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5 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling the Secrets of the East 🕌

emily xr

emily xr

13 Jan 2024

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture. Discover hidden treasures, indulge in tantalizing flavors, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the East. Join me as we explore ancient marvels and create unforgettable memories in this captivating city.

Day 1A Glimpse into Turkish Art and the Buzz of the Bazaar
+

$55

Sunlight Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

7 - 10 min

~

Directions

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
Palace museum of Islamic & Turkish art, opened in 1983 & displaying ceramics, carpets & glassware.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
$55
11 - 16 min

~

Directions

Grand Bazaar
Historic sprawling network of indoor souks & market streets peddling leather, jewelry & gifts.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
Day 2From Exotic Spices to Breathtaking Views
+

$210

·

$ 11

Sunlight Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Egyptian Bazaar
Covered, 17th-century market known as the Egyptian Bazaar, with spice, food & textile shops.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
11 - 14 min

~

Directions

Galata Tower
Restored 14th-century tower and former prison overlooking the Bosphorus with a top-floor restaurant.
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
$170
14 - 17 min

~

Directions

Miniaturk
Park with Turkish landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, depicted in miniature format.
10:45 AM - 12:45 PM
$40
Day 3Unveiling the Past and Mysteries Beneath the Surface
+

$155

·

$ 6

Sunlight Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Museum on transportation, industry & communications with a car collection & some hands-on exhibits.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$75
21 - 26 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
$80
Day 4Icons of Byzantine Splendor and Ottoman Opulence
+

$120

·

$ 8

Sunlight Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

13 - 20 min

~

Directions

Hagia Sophia
Iconic, storied mosque set within a vast, domed former Byzantine church with stained-glass windows.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
17 - 21 min

~

Directions

Dolmabahçe Palace
Grand, domed sultan's palace, now a museum, including collections of art, calligraphy and carpets.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
$120
15 - 18 min

~

Directions

Suleymaniye Mosque
Ornate 16th-century mosque with gardens, plus a terrace with views over the Golden Horn.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
Day 5A Journey through Time and Majestic Royal Treasures
+

$200

·

$ 6

Sunlight Hotel

Depart from your stay 🏨

6 - 8 min

~

Directions

Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Neoclassical museum showing the country's rich archaeological heritage within landscaped gardens.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$65
6 - 9 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
$135

Budget breakdown: $769 In total

Activities & Food:$740
Transport:$29