4-Day "City Experience" Itinerary in Istanbul - May 2023

  1. Day 1: Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise, and Galata Tower
    Located in the Eminönü district, 15 minutes (2 miles) from Taksim Square

    Start your day by visiting the Spice Bazaar, one of the largest markets in Istanbul. The market has a variety of shops selling spices, dried fruits, and sweets which are unique to Istanbul. Then, take a Bosphorus Cruise from the Eminönü Pier for a panoramic view of the city. After the cruise, head to Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy region, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Istanbul from the observation deck. End the day with a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants in the area.

  2. Day 2: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque
    Located in the Sultanahmet district, 20 minutes (2.5 miles) from Taksim Square

    Begin your day visiting Topkapi Palace, a grand palace that was the residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. The palace has a rich history and contains different sections, including imperial kitchens, a library, and a harem. Next, visit Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was first an Orthodox Christian church and then a mosque. End your day by visiting the iconic Blue Mosque, which is renowned for its blue tiles and six minarets.

  3. Day 3: Istanbul Modern, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Ortaköy Mosque
    Located in the Beşiktaş district, 25 minutes (3.5 miles) from Taksim Square

    Start your day at Istanbul Modern, Turkey's first modern art museum. The museum has a wide range of contemporary art exhibitions showcasing Turkish and international artists. Then head to Dolmabahçe Palace, a stunning palace that was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. End your day at Ortaköy Mosque, a small but picturesque mosque located on the Bosphorus Strait. The area has a vibrant nightlife, with many restaurants, cafes, and bars.

  4. Day 4: Grand Bazaar, Süleymaniye Mosque, and Taksim Square
    Located in the Fatih district, 20 minutes (2.5 miles) from Taksim Square

    Start your day by visiting the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. The market has over 4,000 shops selling carpets, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Next, head to Süleymaniye Mosque, a magnificent mosque built by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. End your day at Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. The square has numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is also home to the famous Istiklal Street, a pedestrian street with many shops and entertainment venues.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Spice Bazaar (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, 20 TL)
  • Galata Tower (1-2 hours, 35 TL)
  • Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, 100 TL)
  • Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, 100 TL)
  • Blue Mosque (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Istanbul Modern (1-2 hours, 40 TL)
  • Dolmabahçe Palace (2-3 hours, 90 TL)
  • Ortaköy Mosque (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, free entry)
  • Süleymaniye Mosque (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Istiklal Street and Taksim Square (2-3 hours, free entry)

  • Total Estimated Costs: 405 TL
0