12 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.

Deepen your sense of the past at sights like Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Hagia Sophia Mosque. Shop till you drop at Kapali Carsi and Motif Collection. And it doesn't end there: examine the collection at Rahmi M. Koc Museum, steep yourself in history at Galata Tower, contemplate the waterfront views at Halic, and admire the masterpieces at Chora Museum.

For other places to visit, reviews, more things to do, and other tourist information, refer to the Istanbul itinerary planner.

Baku, Azerbaijan to Istanbul is an approximately 6.5-hour flight. You can also take a bus; or drive. You'll gain 1 hour traveling from Baku to Istanbul due to the time zone difference. Traveling from Baku in January, expect somewhat warmer with lows of 10°C in Istanbul. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 26th (Thu) early enough to fly back home.