Istanbul, Turkey-6-day-itinerary

Istanbul, Turkey: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sultanahmet

  • Arrival: Arrive at Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Take a taxi or public transportation to your hotel.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the Sultanahmet area, which is close to many historical landmarks. Recommended hotels: Hotel Empress Zoe, Hotel Sultania, or Hotel Amira.
  • Places to Visit:
    • Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya): A former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 50 TRY)
    • Basilica Cistern: A massive underground water storage system with 336 marble columns. (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 20 TRY)
  • Food: Try traditional Turkish cuisine at Karaköy Lokantası or Çiya Sofrası.
  • Tips: Buy an Istanbul Tourist Pass for free entry to many attractions and public transportation.

Day 2: Exploring the Golden Horn

  • Places to Visit:
    • Topkapi Palace: The primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 50 TRY)
    • Spice Bazaar: One of the oldest bazaars in Istanbul, filled with spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
  • Food: Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Café Markiz or try some street food at Emin Usta.
  • Transportation: Take a stroll along the Golden Horn waterfront or use the tram (T1 line) to get around.

Day 3: Princes’ Islands

  • Places to Visit:
    • Take a ferry to Büyükada, one of the Princes’ Islands. Rent a bike and explore the island.
  • Food: Try some seafood at one of the many restaurants on the island, like Adalı Kahvesi or İskele Restaurant.
  • Tips: Be prepared for a day outdoors and bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes.

Day 4: Modern Istanbul

  • Places to Visit:
    • Istiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi): A pedestrian shopping street lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
    • Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower with panoramic views of the city. (9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, 25 TRY)
  • Food: Enjoy a modern take on Turkish cuisine at Mikla or Karaköy Güllüoğlu.
  • Tips: Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Beyoğlu and Karaköy.

Day 5: Mosques and Markets

  • Places to Visit:
    • Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): One of the most famous mosques in Istanbul, known for its blue tiles. (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, free admission)
    • Grand Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
  • Food: Try some traditional Turkish delight at Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir or Karaköy Özkonak.
  • Tips: Be respectful when visiting mosques and dress modestly.

Day 6: Departure

  • Departure: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market. Depart for the airport and head home.

Additional Tips and Information

  • Language: Turkish, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.
  • Safety: Istanbul is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Haggling: Expect to haggle when shopping at markets, especially the Grand Bazaar.
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and religious sites.

This itinerary should give you a good balance of history, culture, food, and modern Istanbul. Enjoy your trip!