6 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 6 days in Istanbul, including the top 10 things to do:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

• Arrive in Istanbul and check into your hotel
• Start your day by exploring the Old City, which is home to some of Istanbul's most famous landmarks
• Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul
• Explore the Blue Mosque, which is known for its stunning blue tiles
• Visit the Topkapi Palace, which was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans
• End your day with a stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world

Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Dolmabahce Palace

• Take a Bosphorus cruise to see the city from a different perspective
• Visit the Dolmabahce Palace, which was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire
• Explore the Taksim Square, which is the heart of modern Istanbul
• End your day with a visit to the Galata Tower, which offers stunning views of the city

Day 3: Istanbul's Asian Side

• Take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul
• Visit the Kadikoy Market, which is known for its fresh produce and seafood
• Explore the Moda neighborhood, which is home to some of Istanbul's best cafes and restaurants
• Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace, which was once the summer residence of the Ottoman sultans
• End your day with a stroll along the Bosphorus and watch the sunset

Day 4: Istanbul's Modern Side

• Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum, which showcases contemporary Turkish art
• Explore the Nisantasi neighborhood, which is known for its high-end shopping and trendy cafes
• Visit the Ortakoy Mosque, which is located on the Bosphorus and is known for its stunning architecture
• End your day with a visit to the Istiklal Street, which is one of the busiest and most vibrant streets in Istanbul

Day 5: Princes' Islands

• Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands, which are a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara
• Explore the island of Buyukada, which is the largest of the Princes' Islands
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the island
• Visit the Aya Yorgi Church, which is located on the highest point of the island and offers stunning views of the sea
• End your day with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the island

Day 6: Turkish Bath and Farewell

• Experience a traditional Turkish bath, which is a must-do when in Istanbul
• Visit the Grand Bazaar for some last-minute shopping
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Istanbul's best restaurants
• Depart Istanbul with unforgettable memories

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Istanbul!