My One Week Istanbul Itinerary on a Budget
I’ve always been curious about Istanbul, a city that sits between two continents and feels like a blend of worlds. For years, I’ve seen photos of its stunning mosques, colorful markets, and the view of the Bosphorus that divides Europe and Asia. When I finally came across a good flight deal from Manila, I took it as a sign. I booked the trip without thinking twice and soon found myself spending almost three weeks in Turkey, with one unforgettable week in Istanbul.
In this one week Istanbul itinerary, I’ll share how I explored the city on a budget. From visiting famous landmarks to wandering through bazaars, and crossing the Bosphorus. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for ideas for an affordable Istanbul adventure, this itinerary can help you make the most of your visit without spending too much.
Flight from Manila to Istanbul
Turkish Airlines flies directly from Manila to Istanbul, making it the most convenient way to reach the city. However, nonstop flights can also be quite expensive. As a budget traveler, I was lucky to find a great deal with China Southern Airlines, with a roundtrip ticket costing around ₱25,000. The journey took longer since it included a stopover in Guangzhou, but I didn’t mind at all. It gave me the chance to explore the city for a bit before continuing my flight to Istanbul.
My One Week Istanbul Itinerary
Arriving in Istanbul and seeing it for the first time was such a special moment. I’d always dreamed of visiting this city, and finally being there felt a bit surreal. Everywhere I turned, there was something that caught my attention – the skyline filled with domes and minarets, the sound of the call to prayer, and the mix of old and new that makes Istanbul so unique. The city has this charm that instantly draws you in and makes you want to see more.
Spending a week in Istanbul gave me the chance to explore many of its famous tourist spots and historic landmarks. Since the attractions are spread out across the city, I started by pinning everything I wanted to visit on Google Maps. From there, I planned my days based on location so I could make the most of my time and move around easily. The plan worked perfectly. I got to see so much without feeling rushed. Here’s a look at my one week Istanbul itinerary.
Day 1
- Arrival in Istanbul
- Taksim Square
- Ataturk Cultural Center
- İstiklal Cd.
Day 2
- The Blue Mosque
- Turkish & Islamic Arts Museum
- Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
- Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam
Day 3
- Hagia Irene
- Topkapi Palace Museum
- Topkapı Sarayı Harem Dairesi
- Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Day 4
- Basilica Cistern
- Grand Bazaar
- İBB Sarayburnu Parkı
Day 5
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Yeni Mosque
- Sirkeci
Day 6
- Galata Tower
- Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
Day 7
- Büyük Mecidiye Mosque
- Dolmabahçe Palace
Travel Expenses for Turkey Trip
Aside from exploring Istanbul, I also made my way to Pamukkale and Cappadocia. I spent a total of 17 days in Turkey, and here’s a breakdown of my overall travel expenses.
Accommodations
Istanbul
- Ottopera Hotel Single Room (1 night) – ₱1,734.44
- ErenleR Hotel & Hostel – Single – Shared Bathroom (3 nights) – ₱4,861.20
- Wabi Hostels Istanbul – 1 Person in 4-Bed Dormitory with Shared Bathroom – Mixed (5 nights) – ₱3,804.32
Pamukkale
- Dört Mevsim Hotel Standard Single Room (3 nights) – ₱5,630.42
Cappadocia
- Göreme Hostel – 6-Bed Dormitory (4 nights) – ₱4,855.24
Flights
- Roundtrip flight from Manila to Istanbul via China Southern Airlines – ₱25,389.28
- Flight from Istanbul to Denzili via Turkish Airlines with 15kg – ₱2,604
- Flight from Denzili to Istanbul via AJet with 15kg baggage – ₱1,753
- Flight from Istanbul to Kayseri via Pegasus Airlines with 15kg – ₱2,258
- Flight from Kayseri to Istanbul via AJet with 15kg – ₱1,596
Other transportation
- Train from Istanbul Airport to Ottopera Hotel – TRY88.23 (₱124)
- Train from Ottopera Hotel to Istanbul Airport – TRY88.23 (₱124)
- Havalimani Airport bus from Sabiha Gökcen Airport – ₱434.30
- Havaist airport shuttle from Taksim to Istanbul Airport – TRY355 (495)
- Airport transfer from Denizli Airport to Pamukkale – TRY500 (₱696)
- Bus from Denizli Otogarı to Denizli Airport – TRY400 (₱560)
- Roundtrip Airport transfer from Kayseri Airport to Göreme Hostel – TRY700 (₱975)
- Other (train and bus) – ₱1,500
Activities
- Museum Pass Türkiye E-Card – €165 (₱11,100)
- Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line ticket – €26.91 (₱1,812)
- Dolmabahce Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Entry & Audio Guide – €35.90 (₱2,420)
- Bosphorus Sightseeing Sunset Cruise – €7.20 (₱486)
- Guided ATV Quad Tour – ₱1,039.8
- Full-day Cappadocia Tour (Red Tour + Underground City) – $27 (₱1,700)
- Other admission fees – ₱2,000
Other expenses
- Food and drinks for 17 days – ₱30,000
- Travel tax – ₱1,620
- E-visa for Turkey – ₱1,213.32
- E-visa for Turkey (2nd) – ₱1,213.32
- Needed to apply for another e-visa because only a single-entry had been issued.
- Insurance – ₱3,881
- Sim data – ₱1,000
- Souvenir – ₱2,000
Grand Total: ₱120,879.64
My one week Istanbul itinerary made me see how beautiful, unique, and full of charm this city is. Every corner had something to offer. From its stunning mosques and lively bazaars to its delicious food and mix of cultures. I was also able to explore the city without spending too much. Istanbul truly has a magic that’s hard to describe until you experience it yourself. I enjoyed every part of my trip and would love to return someday to explore more attractions and hidden spots that I missed. My one week in Istanbul will always remind me of how wonderful this city is.
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