Top 4 Itineraries in Istanbul

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Istanbul.

If you only have a few days, Istanbul weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Istanbul offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Istanbul are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Istanbul offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Turkey's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Istanbul truly unforgettable!

If you’re as convinced as we are that Istanbul belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Istanbul are just a quick search away.

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Discover the perfect Istanbul itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Istanbul for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Istanbul without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Istanbul!

A scenic 7-day road trip through Ankara, Fatih, Üsküdar, İznik, and Altındağ is one of the best ways to experience Turkey. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 7-day itinerary means that Istanbul can easily be combined with other top destinations in Turkey without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Ankara, Fatih, Üsküdar, İznik, and Altındağ by public transport, renting a car in Turkey opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 7 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Ankara

• Arrival city: Çankaya
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ankara, e.g., The Wings Hotels Neva Palas
• Sightseeing: Kuğulu Park

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Ankara. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Ankara and Çankaya

• Destinations: Ankara and Çankaya
• Driving distance: 248.55 km, approx. 3 hours and 21 minutes
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Eskişehir, e.g., Tasigo Hotel Eskisehir Bademlik Termal
• Sightseeing: Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, Anıtkabir, Çansera Kent Bahçesi, Seğmenler Parkı, and Lausanne Park

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Şehit Cuma Dağ Tabiat Tarihi Müzesi, Anıtkabir, Çansera Kent Bahçesi, Seğmenler Parkı, and Lausanne Park. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Ankara and Çankaya, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Eskişehir.

Day 3: Discover Fatih, İznik, and İstanbul

• Destinations: Fatih, İznik, and İstanbul
• Driving distance: 276.77 km, approx. 4 hours and 25 minutes
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Istanbul, e.g., CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel
• Sightseeing: Hagia Sophia Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Egyptian Bazaar
• Recommended tour: Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More!

Spend the day exploring Hagia Sophia Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Egyptian Bazaar. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Istanbul.

Day 4: Experience İstanbul

• Destinations: İstanbul
• Driving distance: 9.99 km, approx. 54 minutes
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Istanbul, e.g., CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel
• Sightseeing: Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Gülhane Park, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Basilica Cistern
• Recommended tour: Best of Istanbul: Private Guided Tour for 1, 2, or 3 Days

Continue your journey through İstanbul, where you can explore Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Gülhane Park, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Basilica Cistern. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Üsküdar and Beyoğlu

• Destinations: Üsküdar and Beyoğlu
• Driving distance: 109.09 km, approx. 2 hours and 1 minute
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Kocaeli, e.g., TRYP by Wyndham Izmit
• Sightseeing: Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, and Büyük Mecidiye Mosque

Drive through Üsküdar and Beyoğlu, stopping to visit Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, and Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Kocaeli.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Altındağ and Bolu

• Destinations: Altındağ and Bolu
• Driving distance: 358.98 km, approx. 4 hours and 19 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ankara, e.g., The Wings Hotels Neva Palas
• Sightseeing: Haci Bayram Mosque, Ulucanlar Prison Museum, Column of Julian, and Orta Hamam

Spend time discovering Haci Bayram Mosque, Ulucanlar Prison Museum, Column of Julian, and Orta Hamam, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Ankara.

Day 7: Bid Farewell to Ankara

• Departure city: Altındağ
• Driving distance: 4.49 km, approx. 12 minutes
• Sightseeing: Independence Park

Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Ankara. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 525 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Istanbul.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Istanbul for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Istanbul with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

With a long list of top-rated attractions in Istanbul and Istanbul's widest selection of tours and activities at your fingertips, it's easy to plan a travel itinerary filled with unforgettable moments and discoveries.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Istanbul without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Gülhane Park.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Legacy Ottoman Hotel is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Istanbul's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Istanbul by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Sultanahmet Square, The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and Basilica Cistern.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Istanbul. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Istanbul in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 3: Learn More About the Top Sights in Istanbul

Use this day to discover more of Istanbul’s top sights. We recommend visiting Dolmabahçe Palace and Galata Tower.

To make the most of your time, don’t forget to book your attraction tickets and passes in Istanbul in advance. Beyond possible savings, booking tickets early ensures availability even for Istanbul's most popular attractions.

After a nice dinner, take a walk through the city center and experience Istanbul’s attractions in another light.

Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors of Istanbul

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Beyazit Square, Galata Bridge, Yeni Cami Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Suleymaniye Mosque are attractions you could discover today.

Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Istanbul.

For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Istanbul. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Turkey!

Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Istanbul

Spend your last few hours in Istanbul soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Istanbul in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Istanbul, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Istanbul travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

A 8-day beach vacation in Istanbul offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Istanbul:

• Beaches: Spend your days at Caddebostan beach II.
• Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
• Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Neşeli Balık, Birsen Kebap Pide, and Legacy Ottoman Hotel, and other nearby dining spots.
• Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Rock Pub, The Muddy Waters, and Salpa Bar, and more.
• Cultural experiences: Explore İBB Emirgan Grove and Istanbul Toy Museum, local markets, and souvenir shops.

With a well-planned 8-day beach vacation itinerary in Istanbul, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 8 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Caddebostan beach II or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Istanbul.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Caddebostan beach II, a top beach in Istanbul. In the afternoon, make sure to visit VIALAND Tema Park for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 6: Explore the Local Scene

Spend a sun-filled day at Caddebostan beach II. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting İBB Emirgan Grove and Ataturk Arboretum. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.

Day 7: Unwind by the Beach

Relax and rejuvenate with a beach day at Caddebostan beach II. Bring a book, lounge under an umbrella, and enjoy the day at Beylerbeyi Palace and Joshua's Hill, with a refreshing drink in hand. As evening falls, enjoy a beachside dinner.

Day 8: Say Farewell to Istanbul

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Istanbul. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.

Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Istanbul's coastline.

A 4-day weekend getaway in Istanbul offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life. But with so many things to see and do in Istanbul, fitting it all into a short visit can easily feel overwhelming.

However, with a well-planned Istanbul itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 4 days to spend, this is the perfect Istanbul weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.

• Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
• Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Gülhane Park, and soak in the surroundings.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
• Tip: Book an airport transfer to Istanbul in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Istanbul by night.

Day 2 - Discover Istanbul’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Istanbul with sightseeing, food, and drinks.

• Morning: Visit Grand Bazaar early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
• Afternoon: Continue to Egyptian Bazaar, stopping by Suleymaniye Mosque for a break and some photos.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
• Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Istanbul and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Istanbul

No itinerary in Istanbul is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.

• Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Sultanahmet Square.
• Afternoon: Explore The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
• Tip: Explore food and drink experiences in Istanbul and join an afternoon tour to sample the authentic flavors of Turkey.

Day 4 - Depart from Istanbul

Make the most of your last few hours in Istanbul before your departure.

• Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
• Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
• Tip: Schedule an airport transfer from Istanbul in advance to enjoy a stress-free end to your trip in Istanbul.

For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Istanbul. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Istanbul itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

As you explore Istanbul, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered. For those curious about the city’s highlights, our guide to the best things to do in Istanbul offers plenty of inspiration.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Istanbul for you.

If you're unsure of when to visit, don't forget to check out our insights on the best time to visit Istanbul. We'll share everything we know about weather, crowd levels, and price fluctuations throughout the year.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Istanbul in a way that feels truly unforgettable!