Nov 19, 2024 | Myra-Fields
Located in the heart of İstanbul, Sultan Ahmet and Hagia Sophia represent the epitome of the city’s rich historical legacy. Sultan Ahmet, also known as the Blue Mosque, is famous for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Nearby, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque stands as a symbol of İstanbul’s diverse cultural heritage, being a marvel of Byzantine architecture that later became an Ottoman mosque.
November in İstanbul is characterized by cool, moderate weather, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is quite common, so it's advisable to bring rain gear. The days are relatively short, with daylight lasting for approximately 9 to 10 hours. Despite the occasional rain, it’s a comfortable time to explore without the peak summer tourist rush.
The best time to visit Sultan Ahmet and Hagia Sophia is in the late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is pleasant, avoiding the harsh summer heat and the winter chill. Visiting in November allows for a more intimate experience as the tourist crowds are considerably thinner.
22 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Arrive at İstanbul Airport and transfer to your hotel in the Sultan Ahmet area. Check-in and freshen up for the day ahead.
$50
Ensure your travel documents are in order and keep local currency handy for immediate expenses.
1 hour
Walk to the Blue Mosque, one of the most iconic sights in İstanbul. Discover its beautiful interior and learn about its history.
$0
Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
2 hours
Enjoy a delightful Turkish lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try local dishes like kebabs and baklava.
$20
Look for restaurants with good hygiene ratings.
1 hour
Stroll around the historical square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and visiting various landmarks.
$0
Keep personal belongings secure as the area can be crowded.
2 hours
Return to the hotel for dinner and rest. Enjoy a quiet evening, preparing for the adventures ahead.
$30
Try local Turkish cuisine for dinner to get a taste of the culture.
2 hours
23 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Prepare yourself for a historical journey.
$10
Opt for a balanced breakfast with local specialities.
1 hour
Explore the grand Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its transformation from a cathedral to a mosque.
$10
Respect the rules inside the mosque, and take time to appreciate the architectural details.
3 hours
Enjoy lunch at a café near Hagia Sophia. Sample local delicacies and relax before continuing the day.
$15
Choose a café with good reviews and reasonable prices.
1 hour
Explore the ancient underground Basilica Cistern, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
$5
Wear comfortable shoes as the ground might be slippery.
1 hour
Take a leisurely evening walk along the Bosphorus. Enjoy the scenic views and calm atmosphere.
$0
Keep an eye on the time to return safely to your accommodation.
2 hours
24 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Start the day with breakfast at a local bakery. Try Turkish pastries like simit and börek.
$5
Check the bakery's cleanliness and freshness of its products.
1 hour
Visit the İstanbul Archaeological Museums, which consist of three separate museums showcasing ancient artifacts.
$10
Allocate enough time to explore each museum thoroughly.
3 hours
Have lunch at a restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine. Enjoy dishes like meze and koftas.
$20
Go for restaurants that offer authentic Turkish flavours.
1 hour
Spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
$50
Bargain wisely and keep personal items secure.
2 hours
Experience the local tram ride through the city, getting a feel for the daily life in İstanbul.
$5
Purchase tram tickets in advance to avoid waiting.
1 hour
25 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Have an early breakfast at the hotel and catch the ferry to Princes' Islands.
$20
Check ferry schedules and purchase tickets in advance.
2 hours
Explore Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands. Rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
$30
Respect the local environment and adhere to regulations.
3 hours
Enjoy a seafood lunch at a seaside restaurant, with beautiful views of the Marmara Sea.
$25
Check the freshness of the seafood.
1 hour
Hike up to Aya Yorgi Church for a panoramic view of the island and surrounding waters.
$0
Wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
2 hours
Catch the ferry back to İstanbul, reminiscing over the day's experiences.
$20
Double-check the ferry return times.
2 hours
26 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Start the day with a pleasant breakfast at your hotel. Get ready for a culturally rich day.
$10
Opt for a light breakfast if you plan to sample various local treats during the day.
1 hour
Explore Topkapi Palace, the historic residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring beautiful courtyards and treasuries.
$20
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
3 hours
Have lunch at a local eatery serving traditional Ottoman cuisine. Relish the rich flavours.
$20
Choose a reputable place to ensure food safety.
1 hour
Spend the afternoon at the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Islamic artifacts.
$10
Allocate sufficient time to appreciate the artifacts.
2 hours
Return to the hotel for dinner and relax. Reflect on the day's exploration and experiences.
$30
Try a new Turkish dish for dinner to expand your culinary experience.
2 hours
27 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Kick off the day with a filling breakfast at your hotel. Get ready for an exciting cruise.
$10
Stay hydrated and pack essentials for the day.
1 hour
Take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, experiencing the city from a unique perspective.
$30
Wear a jacket as it might get breezy on the water.
3 hours
Have lunch at a restaurant near Eminönü, enjoying views of the Bosphorus Strait.
$25
Ensure the restaurant has good reviews and a pleasant ambiance.
1 hour
Tour the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, a symbol of the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
$20
Keep an eye on your belongings as the area can be crowded.
2 hours
Spend the evening exploring Taksim Square, a hub of modern İstanbul with shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
$50
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
3 hours
28 November, 2024
Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih, İstanbul
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel. Take your time to savor the moment.
$10
Have a leisurely breakfast and plan your morning.
1 hour
Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs and gifts at local markets.
$50
Bargain politely and keep cash handy for small purchases.
2 hours
Return to the hotel to relax and pack your belongings for departure.
$0
Double-check your packing list to ensure you don't leave anything behind.
2 hours
Have a light lunch at the hotel or a nearby restaurant before checkout.
$20
Complete all hotel formalities and check for any additional charges.
1 hour
Transfer to İstanbul Airport for your departure flight, ending your 7-day journey on a high note.
$50
Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
2 hours
Travel Requirement
Ensure you have a valid visa for Türkiye. Carry identification at all times. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to help with communication.
Local Sayings
Common phrases: 'Merhaba' (Hello), 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you), 'Lütfen' (Please), 'Hoş geldiniz' (Welcome).
Connectivity Info
İstanbul is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Major airlines operate flights to İstanbul Airport. Public transport includes trams, buses, and ferries.
Accept Currency + Payment Type
The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.
Nearby Shopping
Recommended shopping spots include the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and various local markets. Look for unique souvenirs, spices, textiles, and handcrafted items.
Safety Tips
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded places. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public. Use reputable transport services and avoid unlicensed taxis.
Health & Medical Facilities
Health facilities in İstanbul are generally good. It's recommended to have travel insurance. Pharmacies, known as 'Eczane,' are widely available.
Other Facilities
Free public Wi-Fi is available in many areas. Public restrooms are generally available but might not always be free. English is widely understood in tourist areas.
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