Istanbul-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), a former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. Marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate details.
  • 10:30 AM: Walk to the nearby Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), one of the most famous mosques in the world. Take off your shoes and admire the beautiful tiles and architecture.

Lunch

  • Head to Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a historic pastry shop that serves delicious Turkish pastries, baklava, and other sweet treats. Try their famous baklava!

Afternoon

  • Visit the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Get lost in its labyrinthine corridors and discover unique souvenirs, carpets, and jewelry.
  • End your day with a Whirling Dervish Show at the Rüstem Paşa Mosque. Be mesmerized by the spiritual dance of the Whirling Dervishes.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Mikla, a trendy restaurant serving modern Turkish cuisine in a chic atmosphere.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying at the luxurious Pera Palace Hotel, a historic hotel that hosted famous guests like Agatha Christie and Atatürk.

Transportation

  • Get to the Sultanahmet area by taking the tram (T1) from Eminönü or Karaköy.
  • Use the convenient metro (M1) to get around Istanbul.

Things to Know

  • Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting mosques. Dress modestly and remove your shoes when required.
  • Haggle politely at markets, but be prepared for sellers to negotiate prices aggressively.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Learn some basic Turkish phrases like “merhaba” (hello), “teşekkür ederim” (thank you), and “nasılsınız?” (how are you?).

Day 2: Discovering Modern Istanbul

Morning

  • Start your day at Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. Explore the bustling streets, shops, and cafes.
  • Visit the iconic Reina nightclub, a luxurious spot for nightlife enthusiasts.

Lunch

  • Enjoy lunch at Leb-i-Lem, a trendy restaurant serving delicious street food and sandwiches.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Chora Church (Kariye Müzesi), a stunning medieval church turned museum. Marvel at its beautiful frescoes and mosaics.
  • Visit the Moda neighborhood, a charming area known for its quirky shops, cafes, and street art.

Dinner

  • Dine at Gazi Mahallesi’s Ömür Restaurant, a cozy spot serving traditional Turkish cuisine.

Transportation

  • Use the metro (M1) to get to Taksim Square.
  • Take a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy to explore the Bosphorus and other nearby neighborhoods.

Day 3: Exploring Asian Istanbul

Morning

  • Cross the Bosphorus Bridge and enter the Asian side of Istanbul.
  • Visit the Üç Dönem Park, a beautiful green space with stunning views of the city.

Lunch

  • Enjoy lunch at Karaköy’s Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a historic pastry shop serving delicious Turkish pastries and sandwiches.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Beylerbeyi Palace, a stunning palace built for Ottoman sultans. Explore its beautiful gardens and architecture.
  • Visit the Mecidiyeköy neighborhood, known for its upscale shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants.

Dinner

  • Dine at Kadıköy’s Mikla Restaurant, a trendy spot serving modern Turkish cuisine in a chic atmosphere.

Day 4: Historic Istanbul

Morning

  • Start your day at the Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), the primary residence of Ottoman sultans. Explore its stunning architecture, gardens, and artifacts.
  • Visit the Harem, the private quarters of the Sultan’s wives.

Lunch

  • Enjoy lunch at Karaköy’s Kofte Café, a cozy spot serving delicious Turkish street food.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Eyüp neighborhood, known for its stunning views of the Golden Horn and historic architecture.
  • Visit the Pierre Loti Hill, named after the famous French author who wrote about Istanbul. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from this hill.

Dinner

  • Dine at Beyoğlu’s Mikla Restaurant, a trendy spot serving modern Turkish cuisine in a chic atmosphere.

Day 5: Last Day in Istanbul

Morning

  • Spend your last morning exploring the bustling streets and markets of Çukurcuma, known for its antique shops, cafes, and street food.
  • Visit the Yıldız Park, a beautiful green space with stunning views of the city.

Lunch

  • Enjoy lunch at Beyoğlu’s Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a historic pastry shop serving delicious Turkish pastries and sandwiches.

Afternoon

  • Head back to the airport or your departure point, reflecting on the incredible experiences you had in Istanbul.

Transportation

  • Use the convenient metro (M1) to get around Istanbul.
  • Take a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy to explore the Bosphorus and other nearby neighborhoods.

Tips and Reminders

  • Always bargain politely at markets and bazaars.
  • Respect local customs, especially when visiting mosques. Dress modestly and remove your shoes when required.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Learn some basic Turkish phrases like “merhaba” (hello), “teşekkür ederim” (thank you), and “nasılsınız?” (how are you?).
  • Be prepared for crowded streets and markets, especially during peak season.
  • Don’t forget to try the delicious Turkish street food and pastries!