Start your İstanbul journey with a visit to one of the most significant landmarks in the city, the Topkapi Palace. It served as the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years and now serves as an educational museum that houses Ottoman-era artifacts, including some of Islam's holiest relics.
Head over to the Hagia Sophia, one of the world's most celebrated edifices that holds an esteemed spot in the history of architecture. From a church to a mosque and now to a museum, it has gone through several transformations throughout its history. The structure is decorated with exquisite mosaics and rare marble pillars, showcasing rich multicultural heritage.
Book a Bosphorus cruise and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city while sailing along the waterway that separates the European and Asian continents. You can admire the beauty of İstanbul's landmarks while learning about the history and culture of the city from a guide. Do not forget to carry sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
Situated opposite the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmet Camii Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The mosque merits its name from the gorgeous blue tiles that adorn the walls and it's characterized by its six minarets, making it a stunning sight from any angle.
Located near the Galata Bridge, the Spice Bazaar offers an incredible range of aromas that wafts through the air. This traditional market is a foodie’s paradise with an array of spices, teas, Turkish sweets, and other exotic treats. It's a perfect spot to purchase souvenirs for your loved ones.
Visit one of the world's most resounding marketplaces, the Grand Bazaar, to take in the hustle and bustle of the city. With over 4000 shops, it's impossible to leave empty-handed. You can buy from products encompassing textiles and jewelry to handicrafts and ceramics. Do not forget to bargain before purchasing any item.
Take a day trip to the Princes’ Island and escape the city’s chaos to find tranquility on this car-free archipelago in the sea of Marmara. The island is abundant with nature, quaint cafes, and horse-drawn carriages to take you around. Catch the ferry back to İstanbul and watch the unforgettable sunset over the old city before saying goodbye.
The most efficient way to get around İstanbul is using the public transportation system. The Istanbulkart is the travel card that you must purchase before boarding the buses, metro, trains, ferries, trams, and funiculars. The card is rechargeable and can be used by multiple people. Istanbul has a vast transportation system. The bus will take you to almost anywhere in the city, and the metro is convenient as well. Taxis are also available but are comparatively expensive.
The cost of using public transportation from İstanbul New Airport to Sultanahmet District is around 6 TRY(approx. $1).
If you have more time, visit the Basilica Cistern or the Dolmabahce Palace. For art lovers, the İstanbul Modern Museum is a must-visit. If you are short on time, eliminate the Princes’ Island trip. Do not forget to carry comfortable walking shoes and always carry cash in case some places do not accept credit cards.
Istanbul International Airport (IST) is İstanbul’s primary airport, about 30 km east of the city center. The expected time of travel from the airport to the city center using public transport is around 40 minutes, and it costs around 6 TRY(approx. $1). Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) is on the Asian side of İstanbul and is around 45 km east of the city.