Istanbul is a city that has collisions between continents, cultures and centuries. Byzantine monuments as well as Ottoman palaces, vibrant bazaars or picturesque waterways, the city offers unlimited possibilities to the tourist. Thoughtful trip planning to Istanbul will allow the visitor to explore the history, cuisine, culture and modern life without being hurried. This travel guide describes the way in which tourists can enjoy the best of Istanbul in 7 Days, combining a mix of both iconic attractions and experience with local ones.

Day 1: Explore the Old Havana of the Heart of the City

Begin your way in Sultanahmet, the center of Istanbul. Start with the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece in the presence of which the diverse history of the city as a church, mosque, and museum is revealed. Across the square, just meet the Blue Mosque with its beautiful domes and its internal tile work. Visit the Hippodrome, which was formerly the centre of Constantinople.

During the afternoon, visit Topkapi palace where Ottoman sultans have lived all the centuries. Its courts, treasury and the Bosphorus make it a good introduction to the imperial heritage of Istanbul. Finish the day by having a classic Turkish meal in the area where you have foods such as kebabs or mezes.

Day 2: Bazaars and Local Life

Spend the second day in the markets of Istanbul. Grand Bazaar is the most ancient covered market in the world which sells all products such as carpet, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. The spice bazaar is located nearby and the air is filled with the smell of saffron, sumac, and Turkish delight.

In the afternoon walk through Eminoenul and the Golden Horn. Eat the street foods, like simit or roasted chestnuts. This day will provide the travelers with the impression of the everyday Istanbul but will remain enclosed in the history.

Day 3: Two Continents and Bosphorus

When touring Istanbul in 7 Days, a Bosphorus cruise will be one of the necessities. The waterfront palaces, wooden mansions, and ancient fortresses are depicted in sailing between Europe and Asia. Take a half-day cruise to see the view without being in a hurry.

Then go across to the Asian side of the city and go to Kadıköy. This is a vibrant neighborhood with local markets, cafes and a relaxed environment unlike the tourist centers. Eating here enables the visitor to have a feel of the Istanbulian way of life.

Day 4: Istanbul Art, Culture and Modern

Visit Beyoglu and Taksim Square on the fourth day. Take a stroll along Istiklal Street a busy walking street with shops, galleries and historic houses. The Galata Tower is a spot where one can have a panoramic view of the city skyline.

Visitors of art can visit Istanbul Modern or Pera Museum where they are able to see Turkish and foreign works. Istanbul in the evening One can watch live music or a cafe on the roof overlooking the Bosphorus, which is the current cultural landscape of the city.

Day 5: Turkish Beauty and Water Drizzles

Spend day five exploring Dolmabahce palace which is a luxurious home resembling the late Ottoman style. Its crystal chandeliers and large halls are very contrary to the previous palaces such as Topkapi.

Next, visit the Ortakoy with its mosque by the waterfront and the cafe culture. The region is very good in terms of photography and walking. It is a great experience to watch the sunset over the bosphorus here.

Day 6: Hideaway Neighborhoods

You must see Istanbul in 7 Days more than just the sites. Go to Balat and Fener, a district of color with its churches, synagogues and its colorful streets. These neighborhoods bring out the multicultural nature of Istanbul.

Sit back later in a classic Turkish hammam. A spa experience will allow tourists to unwind and at the same time enjoy a tradition that has existed centuries. Have dinner in a quiet neighborhood restaurant and end the day.

Day 7: Surgery Shopping, Relaxation, and Farewell

Spend the last day on easy sightseeing. Return to the most popular places, buy last minute gifts, or visit a cafe by the water. All time permitting, consider a quick trip by ferry to the Princes Islands as a quiet getaway of the city hustle and bustle.

This last day gives the travellers time to take a look back and have their way in Istanbul in a less hurried manner.

The reason to plan your trip to Istanbul with specialists

It is more convenient to explore such a rich and complex city as Istanbul with the help of an expert. Go Kite Tours assists tourists in creating their unique itineraries based on the combination of the places that must be seen and the local experiences. Cultural tours, comfortable transfers, and any other type of trip are planned professionally, and a journey becomes comfortable and unforgettable.

Conclusion

Seven days in Istanbul are the best mix of history, culture, cuisine and rest. With a proper arrangement of the plan, tourists will have an opportunity to explore the beauty of both major attractions and the beauty of ordinary streets. It is your first time visiting or you are returning, a carefully-laid out plan is useful to enable you to explore the best in the city. This Istanbul travel guide provides a good direction of having Istanbul at its fullest without leaving an opportunity to explore and have memorable time with Go Kite Tours.