Start your trip with a visit to the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Then, head to the nearby Hagia Sophia, a stunning museum that was once a church and mosque. After that, explore the Topkapi Palace, a historical monument that was once the residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Finish by walking through the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest indoor market in the world.
Take a cruise down the Bosphorus Strait, which divides the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Stop at the Dolmabahce Palace, built in the 19th century for the Ottoman Empire's sultans. Continue to the Beylerbeyi Palace, another impressive palace situated on the Bosphorus. End the day with a visit to the stunning Maiden's Tower, located on a tiny island at the entrance of the Bosphorus.
Start at the Istanbul Modern Museum, Turkey's first modern art museum. Move on to the Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul, and take a walk down the famous Istiklal Street filled with shops, cafes, and bars. Explore the Galata Tower, an emblematic medieval tower with panoramic views. End your day with a dinner at one of the local fish restaurants by the Galata Bridge, an ancient bridge spanning over the Golden Horn.
Cross over to the Asian side of Istanbul via the Bosphorus Bridge, one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. Head to the Camlica Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline. Then, visit the Turkey's largest and oldest indoor market in the world, the Bagdat Caddesi, for some shopping. Finish your day at Uskudar, a charming Ottoman district filled with mosques and historical landmarks.
Getting around Istanbul can be quite challenging, particularly during rush hour. However, the city's efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, trains, and ferries, makes it easy to navigate. Taxis are another convenient option, but make sure to negotiate the price in advance.
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If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the nearby Princes' Islands, a chain of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara. For those with less time, consider focusing on the historical landmarks in Sultanahmet or the modern attractions around Taksim Square. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is located 35 kilometers northwest of the city center and is connected to the city via metro, bus, and taxi. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is located 45 kilometers southeast of the city center and is accessible by bus and taxi.