5-Day Istanbul Itinerary for First-Time Visitors: Explore Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Heritage
Discover the best of Istanbul in 5 days with our carefully crafted itinerary. Visit Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, while experiencing the vibrant markets and rich history of both the Asian and European sides.
5-Day Istanbul Itinerary
Explore Istanbul’s rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, vibrant markets, and the blend of Asian and European sides over 5 days.
Arrival and Sultanahmet Highlights
Check-in at Istanbul Hotel
(Check-in)Check-in and settle at your hotel in Sultanahmet.
Hagia Sophia Tour
(Attraction)Explore the Byzantine masterpiece of Hagia Sophia with a guided tour.
Blue Mosque Visit
(Attraction)Visit the historic Blue Mosque, iconic for its striking blue tiles.
Lunch at Sultanahmet
(Restaurant)Enjoy traditional Turkish lunch in Sultanahmet's local restaurants.
Topkapi Palace Historical Tour
(Experience)A guided tour to discover Ottoman sultans' palace and treasures.
Snack at Arasta Bazaar
(Restaurant)Taste traditional Turkish snacks at Arasta Bazaar.
Markets and Modern Istanbul
Breakfast at Local Cafe
(Restaurant)Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local cafe.
Grand Bazaar Exploration
(Activity)Explore the historic Grand Bazaar offering a variety of goods from spices to souvenirs.
Spice Bazaar Food & Shopping
(Restaurant)Have lunch sampling spices and treats in the vibrant Spice Bazaar.
Kadıköy Market Walk & Coffee
(Free Time)Stroll the bustling market streets of Kadıköy, enjoy coffee and street food snacks.
Dinner at Moda
(Restaurant)Enjoy dinner featuring fresh seafood in the coastal Moda area.
Bosphorus Cruise and Beyoğlu
Breakfast near Hotel
(Restaurant)Have a filling Turkish breakfast near your hotel.
Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
(Experience)Enjoy a 2-hour scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, viewing Istanbul's skyline and palaces.
Lunch at Karaköy Market
(Restaurant)Enjoy lunch at Karaköy's food market with fresh seafood and street eats.
Galata Tower Visit
(Attraction)Climb Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul.
Walk Istiklal Avenue
(Free Time)Leisurely stroll and shopping along the lively Istiklal Avenue.
Dinner at Beyoğlu
(Restaurant)Dinner in a vibrant restaurant at Beyoğlu with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine.
Asian Istanbul and Relaxation
Breakfast at Hotel Nearby or Local Cafe
(Restaurant)Enjoy a hearty breakfast close to your hotel to start the day.
Kadıköy Street Market Shopping
(Activity)Shopping at Kadıköy street markets including fresh food and handicrafts.
Free Time at Moda Park
(Free Time)Relax, walk, and enjoy seaside views at Moda Park.
Shopping and Afternoon Coffee at Bagdat Avenue
(Free Time)Explore boutiques and enjoy coffee at cafes along Bagdat Avenue.
Dinner near Hotel
(Restaurant)Dinner at a well-reviewed restaurant near the hotel serving Turkish and seafood specialties.
Last Day and Departure
Breakfast at Local Bakery
(Restaurant)Enjoy Turkish pastries and coffee at a local bakery.
Souvenir Shopping at Spice Bazaar
(Activity)Browse souvenirs, spices, sweets, and handicrafts at the spice market.
Fish Sandwich Snack
(Restaurant)Try traditional fish sandwich (balık ekmek) from Eminönü street stalls.
Check-out from Hotel
(Check-out)Check-out and prepare for departure.