Exploring Istanbul in 7 Days

Day 1: Historical Wonders

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture and history, showcasing both Christian and Islamic heritage.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Head to Topkapi Palace, the former royal residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and wander through its stunning courtyards, kitchens, and harem.
Topkapi Palace is a 15-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
60 TRY, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Matbah Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Ottoman meal at Matbah Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and historical ambiance.
Take a short taxi ride from Topkapi Palace to Matbah Restaurant.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Blue Mosque

End your day with a visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its intricate blue tiles and impressive architecture.
Blue Mosque is located next to Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Bosphorus Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a relaxing Bosphorus cruise to admire the city's skyline, historic landmarks, and the beauty of the waterway that divides Istanbul.
Head to Eminonu Pier to catch a Bosphorus cruise. It takes about 30 minutes to get there by tram.
25 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant offering a variety of traditional dishes.
Take a ferry from Eminonu Pier to Kadikoy, then walk to Ciya Sofrasi.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Kadikoy

Discover the vibrant neighborhood of Kadikoy on the Asian side, known for its bustling markets, cozy cafes, and street art.
Kadikoy is a short walk from Ciya Sofrasi.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cross back to Eminonu

Take a ferry back to the European side and enjoy the scenic views of Istanbul from the water.
Walk back to Kadikoy Pier and take a ferry to Eminonu.
5 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 3: Market Day

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Visit Grand Bazaar

Spend the morning exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, offering a wide range of souvenirs, spices, and textiles.
Grand Bazaar is a short tram ride from Sultanahmet.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pandeli Restaurant, located within the Grand Bazaar and known for its historic setting and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Pandeli Restaurant is inside the Grand Bazaar.
60 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Spice Bazaar

Head to the Spice Bazaar to experience a sensory delight of aromatic spices, teas, and Turkish delights, perfect for buying unique souvenirs.
Spice Bazaar is a short walk from the Grand Bazaar.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Hamam

Unwind and rejuvenate at a traditional Turkish bath, known as a hamam, to experience a unique cultural ritual of cleansing and relaxation.
There are several hamams near the Grand Bazaar to choose from.
80 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 4: Parks and Palaces

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Start your day by exploring the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning Ottoman palace located by the Bosphorus.
Dolmabahce Palace is accessible by tram or taxi from Sultanahmet.
60 TRY, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rumeli Hisari Iskele Restaurant

Enjoy a scenic lunch at Rumeli Hisari Iskele Restaurant by the Bosphorus, offering delicious seafood and panoramic views of the waterway.
Take a taxi or ferry from Dolmabahce Palace to Rumeli Hisari Iskele Restaurant.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Gulhane Park

Stroll through the peaceful Gulhane Park, located near Topkapi Palace, and enjoy a serene escape from the bustling city.
Gulhane Park is a short walk from Topkapi Palace.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Miniaturk

Explore Miniaturk, a park showcasing miniature models of famous landmarks from Turkey and beyond, offering a unique perspective on world architecture.
Miniaturk is a short taxi ride from Gulhane Park.
20 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 5: Art and Culture

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Explore Istanbul Modern, a contemporary art museum showcasing Turkish and international artists, offering a glimpse into the vibrant art scene of Istanbul.
Istanbul Modern is located in Karakoy, accessible by tram or ferry.
40 TRY, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Indulge in delicious baklava at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned dessert shop serving authentic Turkish sweets.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is a short walk from Istanbul Modern.
30 TRY, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit SALT Galata

Explore SALT Galata, a cultural institution housed in a historic Ottoman bank building, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and a library.
SALT Galata is a 10-minute walk from Karakoy Gulluoglu.
20 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Wander along Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a vibrant atmosphere.
Take a tram or taxi to reach Istiklal Avenue from SALT Galata.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Culinary Delights

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Cooking Class at Istanbul Cooking School

Embark on a culinary adventure with a cooking class at Istanbul Cooking School, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Turkish dishes and enjoy a delicious meal.
Istanbul Cooking School is located in Beyoglu, easily accessible by tram or taxi.
150 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Savor authentic Turkish kebabs at Ciya Kebap, a popular restaurant known for its flavorful grilled meats and mezes.
Ciya Kebap is a short walk from Istanbul Cooking School.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Turkish Coffee Culture and Research Center

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Turkish coffee at the Turkish Coffee Culture and Research Center, where you can learn about the art of brewing and tasting this traditional drink.
The center is located in Fatih, a short tram ride from Beyoglu.
20 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and delicious fusion cuisine.
Take a taxi or tram to reach Sunset Grill & Bar in Ulus.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Princes' Islands

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Ferry to Buyukada

Take a ferry to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its charming atmosphere, historic buildings, and scenic views.
Head to Kabatas Pier to catch a ferry to Buyukada. The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours.
10 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Bike or Horse Carriage Tour

Explore Buyukada by renting a bike or taking a leisurely horse carriage tour around the island, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and seaside views.
Rent a bike or hire a horse carriage at Buyukada pier.
50 TRY, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Ada Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing seaside lunch at Ada Cafe, offering fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes with a view of the Marmara Sea.
Ada Cafe is located near Buyukada pier.
80 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Swim at Buyukada Beach

Unwind at Buyukada Beach and take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the Marmara Sea, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility.
Buyukada Beach is a short walk from Ada Cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours
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