10 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a city that is rich in history, culture, and beauty. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a 10-day itinerary. But don't worry, I'm here to help! Here's an ideal itinerary for 10 days in Istanbul:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

After arriving in Istanbul, take some time to relax and settle into your accommodation. You can explore the local area, try some delicious Turkish cuisine, and get a good night's sleep to prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Old City Tour

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Then, head to the Hagia Sophia, a former church turned mosque turned museum. After that, visit the Topkapi Palace, which was once the residence of Ottoman sultans. End your day with a stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise

Take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia. You'll get to see stunning views of the city's skyline, as well as historic landmarks such as the Maiden's Tower and the Dolmabahce Palace.

Day 4: Istanbul Archaeology Museums

Spend the day exploring the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, which consist of three separate museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum. You'll get to see artifacts from ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans.

Day 5: Princes' Islands

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a ferry to the Princes' Islands. These nine islands are car-free and offer a peaceful retreat from the city. You can rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the islands.

Day 6: Chora Church and Fener-Balat

Visit the Chora Church, also known as the Kariye Museum, which is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Then, head to the Fener-Balat neighborhood, which is known for its colorful houses and historic synagogues.

Day 7: Istanbul Modern and Taksim Square

Spend the day at the Istanbul Modern, a contemporary art museum that showcases the work of Turkish artists. After that, head to Taksim Square, which is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Day 8: Suleymaniye Mosque and Spice Bazaar

Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, which was built in the 16th century and is one of the largest mosques in Istanbul. Then, head to the Spice Bazaar, which is filled with colorful spices, teas, and sweets.

Day 9: Galata Tower and Istiklal Avenue

Climb to the top of the Galata Tower for stunning views of the city. Then, head to Istiklal Avenue, which is a pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.

Day 10: Hamams and Turkish Baths

End your trip with a relaxing visit to a traditional Turkish bath, also known as a hamam. You can choose from a variety of treatments, including massages and body scrubs, and leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Istanbul! Let me know if you have any questions or need any further assistance.