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7 Days in Istanbul: A Journey through History and Culture

Asma Ghammem

23 Nov 2023

0

Join me on an unforgettable adventure as I explore the ancient marvels and vibrant culture of Istanbul. From the majestic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, each day promises exciting discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history and indulge in mouthwatering Turkish cuisine. Let's embark on this epic journey together!

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Unveiling the Hidden Depths of Istanbul

+

$32

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

4 - 5 min

~

Directions

Basilica Cistern

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$32

5 - 8 min

~

Directions

Hagia Sophia

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

8 - 12 min

~

Directions

Gülhane Park

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

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 2Delving into the Rich History of Istanbul

+

$80

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

6 - 9 min

~

Directions

Istanbul Archaeological Museums

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$26

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

•

$54

Day 3Exploring the Vibrant Markets and Mosques

+

$0

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

12 - 17 min

~

Directions

Grand Bazaar

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

10 - 15 min

~

Directions

Suleymaniye Mosque

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

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

7 - 10 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

Day 4Captivating Views and Historical Exhibits

+

$114

·

$ 5

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

11 - 14 min

~

Directions

Galata Tower

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

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

•

$68

14 - 17 min

~

Directions

Miniaturk

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

9:15 AM - 11:15 AM

•

$16

13 - 16 min

~

Directions

Panorama 1453 History Museum

Historical center featuring a large panoramic painting of the conquest of Constantinople.

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM

•

$30

Day 5Discovering Istanbul's Hidden Gems

+

$30

·

$ 4

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

14 - 17 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

•

$30

9 - 11 min

~

Directions

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

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

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 6Strolling through Enchanting Gardens and Palaces

+

$48

·

$ 4

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

38 - 46 min

~

Directions

İBB Emirgan Korusu

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

30 - 36 min

~

Directions

Dolmabahçe Palace

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

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$48

Day 7Thrilling Adventures at VIALAND Tema Park

+

$110

·

$ 3

Cheers Hostel

Depart from your stay 🏨

34 - 41 min

~

Directions

VIALAND Tema Park

Theme park featuring amusement rides for all ages & a shopping center with dining & entertainment.

8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

•

$110

Budget breakdown: $427 In total

Activities & Food:$414

Transport:$13