6 Days in Istanbul: A Journey of History and Culture

Cenk Yagkan

16 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the vibrant streets of Istanbul, where ancient marvels and rich culture await. Discover hidden gems, immerse yourself in breathtaking architecture, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Join me as I explore the wonders of this enchanting city.

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Serene Parks and Breathtaking Views

$68

$ 3

Hotel Villa Zurich

Depart from your stay 🏨

31 - 38 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

31 - 38 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

•

$68

Day 2Majestic Palaces and Tranquil Gardens

$48

$ 4

Hotel Villa Zurich

Depart from your stay 🏨

8 - 10 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$48

14 - 17 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

Day 3Mystical Underground Wonders and Exotic Spices

$32

$ 4

Hotel Villa Zurich

Depart from your stay 🏨

19 - 23 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$32

7 - 9 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

Day 4Miniature Marvels and Sacred Serenity

$16

$ 4

Hotel Villa Zurich

Depart from your stay 🏨

18 - 22 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$16

11 - 14 min

Directions

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

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 5Architectural Splendors and Iconic Landmarks

$ 4

Hotel Villa Zurich

Depart from your stay 🏨

18 - 22 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

18 - 22 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

Day 6A Shopper's Paradise at the Grand Bazaar

$ 3

Hotel Villa Zurich

Depart from your stay 🏨

16 - 20 min

Directions

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

Budget breakdown: $181 In total

Activities & Food:$164

Transport:$17