8 Days in Istanbul: A Journey through History and Culture

nourelhouda alaoui

27 Nov 2023

Embark on a captivating adventure through the vibrant streets of Istanbul, where ancient marvels and rich cultural heritage await. Discover the hidden wonders of Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet Square, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Istanbul Archaeological Museums and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Hagia Sophia. Uncover the secrets of Beyazit Square, Gülhane Park, and Topkapi Palace Museum. Ascend the iconic Galata Tower, cross the historic Galata Bridge, and explore the enchanting Egyptian Bazaar. Experience the tranquility of Suleymaniye Mosque and indulge in the grandeur of Dolmabahçe Palace. Visit the majestic Fatih Mosque, Eyüp Sultan Mosque, and the fascinating Miniaturk. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Rahmi M. Koç Museum. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable memories.

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Unveiling Ancient Mysteries in Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet Square, and Grand Bazaar

$32

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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$32

5 - 8 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

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Free

12 - 17 min

Directions

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

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

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Free

Day 2Delving into History at Istanbul Archaeological Museums and Hagia Sophia

$26

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$26

7 - 10 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

Day 3Exploring the Hidden Gems of Beyazit Square, Gülhane Park, and Topkapi Palace Museum

$54

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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Free

13 - 16 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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Free

10 - 15 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

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$54

Day 4A Journey through Iconic Landmarks - Galata Tower, Galata Bridge, Egyptian Bazaar, and Suleymaniye Mosque

$68

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

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

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$68

7 - 10 min

Directions

Bustling bridge across the Golden Horn with pedestrian walkways & street vendors, with cafes below.

9:15 AM - 9:45 AM

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Free

12 - 17 min

Directions

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

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM

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Free

11 - 16 min

Directions

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

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM

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Free

Day 5Reveling in Nature's Beauty at İBB Emirgan Korusu, Yıldız Park, and Dolmabahçe Palace

$48

$ 3

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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Free

29 - 35 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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Free

8 - 10 min

Directions

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

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

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$48

Day 6Immersing in Spiritual Serenity - Fatih Mosque, Eyüp Sultan Mosque, and Miniaturk

$16

$ 3

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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Free

13 - 16 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

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Free

11 - 14 min

Directions

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

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

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$16

Day 7Unleashing the Curiosity at Rahmi M. Koç Museum

$30

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$30

Day 8A Farewell to Istanbul - Cherishing Last Moments

Budget breakdown: $280 In total

Activities & Food:$274

Transport:$6