Family Fun in Istanbul: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Treasures

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Hagia Sophia

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel from the Byzantine era.
Walk or take a short taxi ride from your accommodation to Hagia Sophia. Approximately 15 minutes.
30 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, which once served as the residence of Ottoman sultans.
Topkapi Palace is a 20-minute walk from Hagia Sophia. Enjoy lunch in the palace gardens.
60 TRY, 3 hours

4:00PM

Blue Mosque

Marvel at the intricate beauty of the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning tile work and graceful minarets.
Take a short 10-minute walk from Topkapi Palace to the Blue Mosque.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Conclude your day with a shopping spree at the vibrant Grand Bazaar, an iconic marketplace in Istanbul.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the Blue Mosque to the Grand Bazaar.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 2: Bosphorus Discovery

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus to admire Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks.
Start your journey at Eminonu Pier, a short walk from the Old City. Cruises operate regularly.
25 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Rumeli Fortress

Explore the ancient Rumeli Fortress, a strategic fortress situated on the Bosphorus shores.
Reach Rumeli Fortress by taxi or public bus from the pier. About a 30-minute ride.
20 TRY, 2 hours

3:00PM

Ortakoy

Visit Ortakoy, a picturesque neighborhood known for its charming cafes and the beautiful Ortakoy Mosque.
Take a short ferry ride from Rumeli Fortress to Ortakoy.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner with Bosphorus Views

Indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus, offering panoramic views of the city.
Return to the city center by taxi or ferry to enjoy your dinner with a view.
100 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Asian Side Charm

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Uskudar District

Cross the Bosphorus to explore the enchanting Uskudar district on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Take a ferry from Eminonu to Uskudar for a 20-minute scenic ride.
5 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Maiden's Tower

Visit the iconic Maiden's Tower, offering panoramic views of the city and its historical significance.
A short walk from the Uskudar ferry terminal to Maiden's Tower.
25 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bagdat Avenue

Stroll along Bagdat Avenue, a vibrant shopping street featuring boutiques, cafes, and an upscale atmosphere.
Travel by taxi or public bus from Maiden's Tower to Bagdat Avenue.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Moda Park

Relax at Moda Park and enjoy the serene ambiance while soaking in beautiful views of the Marmara Sea.
Take a short taxi ride from Bagdat Avenue to Moda Park.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Island Escape

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Buyukada Island

Embark on a ferry journey to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, for a leisurely day of exploration.
Take a ferry from Kabatas or Bostanci to Buyukada. The ferry ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
25 TRY, Full day

1:00PM

Horse Carriage Tour

Explore the island's charms with a traditional horse-drawn carriage tour, offering a unique perspective of Buyukada.
Carriage rides are available near the ferry terminal on Buyukada.
50 TRY, 2 hours

4:00PM

Beach Relaxation

Unwind on the sandy shores of Buyukada Beach, enjoying a peaceful afternoon by the crystal clear waters of the Marmara Sea.
Walk or ride a carriage to the beach area on Buyukada.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Seafood Feast

Savor a scrumptious seafood dinner at a local waterside restaurant before boarding the evening ferry back to Istanbul.
Choose a restaurant by the sea and enjoy a picturesque dinner setting.
80 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Finale at Taksim

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Dolmabahce Palace

Commence your day with a tour of Dolmabahce Palace, a splendid symbol of Ottoman architecture and grandeur.
Travel to Dolmabahce Palace in Besiktas by taxi or tram.
60 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Istiklal Avenue

Stroll along Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and architectural gems.
Reach Istiklal Avenue by foot or a short tram ride from Dolmabahce Palace.
Varies, 2 hours

3:00PM

Taksim Square

Conclude your Istanbul journey at Taksim Square, a vibrant cultural hub where you can soak in the city's energy.
Walk down Istiklal Avenue to Taksim Square for a perfect ending to your trip.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner with Views

Indulge in a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Taksim Square, savoring the last moments of your Istanbul adventure.
Choose a restaurant with a view and reflect on the memories made during your trip.
100 TRY, 2 hours
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