Istanbul 6 Day Itinerary

Istanbul 6-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Sultanahmet Area Exploration

  • Accommodation: Stay in the historic Sultanahmet district for easy access to major attractions. Recommendations include Rumi Hotel, Museum Hotel Istanbul, and Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet.
  • Breakfast: Simit Sarayı for traditional Turkish breakfast and simit (ring-shaped bread).
  • Morning: Visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace. Remember to wear appropriate clothing when visiting mosques.
  • Lunch: Karaköy Lokantası for traditional Turkish dishes like Manti (ravioli) and Içli Köftesı (meatballs with pine nuts).
  • Afternoon: Explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest markets in the world. Don’t forget to haggle!
  • Evening: Stroll along Istiklal Avenue, visit Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city, and grab dinner at Nevizade Street, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Turkish taverns.

Day 2: Taksim Area & Boat Tour

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at Eric Kayser Bakery, offering French pastries and bread.
  • Morning: Visit the Pera Museum, Chora Church, and Dolmabahçe Palace.
  • Lunch: Ciya Sofrası in Kadıköy for a variety of Anatolian dishes.
  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to Kadıköy and explore Moda neighborhood. Return for a traditional Turkish tea or Çay at a local café.
  • Evening: Embark on a Bosphorus boat tour to see iconic Istanbul landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and Maiden’s Tower.
  • Dinner: Şark Kebap for delicious doner kebabs.

Day 3: Asian Side & Princes’ Islands

  • Breakfast: Local bakery or café in Kadıköy.
  • Morning: Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands (Adalar) and explore Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Büyükada by bike or horse-drawn carriage. Don’t miss the Pharmacy Museum on Büyükada.
  • Lunch: İncirli Hanı Restaurant on Büyükada for a relaxed outdoor dining experience.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beaches or explore the colorful houses and churches on the islands.
  • Evening: Return to Kadıköy, grab dinner at Ciya Sofrası if you missed it on Day 2, or try Çiya Sofrası Büyükada for a different menu.

Day 4: Fener & Balat Neighborhoods & Spice Market

  • Breakfast: Karaköy Güllüoğlu Baklava for traditional Turkish desserts and pastries.
  • Morning: Visit the Fener and Balat neighborhoods to see colorful houses, churches, and vibrant street art. Stop by the Patriarchate Church and the Museum of Greek Orthodoxy.
  • Lunch: Çiya Sofrası for a unique experience showcasing dishes from various regions in Anatolia.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı), then cross the Galata Bridge and explore the Eminönü area.
  • Evening: Dine at the elegant Mikla, offering a fusion of modern Nordic and traditional Turkish cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to Şirince

  • Breakfast: Local café in Sultanahmet or your hotel.
  • Morning: Take a bus or join a guided tour to Şirince, a picturesque village nestled among vineyards and olive groves.
  • Lunch: One of the local restaurants in Şirince for fresh, organic produce.
  • Afternoon: Explore the traditional Turkish architecture, visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, and relax in the nearby thermal springs.
  • Evening: Return to Istanbul, dine at a local restaurant in the Sultanahmet area or try a different cuisine like Japanese or Italian.

Day 6: Departure

  • Breakfast: Your hotel or a favorite spot from earlier in the week.
  • Morning/Afternoon: Spend your last hours exploring any attractions you missed, shopping for souvenirs, or relaxing at a café.
  • Departure: Catch your flight home with cherished memories of Istanbul.