Istanbul Turkey 5 Day Itinerary

Istanbul, Turkey 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sultanahmet

  • Morning: Arrive at Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Take a taxi or metro to your hotel in Sultanahmet area.
  • Visit:
    • Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya): A former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. ($15 entrance fee)
    • Basilica Cistern: A massive underground cistern with 336 marble columns. ($10 entrance fee)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Turkish cuisine at Karpet Restaurant or Café Türk.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Spice Bazaar, one of the oldest bazaars in Istanbul. (Free admission)
    • Walk around the Sultanahmet Square and take in the sights of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque).
  • Evening: Enjoy a scenic sunset at the Golden Horn promenade.

Day 2: Imperial Palaces and Bosphorus Cruise

  • Morning:
    • Visit Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. ($15 entrance fee)
    • Explore the treasury section, which houses some of the most valuable artifacts in the world.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Karaman Kebap or Banyan Restaurant.
  • Afternoon:
    • Take a Bosphorus Cruise (approx. $20) and see Istanbul’s waterfront palaces, mosques, and villas.
    • Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace, a blend of Ottoman and European styles. ($10 entrance fee)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Asmali Cavit, a historic restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine.

Day 3: Modern Istanbul and Nightlife

  • Morning:
    • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Beyoğlu, known for its street art, cafes, and boutiques.
    • Visit the Pera Museum (Pera Müzesi), showcasing the history of transportation and communication. ($10 entrance fee)
  • Lunch: Try some modern Turkish cuisine at Mikla or Karaköy Güllüoğlu.
  • Afternoon:
    • Walk along the lively Istiklal Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
    • Visit the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), offering panoramic views of the city. ($10 entrance fee)
  • Evening: Experience Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife in the Karaköy or Asmalımescit neighborhoods.

Day 4: Princes’ Islands and Beaches

  • Morning:
    • Take a ferry to one of the Princes’ Islands (Kızkulesi), such as Büyükada or Heybeliada. ($10-20 return ticket)
    • Rent a bicycle and explore the car-free island.
  • Lunch: Enjoy seafood at Kale Cafe & Restaurant or İskele Körfezi.
  • Afternoon:
    • Relax on one of the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Yörükali Beach or Nakibey Beach.
    • Visit the charming town center and admire the historic mansions.
  • Evening: Return to Istanbul by ferry and enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant like Vogue.

Day 5: Markets and Departure

  • Morning:
    • Explore the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. (Free admission)
    • Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.
  • Lunch: Try some street food at the bazaar or grab a bite to eat at Şehzade Çiğdem.
  • Afternoon:
    • Shop for souvenirs or explore other markets like the Arasta Bazaar or the Whirling Dervishes Bazaar.
    • Head back to the airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Stay in a hostel like Sultan Hostel or Istanbul Central Hostel (approx. $20-30 per night).
  • Mid-range: Choose a hotel like Hotel Empress Zoe or Hotel Sultania (approx. $60-100 per night).
  • Luxury: Opt for a high-end hotel like Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet or The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul (approx. $200-500 per night).

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Take a taxi (approx. 30-40 minutes, $20-30) or use the metro ( approx. 45-60 minutes, $1-2).
  • Public Transport: Use the Istanbulkart (a prepaid card) to ride buses, trams, and funiculars.
  • Walking: Explore the city on foot, but be prepared for cobblestone streets and steep hills.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but many locals speak English. Learn basic phrases like “merhaba” (hello) and “teşekkür ederim” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. You can exchange money or use ATMs.
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and churches. Remove your shoes before entering mosques.
  • Safety: Be aware of pickpocketing in tourist areas and avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Weather: Istanbul has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Other Things to Know

  • Haggling: Expect to haggle prices when shopping at markets or bazaars.
  • Turkish Bath (Hamam): Experience the traditional Turkish bath and massage.
  • Whirling Dervishes: Watch a mesmerizing performance of the Whirling Dervishes at a cultural center or mosque.

Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!