Week-Long Itinerary for Istanbul

Day 1: Historic Sites Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Begin your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church turned Ottoman mosque with stunning architecture and history.
₺100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Continue to Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, to admire its opulent rooms, courtyards, and treasury.
₺150, 3 hours

3:00PM

Visit Blue Mosque

Conclude the day with a visit to the Blue Mosque, known for its impressive blue tiles and unique architecture.
Free, 1 hour

Day 2: Bosphorus Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take Bosphorus Boat Tour

Embark on a scenic boat tour along the Bosphorus strait to admire the city's skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.
₺50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the lavish Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning Ottoman palace with European influences, located on the Bosphorus shore.
₺90, 2 hours

3:00PM

Walk along Ortakoy

Stroll through the charming neighborhood of Ortakoy, known for its waterfront cafes, art galleries, and the picturesque Ortakoy Mosque.
Variable, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Asian Side Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Cross to Kadikoy

Take a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul to experience a different vibe with vibrant markets, cafes, and local life.
₺5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Moda Park

Relax at Moda Park, a green oasis offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Marmara Sea.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Explore Uskudar

Wander around Uskudar to discover its historical landmarks, including mosques, bazaars, and the Maiden's Tower.
Variable, 2 hours

Day 4: Shopping and Culinary Delights

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Shop at Grand Bazaar

Spend the day shopping at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, offering a variety of goods and souvenirs.
Variable, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Pandeli Restaurant within the Grand Bazaar, known for its authentic Ottoman cuisine.
₺80, 1 hour

4:00PM

Taste Turkish Delights

Indulge in a tasting session of Turkish delights at Hafiz Mustafa, a renowned confectionery shop in Istanbul.
₺30, 1 hour

Day 5: Relaxation at Princes' Islands

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take Ferry to Buyukada

Board a ferry to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its serene atmosphere and charming horse-drawn carriages.
₺20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Bike or Horse Carriage Tour

Explore the island by renting a bike or taking a leisurely horse carriage tour to discover its pine forests, historic mansions, and scenic views.
₺50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ada Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with sea views at Ada Cafe, offering fresh seafood and local delicacies.
₺70, 1 hour

Day 6: Art and Culture Day

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Explore contemporary art at Istanbul Modern, a museum showcasing Turkish and international artists in a waterfront setting.
₺40, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Neolokal

Savor a modern Turkish lunch at Neolokal, a restaurant known for its innovative take on local cuisine and panoramic views of the city.
₺120, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Grand Mosque of Bursa

Explore the Grand Mosque of Bursa, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture with intricate tile work and impressive domes.
₺20, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Culinary Adventure

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Cooking Class at Istanbul Cooking School

Start the day with a hands-on cooking class at Istanbul Cooking School to learn how to prepare traditional Turkish dishes.
₺200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant serving authentic Anatolian cuisine with a wide array of mezes and mains.
₺100, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Spice Bazaar to explore its aromatic spices, teas, and Turkish delights for souvenirs.
Variable, 1.5 hours