Awesome Walking Istanbul Tour Itinerary

Loving people, Faith and culture, delicious cuisines, and history. The history of Istanbul can go books over books, so I will keep it to the touristic point of view to have fun and knowledge both keeping our limited time in mind.

Istanbul is an excellent combination of modern and ancient worlds, people are really friendly and engaging, the history, the rich culture, and outdoor liveliness just make you feel connected to this city which really makes it worth visiting Istanbul. It has hilly terrain, with 7 hills across the city which contributes well to the scenery and beautification of Istanbul.

It’s both the most populous and the least densely populated metropolis in Europe with more than 18 million people crammed into one square kilometer (10 sq mi) of land. The streets are filled with people from all around the world it’s estimated that there are at least 100 different languages spoken in Istanbul and over 600 nationalities living here in this city.

The most popular areas for tourists are Sultanahmet Mosque and Square, the Grand Bazaar, Beyoğlu, Karakoy, Galata, and Sirkeci.. Istanbul is one of the most vibrant cities in Turkey, where the east meets the west, it has its amazing architecture, incredible food, rich culture with a history spanning many centuries. Istanbul (Constantinople) was a powerhouse of many empires but most prominently Byzantine empires from the 5th century AD until it was taken over by Ottoman empires in 1453 AD.

It is a year-round tourist destination but summer is much more enjoyable and busier, In the summer months weather gets a little muggy during June – August the temperature averages around 32 Celsius during those three months other than that it stays around 20 Celsius on average which makes it ideal weather for tourism. During the winter months, it does get little snow which adds up beauty to winter but the snow doesn’t usually stay for longer.

So here I have gathered some general Questions & Answers to help you get prepared for a fun journey to visit Istanbul.

If you’re planning on visiting this beautiful historical metropolis then make sure to take some time out for exploration! From exploring Hagia Sofia and learning about Ebru art to having a panoramic sunset view dinner at Galata Tower you will enjoy every moment of your day in this city. Here I will recommend 10 tourist attractions that will leave you breathless. 

So here is how I planned my tour itinerary in a similar sequence as listed below when I was in Istanbul. I’ll go through each of them in-depth, as well as any other special places or features in the surrounding that make it worth visiting.

1. Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
2. Hagia Sophia
3. Topkapi Palace Museum
4. Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Cistern)
5. Sultan Ahmet Square
6. Grand Bazaar
7. Spice Market
8. Istiklal Street
9. Galata Tower
10. Turkish Hamam (Bath, Sauna)
11. Galata Port
12. Bosporus Cruise Port
13. Princes’ Islands Day Trip (8 hours)
14. Basilica Cistern

Some additional things to do in the Istanbul tour which I thought is worth mentioning here these attractions will need some transit to make things faster.

1. Çamlıca Hil (Sunset & Panoramic View) Some public transit may help to save some time)
2. Istanbul Cable Car (Pierre Loti) Some public transit may help to save some time)
3. Basphorus night boat tour with dinner

Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)

Itinerary: It is free to enter, avoid visiting on Friday before 2 PM, check the Mosque schedule online for any changes, the visit may take up to an hour.

History: Sultan Ahmet Camii), also known as the Blue Mosque, is a historic mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built during the rule of the Sultan. Its Külliye contains Ahmed’s tomb, a madrasah and hospices. Located minutes walk from Topkapi and Hagia Sophia.

Located on the Golden Horn at the southern end of Galata Bridge next to Yeni Valide Mosque as well as not too far a walk from Hagia Sophia and Topkapi places. The mosque stands on top of a hill overlooking Hagia Sophia and overlooks many historical sites such as Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern, Gülhane Park and Seraglio Point. Visitors can take advantage of their visit by walking through its courtyard where they will find one of two remaining obelisks from Egypt that were brought here by the sultans during the 16th century.

The construction began during Ramadan of AH 1000 (15 March-13 April AD 1606). It was completed in AH 1016 (AD 1607–08) and inaugurated by Mehmed IV before he departed for his military campaign against Russia. The cost of construction amounted to 1 million gold ducats.[2][3] In Ottoman Turkish, it is written as سلطان احمد مسجد‎ or “Sultan Ahmet Mosque”. In Modern Turkish, it is written as “Sultanahmet Camii” or “Blue Mosque”.

