4 day itinerary for Istanbul Izmir

Itinerary

Istanbul and Izmir are both beautiful cities with rich histories and vibrant cultures. Given the ages and limited walking, I’ll craft a leisurely itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights without too much strain. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Morning:

• Arrival at Istanbul Airport: Once you land, take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your hotel in the Sultanahmet area. This is the heart of the city and close to many attractions.
• Check-in and Refresh: Settle into your hotel and take a moment to relax.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Try some delicious Turkish cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Look for places that offer traditional dishes like kebabs or mezes.
• Hagia Sophia: After lunch, visit this stunning architectural marvel. You can admire its grandeur from the outside if walking is a concern, or take a short visit inside if you feel up to it. There are plenty of benches to rest on!

Evening:

• Dinner with a View: Head to a restaurant with a view of the Bosphorus. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while watching the sunset over the water.
• Relax at the Hotel: After dinner, take it easy and enjoy a good night’s rest.

## Day 2: Exploring Istanbul

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to fuel up for the day.
• Topkapi Palace: Visit this historic palace, which is a short distance from Hagia Sophia. You can explore the gardens and courtyards at your own pace, and there are plenty of shaded areas to sit and relax.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Café: Find a cozy café nearby for lunch. Try a traditional Turkish pide (flatbread) or a simple salad.
• Basilica Cistern: This underground marvel is a short walk from the palace. It’s cool and dark, providing a unique atmosphere. There are benches to sit on, and it’s a fascinating place to explore without too much walking.

Evening:

• Dinner in Sultanahmet: Choose a restaurant in the area for dinner. You might want to try some fresh seafood or a traditional Turkish dish.
• Evening Stroll: If you’re up for it, take a gentle stroll around Sultanahmet Square to see the illuminated monuments.

## Day 3: Travel to Izmir

Morning:

• Breakfast and Check-out: Enjoy breakfast, then check out of your hotel.
• Flight to Izmir: Take a short flight from Istanbul to Izmir. The flight is about an hour, and you can arrange for a taxi to the airport.

Afternoon:

• Check-in at Izmir Hotel: Once you arrive in Izmir, check into your hotel and take a moment to relax.
• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Try some Aegean cuisine, such as fresh seafood or olive oil dishes.

Evening:

• Kordon Promenade: Spend the evening at the Kordon, a beautiful waterfront promenade. You can sit and enjoy the sea breeze, watch the sunset, and people-watch.
• Dinner by the Sea: Choose a restaurant along the Kordon for dinner. Enjoy the local specialties and the lovely view.

## Day 4: Discovering Izmir

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
• Visit the Agora of Smyrna: This ancient site is accessible and offers a glimpse into the city’s history. There are shaded areas to sit and rest.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Alsancak: Head to the Alsancak district for lunch. This area is lively and has many dining options.
• Explore Konak Square: Visit the iconic clock tower and the nearby market. You can enjoy the atmosphere without too much walking, and there are plenty of benches to rest.

Evening:

• Dinner in Izmir: For your last dinner, choose a nice restaurant that offers local dishes. Consider trying a traditional Izmir-style kebab or a seafood dish.
• Relax at the Hotel: Wind down your trip with a relaxing evening at your hotel, reminiscing about your adventures.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider using taxis or ride-sharing apps to minimize walking. Public transport is also available, but it may require some walking.
• Rest Periods: Don’t hesitate to take breaks whenever needed. Turkish tea or coffee is a great excuse to sit and relax!
• Local Guides: If you prefer, hiring a local guide for a few hours can make the experience more enjoyable and informative without the need for extensive walking.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful time in Istanbul and Izmir! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️