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17 Days of Exploring Istanbul Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Historical Heartbeat of Istanbul
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Sultanahmet District. This area is the historical heart of Istanbul and home to many significant landmarks. Walking through this district will give you a sense of the city's rich history and architectural beauty.
Afternoon
After exploring Sultanahmet, head over to the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). This iconic structure has served as both a church and a mosque and is now a museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics are sure to leave you in awe. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Turkish cuisine at Restaurant Name.
Evening
In the evening, take a stroll along the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü). The bridge offers beautiful views of the Golden Horn and is a great spot to watch the sunset. End your day with dinner at Restaurant Name, known for its delicious seafood dishes.
Bedtime
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4.73Sultanahmet District
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4.73Sultanahmet District
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4.67Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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4.67Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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Artistic and Modern Istanbul
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). This museum showcases contemporary Turkish art and offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. Enjoy breakfast at their on-site café.
Afternoon
Next, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Balat. Known for its colorful houses and narrow streets, Balat is perfect for an afternoon stroll. Stop by a local café for lunch or a snack.
Evening
In the evening, head to Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), one of Istanbul's most famous avenues. The street is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants here before heading back to your accommodation.
Bedtime
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4.90Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
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4.90Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
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4.82Balat
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4.82Balat
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Cultural Treasures Unveiled
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi). This palace was once home to Ottoman sultans and is now a museum showcasing imperial collections. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before entering.
Afternoon
After exploring Topkapi Palace, make your way to the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri). These museums house an extensive collection of artifacts from various civilizations that have passed through this region. Have lunch at Restaurant Name nearby.
Evening
Conclude your day with an evening visit to the bustling Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi). The bazaar is filled with stalls selling spices, sweets, dried fruits, and more. It's an excellent place for souvenir shopping. For dinner, try some local delicacies at one of the eateries within or near the bazaar.
Bedtime
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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4.75Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
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4.75Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
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Architectural Marvels Day
Morning
Kick off your fourth day by visiting the impressive Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii). Known for its stunning blue tiles that adorn its interior walls, this mosque is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. Grab breakfast from one of the nearby vendors or cafes.
Afternoon
Next on your list should be a trip to see the majestic Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). This palace blends European architectural styles with traditional Ottoman elements. Have lunch at their on-site restaurant or another nearby eatery.
Evening
End your day by visiting Ortaköy, a lively neighborhood located right by the Bosphorus. Ortaköy is known for its charming streets filled with cafes and boutiques as well as its beautiful mosque by the water's edge. Enjoy dinner here while taking in views of both Europe and Asia.
Bedtime
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4.67Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
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4.67Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
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4.49Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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4.49Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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Exploring the Grand Bazaar
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi). This historic market is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, you can find everything from jewelry to spices. Enjoy breakfast at one of the many cafes within the bazaar.
Afternoon
After spending your morning shopping, head to Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage) for lunch. This historic passage is filled with restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines. It's a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
Evening
In the evening, take a walk through Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani). This bustling area is known for its vibrant nightlife and numerous dining options. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area before heading back to your accommodation.
Bedtime
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4.65Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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4.65Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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4.66Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage)
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4.66Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage)
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Historical Insights and Scenic Views
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Cruise Port. Take a morning cruise along the Bosphorus to enjoy stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and its iconic landmarks. Have breakfast on board or at one of the nearby cafes before embarking.
Afternoon
After your cruise, visit Rahmi M. Koc Museum (Rahmi M. Koç Müzesi). This museum is dedicated to transport, industry, and communications and offers fascinating exhibits for all ages. Enjoy lunch at their on-site restaurant or another nearby eatery.
Evening
In the evening, head over to Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi). This hill offers panoramic views of Istanbul and is named after French novelist Pierre Loti who frequented this spot. Have dinner at one of the hilltop cafes while enjoying breathtaking views.
Bedtime
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4.56Istanbul Cruise Port
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4.56Istanbul Cruise Port
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4.49Rahmi M. Koc Museum (Rahmi M. Koç Müzesi)
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4.49Rahmi M. Koc Museum (Rahmi M. Koç Müzesi)
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Architectural Wonders Day
Morning
Begin your day by visiting Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii). This grand mosque is an architectural masterpiece designed by Mimar Sinan. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this magnificent structure.
Afternoon
Next, make your way to Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi), also known as Chora Church. The museum is famous for its stunning mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Have lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Evening
Conclude your day with an evening visit to Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi). This palace served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and offers beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Enjoy dinner at their on-site restaurant or another nearby eatery.
Bedtime
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4.70Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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4.70Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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4.58Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi)
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4.58Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi)
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Cultural Immersion Day
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (Türk Islam Eserleri Müzesi Hizmete). The museum houses an extensive collection of Islamic calligraphy, tiles, rugs, and ethnographic displays from various periods in history. Have breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before entering.
Afternoon
After exploring the museum, head over to Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani) for lunch. The square is bustling with activity and offers numerous food stalls where you can try local delicacies like balik ekmek (fish sandwich).
Evening
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) once again but this time under night lights which gives it another charm altogether! End your day with dinner at one of its waterfront restaurants enjoying fresh seafood dishes.
Bedtime
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4.60Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (Türk Islam Eserleri Müzesi Hizmete)
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4.60Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (Türk Islam Eserleri Müzesi Hizmete)
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4.65Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani)
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4.65Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani)
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Exploring Istanbul's Waterfront
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi). This bustling pier is a great place to start your day with a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before embarking on your journey.
