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

Sotiris Lazogiannis

Sotiris Lazogiannis

15 Dec 2023

Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture. Discover magnificent palaces, hidden bazaars, and iconic landmarks that will leave you in awe. Join me as I explore the enchanting streets of this magical city!

Trip to Istanbul

Day 1Majestic Palaces and Breathtaking Views
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$116

·

$ 2

Dolmabahçe Palace
Grand, domed sultan's palace, now a museum, including collections of art, calligraphy and carpets.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
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$48
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Çiçek Pasajı
Historic passageway between 2 streets, featuring ornate architecture, shops & cafes.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
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Free
14 - 21 min

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Directions

Galata Tower
Restored 14th-century tower and former prison overlooking the Bosphorus with a top-floor restaurant.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
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$68
Day 2Mysteries Beneath the Surface
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$58

Basilica Cistern
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
7 - 10 min

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Directions

Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Neoclassical museum showing the country's rich archaeological heritage within landscaped gardens.
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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$26
Day 3A Shopper's Paradise and Imperial Wonders
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$0

Grand Bazaar
Historic sprawling network of indoor souks & market streets peddling leather, jewelry & gifts.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
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Free
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Egyptian Bazaar
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
13 - 20 min

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Directions

Gülhane Park
Venerable, tranquil forested park featuring gardens, paths, a creek & a science museum.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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Free
10 - 15 min

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Directions

Hagia Sophia
Iconic, storied mosque set within a vast, domed former Byzantine church with stained-glass windows.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
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Free
Day 4Iconic Mosques and Timeless Beauty
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$54

·

$ 3

Topkapi Palace Museum
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
6 - 8 min

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Directions

Galata Bridge
Bustling bridge across the Golden Horn with pedestrian walkways & street vendors, with cafes below.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
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Free
21 - 32 min

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Directions

Suleymaniye Mosque
Ornate 16th-century mosque with gardens, plus a terrace with views over the Golden Horn.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Free
15 - 18 min

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Directions

Eyüp Sultan Mosque
A friend of the prophet Muhammad is thought to be buried at this 15-century mosque rebuilt in 1800.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
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Free
Day 5Miniature Marvels and Captivating Exhibits
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$46

·

$ 2

Miniaturk
Park with Turkish landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, depicted in miniature format.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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$16
5 - 6 min

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Directions

Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Museum on transportation, industry & communications with a car collection & some hands-on exhibits.
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
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$30

Budget breakdown: $279 In total

Activities & Food:$274
Transport:$5