Istanbul, Turkey 6 Day Itinerary
Title: 6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Istanbul, Turkey
Day 1: Arrival & Sultanahmet Area
- Morning: Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST). Check-in at your hotel in the Sultanahmet area, the heart of Old Istanbul. Recommended hotels: Rumeli Han or Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
- Afternoon: Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, followed by a short walk to the Hagia Sophia Museum. Enjoy lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi for traditional Turkish cuisine.
- Evening: Explore the Grand Bazaar and grab dinner at Kana Özen, known for its delicious meze plates.
Day 2: Topkapi Palace & Taksim Area
- Morning: Visit the Topkapi Palace and its Harem section, followed by a short ferry ride to the Spice Bazaar.
- Afternoon: Catch a taxi or tram to the modern side of Istanbul, Taksim Square. Visit the İstiklal Avenue and enjoy lunch at Noluç Cafe.
- Evening: Take a stroll along Istiklal Avenue and explore the historic Ciçek Pasajı and Karaköy Lokantası.
Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahçe Palace
- Morning: Embark on a Bosphorus Cruise to admire the city’s stunning architecture and skyline. Stop by the Dolmabahçe Palace in the afternoon.
- Afternoon: Visit the nearby Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul for high tea or a relaxing spa session (optional).
- Evening: Dine at Fish Tavern in Karaköy, serving fresh seafood dishes.
Day 4: Chora Church & Balat Area
- Morning: Take a taxi to the Chora Church Museum. Explore the beautiful Byzantine mosaics and frescoes inside.
- Afternoon: Head to the colorful neighborhood of Balat and visit the Fethiye Mosque. Grab lunch at Karaköy Güllüoğlu for famous baklava.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkish night out at Tarihi Hanım Sultan.
Day 5: Princes’ Islands
- Morning: Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands for a peaceful day escape. Rent a bike or a horse-drawn carriage (fiacre) to explore the island.
- Afternoon: Visit the Palace of Prince Sultan Abdülaziz and relax on one of the many beautiful beaches.
- Evening: Return to Istanbul and have dinner at Hamdi Restaurant in Eminönü, serving delicious doner kebabs with a view of the Bosphorus.
Day 6: Departure
- Morning: Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar or explore any areas you may have missed during your stay. Check out from your hotel and store your luggage.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a final lunch at Karaköy Lokantası before heading to Istanbul Airport (IST) for your departure.
Tips & Transportation:
- Purchase an Istanbulkart for easy and cheap public transportation.
- Always negotiate prices with taxi drivers, especially at tourist spots.
- Stay hydrated, as the summer heat can be intense in Istanbul.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting mosques.
- Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!