5 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling Ancient Marvels

Bugce Berksel

8 Jan 2024

Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture. Discover ancient artifacts at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, explore the mystical Basilica Cistern, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. Unveil the secrets of Topkapi Palace Museum, marvel at the architectural wonders of Hagia Sophia, and wander through the colorful stalls of the Egyptian Bazaar. Experience the tranquility of Gülhane Park, admire the panoramic views from Galata Tower, and witness the grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque. Indulge in the contemporary art scene at Istanbul Museum of Modern Art and take a stroll through the picturesque Yıldız Park. This unforgettable journey will leave you spellbound.

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Ancient Marvels and Oriental Delights

$29

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$13

7 - 10 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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$16

12 - 17 min

Directions

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

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

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Free

Day 2Majestic Palaces and Timeless Beauty

$38

$ 1

Venerable, tranquil forested park featuring gardens, paths, a creek & a science museum.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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Free

10 - 15 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

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$27

5 - 8 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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Free

8 - 11 min

Directions

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

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

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$11

12 - 15 min

Directions

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

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

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Free

11 - 16 min

Directions

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

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

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Free

Day 3Artistic Marvels and Spiritual Serenity

$68

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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$11

15 - 22 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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$34

14 - 17 min

Directions

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

11:15 AM - 1:15 PM

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12 - 15 min

Directions

A friend of the prophet Muhammad is thought to be buried at this 15-century mosque rebuilt in 1800.

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM

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Free

11 - 14 min

Directions

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

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM

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$15

Day 4Maritime Heritage and Royal Residences

$47

$ 2

Museum on transportation, industry & communications with a car collection & some hands-on exhibits.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$15

17 - 21 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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$24

18 - 22 min

Directions

This 19th-century palace with gardens was once a summer residence for Ottoman sultans.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

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26 - 32 min

Directions

Lush public park featuring an array of plants, 2 ponds, jogging paths & play equipment for kids.

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

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Free

Day 5Thrilling Adventures and Natural Escapes

$55

$ 1

Theme park featuring amusement rides for all ages & a shopping center with dining & entertainment.

8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

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$55

31 - 38 min

Directions

Suburban public park with cafes & a hilltop museum in an Ottoman palace dating from the 1880s.

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

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Free

Budget breakdown: $242 In total

Activities & Food:$237

Transport:$5