Istanbul Luxury Itinerary for July 2023

1. Day 1: Topkapi Palace
   25 minutes (7.5 miles) from Istanbul Atatürk Airport

   In the morning, explore the Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans. In the afternoon, visit the Harem and admire the luxurious textiles and ceramics on display. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at Konyali Lokantasi while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

2. Day 2: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
   15 minutes (4.5 miles) from Topkapi Palace

   In the morning, marvel at the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece, and learn about its history as both a church and a mosque. In the afternoon, visit the Blue Mosque, known for its striking interior of blue tiles. In the evening, indulge in a luxury massage at the Four Seasons Istanbul Spa.

3. Day 3: Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
   20 minutes (5.5 miles) from Four Seasons Istanbul Spa

   Spend the morning shopping at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. In the afternoon, visit the Spice Market and take in the smells of exotic spices and herbs. In the evening, unwind with a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus while sipping champagne.

4. Day 4: Basilica Cistern and Istanbul Modern Museum
   15 minutes (4 miles) from Sunset Cruise

   Start the day at the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir and marvel at the Medusa heads. In the afternoon, visit the Istanbul Modern Museum to appreciate contemporary art by Turkish artists. In the evening, treat yourself to a luxurious dinner at Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel.

5. Day 5: Dolmabahce Palace and Princes' Islands
   30 minutes (8 miles) from Mikla Restaurant

   Explore the opulent Dolmabahce Palace in the morning, which served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. In the afternoon, take a ferry to the Princes' Islands and rent a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its exquisite Anatolian cuisine.

6. Day 6: Bosphorus Cruise and Suleymaniye Mosque
   30 minutes (8 miles) from Ciya Sofrasi

   Start the day with a Bosphorus cruise and take in the stunning views of the city from the water. In the afternoon, visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, the largest mosque in Istanbul with its intricate calligraphy and tilework. In the evening, watch a traditional Turkish performance at Hodjapasha Cultural Center.

7. Day 7: Istanbul Archaeology Museums and Galata Tower
   25 minutes (7.5 miles) from Hodjapasha Cultural Center

   On the last day, visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Turkey's ancient past. In the afternoon, climb the Galata Tower and take in panoramic views of the city. In the evening, celebrate the end of your trip with a luxurious dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, located on the 16th floor of the Marmara Antalya Hotel.

Recommendations

Consider taking a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia or a day trip to the ancient city of Ephesus. For a unique dining experience, try the rooftop restaurant at Mikla Hotel. To avoid crowds, visit popular attractions early in the morning.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Topkapi Palace (3 hours, 100 TRY)
• Hagia Sophia (2 hours, 72 TRY)
• Blue Mosque (1 hour, Free)
• Four Seasons Istanbul Spa (2 hours, 800 TRY)
• Grand Bazaar (3 hours, Free)
• Spice Market (1 hour, Free)
• Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, 180 TRY)
• Istanbul Modern Museum (2 hours, 50 TRY)
• Mikla Restaurant (3 hours, 500 TRY)
• Dolmabahce Palace (2 hours, 90 TRY)
• Princes' Islands (5 hours, 200 TRY)
• Ciya Sofrasi (3 hours, 300 TRY)
• Suleymaniye Mosque (1.5 hours, Free)
• Hodjapasha Cultural Center (2 hours, 150 TRY)
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums (2 hours, 50 TRY)
• Galata Tower (1 hour, 35 TRY)
• Sunset Grill & Bar (3 hours, 500 TRY)
• Total Estimated Costs: 3027 TRY

To check hotel and flight prices, visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.