Exploring Istanbul: A 7-Day Family Adventure

Our adventure began with a safe landing at Istanbul Airport, despite some turbulence. Turkish Airlines made the flight comfortable with their thoughtful goodies and excellent content selection—I even discovered a Megan Fox-hosted show that I plan to revisit.

After an easy baggage claim, we navigated to the Uber pick-up area. In Istanbul, Uber works as a booking platform for local taxis, much like in Rome. After a bit of negotiation, we secured a spacious cab to our hotel. Upon arrival, the friendly concierge provided us with a list of local attractions and even made dinner reservations for us.

That evening, we savored delicious Turkish cuisine and took a leisurely stroll around Sultanahmet Square. Seeing the grandeur of the Blue Mosque lit up against the night sky was a humbling and magical experience.

We began our day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel—French toast, poached eggs, and fresh fruits that energized us for the day ahead.

Our first stop was the iconic Blue Mosque, a marvel of Ottoman architecture. Being Muslim, we were privileged to enter and offer Dhuhr prayers, finding peace amidst the busyness. Next, we explored the Hagia Sophia, marveling at its intricate mosaics and rich history. 

Afterward, we relaxed at a nearby park, enjoying roasted nuts and corn. Later, we visited the Basilica Cistern, a subterranean wonder showcasing ancient Roman engineering. Its ambient lighting and art installations were mesmerizing.

Dinner was a lively affair at a local restaurant where we indulged in clay pot cooking. As the kids played, we enjoyed the laid-back vibe with shisha, relishing the perfect end to an eventful day.

We dedicated the day to exploring Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most opulent landmarks in Istanbul. Traveling by public transport was efficient and gave us scenic views of the city.

The palace itself was breathtaking, with its ornate halls, grand chandeliers, and stunning waterfront views. The highlight was the majestic ballroom, which left us awestruck with its size and elegance. We also explored the Harem, gaining insights into the lives of Ottoman royalty.

As the day wound down, we caught the sunset near Büyük Mecidiye Mosque and indulged in a sumptuous dinner. A visit to Hafiz Mustafa for Turkish tea and kanafeh was the perfect end to the day.

This was a day of relaxation. I started with a rejuvenating Hamam experience near the Hagia Sophia—a soothing ritual steeped in tradition. Meanwhile, the girls enjoyed lunch at a nearby restaurant, showing compassion by dining at a place they’d previously passed by.

In the evening, we embarked on a sunset cruise, gliding along the Bosphorus. The panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline were enchanting, with illuminated mosques dotting the horizon.

On our final full day, we ventured to the Asian side of Istanbul, visiting the Çamlıca Mosque, a modern architectural masterpiece. Its grandeur and tranquility were a fitting way to start the day.

We explored Üsküdar and Kadıköy, navigating public transport and discovering local eateries. Despite getting lost at times, the warmth and helpfulness of the locals made the experience delightful. Kadıköy’s vibrant atmosphere and culinary treats made it one of our favorite spots in Istanbul.

With our flight scheduled in the evening, we spent the morning at the famous Seven Hills Restaurant, known for its stunning rooftop views and playful seagulls. Watching Anu’s laughter as she marveled at the birds was a memory we’ll always cherish.

As we headed to the airport, we reflected on our incredible week in Istanbul—a city that had given us beauty, history, and unforgettable family moments.