Topkapi Palace was one of the major residences of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years of their 624-year reign. With its architectural grandeur, rich collection of exhibiting items and its historical significance as the center of governance and power of the Ottoman Empire, Topkapi Palace is a must-visit place in Istanbul.
Relax and unwind like the Ottoman sultans did at the Suleymaniye Hamam, a beautifully decorated Turkish bath. Enjoy a traditional-style scrub and therapeutic massage that will surely put you in a relaxed state of mind.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul with a trip to the Prince's Islands, a collection of nine car-free islands in the Sea of Marmara. Rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage and explore the island at your leisure, away from the noisy and crowded city streets.
Relax with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise along the beautiful strait that separates Europe and Asia. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline from the water while enjoying a cup of Turkish tea.
End your trip with a relaxing hammam experience at the Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami, a historic Ottoman bathhouse. Enjoy a traditional Turkish bath followed by a massage with aromatic oils.
Getting around Istanbul is easy with its comprehensive public transport systems, including buses, trams, and ferries. You can also use taxis, but make sure to agree on a fare beforehand. Expect to pay about 100 TRY for a taxi from the airport to the city center and 2.60 TRY for public transport. Keep in mind that traffic in Istanbul can be heavy and unpredictable.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. For foodies, you can explore the vibrant street food scene in Istanbul or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like manti and baklava. If you have less time, you can skip the Prince's Islands and just do a shorter Bosphorus Cruise or visit a hammam for a shorter treatment.
Istanbul is served by two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the main airport and is located about 40 km northwest of the city center, while Sabiha Gokcen Airport is about 50 km southeast of the city center. Istanbul has an extensive public transport network connecting both airports to the city center.