7-Day Luxury Itinerary for Istanbul

1. Day 1: The Topkapi Palace Museum
   10 minutes (2.6 km) from Haghia Sophia Istanbul Hotel

   Explore the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, featuring Ottoman architecture, exquisite tile-work, and intriguing secrets.

2. Day 2: The Hagia Sophia Museum
   15 minutes (3 km) from The Topkapi Palace Museum

   Visit the world-famous Byzantine church-turned-mosque-turned-museum, boasting impressive mosaics and breathtaking architecture.

3. Day 3: The Istanbul Modern Art Museum
   20 minutes (5.9 km) from The Hagia Sophia Museum

   Discover the contemporary art and cultural exhibitions in this sleek and spacious museum, overlooking the Bosphorus.

4. Day 4: The Grand Bazaar
   25 minutes (6.5 km) from The Istanbul Modern Art Museum

   Indulge in retail therapy at one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, teeming with vibrant colors and exotic scents.

5. Day 5: The Blue Mosque
   20 minutes (5 km) from The Grand Bazaar.

   Admire the stunning blue tiles and intricate designs of this iconic mosque, one of the most impressive examples of Ottoman architecture.

6. Day 6: The Basilica Cistern
   10 minutes (2.7 km) from The Blue Mosque

   Take a subterranean journey through this ancient cistern, where towering columns and eerie water reflections create a surreal atmosphere.

7. Day 7: The Bosphorus Cruise
   30 minutes (7.8 km) from The Basilica Cistern

   Cruise the scenic Bosphorus strait, admiring stunning views of the city, palaces, and Ottoman-era fortresses.

Time and Costs Estimates

• The Topkapi Palace Museum (2-3 hours, 200 TL)
• The Hagia Sophia Museum (1-2 hours, 100 TL)
• The Istanbul Modern Art Museum (2-3 hours, 75 TL)
• The Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, varies)
• The Blue Mosque (30-45 minutes, free)
• The Basilica Cistern (30-45 minutes, 20 TL)
• The Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, 100 TL)

Total Estimated Costs (per person): Approximately 595 Turkish Lira ($80 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, add a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace, Belgrde Forest, or climb Galata Tower. If you have less time, skip the Istanbul Modern Museum or the Basilica Cistern. To save money, bargain at the Grand Bazaar or opt for a free walking tour.