Istanbul, Turkey-7-day-itinerary

Istanbul, Turkey 7-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 the Sultanahmet area
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as the Hotel Empress Zoe or Sultan Palace Hotel

Afternoon

  • Visit the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul
  • Explore the Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years
  • Walk through the Basilica Cistern, a massive underground water storage system

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at Karavanserai Restaurant or Dürümzade Ömür Kebap
  • Take a stroll along the Istiklal Avenue, one of the busiest shopping streets in Istanbul

Day 2: Byzantine and Ottoman Landmarks

Morning

  • Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), one of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul
  • Explore the Mosaic Museum, which houses a stunning collection of Byzantine mosaics
  • Walk through the Gülhane Park, a scenic park with beautiful gardens and fountains

Afternoon

  • Visit the Spice Bazaar, one of the oldest bazaars in Istanbul
  • Take a ferry ride along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia
  • Explore the Rumeli Fortress (Rumelihisarı), a medieval fortress on the Bosphorus

Evening

  • Enjoy seafood at Vogue Restaurant or Körfez Restaurant
  • Take in the stunning views of the city from the Pierre Loti Hill

Day 3: Princes’ Islands and Beach Life

Morning

  • Take a ferry to one of the Princes’ Islands, such as Heybeliada or Burgazada
  • Rent a bike and explore the island, visiting beaches and historic sites
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, such as Heybeliada Çiya Sofrası

Afternoon

  • Relax on the beach at Kalkan Beach or Yıldız Peninsula
  • Take a leisurely walk around the island, enjoying the scenic views

Evening

  • Return to Istanbul and enjoy dinner at Körfez Restaurant or Banyan Restaurant
  • Explore the nightlife in the Taksim Square, known for its bars and clubs

Day 4: Modern Istanbul and Shopping

Morning

  • Visit the İstanbul Modern, a museum showcasing modern Turkish art
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Kadıköy, known for its boutiques and cafes
  • Enjoy lunch at Çiya Sofrası, a popular spot for Turkish cuisine

Afternoon

  • Visit the Istinye Park, a scenic park with beautiful views of the Bosphorus
  • Go shopping at the Cevahir Mall or Kanyon Mall
  • Explore the Nişantaşı neighborhood, known for its upscale boutiques and art galleries

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Mikla Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the city
  • Take in a show or concert at the Zorlu Performing Arts Center

Day 5: Edirnekapı and the City Walls

Morning

  • Visit the Chora Museum (Kariye Müzesi), which houses stunning Byzantine mosaics
  • Explore the Edirnekapı neighborhood, known for its historic city walls and gates
  • Enjoy lunch at Asmali Cavit, a popular spot for Turkish cuisine

Afternoon

  • Walk along the City Walls, which offer stunning views of the city
  • Visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, a beautiful mosque in the Edirnekapı neighborhood
  • Explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine
  • Take a stroll along the Golden Horn, a scenic waterfront area

Day 6: Day Trip to Yalova

Morning

  • Take a ferry to Yalova, a charming town on the Sea of Marmara
  • Visit the Yalova Thermal Springs, which offer stunning views and relaxing baths
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, such as Yalova Kebapçısı

Afternoon

  • Explore the Yalova Castle, a historic castle with stunning views of the sea
  • Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the scenic views
  • Return to Istanbul in the evening

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your hotel and take a taxi or metro to the airport

Transportation

  • Metro: Istanbul has an extensive metro system, with lines that cover most areas of the city
  • Bus: Istanbul’s bus system is also extensive, with routes that cover most areas of the city
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey
  • Ferry: Ferries are a popular way to travel between the European and Asian sides of the city

Tips and Other Things to Know**

  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but many Istanbulites speak English
  • Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites
  • Haggling: Haggling is a way of life in Istanbul’s markets and bazaars
  • Safety: Istanbul is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings

Where to Stay**

  • Sultanahmet: A historic neighborhood with many hotels and hostels
  • Beyoğlu: A trendy neighborhood with many boutique hotels and apartments
  • Kadıköy: A charming neighborhood on the Asian side of the city, with many boutique hotels and apartments

Things to Eat**

  • Doner Kebap: A popular Turkish dish made from layers of lamb or beef
  • Lahmacun: A thin crust topped with minced meat, onions, and spices
  • Baklava: A sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough and nuts
  • Turkish Delight: A sweet treat made from sugar, cornstarch, and fruit juice

Note: This itinerary is just a sample and you should adjust it according to your personal preferences, budget, and time constraints. Additionally, be sure to check the current travel restrictions and COVID-19 protocols before planning your trip.