7 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling the Mysteries of the East

shabir salim

2 Dec 2023

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture. From ancient marvels to bustling bazaars, this blog will guide you through the hidden gems of the city. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Delving into the Depths of Basilica Cistern and Modern Art

$108

$ 3

Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$64

12 - 15 min

Directions

Riverside museum with Turkish & international modern & contemporary art collections, plus a cinema.

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$44

Day 2Unearthing the Secrets of Istanbul Archaeological Museums

$52

Neoclassical museum showing the country's rich archaeological heritage within landscaped gardens.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$52

Day 3Immersing in Turkish and Islamic Arts, Hagia Sophia, and Galata Tower

$180

$ 3

Palace museum of Islamic & Turkish art, opened in 1983 & displaying ceramics, carpets & glassware.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$44

8 - 11 min

Directions

Iconic, storied mosque set within a vast, domed former Byzantine church with stained-glass windows.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

16 - 20 min

Directions

Restored 14th-century tower and former prison overlooking the Bosphorus with a top-floor restaurant.

11:30 AM - 12:15 PM

•

$136

Day 4Experiencing the Opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace and Topkapi Palace Museum

$204

$ 3

Grand, domed sultan's palace, now a museum, including collections of art, calligraphy and carpets.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$96

14 - 17 min

Directions

Huge, opulent 15th-century palace, occupied by sultans for 400 years, housing Ottoman treasures.

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$108

Day 5Journeying through History at Panorama 1453 and Miniaturk

$92

$ 3

Historical center featuring a large panoramic painting of the conquest of Constantinople.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$60

13 - 16 min

Directions

Park with Turkish landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, depicted in miniature format.

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$32

Day 6Unleashing the Senses at the Egyptian Bazaar and Grand Bazaar

Covered, 17th-century market known as the Egyptian Bazaar, with spice, food & textile shops.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

12 - 17 min

Directions

Historic sprawling network of indoor souks & market streets peddling leather, jewelry & gifts.

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 7Finding Serenity at the Majestic Suleymaniye Mosque

Ornate 16th-century mosque with gardens, plus a terrace with views over the Golden Horn.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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Free

Budget breakdown: $645 In total

Activities & Food:$636

Transport:$9