Start your journey at the Hagia Sophia Museum, a former church turned mosque and one of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul for its impressive dome and Byzantine architecture. From there, move on to the Blue Mosque, an iconic religious site where you can see magnificent interior design and Ottoman artwork. End the day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, to experience Turkey's vibrant market culture.
Head to the Galata Tower for a panoramic view of Istanbul's skyline. From there, take a stroll down Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. End your day at the Taksim Square and immerse yourself in the city's lively nightlife.
Start with a visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum, a former residence of Ottoman sultans and now a museum filled with artifacts and treasures from the past. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the Gulhane Park, a serene green space filled with lush gardens and fountains. End your day with a visit to the Suleymaniye Mosque, an impressive mosque built in memory of Suleiman the Magnificent.
Take a ferry to the Kadikoy district on the Asian side of Istanbul. Explore the bustling Kadikoy Market, which is filled with vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices. Then, hike up to the Bagdat Street, a long and lively avenue known for its high-end shops and restaurants. End your day by strolling along the coast at the Moda Seaside.
Take a ferry to the Büyükada Island and explore its charming streets, horse-drawn carriages, and sparkling sea views. Rent a bike and cycle around the island, stopping by Aya Yorgi Church, a 1500-year-old church located on a hilltop, for a breathtaking view of the Marmara Sea. Relax on one of the island's serene beaches or enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the seaside restaurants.
Take a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait and marvel at Istanbul's magnificent skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Dolmabahce Palace and the Rumeli Fortress. Then, head to the Galata Bridge, which crosses the Golden Horn and connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. End your tour with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, where you can find all sorts of spices, teas, and unique souvenirs.
It is easy to navigate Istanbul using public transportation such as buses, metro, and ferries. A single ticket costs around 2.80 TRY and can be purchased in advance or at the stations. Taxis are also available but can be expensive during rush hours. To save money and time, consider buying an Istanbulkart, which offers discounted fares and can be used for most forms of transportation.
Estimated travel time and cost for each day is included in the itinerary.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Basilica Cistern, an underground structure that used to supply water to the city, and the Chora Church, a Byzantine church featuring intricate mosaics and frescoes. You can also take a day trip to the nearby city of Bursa, known for its thermal baths and rich history.
If you have less time, prioritize the landmarks and districts that interest you the most and adjust the itinerary accordingly. It is also helpful to book tickets and tours in advance to avoid long queues and waiting times.
Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST), located in the European side about 40 km from the city center, and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), located in the Asian side about 35 km from the city center. Both airports are well-connected to the city center by public transportation and taxi services.