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7-Day Istanbul Itinerary

Wednesday, September 13: Exploring Sultanahmet

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the historical heart of Istanbul, Sultanahmet. In the morning, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia and marvel at its impressive architecture. Afterward, explore the stunning Blue Mosque and experience its serene ambiance. In the afternoon, wander through the Topkapi Palace and discover the rich history of the Ottoman Empire. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along the Hippodrome and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Hagia Sophia: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: TRY 100, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Blue Mosque: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Topkapi Palace: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: TRY 100, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hippodrome: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Thursday, September 14: Bosphorus Cruise and Spice Bazaar

Start your day with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, where you can admire the beauty of Istanbul from the water. In the morning, explore the bustling Spice Bazaar and indulge in the vibrant colors and aromas of spices and Turkish delights. Afterward, visit the beautiful Rustem Pasha Mosque nearby. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along Istiklal Avenue, lined with shops and cafes. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Bosphorus Cruise: Estimated cost - TRY 25, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Spice Bazaar: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Rustem Pasha Mosque: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 30 minutes
  • Istiklal Avenue: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, September 15: Grand Bazaar and Suleymaniye Mosque

Start your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. In the morning, explore the maze-like alleys filled with shops selling everything from jewelry to textiles. Afterward, visit the stunning Suleymaniye Mosque and admire its impressive architecture. In the afternoon, take a relaxing break in Gulhane Park and enjoy a picnic. As the evening sets in, head to the lively Taksim Square and experience Istanbul's vibrant nightlife.

  • Grand Bazaar: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Suleymaniye Mosque: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
  • Gulhane Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Taksim Square: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, September 16: Chora Church and Princes' Islands

Start your day by visiting the breathtaking Chora Church and admire its stunning Byzantine mosaics. In the morning, take a ferry to the Princes' Islands and explore the peaceful atmosphere of Büyükada. Rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island. In the afternoon, relax on the beach or enjoy a seafood lunch with a view. As the evening sets in, take a ferry back to Istanbul and enjoy a dinner with a view of the city skyline.

  • Chora Church: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: TRY 45, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Princes' Islands: Estimated cost - Ferry ticket: TRY 10, Estimated time spent: Full day
Sunday, September 17: Asia Side and Kadikoy Market

Start your day by exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul. In the morning, wander through the bustling Kadikoy Market and sample local delicacies. Afterward, visit the Kadikoy Moda Park and take in the beautiful views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the historic Haydarpasa Train Station and admire its stunning architecture. As the evening sets in, savor a delicious dinner at one of Kadikoy's many restaurants.

  • Kadikoy Market: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kadikoy Moda Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
  • Haydarpasa Train Station: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, September 18: Beyoglu and Galata Tower

Start your day by exploring the lively neighborhood of Beyoglu. In the morning, stroll along Istiklal Avenue and explore the various shops and galleries. Afterward, visit the Galata Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul. In the afternoon, explore the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy and visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum. As the evening sets in, enjoy a rooftop dinner with a view of the city.

  • Istiklal Avenue: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Galata Tower: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: TRY 35, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Istanbul Modern Art Museum: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: TRY 40, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Hamams and Turkish Cuisine

Start your day by indulging in a traditional Turkish bath experience at one of Istanbul's historic hamams. In the morning, relax and rejuvenate in the steamy atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museums and explore its fascinating collection. In the afternoon, savor the flavors of Turkish cuisine with a food tour, sampling delicious street food and local delicacies. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Turkish music and dance performance.

  • Hamam Experience: Estimated cost - TRY 200, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Istanbul Archaeological Museums: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: TRY 20, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Food Tour: Estimated cost - TRY 150, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When exploring Istanbul, don't miss out on the off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals. Visit the charming neighborhood of Balat with its colorful houses, wander through the trendy district of Karakoy, and explore the historic neighborhood of Fener. Don't forget to try the local street food, such as simit (sesame-coated bread rings) and Turkish tea. These hidden gems will provide a unique and authentic experience of Istanbul.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit kayak.com.

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