Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7-Day Istanbul Itinerary

Viewed by 923 travelers
Monday, December 18: Exploring Sultanahmet

In the morning, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia and marvel at its stunning architecture. Afterward, explore the magnificent Blue Mosque, known for its intricate tilework. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history at the Topkapi Palace Museum. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and experience the bustling atmosphere.

  • Hagia Sophia: Entrance fee: ₺100 (~$12), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Blue Mosque: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Topkapi Palace Museum: Entrance fee: ₺100 (~$12), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Visiting the Old City

Start your day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, an incredible underground reservoir. Then, discover the historical site of the Hippodrome and learn about its ancient chariot races. In the afternoon, explore the archaeological wonders of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums. In the evening, take a Bosphorus cruise and admire the beautiful skyline.

  • Basilica Cistern: Entrance fee: ₺30 (~$4), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Hippodrome: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Istanbul Archaeology Museums: Entrance fee: ₺20 (~$2.50), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bosphorus Cruise: Price varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Exploring Beyoglu

Start your day by visiting the iconic Taksim Square and take a stroll down the famous Istiklal Street, filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in modern art at the Istanbul Modern Museum. As the evening sets in, head to the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the local restaurants.

  • Taksim Square: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Istiklal Street: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Istanbul Modern Museum: Entrance fee: ₺35 (~$4.50), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Karakoy: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 21: Venturing to the Asian Side

In the morning, take a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul. Explore the vibrant Kadikoy Market and savor the local flavors at the street food stalls. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Maiden's Tower, located on a small islet. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the tower's observation deck. In the evening, savor a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Ferry to Kadikoy: ₺5 (~$0.60), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kadikoy Market: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Maiden's Tower: Entrance fee: ₺25 (~$3), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Local Restaurant: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, December 22: Discovering Modern Istanbul

Start your day by visiting the Istanbul Sapphire, one of the tallest buildings in the city, and enjoy panoramic views from its observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Nisantasi, known for its upscale shopping and trendy cafes. As the evening sets in, relax at a traditional Turkish hammam and experience the rejuvenating spa culture.

  • Istanbul Sapphire: Entrance fee: ₺30 (~$4), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Nisantasi: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Turkish Hammam: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23: Day Trip to Princess Islands

Escape the bustling city and take a ferry to the car-free Princess Islands. Spend the day exploring the charming streets by horse-drawn carriage, rent a bicycle, or simply relax on the beaches. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local seafood restaurant. In the evening, witness a stunning sunset over the sea before heading back to Istanbul.

  • Ferry to Princess Islands: ₺10 (~$1.20), Time spent: Full day
  • Horse-drawn carriage/bicycle rental: Cost varies, Time spent: Full day
  • Seafood Restaurant: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Exploring Bosphorus and Spice Bazaar

In the morning, embark on a Bosphorus cruise and enjoy the beautiful views of the city's landmarks from the water. Stop by the Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning Ottoman palace. In the afternoon, wander through the Spice Bazaar, where you can find a variety of spices, teas, and Turkish delights. As the evening sets in, visit the beautiful New Mosque and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

  • Bosphorus Cruise: Price varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dolmabahce Palace: Entrance fee: ₺100 (~$12), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Spice Bazaar: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • New Mosque: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, don't miss the Suleymaniye Mosque, a stunning masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Explore the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy and dine at local seafood restaurants. Visit the historic neighborhood of Moda on the Asian side and enjoy its charming atmosphere and beautiful coastline.

Check hotel and flight prices
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version