Discovering Istanbul in 4 Days

Day 1: Historical Wonders

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque with stunning architecture. Then, head to the Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue tiles and impressive domes.
Walk from Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque, approximately 5 minutes.
Entrance fees apply., 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar

Continue to Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and wander through its opulent rooms and courtyards. Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar for unique shopping experiences.
Take a taxi or tram from the Blue Mosque to Topkapi Palace, approximately 10 minutes.
Entrance fees apply., 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Visit Galata Tower & Istiklal Street

Make your way to Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and then stroll down Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Take a taxi or tram from Topkapi Palace to Galata Tower, approximately 15 minutes.
Entrance fees apply for Galata Tower., 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Taksim Square & Beyoglu

End your day at Taksim Square, a central hub of Istanbul, and explore the trendy Beyoglu district with its hip cafes, art galleries, and nightlife.
Walk from Istiklal Street to Taksim Square, approximately 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Bosphorus Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to admire the waterfront palaces, bridges, and historic sites along the strait that divides Europe and Asia.
Join a Bosphorus Cruise tour departing from Eminonu or Kabatas, approximately 2-3 hours.
Tour fees apply., 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

After the cruise, visit Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning Ottoman palace with European influences, known for its grandeur and lavish interiors.
Take a taxi or tram from the cruise port to Dolmabahce Palace, approximately 15 minutes.
Entrance fees apply., 1-2 hours

2:00PM

Explore Spice Bazaar & Rustem Pasha Mosque

Discover the aromatic Spice Bazaar, filled with exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delights. Visit Rustem Pasha Mosque nearby for its intricate Iznik tiles.
Walk from Dolmabahce Palace to Spice Bazaar, approximately 10 minutes.
Free, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Chora Church & Fener-Balat

Head to Chora Church, famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, and then explore the colorful neighborhoods of Fener and Balat for a taste of local life.
Take a taxi to Chora Church, approximately 20 minutes, and then explore Fener-Balat on foot.
Entrance fees apply for Chora Church., 2 hours
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Day 3: Island Retreat

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Princes' Islands

Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands for a peaceful retreat from the city hustle. Enjoy cycling, horse-drawn carriage rides, and serene beaches on the car-free islands.
Take a ferry from Kabatas or Bostanci to the Princes' Islands, approximately 1-2 hours.
Ferry fees apply., Full day

1:00PM

Explore Camlica Hill

After returning from the islands, head to Camlica Hill for breathtaking views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. Relax in the hilltop cafes and gardens.
Take a taxi from the ferry terminal to Camlica Hill, approximately 20 minutes.
Entrance fees may apply for specific areas., 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Maiden's Tower

Continue your day with a visit to the Maiden's Tower, a historic tower with panoramic views and intriguing legends. Enjoy a cup of Turkish tea with a view.
Take a taxi or boat from Camlica Hill to Maiden's Tower, approximately 15 minutes.
Entrance fees apply., 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Kadikoy & Moda

End your day in Kadikoy, a vibrant district on the Asian side of Istanbul, known for its markets, cafes, and waterfront promenade in Moda.
Take a ferry from Maiden's Tower to Kadikoy, approximately 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Delights

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Suleymaniye Mosque & Suleymaniye Bath

Start your day with a visit to the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece with serene courtyards. Then, experience a traditional Turkish bath for relaxation.
Take a taxi or tram to Suleymaniye Mosque, approximately 10 minutes.
Entrance fees apply for the bath., 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Explore Archaeology Museum & Basilica Cistern

Discover the rich history of Istanbul at the Archaeology Museum, showcasing artifacts from various civilizations. Then, visit the mystical Basilica Cistern underground.
Walk from Suleymaniye Mosque to the Archaeology Museum, approximately 15 minutes.
Entrance fees apply., 2 hours

2:00PM

Turkish Bath Experience

Indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience at a historical hamam, where you can relax in the steam room, enjoy a scrub, and unwind with a massage.
Take a taxi or tram to the Turkish bath, approximately 15 minutes.
Cost varies based on services chosen., 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Local Markets & Street Food

Spend your evening exploring local markets like the Spice Bazaar or Kadikoy Market, sampling delicious street food such as kebabs, baklava, and Turkish tea.
Walk or take a taxi to the nearest market, depending on your location.
Cost varies based on purchases., 2-3 hours
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