8 Days in Istanbul: Unveiling the Magic of the East 🕌✨

Kenneth Crasta

4 Jan 2024

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture. Discover hidden treasures, marvel at architectural wonders, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this captivating city.

Trip to Istanbul

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Viator

Day 1Mysteries Beneath the Surface: Basilica Cistern & 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

12 - 17 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 2A Tale of Splendor: The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Gülhane Park

Well-known site, also known as the Blue Mosque, built in 1616 & containing its founder's tomb.

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

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Free

7 - 10 min

Directions

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

9:15 AM - 10:15 AM

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Free

8 - 12 min

Directions

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

10:45 AM - 11:45 AM

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Free

Day 3Majestic Palaces and Exotic Flavors: Topkapi Palace Museum & Egyptian Bazaar

$54

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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$54

10 - 12 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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Free

Day 4Nature's Serenade: İBB Emirgan Korusu & Dolmabahçe Palace

$48

$ 2

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

27 - 33 min

Directions

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

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$48

Day 5Tranquility Amidst the Bustle: Yıldız Park & Galata Tower

$68

$ 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

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$68

Day 6Bridges, Mosques, and the Soul of Istanbul: Galata Bridge, Suleymaniye Mosque & Fatih Mosque

$ 2

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

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

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Free

21 - 32 min

Directions

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

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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Free

7 - 9 min

Directions

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

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

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Free

Day 7A Spiritual Pilgrimage: Eyüp Sultan Mosque

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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Free

Day 8Unforgettable Farewell to Istanbul

Budget breakdown: $207 In total

Activities & Food:$202

Transport:$5