9 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Absolutely, I'd love to help you plan your 9-day adventure in Istanbul in June! Istanbul is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern culture, offering a plethora of experiences for every traveler. Let's dive into your ideal itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

• Arrive in Istanbul and check into your accommodation.
• Take a leisurely stroll around Sultanahmet Square to soak in the atmosphere.
• Visit the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Old City Exploration

• Explore the Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans.
• Visit the Grand Bazaar for a unique shopping experience.
• Relax with a Turkish tea at a local café in the afternoon.
• End the day with a Bosphorus cruise to see the city from the water.

Day 3: Asian Side Adventure

• Cross the Bosphorus to the Asian side of Istanbul.
• Visit the Kadikoy Market for a taste of local life.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Moda and Bagdat Avenue.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner along the coast.

Day 4: Historical Districts

• Visit the Chora Church to admire its stunning mosaics.
• Explore the historic district of Balat with its colorful houses.
• Discover the Suleymaniye Mosque and its panoramic views of the city.
• End the day with a traditional Turkish bath experience.

Day 5: Day Trip to Princes' Islands

• Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands for a peaceful escape.
• Rent a bike or horse carriage to explore the car-free islands.
• Enjoy a seafood lunch with a view of the sea.
• Relax on the beach or take a swim before heading back to Istanbul.

Day 6: Culinary Delights

• Join a Turkish cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.
• Visit the Spice Bazaar to buy some authentic Turkish spices.
• Enjoy a food tour in the evening to taste various street foods.

Day 7: Modern Istanbul

• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Beyoglu and Karakoy.
• Visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum for a dose of contemporary art.
• Enjoy a rooftop dinner with a view of the city skyline.

Day 8: Bosphorus Exploration

• Take a morning cruise along the Bosphorus to see the city's iconic landmarks.
• Visit the Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture.
• Explore the Ortakoy neighborhood and try a famous Turkish kumpir (loaded baked potato).

Day 9: Farewell to Istanbul

• Spend your last day exploring any missed attractions or revisiting your favorite spots.
• Shop for souvenirs at the Arasta Bazaar or Istiklal Avenue.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city.

I hope this itinerary gives you a good starting point for your 9-day adventure in Istanbul. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Have a fantastic trip!