A sight to behold, the Hagia Sophia is a historic and architectural jewel in the Turks crown. As you gaze upon its towering domes and intricate mosaics, you'll be transported back to the days of the Byzantine Empire. Originally a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, no trip to Istanbul is complete without a visit to this splendid site.
Explore the bustling world of the Spice Bazaar, where flavorful scents and lively sounds fill your senses. Exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delight line the shelves of countless shops. Don't forget to haggle with the vendors - it's part of the experience!
Take a relaxing and scenic cruise along the famous Bosphorus Strait. Marvel at the stunning views of both the European and Asian sides of the city as you glide past historic landmarks, palaces, and stunning waterfront mansions.
Be transported to the days of the Ottoman Empire by exploring this stunning palace. The sprawling grounds contain several courtyards, gardens, and collections of treasures such as ornate weaponry and intricate jewelry. Don't miss the Harem, the private quarters of the sultans and their families.
Visit the largest and grandest mosque in Istanbul, and possibly the world. Designed by the famous Ottoman architect, Sinan, the mosque features soaring domes and intricate tilework. Take time to appreciate the impressive views of Istanbul from the hilltop location of the mosque.
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleyways of the Grand Bazaar, which houses thousands of shops selling everything from handmade carpets to precious metals. Bargain to your heart's content and grab some Turkish souvenirs to bring back home.
Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trams that can get you to all the main sights on this itinerary. Taxis and Ubers are also readily available and can be a convenient option for longer distances or for groups. Costs for transportation vary depending on your mode of transportation but expect to pay around 10 Turkish Lira per public transportation ride or 50-75 Turkish Lira for a taxi or Uber ride. Allow ample time for traffic, especially during rush hour.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the nearby Blue Mosque or the Basilica Cistern. If you're a history buff, consider adding a day trip to the historic city of Troy. On the other hand, if you're short on time, consider skipping the Bosphorus Cruise or the Grand Bazaar. Always check opening and closing times when planning your itinerary, as some sights may close early on certain days or holidays.
Istanbul has two major airports: Atatürk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Atatürk Airport is located on the European side of the city, while Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located on the Asian side. Atatürk Airport is closer to the city center, with a distance of about 24 km, while Sabiha Gökçen is further away at about 44 km. Both airports are accessible via public transportation or taxi/Uber, with travel time ranging from 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.