What to do during 7 days in Istanbul

Sep 10, 2025

Istanbul – the city where East meets West – is a magical blend of history, culture, and flavors. From the grand mosques and palaces to bustling bazaars and the sparkling Bosphorus, Istanbul offers a unique travel experience.

✨ Travel Tip: Before you explore Istanbul, make sure you have SamoSim, a global eSIM provider that keeps you connected without the need for a physical SIM card. Perfect for navigating the city, finding local food spots, and booking Bosphorus cruises online.

Day 1 – Arrival & Sultanahmet Square

  • Check into your hotel and head straight to Sultanahmet Square.

  • Visit the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that’s both a mosque and museum.

  • Explore the Blue Mosque nearby with its stunning Ottoman architecture.

  • Dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant – try kebabs or meze.

  • Share your first Istanbul sunset shots with friends using your SamoSim eSIM.

Day 2 – Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar

  • Morning: Visit the Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets.

  • Shop for carpets, lanterns, spices, and souvenirs.

  • Evening: Walk around Sultanahmet and enjoy Turkish coffee.

  • Stay online with SamoSim to use translation apps and bargain confidently in bazaars.

Day 3 – Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahçe Palace

  • Morning: Take a scenic Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul’s skyline from the water.

  • Afternoon: Visit Dolmabahçe Palace, an opulent 19th-century residence.

  • Evening: Stroll through Ortaköy, enjoy kumpir (stuffed baked potato) and Bosphorus views.

Day 4 – Galata Tower & Istiklal Street

  • Start with Galata Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Walk along Istiklal Street, a lively pedestrian avenue filled with shops, cafés, and music.

  • Ride the historic red tram for a nostalgic experience.

  • Evening: Dinner in Taksim Square.

  • Use SamoSim to find the best rooftop bars with live music.

Day 5 – Spice Bazaar & Asian Side

  • Morning: Visit the Spice Bazaar for Turkish delights, saffron, and dried fruits.

  • Cross over to the Asian side of Istanbul by ferry.

  • Explore Kadıköy market streets and Moda seaside promenade.

  • Evening: Dinner with Bosphorus night views.

Day 6 – Princes’ Islands Day Trip

  • Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands (Buyukada is the most popular).

  • Explore by bike or horse-drawn carriage – cars are not allowed.

  • Enjoy seafood by the water before heading back.

  • Use SamoSim for ferry timings and instant maps.

Day 7 – Local Life & Farewell

  • Visit Süleymaniye Mosque and enjoy its peaceful courtyards.

  • Explore Balat, a colorful neighborhood with street art and vintage cafés.

  • Last-minute shopping for Turkish tea, baklava, or ceramics.

  • Head to the airport – check flights and taxis easily via SamoSim.

Tips for Travelers

  • Wear modest clothing when visiting mosques.

  • Public transport is efficient – use Istanbulkart.

  • Must-try foods: baklava, Turkish tea, simit (bread ring), and doner kebab.

  • Stay connected 24/7 with SamoSim eSIM – no roaming charges, no hassle.

Final Thoughts

Istanbul is a city of contrasts – ancient yet modern, European yet Asian. In one week, you’ll discover its mosques, palaces, and lively streets, making memories that will last forever.

💡 Whether you’re traveling to Istanbul, Marrakech, or Dubai, SamoSim keeps you connected wherever you go. Get your eSIM today and explore without limits.