5 Days in Istanbul: A Complete Itinerary

Five days covers Istanbul's historic peninsula, a Bosphorus cruise, and a taste of both the European and Asian sides.

Day 1: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

Start at the Hagia Sophia, arriving early to beat the crowds. Cross the square to the Blue Mosque, checking prayer times in advance, and spend the afternoon wandering Sultanahmet's surrounding streets.

Day 2: Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar

Spend the morning at Topkapi Palace, including the Imperial Harem and treasury. In the afternoon, wander the Grand Bazaar's vaulted lanes, and practice a bit of haggling if something catches your eye.

Day 3: Bosphorus cruise and Beyoglu

Take a Bosphorus cruise or public ferry in the morning for a different perspective on the city's waterside palaces and bridges. Spend the afternoon and evening in Beyoglu, walking Istiklal Street and stopping for dinner.

Day 4: Kadikoy

Take the ferry across to Kadikoy on the Asian side for a more local, less touristic pace, including its food market and waterfront promenade.

Day 5: Flexible day

Use a final day for the Spice Bazaar, a Turkish hamam (bath) experience, or any sights missed earlier — Sultanahmet's Basilica Cistern is a popular, atmospheric addition.

Getting around

The tram covers the historic peninsula efficiently; an Istanbulkart also works on ferries and the metro to Kadikoy and Beyoglu.

What to pack

Modest clothing for mosque visits and comfortable shoes for the Grand Bazaar and cobblestone streets matter in any season — see our Istanbul travel guide for the fuller packing breakdown.