Background
Trip Planner Logo

6 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling the Magic of the East ✨

Marianna Di Mauro-Nava

Marianna Di Mauro-Nava

30 Nov 2023

Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sights. From ancient marvels to bustling bazaars, this 6-day itinerary will immerse you in the enchanting beauty of the East. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Trip to Istanbul

Day 1Discovering the Subterranean Wonders
+

$58

Basilica Cistern
Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$32
7 - 10 min

~

Directions

Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Neoclassical museum showing the country's rich archaeological heritage within landscaped gardens.
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
$26
11 - 16 min

~

Directions

The Blue Mosque
Well-known site, also known as the Blue Mosque, built in 1616 & containing its founder's tomb.
No time set
•
Free
Day 2Unleashing the Shopaholic Within
+

$0

·

$ 2

Grand Bazaar
Historic sprawling network of indoor souks & market streets peddling leather, jewelry & gifts.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
Free
9 - 11 min

~

Directions

Hagia Sophia
Iconic, storied mosque set within a vast, domed former Byzantine church with stained-glass windows.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
•
Free
8 - 12 min

~

Directions

Gülhane Park
Venerable, tranquil forested park featuring gardens, paths, a creek & a science museum.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
Free
Day 3A Glimpse of Ottoman Splendor
+

$122

·

$ 3

Suleymaniye Mosque
Ornate 16th-century mosque with gardens, plus a terrace with views over the Golden Horn.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
7 - 10 min

~

Directions

Egyptian Bazaar
Covered, 17th-century market known as the Egyptian Bazaar, with spice, food & textile shops.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
•
Free
13 - 16 min

~

Directions

Galata Tower
Restored 14th-century tower and former prison overlooking the Bosphorus with a top-floor restaurant.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
•
$68
9 - 11 min

~

Directions

Topkapi Palace Museum
Huge, opulent 15th-century palace, occupied by sultans for 400 years, housing Ottoman treasures.
12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
•
$54
Day 4Exploring Spiritual Treasures
+

$16

·

$ 3

Fatih Mosque
Huge hilltop mosque rebuilt in the 1700s, with 4 semi-domes around a central dome, plus 2 minarets.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
13 - 16 min

~

Directions

Eyüp Sultan Mosque
A friend of the prophet Muhammad is thought to be buried at this 15-century mosque rebuilt in 1800.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
•
Free
11 - 14 min

~

Directions

Miniaturk
Park with Turkish landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, depicted in miniature format.
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
•
$16
Day 5A Journey Through Time and Innovation
+

$78

·

$ 2

Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Museum on transportation, industry & communications with a car collection & some hands-on exhibits.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
•
$30
17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Dolmabahçe Palace
Grand, domed sultan's palace, now a museum, including collections of art, calligraphy and carpets.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
$48
Day 6Farewell to Istanbul, Until We Meet Again
+

$0

Budget breakdown: $281 In total

Activities & Food:$274
Transport:$7