves until late evening, but booking is recommended.
Easy walk around Sultanahmet or return to the hotel to rest — a short stroll along the lit monuments is atmospheric and an effortless way to end day one.
Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace (former Ottoman residence) for imperial artefacts, treasury rooms and panoramic Bosphorus views; typical opening hours are around 09:00–17:00, but it may be closed certain weekdays — check before you go.
Classic Turkish mezzes and grilled dishes with a terrace overlooking the Golden Horn; it's popular, so allow time for a table and enjoy local specialities.
Visit the atmospheric Basilica Cistern — an ancient underground water reservoir with illuminated columns and Medusa heads; usual hours around 09:00–18:00 but seasonal changes apply.
Wander the covered lanes of the Grand Bazaar for carpets, ceramics, jewellery and souvenirs; Grand Bazaar hours are typically 09:00–19:00 Monday–Saturday (closed Sundays) so plan accordingly.
Visit Süleymaniye for a calmer mosque experience and beautiful city vistas; typical visiting hours are open most of the day but it closes briefly for prayers.
Tour Dolmabahçe Palace on the European Bosphorus shore for imperial Ottoman later‑period splendour; usual visiting hours are around 09:00–16:00 — check the palace schedule as it can close for official events.
Take a 1.5–2 hour cruise along the Bosphorus to see waterfront palaces, fortresses and elegant villas — public ferries and private options run daily (public lines often run until early evening).
Hop a short ferry to Kadıköy to explore a lively neighbourhood of cafés, markets and local life; ferries run frequently and timing varies by operator but evening connections remain regular.
Famous Anatolian restaurant offering regional Turkish dishes and an adventurous menu — a great place to taste less common Turkish recipes. Open for dinner but can get busy — reserve ahead.
Enjoy breakfast, settle any hotel bills and prepare to move to your 4‑star hotel in the Galata/Beyoğlu area for nights 4–6 — standard check‑out is around 11:00–12:00, so arrange a smooth transfer.
Move to a centrally located 4★ hotel such as The Galata Istanbul Hotel or Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus in Taksim; check‑in times usually from 14:00 but many hotels will hold luggage and let you use facilities.
Climb or take the lift to the Galata Tower for sweeping views across the Golden Horn and the old city; typical opening hours are roughly 09:00–19:00 (seasonal).
Visit Pera Museum for Ottoman and modern collections or the relocated Istanbul Modern for contemporary Turkish art; opening times are commonly 10:00–18:00 but check exhibition hours and closures.
Dine with panoramic views across the city; it's an iconic spot for modern Turkish and international cuisine — reservations recommended for prime seating.
Explore nearby streets for live music bars and local late night meyhanes; many establishments stay open late, but entry policies and live schedules change so check beforehand.
Grab an early breakfast and head to Kabataş or Bostancı for the ferry to the Princes' Islands — public ferries depart through the day but mornings are best to avoid crowds.
Take the ferry (public or fast sea bus) to Büyükada; journey time is typically 60–90 minutes depending on service. Check the daily ferry schedule as times vary by operator and season.
Hire bikes or rent an electric vehicle (recommended over horse‑drawn carriages) to circle the island, visit lookout points and tranquil neighbourhoods; rentals open from morning and are easy to find at the ferry pier.
Enjoy your final hotel breakfast, ensure all belongings are packed and settle any hotel bills. Check your flight time and leave ample time for airport transfer (Istanbul traffic can be heavy).
A classic hammam is a relaxing way to finish your trip; most historic hammams open from mid‑morning and bookable slots are common — allow about 90 minutes for a full experience.
Pick up any final spices, sweets or souvenirs at the Spice Bazaar or local shops; many shops stay open through the afternoon but check closing times on markets.
Check out (standard check‑out is around 11:00–12:00, but you will already have arranged) and take a private transfer or taxi to Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) depending on your return flight; allow at least 2–3 hours for airport arrival before international departure.