The design of the mosque was inspired by Persian architecture. It incorporates traditional Islamic elements such as eight-pointed stars and arabesque patterns with Byzantine influences from Hagia Sophia, including three large domes surrounded by smaller ones over four minarets which are decorated with coloured tiles. The mosque is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions for its beauty and historical significance to Islam in Turkey.

It has been called “the most beautiful example of Turkish Baroque architecture”. This building served as an inspiration for many other mosques throughout history including Bursa Grand Mosque (1597) and Iznik Great Mosque (1571). In this place, you will find peace even if you are not religious because it’s just so beautiful! You can spend hours walking around admiring all its details without ever getting bored.

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya)

Itinerary: It is free to enter now, avoid visiting on Friday before 2 PM, check the schedule online for any changes, the visit may take up to up to 2 hours.

History: Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) is going to be out next its just a short walk from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia. It is a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica, a Byzantine gem, later a mosque, now a museum in Istanbul Turkey. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

It was built around 537 AD during the reign of Constantine as an ancient Christian church dedicated to Holy Wisdom and ceremonial place. The building served as an imperial palace and landmark for several emperors and was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. It remained as such until 1931 when it was secularized and opened as a museum by Atatürk to showcase its Byzantine art collection and historical significance.

With over 100 million visitors since 1935, it is considered among the most visited attractions in Turkey along with Topkapı Palace and İstanbul Archaeological Museums. Its vast interior has made it one of the largest churches ever built by volume, it also remains one of the holiest sites for Eastern Orthodox Christians who gather there annually on May 29th for Pentecost Sunday which marks Jesus Christ’s descent from Heaven onto Earth at his Resurrection.

In 1453 Sultan Mehmed II ordered that Aya Sofia (Hagia Sophi) be converted into a mosque from its status as a cathedral because he believed that all great places should be used for worshiping God rather than being left idle or turned into museums like many other churches around Europe had been done before him due to their lack of use or neglectful attitude towards them at this time period in history. He wanted Aya Sofia to become a house where people pray.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Itinerary: Paid entry TL100, buy a ticket online to save you some time, usually closed on Tuesdays check the schedule online for any changes, the visit may take up to up to 3 1/2 hours. you may notice more crowded there especially on Friday morning when all Mosques are closed.

History: The Topkapi Palace is one of the best Istanbul museum it is a former Ottoman palace in Istanbul, It was the official and primary royal residence in the city of the Ottoman Sultans for 400 years from 1465 to 1856.

This museum is home to an impressive collection of sultan’s royal stuff such as Islamic art, artifacts, governmental office Instruments, and much more that date back thousands of years. From the ancient civilizations like Greek, Rome, Egypt, Persia, Assyria, and Babylon, all the way up through modern times with items from European countries such as France and Austria. Visitors are able to view over 5,000 items from pre-Islamic times through to modern-day objects used by various sultans and their families. You can also see some beautiful examples of calligraphy throughout this historic building of Topkapi Palace. There’s no better place to learn about Turkish history than at this incredible Istanbul museum.

Topkapi Palace is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul so we recommend you visit early to avoid long lines later in the day! You can purchase your tickets online or at any ticket booth inside the main entrance to skip ahead of everyone else! Don’t forget to check out our blog for more information about this amazing place before you go! We hope you enjoy your time here.

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Cistern)

Itinerary: Paid entry, a fascinating mysterious underground water place, open 9 am – 6:30 pm Visit can take up to 1 hour. The Basilica Cistern is located near Sultanahmet Square.

History: The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı in Turkish) is one of the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that some of which lie beneath the city of Istanbul. It was built in 532 AD and supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other buildings on the First Hill.

This underground structure has a capacity of about 80,000 cubic meters (13,000,000 US gallons). Its construction is estimated to have taken 6 years using 336 marble columns resting on huge stone blocks of the legendary Medusa Heads, was one of the most beautiful mysterious girls in ancient times. These columns were compiled from ancient structures and sculpted of several kinds of marbles There are many legends surrounding these massive columns such as they were made from trees growing at Mount Lebanon or that they were brought by Constantine’s mother Helena from some faraway land.

At the bottom of the hill is a subterranean wonder, which includes amazing Byzantine monuments. Some of these mosaics are over 1,000 years old. Tourists can explore ancient columns and see how many Byzantine mosaics, some dating back to 390 AD, are still preserved on the walls of this underground marvel. 

