Istanbul 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Istanbul

Arrive at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) from Athens.

Take a moment to clear customs and collect your luggage.

Airport Transfer to Hotel

Transfer from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to your accommodation in Sultanahmet.

Traffic can be unpredictable, so allocate ample time. Public transport options are available but a pre-booked shuttle or taxi might be more comfortable after a flight.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your hotel, Royan Suites, and take some time to settle in and freshen up after your journey.

Istanbul Photoshoot at Top Spots

Enjoy an Istanbul trip with a local photographer, capturing quality photos at iconic locations like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia area, immortalizing your vacation memories.

Meet your local photographer at a designated spot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking between picturesque locations. Great way to get professional shots of your first day!

Dinner in Sultanahmet

Enjoy your first authentic Turkish dinner in the charming Sultanahmet area, with many restaurants offering traditional cuisine.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with views of historical monuments. Try local specialties like döner, kebabs, or mezes.

Private Old City Guided Tour

Embark on a comprehensive private guided tour of Istanbul's most important historical monuments including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Hippodrome.

This tour offers in-depth historical information. Entrance fees to sites are typically not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

Lunch near Sultanahmet

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant in the Sultanahmet area after your tour.

Many eateries offer set menus or a la carte options suitable for a quick and tasty lunch.

Explore Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, admiring its vast array of goods from carpets and jewelry to spices and ceramics.

Be prepared for crowds and friendly haggling! It's an experience for all senses. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings. Closed on Sundays.

Suleymaniye Mosque Visit

Visit the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque, an Ottoman imperial mosque located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, offering stunning architecture and panoramic city views.

Remember to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered, headscarf for women). Shoes must be removed before entering. Admission is free.

Dinner in Eminönü

Dine in the Eminönü area, known for its seafood restaurants and lively atmosphere, especially along the Golden Horn.

Try a fresh fish sandwich from a boat or a more formal dinner at a restaurant overlooking the water.

Traditional Home Cooking Class

Embark on a culinary journey into the flavors, history, and daily life of Istanbul with a traditional home cooking class led by a local.

The experience begins in the colorful markets for ingredient sourcing. You'll learn to prepare authentic Turkish dishes and enjoy your creations for lunch.

Explore Spice Market

Immerse yourself in the aromatic wonders of the Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar), a vibrant marketplace filled with spices, sweets, teas, and local products.

It's smaller than the Grand Bazaar but equally captivating, offering a sensory feast of colors and smells. Great for souvenir shopping.

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying breathtaking views of Istanbul's European and Asian sides, historic palaces, fortresses, and charming waterfront homes.

Many options available, from short public ferries to private tours. Sunset cruises are particularly popular. Keep an eye out for famous landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress.

Dinner near Galata Bridge

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant near the iconic Galata Bridge, offering views of the Golden Horn and the city skyline.

This area is bustling with activity and offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants.

Evening Walk by Galata Tower

Take an evening stroll towards the majestic Galata Tower, appreciating its illuminated beauty and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area.

The tower offers panoramic views, but even from the outside, it's an impressive sight. The streets around it are lively with cafes and shops.

Hidden Beyoğlu Tour

Discover the vibrant Beyoğlu district, starting with local specialties at a traditional Lokanta, visiting artisans, and winding through atmospheric side streets.

This tour offers a unique insight into the district's history and daily life.

This tour combines cultural exploration with culinary delights.

Lunch in Beyoğlu

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery in the Beyoğlu area, savoring traditional Turkish flavors after your walking tour.

Ask your tour guide for recommendations or try a 'döner' or 'lahmacun' from a local shop.

Turkish Carpet Weaving Workshop

Engage in a hands-on experience at a Turkish Carpet Rug Weaving Workshop.

Learn about the stories, history, and meaning woven into traditional carpets in a cozy atmosphere with patient guidance.

Small groups ensure a personalized and culturally rich experience. No prior weaving experience required.

Traditional Home Cooking Class

Join a local for a traditional home cooking experience in Istanbul's city center.

This journey into the flavors, history, and daily life of Istanbul often includes a market visit and preparing authentic dishes.

A fantastic way to learn about Turkish cuisine and interact with locals.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

Visit the beautiful Rüstem Paşa Mosque, known for its exquisite Iznik tiles.

It's a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists, offering a serene and visually stunning experience.

Modest dress required. Free entry. Located near the Spice Bazaar, making it convenient for souvenir shopping.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping around the Eminönü or Spice Bazaar area, which is close to the Rustem Pasha Mosque.

Find Turkish delights, spices, and other unique gifts.

Practice your bargaining skills! Be aware of flight baggage allowances.

Farewell Turkish Lunch

Savor a final delicious Turkish meal near the historical peninsula before heading to the airport.

Consider a restaurant with Bosphorus views if time permits.

Try a traditional 'iskender kebab' or fresh fish.

Travel to Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)

Allow ample time to travel from your accommodation to Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) for your departure.

Consider booking an airport transfer in advance.

Istanbul Airports Transfer - Adore Tourism Travel offers door-to-door service (Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293974-d13230598-Reviews-Istanbul_Airports_Transfer_Adore_Tourism_Travel-Istanbul.html). Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your international flight.

Depart Istanbul for Athens

Check-in for your flight and depart from Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) back to Athens (ATH).

Enjoy your journey home!