Istanbul-6-day-itinerary

Istanbul 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sultanahmet

  • Morning: Arrive at Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and take a taxi or public transportation to your hotel in Sultanahmet.
  • Places to Go:
    • Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
    • Basilica Cistern
    • German Fountain
  • Activities:
    • Explore the Hippodrome of Constantinople
    • Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) for Friday prayers (if traveling on a Friday)
  • Where to Eat: Try traditional Turkish cuisine at Karaköy Güllüoğlu or Café Rumist.
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Sultanahmet, such as Hotel Empress Zoe or Ayasofya Hotel.

Day 2: Topkapi Palace and the Bosphorus

  • Morning: Visit Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years.
  • Places to Go:
    • Harem section of Topkapi Palace
    • Archaeological Museum
  • Activities:
    • Take a stroll along the Bosphorus Strait
    • Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Eminönü to Beşiktaş or Kadıköy
  • Where to Eat: Savor seafood at Karaköy Lokantası or try Turkish delight at Hafız Mustafa.
  • Accommodation: Continue staying in Sultanahmet.

Day 3: Princes’ Islands and Chora Museum

  • Morning: Take a ferry from Eminönü to Büyükada, one of the Princes’ Islands.
  • Places to Go:
    • Explore the charming island of Büyükada
    • Visit the Chora Museum (Kariye Müzesi), featuring stunning Byzantine mosaics
  • Activities:
    • Rent a bike and ride around the island
    • Enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants
  • Where to Eat: Try seafood at Kız Kulesi Restaurant or enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at Büyükada Yılmaz Restaurant.
  • Accommodation: Return to your hotel in Sultanahmet.

Day 4: Istanbul’s Bazaars and Markets

  • Morning: Visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
  • Places to Go:
    • Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
    • Arasta Bazaar
  • Activities:
    • Haggle for souvenirs at the bazaars
    • Explore the vibrant streets of Beyoğlu
  • Where to Eat: Try traditional Turkish coffee and pastries at Mandabur or enjoy lunch at Çiya Sofrası.
  • Accommodation: Continue staying in Sultanahmet.

Day 5: Modern Istanbul and Nightlife

  • Morning: Visit the Pera Museum, showcasing the history of transportation and communication in Istanbul.
  • Places to Go:
    • Istiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi), a lively pedestrian street
    • Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
  • Activities:
    • Explore the trendy bars and clubs in Beyoğlu
    • Enjoy a scenic sunset at a rooftop bar, such as 360 Istanbul or Mikla.
  • Where to Eat: Dine on modern Turkish cuisine at Mikla Restaurant or try seafood at Karaköy Fish Market.
  • Accommodation: Continue staying in Sultanahmet.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any attractions you may have missed earlier in your trip.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or public transportation to Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Istanbul is a city that straddles Europe and Asia, with the Bosphorus Strait separating the two continents.
  • Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
  • Haggling is expected at bazaars and markets.

Transportation

  • Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) is the main airport serving the city. You can take a taxi, bus, or tram to your hotel from the airport.
  • Public transportation in Istanbul includes buses, trams, and ferries. You can use the Istanbulkart, a prepaid card, to pay for fares.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak season (June to August) if you prefer smaller crowds.
  • Don’t forget to bargain when shopping at bazaars and markets!
  • Learn some basic Turkish phrases, such as “merhaba” (hello), “teşekkür ederim” (thank you), and “lütfen” (please).

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a day trip to the nearby city of Edirne, known for its Ottoman architecture and delicious cuisine.
  • Visit the Whirling Dervishes at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center or the Rumi Mevlevi Lodge.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in Istanbul’s Karaköy neighborhood.