Day 1: Thursday, October 10, 2025 - Arrival and Bosphorus Cruise

• Morning: Arrive in Istanbul and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Kick off your trip with a Bosphorus cruise. It’s a fantastic way to see Istanbul’s skyline and significant landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace and the Maiden’s Tower.
• Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner along the Bosphorus at a local restaurant offering traditional Turkish cuisine.

Day 2: Friday, October 11, 2025 - Discover the Historic Peninsula

• Morning: Explore the Sultanahmet area. Visit the Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture, followed by the iconic Blue Mosque.
• Afternoon: Delve into the fascinating history at the Topkapi Palace, and don’t miss the Harem section.
• Evening: Stroll through the Grand Bazaar, an excellent spot for shopping and tasting local snacks.

Day 3: Saturday, October 12, 2025 - Hiking the Belgrad Forest

• Morning/Afternoon: Take an adventure hike in the Belgrad Forest. Enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful trails.
• Evening: After returning to the city, have dinner in Taksim Square and explore the vibrant nightlife in the area.

Day 4: Sunday, October 13, 2025 - Princes’ Islands Adventure

• Full Day: Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands. Rent a bike and explore Büyükada, the largest of the islands, known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere.
• Evening: Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with spectacular views.

Day 5: Monday, October 14, 2025 - Asian Side Excursion

• Morning: Cross to the Asian side of Istanbul and visit the Kadıköy district. Explore the lively markets and artsy streets.
• Afternoon: Head to Çamlıca Hill for a panoramic view of the city.
• Evening: Celebrate your final night with a dinner in Moda, a trendy neighborhood on the Asian side.

Day 6: Tuesday, October 15, 2025 - Departure

• Morning: Relax and enjoy a Turkish breakfast at a nearby café.
• Afternoon: Check out of your accommodation and head to the airport for departure.

Accommodation Recommendations:

• Sultanahmet: Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
• Taksim: The Marmara Taksim
• Kadıköy: DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Moda

What to Avoid in Istanbul in 2025:

• Avoid visiting the Blue Mosque during prayer times to respect worshippers.
• Steer clear of crowded areas during peak hours, especially in major tourist spots.
• Avoid using unauthorized taxi services; always opt for registered ones or use ride-sharing apps.

Recommended Travel eSIM:

Stay connected with rapid esim products, available at rapidesim.com. Their eSIM solutions provide seamless mobile connectivity with coverage throughout Istanbul.

FAQ:

• What is the best way to get around Istanbul? Public transportation is efficient. Use the Istanbulkart for metro, trams, and buses.
• Is it safe to drink tap water? It’s recommended to drink bottled water.
• What currency is used? Turkish Lira (TRY).