Sultan Ahmet Square

Itinerary: Free entry, Open 24/7 year around a fascinating refreshing relaxing royal park, Visit can take up to 1 hour. It is located right next to Hagia Sophia.

History: Sultan Square is a beautiful historical square and park in Istanbul. It is located in front of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

This square has been used for religious purposes since ancient times, but it was also used as a marketplace during Ottoman Empire time. Today, this area is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul with many hotels restaurants and shops nearby. There are also several museums within walking distance from here including Topkapi Palace Museum and Archeological Museum.

This park is always bustling with visitors and locals alike enjoying the ambience, chatting to friends, and eating food from the various street vendors. It’s a fantastic location to relax and people-watch. There are a few monuments in the area you should look for as well.

Grand Bazaar Istanbul

Itinerary: Free entry, Open 09:00 – 19:00, Closed on Sunday, Located in the Fatih district next to mosques of Beyazit. Vist can take up to 2-4 hours.

History: The Grand Bazaar about 554 years old is the largest and oldest covered market with 18 gates at various points including rest-houses, mosques and fountains, makes it a unique shopping experience in the world. It’s a labyrinth of more than sixty streets and over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets to jewelry to leather coats.

You can find just about anything you want here in this Grand Bazaar including some things you didn’t know existed! There are so many traditional goods and souvenirs that you can buy which are the areal gem’s of this market place like Turkish Ceramics, Iznik bowls, Turkish lamps, Nazar Boncugu, otherwise known as “evil eye” ornaments, World famous hand made Turkish rugs or Kilim rugs, Spices and cents, traditional jewelry, Turkish delight (sweets), Hamam soaps and the most popular they’re also called hookahs, shishas, and waterpipes smoking It will take years before you see them all.

And if you get tired of shopping, there are plenty of cafes where you can sit down for a cup of Turkish coffee or tea while enjoying the beautiful views of the city outside.

Turkish Hamam (Bath), or Hammam a relaxing bath is an essential part of the culture in Istanbul. In fact, you’ll notice them everywhere throughout your trip to this city there are few in the Grand Bazaar here prices ranging from LR40-LR80 depending on their quality of service.

Spice Market (Misri Carsisi)

Itinerary: Free entry, Open 08:30 – 19:00, Spice market located behind the New Mosque. Vist can take up to 1-2 hours.

History: A famous saying is that no visit is completed to Istanbul without going through this Bazaar. It’s an amazing largest historical marketplace was built in 1664 it is also known as the Egyptian market, it was an international spice trade corridor during the Ottoman empire. Today it is a lively colourful spice market containing 85 shops with a vast variety of local spices, dry fruits, nuts, olives, Turkish delight. It is located in the heart of Istanbul on the main tourist trail right next to Yeni Cami historical landmark of the 17th century or right behind the New Mosque.

The Egyptian Bazaar also called the Spice Bazaar is a place where you can find authentic goods and souvenirs. It’s an incredible experience to be able to explore this vast part of Grand Bazaar full of interesting sights, sounds and smells – all together in one location! You’ll be surprised at how many different types of herbs & spices from various regions around Turkey as well as the other eastern countries the spices such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, cumin, turmeric, sumac and local spice recipes mixed were standing out among others but not just that, there’s so much more than what our eyes see the aromas which create an amazing ambiance for tourists Aside from that, you will discover that there are a variety of different selections when it comes to Turk sweets. You might be able to choose anything from the dessert bar with the most creative and delicious creations, which will certainly provide an unforgettable travel experience.

Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi)

Itinerary: Free entry, Open 08:30 – 19:00, Vist can take up to 1-2 hours.

History: Istanbul is a city with many contrasts. With more than 18 million people packed into one square kilometre (10 sq mi) of land, it’s believed that at least 100 different languages are spoken in Istanbul, Istiklal Avenue is a perfect example of this, it connects Asia to Europe, beginning near Sirkeci Train Station on the European side of Istanbul and ending at Taksim Square a city center on the Asian side. This 1.4 km long bustling street has everything you could ever want or need for your trip to Turkey, including clothes shops specializing in traditional Turkish clothing, books stores, art galleries cinema theatres, night clubs and much more.

