Basic Itinerary

Start at the waterfront at Karaköy

Take the Rick Steve’s Golden Horn walking tour to the old city side.

When you get to the old city side (Eminönü), should see docked boats serving fish sandwiches (balık ekmek) and purple pickle juice (Tursucu on the map).

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Walk up the hill towards the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). Can take the tram to save energy.

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Visit the Hagia Sophia

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Now that it’s a mosque, I don’t know what the touring situation is once inside. A walking tour or some pre-reading on the history of the building would be worthwhile. Rick Steves’ walking tour in the Istanbul guide is good if the places are still accessible.

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Do the Historic Core walking tour using the Rick Steves book

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Other options for things to see

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Blue Mosque

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Might be worth checking if it’s still under renovations inside

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Basilica Cistern

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Surprisingly cool to see, doesn’t need to take too long