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 Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Istanbul's rich history blending Christian and Islamic heritage.

30 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Matbah Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Ottoman meal at Matbah Restaurant, known for its historic recipes and elegant ambiance.

100 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans, and admire its stunning architecture and treasury.

60 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Deraliye Restaurant

Indulge in a gourmet Ottoman dining experience at Deraliye Restaurant, offering a taste of the imperial cuisine.

150 TRY, 2 hours

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Day 2: Sultanahmet Continued

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Blue Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and impressive domes.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant alleys of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, ideal for shopping and cultural immersion.

Depends on shopping, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Treat yourself to a meal at Pandeli Restaurant in the Grand Bazaar, offering traditional Turkish cuisine in a historic setting.

80 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Explore the underground wonder of Basilica Cistern, an ancient reservoir featuring atmospheric columns and Medusa heads.

20 TRY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Return to Matbah Restaurant for a delightful evening meal, experiencing more of Ottoman culinary delights.

120 TRY, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Sultanahmet

Day 3: Sultanahmet - Bosphorus Cruise

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Morning Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a morning Bosphorus cruise to enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline, passing by iconic landmarks like Galata Tower and Dolmabahce Palace.

50 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savour a diverse Anatolian meal at Ciya Sofrasi in Kadikoy, offering authentic flavours from different regions of Turkey.

70 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Kadikoy Moda

Stroll around the trendy neighbourhood of Kadikoy Moda, known for its bohemian atmosphere, chic cafes, and stunning views of the Marmara Sea.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy dinner at Ciya Sofrasi, experiencing more of their authentic Anatolian dishes in a cosy setting.

80 TRY, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Sultanahmet

Day 4: Vibrant Taksim Square

Taksim Square, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Istiklal Avenue

Begin your day by exploring Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Indulge in delicious baklava and Turkish desserts at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned pastry shop on Istiklal Avenue.

50 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Galata Tower

Head to Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

35 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Coffee Break at Kronotrop

Relax with a cup of coffee at Kronotrop, a trendy cafe in Karakoy known for its quality brews and cosy ambience.

20 TRY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

End your day with a gourmet dinner at Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop with stunning views of the city and delicious modern Turkish cuisine.

200 TRY, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Taksim Square

Day 5: Modern Taksim

Taksim Square, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Start your day with a visit to Istanbul Modern, Turkey's first museum of modern art, showcasing contemporary works by Turkish and international artists.

40 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gram Karakoy

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Gram Karakoy, a stylish restaurant offering modern Turkish cuisine with a twist.

90 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Shop at Nisantasi

Explore the upscale neighbourhood of Nisantasi, known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and chic cafes, perfect for a leisurely shopping spree.

Depends on shopping, 2 hours

5:00PM

Coffee at MOC Istanbul

Relax with a cup of coffee at MOC Istanbul, a trendy cafe in Nisantasi, known for its artisanal coffee blends and modern decor.

15 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Return to Mikla Restaurant for another exceptional dining experience on your last night in Taksim, savouring the innovative Turkish flavours.

180 TRY, 2 hours

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Day 6: Kadikoy Exploration

Kadikoy, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Moda Coastal Park

Start your day with a relaxing walk in Moda Coastal Park, offering stunning views of the sea and the Prince Islands, a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Taste delicious kebabs and traditional Turkish dishes at Ciya Kebap, a popular restaurant in Kadikoy known for its authentic flavours.

60 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Discover the vibrant Kadikoy Market, bustling with fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies, offering a true taste of Istanbul's culinary scene.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at Petra Roasting Co.

Enjoy a cup of specialty coffee at Petra Roasting Co., a hip coffee shop in Kadikoy, known for its quality beans and relaxed atmosphere.

20 TRY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

End your day with dinner at Ciya Sofrasi, savoring more of their authentic Anatolian dishes before leaving Kadikoy.

80 TRY, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kadikoy

Day 7: Farewell Istanbul

Kadikoy, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Spend your morning exploring the exhibitions at Istanbul Modern Art Museum, a cultural hub showcasing contemporary Turkish artworks.

40 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ops Cafe & Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ops Cafe & Restaurant, with a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus, offering a perfect setting for your final meal in Istanbul.

120 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Shopping at Spice Bazaar

Explore the aromatic Spice Bazaar, filled with exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delights, ideal for picking up some last-minute souvenirs.

Depends on shopping, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Turkish Coffee at Mandabatmaz

Sip on authentic Turkish coffee at Mandabatmaz, a famous coffee house near the Spice Bazaar, known for its strong brews and traditional atmosphere.

10 TRY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

End your 7-day adventure with a farewell dinner at Asitane Restaurant, serving exquisite dishes inspired by the Ottoman palace cuisine, a perfect conclusion to your trip.

150 TRY, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kadikoy

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Discovering Istanbul in 7 Days

Day 1: Historical Sultanahmet

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Sultanahmet Continued

9:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Sultanahmet - Bosphorus Cruise

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Vibrant Taksim Square

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Modern Taksim

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Kadikoy Exploration

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Farewell Istanbul

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

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