Start your adventure with a scenic boat tour of the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe from Asia. Marvel at Istanbul’s stunning skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Maiden Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Rumeli Fortress. You’ll also see the beautiful waterside mansions and houses along the strait.
Escape the city crowds and explore the beautiful Belgrad Forest, located on the northern outskirts of Istanbul. This forest contains several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, and you can choose one that suits your preferences. As you walk through the forest, be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife living there, including 60+ bird species and wild boars.
Experience the serene life on the Prince Islands with a bike tour. These islands are free of motor vehicles, and you’ll use a bicycle or a horse-drawn carriage as your principal mode of transportation. Stop at various stunning sights such as the Ottoman-era mansion on the island of Heybeliada and the Halki Seminary. Don’t forget to visit Yüce Tarla Botanical Garden and witness the beautiful flowers.
Take a break from Istanbul and head to Ölüdeniz, a popular paragliding spot. After soaring through the skies, relax on one of Europe's most beautiful beaches on the sparkling blue sea coast. A popular spot in the area is the Blue Lagoon National Park, perfect for a swim or picnics.
End your adventure with scuba diving in the crystal clear waters of Kaş, located on the Mediterranean coast. Discover a vibrant world under the sea while diving; the area contains several beautiful sunken structures, including underwater caves decorated in colorful coral reefs.
During your trip, you will need to use public transportation, such as buses or ferries, to visit specific destinations. The costs of these rides range from free to 5 USD. For longer day trips outside Istanbul, consider rented a car or hiring a private driver. Prices start at 100 USD per day for car rentals and 200 USD per day for private drivers.
If you have extra days, consider visiting the Topkapi Palace Museum, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. If you have fewer days, you can skip Paragliding in Ölüdeniz and Scuba Diving in Kaş.
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST), located about 24 miles northwest of the city center, and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), located about 30 miles southeast of the city center.