Begin your trip with a visit to Istanbul's historic Old Town. Explore the ancient city walls, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Get lost in the bustling Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. Have lunch at a traditional restaurant and enjoy a Turkish coffee at a local café.
Head to Besiktas, one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods, known for its nightlife and street food. Take a scenic Bosphorus cruise and admire the stunning views of both European and Asian shores of Istanbul. Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant, followed by drinks and dancing at one of the district's many nightclubs.
Escape the city noise and hop on a ferry to the Princes' Islands, a serene archipelago in the Sea of Marmara. Rent bikes or take a horse-drawn carriage and explore the lush green islands. Enjoy a beach party with live music, cocktails, and BBQ dinner.
Experience the modern side of Istanbul with a visit to Taksim Square and Istiklal Street. Walk along the lively pedestrian avenue full of shops, cafes, and street performers. Check out the trendy bars and clubs, and dance until dawn at the famous Reina nightclub, overlooking the Bosphorus.
End your trip with a peaceful retreat to Sariyer, a charming fishing village on the Bosphorus. Have breakfast at a seaside restaurant, then venture into the lush Belgrade Forest for a picnic and outdoor activities. Return to the city and hit the rooftop bars for a farewell party with breathtaking views of Istanbul.
Public transportation is a cheap and reliable way to get around Istanbul, with an extensive metro, bus, and ferry network. Taxis are widely available but can be expensive, and traffic can be heavy. Uber and other ride-sharing apps are also available but not always reliable. Expect to spend around TRY 50-100 per day on transportation.
For more historical sites and culture, visit the Asian side of Istanbul. Try traditional Turkish hammam (bathhouse) for relaxation. Don't forget to bring cash for street food and markets. Consider extending your trip to visit neighboring cities such as Cappadocia or Antalya.
Istanbul has two international airports: Atatürk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Atatürk Airport is located 24km from the city center and serves most major airlines. Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located 45km from the city center and mainly serves low-cost carriers.