Istanbul on a Budget: Sultan's Delight in 3 Days

Unlock the enchanting secrets of Istanbul without breaking the bank.

10 August 2023

Experience the enchanting blend of East and West on a budget-friendly trip to Istanbul, Turkey. Explore the ancient wonders of the city including the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the majestic Blue Mosque all within affordable entrance fees. Savor the flavors of Turkish street food and indulge in a traditional Turkish bath to complete a memorable trip without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Sultan's Delight

  • Check into your budget-friendly hotel, The Cozy Ottoman, where carpets double as art and breakfast is served with a side of Turkish hospitality.
  • Navigate the labyrinthine streets of the Grand Bazaar, where a haggling session is mandatory. Channel your inner bargain ninja!
  • Stroll along the iconic Sultanahmet Square, where history dances amidst Ottoman wonders like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
  • Time travel to Topkapi Palace, home to sultans and their mysterious harems. Unleash your imagination and dream of a life as a sultan.
  • Deviate from the tourist trail to savour street food delights at Karakoy Gulluoglu. Go ahead, dip your fingers in baklava. Nobody's watching.
Day 2

Crossing Continents, Turkish Style

  • Hop on a ferry and embark on a Istanbul Strait journey, cruising between two continents, Europe and Asia. Feel like a modern-day Odysseus.
  • Delve into the spice-laden labyrinth of the Spice Bazaar. Let the scents of exotic spices take you on a magical carpet ride.
  • Witness the vibrant energy of Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and street performers. Join the chorus of lively crowds.
  • Satisfy your taste buds with a feast fit for Turkish royalty at Tria Elegance, where succulent kebabs and mezes await your voracious appetite.
  • Unwind in rejuvenating waters at a traditional Turkish Hammam. Let skilled attendants scrub you into a state of blissful tranquility.
Day 3

Eyes Wide Open

  • Switch on your inner Indiana Jones at the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir that whispers ancient secrets. Beware of lurking Medusa heads.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Taksim Square, a melting pot of cultures and contagious enthusiasm.
  • Navigate the mystical labyrinth of narrow streets in the charming neighborhood of Balat. Discover hidden corners where time stands still.
  • End your Turkish adventure on a strong note with a visit to the Museum of Innocence. Experience Istanbul's soul through trinkets, memories, and heartache.
  • Celebrate your last night at Lokanta Maya, where modern twists on Turkish classics will leave you with a taste bud symphony. Turkish delight, indeed!

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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