9-Day Istanbul Adventure Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Hagia Sophia
    25 minutes (12 km) from Istanbul Airport

    Visit the iconic Byzantine-era church, converted to a mosque, now a museum. Don't miss the intricate mosaics and stunning dome.

  2. Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise
    25 minutes (11 km) from Hagia Sophia

    Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait, admiring the impressive Istanbul skyline, and discovering the hidden corners of the city.

  3. Day 3: Grand Bazaar
    15 minutes (5 km) from Bosphorus Cruise

    Get lost in one of the largest and oldest markets in the world, with thousands of shops selling traditional Turkish souvenirs, carpets, spices, and more.

  4. Day 4: Topkapi Palace
    10 minutes (3 km) from Grand Bazaar

    Explore the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans, and admire the impressive collections of treasures, weapons, fabrics, and ceramics.

  5. Day 5: Suleymaniye Mosque
    20 minutes (8 km) from Topkapi Palace

    Visit one of the most iconic mosques of Istanbul, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, and boasting panoramic views of the city.

  6. Day 6: Princes' Islands
    10 minutes (4 km) from Suleymaniye Mosque

    Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a short ferry ride to one of the islands near Istanbul, where you can enjoy cycling, beaches, and seafood.

  7. Day 7: Istiklal Avenue
    20 minutes (6 km) from Princes' Islands

    Stroll along the lively pedestrian street, lined with trendy cafes, boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks, like the Galata Tower.

  8. Day 8: Taksim Square
    10 minutes (2 km) from Istiklal Avenue

    Join the locals in the bustling heart of Istanbul, where you can find cultural events, street food, and monuments, like the Republic Monument.

  9. Day 9: Dolmabahce Palace
    15 minutes (6 km) from Taksim Square

    Conclude your adventure with a stunning European-style palace, once the home of Ottoman sultans and Turkish presidents, and admire the lavish interiors, gardens, and fountains.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hagia Sophia (2 hours, TRY100)
  • Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, TRY70)
  • Grand Bazaar (3 hours, variable)
  • Topkapi Palace (3 hours, TRY90)
  • Suleymaniye Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Princes' Islands (6 hours, ferry ticket TRY30)
  • Istiklal Avenue (2 hours, variable)
  • Taksim Square (1 hour, free)
  • Dolmabahce Palace (2 hours, TRY115)
  • Total Estimated Costs: TRY415

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the colorful Spice Bazaar, the impressive Chora Church, or the historic Basilica Cistern. If you have less time, you can skip some of the sights and focus on your favorite activities or neighborhoods. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

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