8 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling the Secrets of the East

Həsənov Mirhəsən

5 Jan 2024

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the vibrant streets of Istanbul, where ancient wonders and modern delights collide. Discover hidden gems, savor tantalizing flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this enchanting city. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Serene Parks, Majestic Mosques, and Royal Splendor

$24

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

25 - 30 min

Directions

Restored Baroque Revival mosque featuring windows designed to capture the Bosphorus' changing light.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

10 - 12 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$24

Day 2Parks, Towers, and Spices: A Day of Exploration

$34

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

20 - 24 min

Directions

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

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

•

$34

6 - 8 min

Directions

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

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM

•

Free

Day 3Unleash Your Inner Shopaholic in the Grand Bazaar

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

7 - 10 min

Directions

Large public square featuring the main gate to Istanbul University, a big mosque & street vendors.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

11 - 16 min

Directions

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

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

•

Free

Day 4Miniaturk, Sacred Mosques, and Historical Treasures

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

12 - 15 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

12 - 15 min

Directions

Huge hilltop mosque rebuilt in the 1700s, with 4 semi-domes around a central dome, plus 2 minarets.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

•

Free

Day 5Dive into the Mysteries of the Deep and Underground

$39

$ 1

Big aquarium complex with around 1,700 species in many large tanks, plus a gift shop & eateries.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$23

26 - 32 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$16

Day 6From Vintage Cars to Iconic Landmarks

$15

$ 1

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$15

21 - 26 min

Directions

Public square with remnants of an ancient hippodrome, plus prominent & historic buildings.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 7Stroll in Tranquil Gardens and Uncover Ottoman Grandeur

$27

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

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

•

$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

•

Free

Day 8Farewell to Istanbul: Reflections on a Captivating Journey

Budget breakdown: $152 In total

Activities & Food:$147

Transport:$5