Explore Istanbul's Adventures in 6 Days

  • Day 1: Camlica Hill
    30 minutes (10 miles) from Istanbul Airport

    Start off your adventure by visiting the top of Camlica Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Take a cable car ride to the top and explore the cafes and restaurants with stunning views. You can also snap perfect sunset photos from the hilltop.

  • Day 2: Scuba Diving at Prince Islands
    1 hour 20 minutes ferry ride from Eminonu pier

    Get ready to explore the underwater world by taking a scuba diving tour to the Prince Islands. You will be introduced to a variety of fish and coral species. Be prepared to immerse yourself in crystal clear waters of the Sea of Marmara. You will also have time to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the islands after your dive.

  • Day 3: Speedboat Tour at Bosphorus Strait
    35 minutes (9 miles) from Prince Islands ferry terminal

    Take a speedboat tour of the iconic Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia. Explore historic landmarks including the Galata Bridge and the Dolmabahce Palace. Sightsee along both sides of the shore, taking breathtaking pictures of the Ottoman-era waterfront mansions. You will also get the chance to swim in the middle of Bosphorus and have lunch at a seafood restaurant.

  • Day 4: Zip-Lining at Belgrad Forest
    35 minutes (20 miles) from Bosphorus Strait

    Experience an adrenaline rush by taking a zip-lining tour at Belgrad Forest. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Turkey's rich flora and fauna from another perspective. Soar through the trees on multiple zip-lines that vary in length, speed and altitude. Expert guides will brief you on safety procedures and teach you techniques for the optimal zip-lining experience.

  • Day 5: Canyoning at Saklikent Gorge
    10 hours (440 miles) from Belgrad Forest

    Discover an unforgettable canyoning tour in the heart of Saklikent Gorge. Take a guided trek through waterfalls and towering rock walls. Get your adrenaline pumping by sliding, jumping and swimming through the canyon. Be prepared to get wet, so bring extra clothes for this adventure.

  • Day 6: Caving at Cappadocia
    1 hour 10 minutes (875 miles) by flight from Istanbul Airport

    End your trip with a unique and magical experience in Cappadocia's limestone caves. Choose from a variety of caving tours to suit your preferences, from easy to challenging levels. Climb through narrow passageways with hand-carved steps and geologic formations, and explore the colorful chambers of ancient underground cities. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Camlica Hill (1-2 hours, free)
  • Scuba diving at Prince Islands (6 hours, $200)
  • Speedboat tour at Bosphorus Strait (1-2 hours, $80)
  • Zip-lining at Belgrad Forest (3-4 hours, $100)
  • Canyoning at Saklikent Gorge (7-8 hours, $150)
  • Caving at Cappadocia (6-7 hours, $120)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($650)

Transportation

You can get around Istanbul using public transportation, such as taxis, buses, and ferries. Keep in mind that traffic can be congested, so factor in extra travel time. For the more distant locations, domestic flights are also available. Expect to spend around $10 for a one-way fare on public transportation.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia or explore hiking trails in Belgrad Forest. If you have less time, consider skipping the canyoning adventure or shortening your speedboat tour on the Bosphorus. Remember to stay hydrated and pack appropriate gear for your adventures.

Airports

Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the primary airport serving the city and is located approximately 31 miles northwest of Istanbul's city center. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is located approximately 43 miles southeast of Istanbul's city center. Both airports offer shuttle bus and metro services to get you to central Istanbul.

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