ISTANBUL · TURKEY
Best Things to Do, Top Attractions & Sample Itinerary
Welcome to Istanbul — where East meets West, and history meets modern elegance. Straddling both Europe and Asia, this vibrant city is a living museum of empires, culture, and cuisine. With its dazzling mosques, colorful bazaars, and stunning Bosphorus views, Istanbul promises an unforgettable travel experience.
🌆 Why Visit Istanbul
Few cities in the world offer the diversity of Istanbul. Wander through centuries-old mosques and palaces, cruise along the Bosphorus, and get lost in the maze of the Grand Bazaar. From world-class dining and rooftop terraces to ancient hammams and bustling spice markets, every moment in Istanbul tells a story.
🧭 5-Day Istanbul Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Arrive in Istanbul and check into your hotel.
Take an evening stroll along the Sultanahmet Square.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the illuminated Blue Mosque.
Day 2: The Old City
Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace — Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
Wander through the Hippodrome and Basilica Cistern.
End the day with traditional Turkish coffee and dessert in a local café.
Day 3: Markets & the Bosphorus
Spend the morning shopping at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.
In the afternoon, take a Bosphorus cruise to see palaces and mansions along the water.
Dinner at a seafood restaurant in Karaköy or Ortaköy.
Day 4: The Asian Side
Cross the Bosphorus Bridge or take a ferry to Kadıköy or Üsküdar for a local experience.
Explore lively markets and try street food like simit and midye (stuffed mussels).
Return to Europe for sunset views from Galata Tower.
Day 5: Art, Culture & Relaxation
Visit Istanbul Modern or Dolmabahçe Palace.
Spend your afternoon in a traditional Turkish hammam for a spa experience.
Enjoy a farewell dinner with panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Istanbul are April–June and September–October, when the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the sunsets are spectacular.
Istanbul is not just a destination — it’s an experience that bridges worlds. From its ancient mosques to its modern skyline, every moment here is filled with beauty, flavor, and soul.