5 days in Istanbul Itinerary

A physical and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, the transcontinental city of Istanbul serves as a living reminder of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.

Hagia Sophia and Ortakoy are good opportunities to explore the local culture. Topkapi Palace and Rumeli Fortress will appeal to museum buffs. There's lots more to do: hunt for treasures at Kapali Carsi, get engrossed in the history at Galata Tower, take a stroll through Taksim Square, and contemplate the waterfront views at Bosphorus Strait.

For reviews, other places to visit, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the Istanbul vacation planning website.

If you are flying in from Uganda, the closest major aiports are Istanbul Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Expect a daytime high around 14°C in March, and nighttime lows around 14°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 6th (Fri) early enough to travel back home.