9-Day Istanbul Itinerary - City Experiences

  1. Day 1: Grand Bazaar
    30 minutes (11.1 km) from Istanbul Airport

    Explore one of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling local goods and souvenirs.

  2. Day 2: Hagia Sophia
    16 minutes (5.9 km) from Grand Bazaar

    Visit the Byzantine marvel that was once a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing incredible mosaics and history.

  3. Day 3: Blue Mosque
    3 minutes (270 m) from Hagia Sophia

    Admire the stunning architecture and intricate tiles of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque due to its blue interior.

  4. Day 4: Topkapi Palace
    7 minutes (1.2 km) from Blue Mosque

    Discover the Ottoman Empire history and art in this massive palace with stunning rooms, courtyards, and exhibitions.

  5. Day 5: Galata Tower
    19 minutes (5.5 km) from Topkapi Palace

    Get amazing 360-degree views of the city from this medieval stone tower, enjoy a drink and live performances at its top cafe.

  6. Day 6: Dolmabahce Palace
    13 minutes (2.8 km) from Galata Tower

    Marvel at the European and Ottoman fusion architecture of this 19th-century palace and its luxurious decorations and collections.

  7. Day 7: Istiklal Avenue
    14 minutes (4.3 km) from Dolmabahce Palace

    Walk along this vibrant and lively street full of shops, restaurants, street performances, and historic landmarks such as the Galatasaray High School and St. Anthony of Padua Church.

  8. Day 8: Basilica Cistern
    8 minutes (1.6 km) from Istiklal Avenue

    Descend into an atmospheric ancient underground water reservoir, lit with lights and filled with carved columns, fish, and mythological art.

  9. Day 9: Taksim Square
    8 minutes (2.7 km) from Basilica Cistern

    End your trip at this major tourist hub bustling with shops, hotels, cafes, and nightlife, and featuring Republic Monument, Ataturk Cultural Center, and Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, free entry)
  • Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, 100 TRY)
  • Blue Mosque (1 hour, free entry)
  • Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, 100 TRY)
  • Galata Tower (1 hour, 35 TRY)
  • Dolmabahce Palace (2-3 hours, 110 TRY)
  • Istiklal Avenue (2-3 hours, free entry)
  • Basilica Cistern (45 minutes, 45 TRY)
  • Taksim Square (2-3 hours, free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): 390 TRY (52 CAD)

Useful Tips

You can add a Bosphorus cruise, a Turkish hamam experience, a visit to Chora Church and Suleymaniye Mosque, or a day trip to Princes' Islands or Bursa. For a shorter trip, combine some locations or skip Dolmabahce Palace or Taksim Square.

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