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Istanbul Trip

Istanbul

Duration

7 days

Budget

$7,000

Travelers

2

Trip type

Couple

Interests

historyarchitecture

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Day-by-day plan

Itinerary

1

Day 1

Historic Old City Exploration

Activity 1

Visit Hagia Sophia

09:00 – 11:00

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul's rich history.

Activity 2

Tour Topkapi Palace

11:30 – 14:00

Discover the opulent Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring beautiful courtyards and exquisite artifacts.

Activity 3

Lunch at Khorasani Restaurant

14:15 – 15:30

Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine with a stunning view near the Sultanahmet Square.

Activity 4

Visit Blue Mosque

16:00 – 17:30

Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and impressive architecture.

2

Day 2

Byzantine and Ottoman Marvels

Activity 1

Explore Basilica Cistern

09:30 – 10:30

Discover the ancient underground water reservoir with its mysterious ambiance and Medusa head columns.

Activity 2

Visit Istanbul Archaeology Museums

11:00 – 13:00

View a vast collection of artifacts from the ancient civilizations of the region.

Activity 3

Lunch at Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine

13:15 – 14:30

Taste traditional Ottoman dishes in a historical setting close to Topkapi Palace.

Activity 4

Walk through Gülhane Park

15:00 – 16:30

Relax and stroll in the historic Gülhane Park adjacent to Topkapi Palace.

3

Day 3

Bosphorus and Modern Istanbul

Activity 1

Bosphorus Cruise

10:00 – 12:00

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus, viewing palaces, fortresses, and Istanbul’s skyline.

Activity 2

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

12:30 – 14:00

Tour the lavish Dolmabahçe Palace, blending European and Ottoman styles.

Activity 3

Lunch at Sunset Grill & Bar

14:15 – 15:45

Dine with breathtaking views over the Bosphorus and sample international cuisine.

Activity 4

Visit Ortaköy Mosque and Neighborhood

16:00 – 17:30

Explore the charming Ortaköy Mosque and enjoy the lively surrounding area with cafes and views of the Bosphorus Bridge.

4

Day 4

Cultural Neighborhoods and Markets

Activity 1

Explore Süleymaniye Mosque

09:00 – 10:30

Visit the grand Süleymaniye Mosque with panoramic views of the Golden Horn.

Activity 2

Walk through the Spice Bazaar

11:00 – 12:30

Experience the vibrant Spice Bazaar, tasting and shopping for spices, sweets and souvenirs.

Activity 3

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

12:45 – 14:00

Enjoy traditional Turkish dishes in this historic restaurant located inside the Spice Bazaar.

Activity 4

Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque

14:15 – 15:00

Admire the mosque famous for its exquisite Iznik tile work.

Activity 5

Explore Balat District

15:30 – 17:30

Stroll through Balat’s colorful streets, famous for its Byzantine and Ottoman architecture and vibrant culture.

5

Day 5

Art, Museums and Panoramic Views

Activity 1

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

10:00 – 12:00

Explore contemporary Turkish art and international exhibitions at Istanbul Modern.

Activity 2

Lunch at Mikla Restaurant

12:30 – 14:00

Savor modern Anatolian cuisine with stunning views of Istanbul's skyline.

Activity 3

Climb Galata Tower

14:30 – 15:30

Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul from the medieval Galata Tower.

Activity 4

Walk Istiklal Avenue

15:45 – 17:30

Stroll along Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul’s vibrant pedestrian street, full of shops and cafes.

6

Day 6

Day Trip to Princes' Islands

Activity 1

Ferry to Büyükada Island

09:00 – 10:30

Take a ferry from Istanbul to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its historic mansions and horse-drawn carriages.

Activity 2

Bike rental and island exploration

10:30 – 14:00

Rent bicycles to explore the island’s architecture, pine forests and scenic views at your own pace.

Activity 3

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

14:00 – 15:30

Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea in Büyükada.

Activity 4

Return ferry to Istanbul

16:00 – 17:30

Relax on the ferry back to the city, enjoying sunset views over the Marmara Sea.

7

Day 7

Shopping and Leisure

Activity 1

Visit Grand Bazaar

09:00 – 11:30

Shop for souvenirs, carpets, jewelry and handicrafts in one of the world's largest covered markets.

Activity 2

Brunch at Alancha

11:45 – 13:00

Enjoy a relaxed brunch in a cozy spot offering delicious Turkish dishes.

Activity 3

Visit Chora Church (Kariye Museum)

13:30 – 15:00

Explore the beautiful Byzantine mosaics and frescoes in this historic church-museum.

Activity 4

Relax at Pierre Loti Cafe

15:30 – 17:00

End your trip with tea or coffee while enjoying views over the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Hill.