How many days do you need in Istanbul?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Istanbul, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Istanbul?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Istanbul. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Discovering Istanbul in 7 Days

Day 1: Historical Wonders

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing a blend of Christian and Islamic architecture.

30 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish meal at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, known for its köfte (meatballs) and piyaz (bean salad).

50 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Step into the opulent world of Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace, with stunning courtyards, treasures, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

60 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, offering a variety of goods.

Depends on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Indulge in a culinary journey of Ottoman cuisine at Matbah Restaurant, known for its historical recipes and elegant ambiance.

100 TRY, 2 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Blue Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the Blue Mosque, an iconic symbol of Istanbul with its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Experience the scents and colours of Turkish spices and sweets at the Spice Bazaar, a paradise for food enthusiasts and souvenir hunters.

Depends on purchases, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Pandeli Restaurant, located within the Spice Bazaar and offering traditional Turkish dishes with a view of the Golden Horn.

70 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Explore contemporary Turkish art at Istanbul Modern, showcasing a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations.

40 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Walk along Istiklal Street

Stroll down Istiklal Street, a vibrant pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, offering a taste of modern Istanbul.

Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Dine at Asitane Restaurant, known for reviving historical Ottoman recipes in a charming setting, providing a unique culinary experience.

90 TRY, 2 hours

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Day 3: Bosphorus Beauty

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a relaxing Bosphorus cruise to admire the stunning waterfront palaces, bridges, and panoramic views of the city from the water.

60 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, offering a variety of authentic Turkish dishes and desserts in a cosy setting.

50 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Maiden's Tower

Explore the iconic Maiden's Tower in the middle of the Bosphorus, with its fascinating history and panoramic views of the city.

25 TRY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Ortakoy Square

Unwind at Ortakoy Square, known for its charming atmosphere, street food stalls, and the picturesque Ortakoy Mosque by the Bosphorus.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience with panoramic views of the Bosphorus at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering a fusion of Turkish and international cuisine.

150 TRY, 2 hours

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Day 4: Asian Side Adventure

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Beylerbeyi Palace

Explore the lavish interiors and beautiful gardens of Beylerbeyi Palace, a 19th-century Ottoman summer residence on the Asian side of Istanbul.

40 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Indulge in mouthwatering kebabs and mezes at Ciya Kebap, a renowned restaurant in Kadikoy offering a variety of Anatolian flavours.

60 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Discover the bustling Kadikoy Market, filled with fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies, providing a glimpse into everyday life on the Asian side.

Depends on purchases, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Moda Park

Relax in the green oasis of Moda Park, offering panoramic views of the Marmara Sea and a peaceful escape from the city hustle.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Return to Ciya Sofrasi for dinner and savour more delicious Anatolian dishes in a cosy and welcoming setting.

70 TRY, 1 hour

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Day 5: Historical Districts

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Explore Chora Church

Discover the stunning mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church, a hidden gem showcasing Byzantine art and history.

45 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Fener & Balat Districts

Wander through the colourful streets of Fener and Balat, known for their historic houses, street art, and vibrant local culture.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asmalimescit Mahzen

Enjoy a meal at Asmalimescit Mahzen, a cosy restaurant in Beyoglu serving a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

80 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Suleymaniye Mosque

Explore the architectural masterpiece of Suleymaniye Mosque, designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, overlooking the Golden Horn.

Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Coffee at Pierre Loti Hill

Relax with a cup of Turkish coffee at Pierre Loti Hill, offering panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the city skyline.

15 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Dine at Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel, offering modern Turkish cuisine with a stunning view of the city.

120 TRY, 2 hours

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Day 6: Day Trip to Princes' Islands

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take a Ferry to Buyukada

Embark on a ferry ride to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its charming streets, horse-drawn carriages, and serene atmosphere.

25 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Buyukada

Discover the historic mansions, pine forests, and seaside promenades of Buyukada, ideal for cycling, walking, or simply relaxing by the sea.

15 TRY (Bike Rental), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ada Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ada Cafe, offering fresh seafood and Turkish mezes with a view of the sea on Buyukada.

60 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Aya Yorgi Church

Climb up to Aya Yorgi Church for panoramic views of the island and the Sea of Marmara, with a blend of history and natural beauty.

10 TRY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Ferry Back to Istanbul

Catch the ferry back to Istanbul, enjoying the sunset over the Marmara Sea and the picturesque skyline of the city.

25 TRY, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Return to Ciya Sofrasi in Kadikoy for a final dinner, savouring the delicious Anatolian flavours before concluding your day trip.

70 TRY, 1 hour

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Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Hamam Experience at Cagaloglu Hamami

Indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience at Cagaloglu Hamami, one of the oldest and most famous hammams in Istanbul, for relaxation and rejuvenation.

150 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful meal at Hamdi Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the Golden Horn and serving authentic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist.

80 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Istinye Park

Spend the afternoon shopping at Istinye Park, a luxurious mall with a variety of international and local brands, cafes, and entertainment options.

Depends on purchases, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at Mikla Restaurant, savouring the modern Turkish cuisine and panoramic views of Istanbul on your final evening.

120 TRY, 2 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Discovering Istanbul in 7 Days

Day 1: Historical Wonders

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 3: Bosphorus Beauty

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Asian Side Adventure

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Historical Districts

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Day Trip to Princes' Islands

9:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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