The Istiklal Street is very crowded a pedestrian dominant street surrounded by the Ottoman empire era around 19th-century style architecture there are many things to do and see besides shopping such as The Whirling Dervish Museum where you can see a real, live dervish spinning. This ancient practice is part of the Sufi tradition and is intended to help followers reach enlightenment. The museum has rotating exhibits, so if you’re not satisfied with your first visit, it’s easy enough to come back for more!

Some other interesting things worth seeing around Istikala Avenue are the monument of independence (Statue) and the Art gallery of Istanbul which is at the back street of Istiklal Avenue.

Taksim Square is at the beginning or end of Istiklal avenue depending on which end you have started from. It is a very busy and fun place to walk around or get something to eat and relax it is known for tasty street food where you can choose from various famous foods like Simit (Turkish Sesame Begal) Doner kababs, Iskender kababs, Meze, Lahmachun(Pide Turkish Pizza), Cay (Tea) Kahveis (Turk Coffee) and Turkish traditional breakfasts I would recommend don’t miss out on these tasty dishes here.

Galata Tower

Itinerary: Paid entry, Open 09:00 – 19:00, Vist can take up to 1 hour.

The Galata Tower (medieval stone tower) is a historic tower located at the northwest end of the Golden Horn and has been open to the public since 1894. it was built by Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I Dicorus in 528 AD, it was originally called the “Megalos Pyrgos” or “Great Tower.” The original purpose of this building was to serve as a lookout for approaching ships and to protect the city from naval attacks. In 1348, Ottoman Sultan Orhan Gazi conquered Constantinople and renamed it İstanbul ̧meaning “the city”. After his conquest, he ordered that this tower be torn down so he could build one taller than this, However, when its destruction began people were so saddened at the site that they implored him to stop.

Today the tower can be seen from many places in Istanbul and attract many tourists to have a 360-degree spectacular view of Istanbul and the harbourfront of Istanbul also all major attractions like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Galata bridge, Kız Kulesi (the ‘Maiden’s Tower’ in Turkish) can be seen from this tower the best time to visit is around early evenings to enjoy the sunset and night view of the city later in the evening don’t forget to have your camera handy or you will miss a lot of scenery.

Turkish Hamam (Bath, Sauna)

Itinerary: Paid starting from $20 and up, Open 09:00 – 19:00, Vist can take up to 1 hour.

Tired of exploring Istanbul all day long? Want to try something new and adventurous? Then head to a hammam! You’ll be able to take a relaxing bath, get scrubbed down with gentle organic soap and rinse water by an attendant, and then dry off before getting wrapped up in a warm towel and don’t forget about the sauna! A little bit of heat will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed after your stress-filled day exploring Istanbul’s cosmopolitan streets. It’s time for you to break out of your comfort zone – it won’t take long before you’re addicted to all that this city has on offer.

These Hamams are available all around the city the Grand market ones are closer to major attractions like Hagia Sophia and the blue mosque area.

Princes’ Islands Day Trip

Itinerary: Paid about $40/person, operators usually offer EU side hotel pickup and dropoff, Open 09:00 – 19:00, Vist can take up to 6-8 hours.

This is a day trip you won’t forget. The Princes’ Islands are one of the best-kept secrets in Turkey, but not for long! There’s nothing like this archipelago of nine islands just an hour away from Istanbul where you can have all your holiday fantasies come true. 

Here are some things to do on the islands: rent a bike and explore, go snorkelling or scuba diving, visit ancient ruins or churches, soak up the sun at one of the many beaches. Hungry? You’ll find fresh seafood and delicious Turkish food at restaurants on each island – so get ready for a journey that will take you through time and space while your taste buds enjoy some fantastic cuisine.

The easiest way to get there is by ferry, which takes about an hour and departs every 30 minutes or so from Kabataş Pier in İstanbul’s Beyoğlu district at Eminönü Square. You can also take a hydrofoil if you don’t want to spend as much time getting there, for those who prefer not to travel alone, we recommend chartering a boat will be an option there.

Çamlıca Hil (Sunset Panoramic View)

Itinerary: Free entry, Open 24/7, Vist can take up to 2 hours including transportation.

The hill is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and was built by Sultan Mehmet II after he conquered Constantinople (modern Istanbul). The hill has been named for one of its most prominent features, which are the ruins of an old castle that was known as “Çamlıca Kalesi” or “Çamlıca Tower”. This tower was part of a chain defending the Bosphorus Strait from invasion. 

