Istanbul in 1 day: what to see day by day

Day 1 · 6 h visiting · approx. 2.4 km walking between stops

1. Hagia Sophia — 3 h visit. A monumental basilica built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, which served as a church, mosque, and museum. Hours: Mon–Sun 09:00–19:30.
2. Sultan Ahmed Tomb — 30 min visit (approx. 320 m from previous stop). The mausoleum, built after 1617 next to the Blue Mosque, is the resting place of Sultan Ahmed I and his family.
3. Blue Mosque — 1 h 15 min visit (approx. 160 m from previous stop). It is the only mosque in Istanbul that has six minarets. Hours: Mon–Sun 08:30–12:15, 14:00–16:45, 17:45–18:30.
4. Hatice Turhan Sultan Türbesi — 15 min visit (approx. 1.3 km from previous stop). Inside is the intricately decorated tomb chamber of Sultan Hatice Turhan, strategically located near the New Mosque for a quick visit.
5. Suleymaniye Mosque — 1 h visit (approx. 680 m from previous stop). This is the largest mosque in Istanbul and a masterpiece by architect Sinan, also offering panoramic city views, unlike smaller temples.

Where to eat along the route (Day 1)

• Caribou Coffee — As a coffee shop chain, it offers free Wi-Fi and comfortable interiors, which distinguishes it from small spots like Poika Coffee.
• Mahmiye — It serves full Turkish cuisine dishes from traditional recipes, unlike the neighboring cafes and ice cream parlors.