Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Charm of Istanbul

Experience the magic of Istanbul, where ancient wonders meet vibrant culture.

10 August 2023

A trip to Istanbul offers a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sights. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, marvel at the intricate architecture and stunning mosaics. Wander through the bustling bazaars, savor delicious Turkish cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Historic Istanbul

  • Check into Queen's Hotel, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Sultanahmet, complete with eclectic decor and a cozy rooftop terrace.
  • Dive into the past at Hagia Sophia, a magnificent architectural wonder that has seen the rise and fall of empires – prepare to be awestruck!
  • Wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, where a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and eager vendors await your haggling prowess.
  • Discover the mystical Basilica Cistern, hidden beneath the city, where glittering columns and eerie ambiance create a cinematic experience.
  • Relish the authentic Turkish cuisine at Aşiyan Restaurant, serving mouthwatering mezes and tantalizing kebabs that dance on your taste buds.
  • End the day with a leisurely sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, where you'll be immersed in the breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline.
Day 2

Embracing Modern Istanbul

  • Start your day with a Turkish breakfast fit for a sultan at Van Kahvaltı Evi, a cozy spot offering freshly baked bread, olives, cheese, and more.
  • Witness the beauty of the Blue Mosque, adorned with thousands of ceramic tiles that glimmer like a sapphire in the sunlight.
  • Break away from tradition at Istanbul Modern, a contemporary art museum showcasing Turkey's vibrant artistic scene, blending innovation and tradition.
  • Take a moment to sip a cup of Turkish tea in one of the bohemian cafés of Beyoğlu, where lively conversations and artful music fill the air.
  • Treat your palate to a gastronomic adventure at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant renowned for its fusion of Nordic and Turkish flavors, topped with stunning views.
  • As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul by joining locals for live music at Babylon, where the beats will make you dance like nobody's watching!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Istanbul, Turkey by plane is to fly into Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), depending on your airline and preferences. Both airports offer numerous domestic and international flights.

Car

Driving to Istanbul is possible if you are in a neighboring country, such as Bulgaria or Greece. You can cross the border and follow the E80 highway towards Istanbul. The exact route and duration will vary depending on your starting point.

Train

There is no direct train service to Istanbul from other countries, but you can take a train to a nearby city like Sofia, Bulgaria or Bucharest, Romania, then continue the journey by bus or plane to Istanbul.

Boat

If you are traveling from a nearby Mediterranean country, you can consider taking a ferry or cruise ship to Istanbul. There are no direct routes from major European ports, but you can find various cruises that include Istanbul as a stop on their itinerary.

Bus

Taking a bus to Istanbul is a convenient option, with many European cities offering direct routes. For example, you can take a bus from Athens, Greece to Istanbul by companies like KTEL or Karavostasi. The journey takes approximately 11-12 hours.

Destination

Istanbul

Welcome to a vibrant city where east meets west, kebabs meet sushi, and stray cats meet tourists with open arms. Get ready to explore the land of baklava-induced food comas and never-ending tea sessions - welcome to Istanbul!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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