Afternoon
After your ferry ride, head over to Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi). This iconic tower offers stunning views of the city and has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Have lunch at the tower's restaurant while enjoying panoramic views of Istanbul.
Evening
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Bosphorus. The waterfront promenade is perfect for an evening walk and offers beautiful views of both Europe and Asia. End your day with dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants along the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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4.52Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)
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4.52Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)
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4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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Architectural Marvels and Historic Sites
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani). This historic square was once the sporting and social center of Constantinople. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this ancient site.
Afternoon
Next, make your way to Obelisk of Theodosius, located within the Hippodrome. This ancient Egyptian obelisk was brought to Istanbul by Emperor Theodosius I in 390 AD. Have lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Evening
Conclude your day with an evening visit to Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi). This medieval stone tower offers panoramic views of Istanbul from its observation deck. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Galata before heading back to your accommodation.
Bedtime
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4.69Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)
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4.69Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)
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4.67Obelisk of Theodosius
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4.67Obelisk of Theodosius
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Historic Districts and Cultural Experiences
Morning
Begin your day by visiting Haydarpasa Railway Station (Haydarpasa Gari). This historic railway station is an architectural gem and offers beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this iconic site.
Afternoon
Afterward, head over to Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, also known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge. This bridge connects Europe and Asia and offers stunning views of both continents. Have lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Evening
In the evening, explore Ortaköy once again but this time under night lights which gives it another charm altogether! End your day with dinner at one of its waterfront restaurants enjoying fresh seafood dishes.
Bedtime
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4.80Haydarpasa Railway Station (Haydarpasa Gari)
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4.80Haydarpasa Railway Station (Haydarpasa Gari)
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4.51Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
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4.51Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
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Cultural Immersion Day
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari). This historic fortress offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and is perfect for a morning hike. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this ancient site.
Afternoon
Afterward, head over to Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri). This small yet elegant palace served as a hunting lodge for Ottoman sultans and offers beautiful gardens and interiors. Have lunch at their on-site restaurant or another nearby eatery.
Evening
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Golden Horn (Haliç) once again but this time under night lights which gives it another charm altogether! End your day with dinner at one of its waterfront restaurants enjoying fresh seafood dishes.
Bedtime
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4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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4.65Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri)
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4.65Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri)
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Cultural and Historic Gems
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Mihrimah Sultan Camii). This mosque, built by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, is known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this beautiful site.
Afternoon
Afterward, head over to German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi). This historic fountain was a gift from the German Emperor Wilhelm II to the Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II. Have lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Evening
In the evening, explore Balat once again but this time under night lights which gives it another charm altogether! End your day with dinner at one of its charming cafes or restaurants.
Bedtime
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4.59Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Mihrimah Sultan Camii)
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4.59Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Mihrimah Sultan Camii)
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4.56German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi)
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4.56German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi)
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Architectural Wonders and Scenic Views
Morning
Begin your day by visiting Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. This bridge connects Europe and Asia and offers stunning views of both continents. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this iconic site.
Afternoon
Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi) is next on your list. Known for its beautiful mosaics and frescoes, this museum offers a glimpse into Byzantine art. Have lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Evening
Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) is perfect for an evening visit. Named after French novelist Pierre Loti, this hill offers panoramic views of Istanbul. Enjoy dinner at one of the hilltop cafes while taking in breathtaking views.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul, Turkey.
4.51Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
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4.51Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
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4.58Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi)
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4.58Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi)
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Historic Sites and Waterfront Views
Morning
Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi) is a great place to start your day with a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before embarking on your journey.
Afternoon
Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) offers stunning views of the city and has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Have lunch at the tower's restaurant while enjoying panoramic views of Istanbul.
Evening
Ortaköy once again but this time under night lights which gives it another charm altogether! End your day with dinner at one of its waterfront restaurants enjoying fresh seafood dishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul, Turkey.
4.52Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)
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4.52Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)
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4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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Cultural Immersion Day
Morning
Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and is perfect for a morning hike. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before exploring this ancient site.
Afternoon
Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri). This small yet elegant palace served as a hunting lodge for Ottoman sultans and offers beautiful gardens and interiors. Have lunch at their on-site restaurant or another nearby eatery.
Evening
Take a leisurely stroll along Golden Horn (Haliç) once again but this time under night lights which gives it another charm altogether! End your day with dinner at one of its waterfront restaurants enjoying fresh seafood dishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul, Turkey.
4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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4.65Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri)
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4.65Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri)
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Final Day of Istanbul Adventures
Morning
Start your final day with a visit to the Aga Turkish Bath (Aga Hamami). This traditional Turkish bath offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, perfect for unwinding after days of exploration. Enjoy breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before indulging in this unique cultural experience.
Afternoon
After your relaxing morning, head over to Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi). This grand palace was once the residence of Ottoman sultans and is now a museum showcasing imperial collections. Have lunch at one of the nearby restaurants before exploring the palace grounds.
Evening
Conclude your trip with an evening visit to Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu). The bridge offers stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and is beautifully illuminated at night. End your day with dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants along the Bosphorus, enjoying delicious Turkish cuisine while taking in breathtaking views.
Bedtime
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4.55Aga Turkish Bath (Aga Hamami)
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4.55Aga Turkish Bath (Aga Hamami)
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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