5 days in Istanbul

MorningStart with the two most iconic landmarks, marveling at their history and architecture.

1. 1Hagia Sophia Grand MosqueHagia Sophia, officially the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, is a mosque and a major cultural and historical site in Istanbul, Turkey.
2. 2Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, popularly known as the Blue Mosque, is an Ottoman-era historical imperial mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey.

AfternoonExplore the vast imperial palace and the mystical underground cistern.

1. 3Topkapi Palace MuseumThe Topkapı Palace or the Seraglio, is a large museum and library in the east of the Fatih district of Istanbul in Turkey.
2. 4Basilica CisternThe Basilica Cistern, or Cisterna Basilica, is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey.

EveningShop for souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar, then enjoy dinner with stunning views of the illuminated historic peninsula.

1. 5Grand BazaarThe Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops on a total area of 30,700 m2, attracting between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily.
2. 6Seven Hills Restaurant Terrace1.5 hFamous for its unparalleled panoramic views of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus, Seven Hills offers a memorable dining experience. While the food is good, the primary draw is the breathtaking vista, especially at sunrise or sunset.