6 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 6 days in Istanbul:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

• Start your day by visiting the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It's a beautiful mosque with intricate blue tiles and six minarets.
• Next, head to the Hagia Sophia, a former church turned mosque turned museum. It's a stunning example of Byzantine architecture and is a must-visit in Istanbul.
• After that, visit the Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. It's a massive complex with beautiful gardens, courtyards, and museums.
• End your day by exploring the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs and experience the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.

Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Taksim Square

• Start your day by taking a Bosphorus cruise, which will take you along the strait that separates Europe and Asia. You'll get to see beautiful views of the city and the water.
• After the cruise, head to Taksim Square, which is a bustling area with lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a great place to people-watch and soak up the energy of Istanbul.

Day 3: Istanbul Archaeology Museums and Galata Tower

• Start your day by visiting the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, which is a complex of three museums that house artifacts from ancient civilizations. It's a great place to learn about the history of Istanbul and the surrounding area.
• After the museum, head to the Galata Tower, which is a medieval tower that offers stunning views of the city. You can also grab a bite to eat at the restaurant on the top floor.

Day 4: Spice Bazaar and Suleymaniye Mosque

• Start your day by visiting the Spice Bazaar, which is a colorful market filled with spices, teas, and sweets. It's a great place to pick up some souvenirs and try some local treats.
• After the bazaar, head to the Suleymaniye Mosque, which is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Istanbul. It's a great place to learn about Islamic architecture and history.

Day 5: Princes' Islands and Maiden's Tower

• Start your day by taking a ferry to the Princes' Islands, which are a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara. They're a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and enjoy some nature.
• After the islands, head to the Maiden's Tower, which is a small tower on a tiny island in the Bosphorus. It's a beautiful spot to watch the sunset and enjoy some drinks and snacks.

Day 6: Dolmabahce Palace and Istiklal Avenue

• Start your day by visiting the Dolmabahce Palace, which was the residence of Ottoman sultans in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It's a stunning palace with beautiful gardens and interiors.
• After the palace, head to Istiklal Avenue, which is a pedestrian street with lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a great place to do some last-minute shopping and enjoy the energy of Istanbul.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Istanbul!