3-Day Itinerary for Cultural Immersion in Istanbul

• Day 1: Hagia Sophia              Immerse yourself in Istanbul's history & architecture at the 1500-year-old former Greek Orthodox church-turned-mosque-turned-museum. Its awe-inspiring dome has an oculus that seems to connect you to the heavens above.
• Day 2: Topkapi Palace Museum             Once the residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 4 centuries, this palace-museum gives you a glimpse of the lavish lifestyle of the royals. Highlights include the harem quarters, imperial treasury, and stunning Bosphorus views.
• Day 3: Grand Bazaar                  Get your bargaining skills ready for the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Walk through the colorful alleyways selling everything from spices to clothes to jewelry.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hagia Sophia (2 hours, $15)
• Topkapi Palace Museum (3-4 hours, $20)
• Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, depends on shopping, free entry)
• Total Estimated Costs: $35

Transportation

Most of the main attractions in Istanbul are within walking distance from each other, making it easy for travelers to navigate. However, if you need to cover more ground, taxis and public transportation like the tram or the metro are available. Expect to pay around $2-3 for a one-way trip and factor in travel time during peak hours.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, check out the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, or take a Bosphorus cruise. For less time, choose to visit one or two attractions in a day. Also, make sure to dress conservatively when visiting mosques and palaces, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, and try Turkish delight!

Airports

Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). IST is located 30 km northwest of the city center and serves as the main hub for Turkish Airlines, while SAW is located 50 km southeast and mainly served by low-cost carriers. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for a taxi from either airport to the city center.