Exploring Istanbul in 6 Days

1. Day 1: Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace
   1.9 km (24 minutes walk) from Sultanahmet Square

   Start the day with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, an ancient basilica turned mosque turned museum, known for its massive dome and intricate mosaics. Follow up with a trip to the Topkapi Palace, which houses an impressive collection of Ottoman architecture, art, and artifacts including jewels, swords, and manuscripts.

2. Day 2: Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar
   450 meters (5 minutes walk) from Hagia Sophia

   Head over to the Blue Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture with its six minarets and intricate blue tilework. Afterward, explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.

3. Day 3: Basilica Cistern and Spice Bazaar
   400 meters (5 minutes walk) from Grand Bazaar

   Discover the Basilica Cistern, an underground water storage system dating back to the Byzantine era, which features ancient columns and carvings. Afterward, take a wander through the Spice Bazaar filled with the aromas of exotic herbs, teas, and Turkish delight.

4. Day 4: Galata Tower and Istiklal Avenue
   3.9 km (45 minutes tram ride) from Sultanahmet Square

   Head across the Golden Horn to the trendy Galata neighborhood and climb to the top of the Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city. Then stroll down Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and historic architecture.

5. Day 5: Bosphorus Cruise and Dolmabahce Palace
   2.2 km (25 minutes taxi ride) from Galata Tower

   Take a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise along the strait that separates Europe and Asia, which offers stunning views of the city's skyline, bridges, and waterfront palaces. Afterward, visit the stunning Dolmabahce Palace, which served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, with its opulent interiors, chandeliers, and gardens.

6. Day 6: Chora Church and Suleymaniye Mosque
   4.2 km (30 minutes bus ride) from Sultanahmet Square

   Wrap up the trip with a visit to the Chora Church, famous for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Then head to the Suleymaniye Mosque, the largest and most impressive mosque in Istanbul, built by the famous Ottoman architect Sinan in the 16th century.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, 100 TRY)
• Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, 150 TRY)
• Blue Mosque (30 minutes, free)
• Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, varies)
• Basilica Cistern (30 minutes, 30 TRY)
• Spice Bazaar (1-2 hours, varies)
• Galata Tower (1 hour, 35 TRY)
• Istiklal Avenue (2-3 hours, varies)
• Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, 25 EUR)
• Dolmabahce Palace (2-3 hours, 150 TRY)
• Chora Church (1-2 hours, 45 TRY)
• Suleymaniye Mosque (1 hour, free)

Total Estimated Cost per Person: 555 TRY (~65 EUR)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the Prince Islands or visiting the Asian side of Istanbul. If you have less time, prioritize the attractions you are most interested in, and plan to visit during less crowded hours to avoid long lines. Also, be sure to dress appropriately for visiting mosques and religious sites, and have a scarf or covering for your head if needed.