Çamlıca hil resort is one of the best places to overlooks the city of Istanbul. It is one of the most popular places to visit for tourists due to its proximity to many tourist attractions including Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque and the most amazing part of it gives an amazing panoramic view of Istanbul city and sunset view in the evening.

The Çamlıca Hil also houses some Ottoman military buildings and barracks used during World War I and World War II. It’s also worth mentioning that this area is filled with many cafes, restaurants, and shops for people who might want to spend some time thereafter exploring. So if you’re looking for a place with great views, delicious food options, beautiful flowers lining the streets, Çamlıca Hil should be your destination!

How do I get to Camlica Hill in Istanbul?

The best way to get there is to take the tram or Bus 129T from Taksim Square and get off at the Kısıklı bus stop. From there about 15 minutes uphill walk.

Istanbul Cable Car (Pierre Loti)

Itinerary: 8TL two-way, Open 08:00 – 23:00, Vist can take up to 2 hours including transportation.

Pierre Loti Hill is a great place for tourists and locals alike to enjoy the breathtaking view of Istanbul taken up in this open-air cafe. The hill’s name comes from its most famous french resident, who spent his life exploring Turkey.

The Pierre Loti Hill is a popular spot for taking great photos with a birdseye view of Istanbul. You’ll find seven historic mansions that are now serving as a boutique hotel, lovely restaurant and hookah cafe on its slopes – all set against an idyllic background featuring the Golden Horn below you while enjoying Turkish coffee or tea at one of many open-air cafes there!

The graveyard also makes this hill quite interesting if only because it was once used by Ottoman soldiers who had died in battle before being laid to rest appropriately next to each other so they could continue protecting their homeland from invaders throughout history until today when people come here just like me

How to get to Pierre Lottie cable car?

Take the ferry from Kasim Pasha port, heading for Eyüp Sultan, which is exciting and maybe a little shorter. You can also catch bus 55 from Şişhane 3 station to Tahta Minare (Mosque).

Bosphorus Night Boat Tour With Dinner

Is one of the best Istanbul sightseeing tours via boat this tour costs around $50/person and takes about 3 hours to conclude it runs from multiple ports in Istanbul the best bet would be to check with your hotel concierge for more recommendation.

The boat will take you through Bosphorus which is a sea canal in-between Istanbul European and Asian sides the boat will take you all the way to Black sea and come back it will take about 3 hours.

You will experience the nightlife of Istanbul and get to see great modern and historic sites along the way. In the boat you will be severed a Dinner with multiple dishes and drinks to choose from which I really loved it, You will also experience the Turkish cultural dance and commentary as you pass by the sites, and a physical Sultan will be onboard to take pictures with. I highly recommend this sightseeing tour.

Conclusion

I hope this tour guide has been informative and entertaining. I have included some common questions below this article to address some concerns and knowledge. If you’re considering a trip to Istanbul, then I would recommend it as one of the most interesting places around Europe! Happy Travels!

Q: Istanbul Population?

A: Istanbul Population – 15 million.

Q: What is Turkey’s currency called?

A: Currency Lira – 1 USD = 9 Lira (All credit cards are accepted here but better to have some local cash).

Q: Which is the main airport in Istanbul?

Airport 1 – Istanbul Airport (IST) 54 KM EU side (easy & cheaper access to city)

Airport 2 – Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) 44 KM Asia side.

Q: What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

• Best time to visit in Summer – March to May >>> September to October
• Winter visit mostly rainy some light snow – November – February.

Q: How many days are enough for Istanbul?

• At least 3 to 5 days.

Q: Which area is the best to stay in Istanbul?

• Sultanahmet is the historic and cultural heart of Istanbul. It is nearby most major attractions which can be reached by walk most tourists stay around this area. Also Taksim square is another place to stay in it is also a transportation hub so you can get anywhere in Istanbul or Tukey from here.

Q: Is Istanbul Street Food good?

• Istanbul street food is tasty hygienic and healthy don’t miss out on it.

Q: What should I avoid in Istanbul?

• Avoid McDonald or Burger King
• Eating nearby tourist places
• Avoid Taxis if possible or do flat rate beware of Turkish currency bills
• Avoid shopping in Istiklal Ave
• Don’t buy everything
• Don’t visit Mosques on Friday before 3 PM