8-Day Istanbul Itinerary

1. Day 1: Hagia Sophia
   20 minutes (11.2 km) from Istanbul Airport

   Marvel at the stunning Byzantine architecture of this historic structure that dates back to 537 AD.

2. Day 2: Topkapi Palace
   12 minutes (4.5 km) from Hagia Sophia

   Explore the lavish palace of the Ottoman Empire and see the collection of Islamic artifacts.

3. Day 3: Grand Bazaar
   18 minutes (7.5 km) from Topkapi Palace

   Shop for unique souvenirs and experience the hustle and bustle of one of the largest covered markets in the world.

4. Day 4: Blue Mosque
   15 minutes (6.5 km) from Grand Bazaar

   Admire the intricate ceramic tiles and blue domes of this iconic mosque built in the 17th century.

5. Day 5: Bosporus Cruise
   35 minutes (19 km) from Blue Mosque

   Take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait and see the stunning architecture on both sides of the water.

6. Day 6: Dolmabahce Palace
   25 minutes (11 km) from Bosporus Cruise

   Visit the palace that served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1922.

7. Day 7: Istanbul Modern Art Museum
   15 minutes (5 km) from Dolmabahce Palace

   See the contemporary works of Turkish artists and explore the latest art exhibits from around the world.

8. Day 8: Princes' Islands
   30 minutes (15 km) from Istanbul Modern Art Museum

   Take a ferry ride to this group of nine islands and enjoy a peaceful escape from the busy city streets.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, 200 TRY)
• Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, 300 TRY)
• Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, 0-500 TRY depending on purchases)
• Blue Mosque (1-2 hours, free)
• Bosporus Cruise (2 hours, 60 TRY)
• Dolmabahce Palace (2-3 hours, 160 TRY)
• Istanbul Modern Art Museum (1-2 hours, 60 TRY)
• Princes' Islands (4-5 hours, 20 TRY for ferry)
• Total Estimated Costs: 800-1100 TRY

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Basilica Cistern and the Spice Bazaar. If you have less time, consider skipping the Istanbul Modern Art Museum and the Princes' Islands. Be sure to dress modestly when visiting mosques and pack comfortable shoes for walking on uneven streets.