Istanbul 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival & Check-in

Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW), take public transport or an airport shuttle to your accommodation in the Sultanahmet area and check-in.

Consider using the Havaist shuttle from IST or Havabus from SAW for budget-friendly airport transfers to Sultanahmet.

Local Lunch

Grab a quick and affordable lunch at a local eatery in Sultanahmet, trying a traditional 'doner' or 'köfte'.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque Exterior

Admire the stunning exterior of the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a historical marvel that served as a church, mosque, and museum.

Dress modestly if you plan to enter the mosque (covered shoulders and knees, headscarf for women). Entrance is typically free for worshipers; separate visitor sections may have a fee.

The Blue Mosque Exterior

Walk over to the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), famous for its six minarets and beautiful blue tiles.

View from the outside, as interior access might be restricted during prayer times or renovations.

The Blue Mosque is often undergoing restoration, so check its current status before planning an interior visit.

Gülhane Park Stroll

Enjoy a relaxing walk through Gülhane Park, once the outer garden of Topkapi Palace.

It's a peaceful escape with beautiful views and historical monuments.

Free to enter and a great place for a leisurely stroll.

Dinner in Sultanahmet

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a budget-friendly restaurant in the historical Sultanahmet area.

Hagia Sophia Private Tour

Experience a private guided tour of the magnificent Hagia Sophia, allowing you to delve into its rich history and skip the ticket line.

This tour offers skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable guide. Entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

Basilica Cistern Private Tour

Embark on a private guided tour of the ancient Basilica Cistern, an impressive underground water reservoir with marble columns and the famous Medusa heads.

Tickets are not included and should be purchased directly at the museum. This tour provides a private guide and allows you to skip the line.

Street Food Lunch

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch experiencing Istanbul's famous street food.

Try a 'balık ekmek' (fish sandwich) by the Galata Bridge or a 'lahmacun'.

Grand Bazaar Exploration

Immerse yourself in one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.

Explore the labyrinthine alleys, browse for souvenirs, spices, ceramics, and textiles.

Haggling is expected when shopping. Even if you're not buying, it's a vibrant cultural experience.

Dinner near Grand Bazaar

Have dinner at a traditional restaurant in the vicinity of the Grand Bazaar or Sultanahmet.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Explore the lavish Topkapi Palace, once the main residence of Ottoman sultans.

Discover courtyards, treasury, and the Harem (separate ticket required).

Arrive early to avoid crowds. The Harem section requires an additional ticket.

Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Visit one of the world's largest museums, housing over a million works from various ancient civilizations including Greek, Roman, and Byzantine.

Located close to Topkapi Palace, making it convenient for a combined visit.

Local Lunch & Rest

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant.

Recharge before your hamam experience.

Traditional Hamam Experience

Indulge in a relaxing and traditional Turkish bath (hamam) experience.

Options include self-service or full scrub and massage packages.

Many hamams offer different packages. Research and book in advance for popular ones like Cağaloğlu Hamamı for pricing and availability.

Dinner in Beyoğlu

Cross the Galata Bridge to the modern side of Istanbul and enjoy dinner in the lively Beyoğlu district, perhaps along Istiklal Street.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Visit the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque, an Ottoman imperial mosque, known for its grand architecture and panoramic views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.

Free to enter. Remember to dress respectfully and remove your shoes upon entering. The gardens offer spectacular photo opportunities.

Spice Bazaar Exploration

Wander through the aromatic Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar), a vibrant market selling spices, Turkish delights, nuts, and dried fruits.

A great place for unique souvenirs and sensory overload. Don't be afraid to sample!

Lunch by Eminönü

Enjoy a final Turkish lunch at a local restaurant near Eminönü or the Spice Bazaar before heading to the airport.

Last Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or Turkish delights you might have missed during your trip.

Transfer to Airport & Departure

Depart from your hotel and transfer to Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW) for your return journey.