Start your luxury trip in Istanbul with a tour of the Old City, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia and admire its stunning architecture. Next, head over to the Blue Mosque and experience its intricate tile work and grand interior. Finish the day with a stroll around the Grand Bazaar, where you can find unique and luxurious souvenirs.
Take a luxurious journey through Istanbul's history by visiting two prominent palaces - the Topkapi Palace and the Dolmabahce Palace. At the Topkapi Palace, admire the opulent Ottoman architecture and the impressive collection of artwork and historical artifacts from there. At Dolmabahce Palace, immerse in European-inspired architecture and elaborate decoration.
Take a break from land and enjoy a luxury cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, which connects Europe and Asia. Admire the breathtaking view of the city and landmarks such as the Bosphorus Bridge, the Maiden's Tower, and the Galata Tower from the water. After the cruise, stop by the chic neighbourhoods of Bebek and Arnavutkoy and treat yourself to a luxurious meal in one of the area's premier restaurants.
Indulge in relaxation and self-care at a luxurious spa in Istanbul. Transport yourself to a peaceful oasis in a traditional Turkish bath, or experience therapeutic hammam with natural oils, herbs, and bubbles. Afterward, take a dip in the thermal pools and enjoy other spa facilities, such as steam rooms and saunas, to rejuvenate your body and soul.
Complete your luxury trip to Istanbul by visiting the Princes' Islands, where you can experience a serene ambiance with lush greenery, stunning views, and historical mansions. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Büyükada, the largest of the islands, and stop by the ornate churches and monasteries along the way. Finally, enjoy a luxurious seaside lunch and a dip in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
*Note: costs may vary based on the time of year and selected vendors.
Travelers to Istanbul can utilize various transportation options. Istanbul's metro, tram, and bus system will suffice for most transportation needs. Taxicabs and ride-hailing services like Uber are readily available in the city. A round trip to the Princes' Island will require a boat ride with a fee of approximately $20 per person.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Cappadocia to experience hot air balloon rides during a sunrise, ancient underground cities, and unique geological formations.
If you have less time, consider condensing Days 2-5 to shorter half-day trips to suit your schedule.
Istanbul International Airport (IST) is the main airport serving Istanbul, located 30 km (19 mi) away from the city center. Other airports are primarily used for domestic flights and general aviation. Istanbul International Airport is connected to the city center by using the metro, airport shuttles and taxicabs.