Background
Trip Planner Logo

5 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling Ancient Marvels and Experiencing Local Delights

Burak G

Burak G

15 Jan 2024

Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture. Discover awe-inspiring landmarks, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's bustling atmosphere. Join me as I explore the hidden gems and iconic sites of this enchanting destination.

Day 1Miniaturk, Galata Tower, and Velvet Cafe - A Miniature Wonderland and Panoramic Views Await
+

$52

·

$ 1

Miniaturk
Park with Turkish landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, depicted in miniature format.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$8
15 - 18 min

~

Directions

Galata Tower
Restored 14th-century tower and former prison overlooking the Bosphorus with a top-floor restaurant.
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
$34
1 - 2 min

~

Directions

Velvet Cafe
Hatıralarla yaşayan bir cafe, Anne elinden lezzetler, Antika fincanlarda servis edilen kahve ve çay keyfi, Günün her saati kahvaltı saati :)
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$10
Day 2Rahmi M. Koç Museum, Egyptian Bazaar, and Tarihi Temiz Köftecisi - Uncover Istanbul's Industrial Heritage and Savor Authentic Flavors
+

$28

·

$ 1

Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Museum on transportation, industry & communications with a car collection & some hands-on exhibits.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$15
10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Egyptian Bazaar
Covered, 17th-century market known as the Egyptian Bazaar, with spice, food & textile shops.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
4 - 6 min

~

Directions

Tarihi Temiz Köftecisi
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$13
Day 3Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, Basilica Cistern, and Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant - A Royal Palace, Artistic Marvels, and Culinary Delights
+

$66

·

$ 2

Dolmabahçe Palace
Grand, domed sultan's palace, now a museum, including collections of art, calligraphy and carpets.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$24
9 - 11 min

~

Directions

Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Riverside museum with Turkish & international modern & contemporary art collections, plus a cinema.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
$11
17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Basilica Cistern
Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$16
5 - 8 min

~

Directions

Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$15
Day 4Hagia Sophia, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, and Çengelköy Börekçisi - Step into Byzantine Splendor and Relish Savory Pastries
+

$23

Hagia Sophia
Iconic, storied mosque set within a vast, domed former Byzantine church with stained-glass windows.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
6 - 9 min

~

Directions

Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Neoclassical museum showing the country's rich archaeological heritage within landscaped gardens.
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$13
7 - 10 min

~

Directions

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
$10
Day 5Suleymaniye Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Çengelköy Börekçisi - Majestic Mosques, Treasure Troves, and Irresistible Pastries
+

$37

·

$ 1

Suleymaniye Mosque
Ornate 16th-century mosque with gardens, plus a terrace with views over the Golden Horn.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
9 - 14 min

~

Directions

Grand Bazaar
Historic sprawling network of indoor souks & market streets peddling leather, jewelry & gifts.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Topkapi Palace Museum
Huge, opulent 15th-century palace, occupied by sultans for 400 years, housing Ottoman treasures.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
$27
8 - 11 min

~

Directions

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
$10

Budget breakdown: $209 In total

Activities & Food:$206
Transport:$3