10 Days in Istanbul: A Journey of Cultural Delights

Dina Al Abyad

13 Dec 2023

Embark on a 10-day adventure through the vibrant streets of Istanbul, Turkey. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture as you explore ancient palaces, majestic mosques, and bustling bazaars. Indulge in mouthwatering Turkish cuisine and discover hidden gems at every turn. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Istanbul!

Trip to Istanbul

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Royal Residences and Enchanting Gardens

$32

$ 3

This 19th-century palace with gardens was once a summer residence for Ottoman sultans.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

$32

26 - 32 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 2Fortress of Legends and Serene Parks

$ 5

Hilltop 15th-century fortress with multiple towers, walking paths & water views.

8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

•

14 - 17 min

Directions

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

9:15 AM - 10:15 AM

•

Free

7 - 9 min

Directions

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

10:45 AM - 12:45 PM

•

Free

Day 3Miniature Wonders and Subterranean Mysteries

$96

$ 3

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

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$32

24 - 29 min

Directions

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

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$64

Day 4Iconic Squares, Exotic Markets, and Towering Views

$136

$ 5

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

8 - 10 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

11 - 14 min

Directions

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

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

•

$136

Day 5Tranquil Parks, Labyrinthine Bazaars, and Historic Plazas

$ 3

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

17 - 21 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

7 - 10 min

Directions

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

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

•

Free

Day 6Majestic Mosques, Historical Panoramas, and Sacred Sites

$60

$ 5

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

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

17 - 21 min

Directions

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

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

$60

13 - 16 min

Directions

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

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 7A Journey Through Industrial Heritage

$60

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$60

Day 8Dive into the Underwater World

$92

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

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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$92

Day 9A Nature Retreat at Ataturk Arboretum

Calm, expansive arboretum with collections of plants & trees, popular for nature walks & photos.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

Day 10Thrills and Adventures at VIALAND Tema Park

$220

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

8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

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$220

Budget breakdown: $723 In total

Activities & Food:$704

Transport:$19