6 day itinerary for İstanbul

Itinerary

A 6-day trip to Istanbul is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine of this fascinating city. Let's plan a family-friendly itinerary that allows you to explore at a relaxed pace.

Day 1: Arrival and Sultanahmet

• Start your trip by visiting the iconic Sultanahmet Square, home to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic streets and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient part of the city.
• End the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine.

Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Dolmabahce Palace

• Take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise to admire the stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and the picturesque waterfront mansions.
• Visit Dolmabahce Palace, a magnificent 19th-century palace that served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire.
• Spend the evening exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Beşiktaş or Ortaköy for shopping and dining.

Day 3: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

• Spend the morning exploring the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, filled with colorful stalls selling everything from spices to textiles.
• Visit the Spice Bazaar to sample Turkish delights, spices, and teas.
• In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the historic Galata Bridge and enjoy the views of the Golden Horn.

Day 4: Princes' Islands

• Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to the Princes' Islands, a group of car-free islands in the Sea of Marmara.
• Rent bicycles or take a horse-drawn carriage ride to explore the charming villages and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the sea.
• Relax on the beach or take a swim before heading back to Istanbul in the evening.

Day 5: Chora Church and Balat

• Visit the stunning Chora Church, known for its beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
• Explore the colorful neighborhood of Balat, with its charming cobblestone streets, historic houses, and trendy cafes.
• End the day with a relaxing Turkish bath experience at a traditional hammam.

Day 6: Kadikoy and Moda

• Take a leisurely ferry ride to Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul.
• Explore the bustling Kadikoy Market, filled with fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.
• Stroll along the waterfront promenade in Moda, a trendy neighborhood known for its cafes and boutique shops.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan a wonderful and relaxing trip to Istanbul with your family! Enjoy your time exploring this magical city.