Say “Merhaba!” To Istanbul With AirAsia X. Here’s A 6D5N Guide Of What To See, Do & Eat
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This Spotlight is sponsored by AirAsia X
If you enjoy beautiful architecture, good food, and scenic views, the Turkish capital of Istanbul has everything you need for your next vacay
And the best thing is that AirAsia X (AAX) has launched its new direct flight to Istanbul, just 11 hours away!
Here’s a 6D5N itinerary to help you prepare for an unforgettable holiday:
Day 1: Arrival and relax
When you arrive in Istanbul, ease into your trip without rushing. Head straight to your hotel to freshen up before experiencing the magic of the city from the water.
An evening Bosphorus cruise with dinner is the ideal welcome. You’ll sail between Europe and Asia, admiring palaces and bridges illuminated against the night sky.
When you’re done, head back to your hotel and get some well-needed rest for the upcoming days!
Day 2: Visit the old city wonders
Begin at Hagia Sophia, where Byzantine mosaics and Islamic calligraphy share the same walls. A breathtaking symbol of East meeting West.
Right across the square, step into the Blue Mosque, where thousands of blue İznik tiles glow in the morning light.
Next, wander through the grand courtyards of Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans. Imagine the lavish banquets, glittering treasures, and sprawling gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.
Before the day ends, descend underground into the Basilica Cistern, where hundreds of ancient marble columns rise from the water, creating an atmospheric scene straight out of a movie set.
Day 3: Palaces and views
Begin at Dolmabahçe Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece built to rival Europe’s grand estates. Chandeliers weighing tonnes, opulent staircases, and gold-leafed ceilings make it one of the most extravagant palaces in the world.
From here, head to the iconic Galata Tower, where a 360 degree view of Istanbul stretches from the old city across the Bosphorus and into the Asian side.
By evening, wander through Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, buzzing with cafés, street performers, and shops. Grab a Turkish coffee or snack on warm chestnuts as you soak up the city’s modern heartbeat.
Day 4: Take a day trip to Bursa
Step outside Istanbul for a refreshing escape to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Known for its greenery and history, Bursa is just a short journey away but feels like another world.
Start at the Green Mosque, famous for its intricate tilework, and explore the Silk Market, where you’ll find colourful scarves, textiles, and handicrafts.
If time permits, ride the cable car up Uludağ Mountain, where crisp air and sweeping views over Bursa’s valleys provide a perfect contrast to Istanbul’s bustling streets. Return in the evening, ready for another day of city exploration.
Day 5: Explore the Asian side
Cross the Bosphorus to Istanbul’s Asian side, a less touristy but equally fascinating part of the city. Begin at Kadıköy, a lively neighbourhood of market streets filled with spice shops, fishmongers, and bakeries.
Next, visit the impressive Çamlıca Mosque, the largest mosque in Türkiye! Then, climb to Çamlıca Hill for sweeping views of both continents.
End your day in Üsküdar, where a seaside walk along the promenade lets you watch ferries drift across the water as the sun sets. A quieter, more local perspective of life in Istanbul.
Day 6: Do some shopping before your departure
With your return flight in the evening, you’ll still have time to shop and take in Istanbul one last time. Start at the Grand Bazaar, a place of more than 4,000 shops selling carpets, lanterns, jewellery, and souvenirs.
Just nearby, the Spice Bazaar will tempt you with Turkish delights, dried fruits, and fragrant spices to pack home.
For a modern contrast, head to one of Istanbul’s stylish malls, like Istinye Park or Zorlu Center, for international brands and designer boutiques.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading to the airport, a fitting end to a journey full of history, culture, and unforgettable sights.
With AirAsia X, you can now fly direct from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul four times a week with all-in one-way fares starting from just RM799*
- Booking period: 29 September to 5 October 2025
- Travel period: 15 October 2025 to 14 September 2026
So whatchu waiting for? Book now at the AirAsia website or the AirAsia MOVE app and start planning your journey to Türkiye’s most exciting city!
*Includes passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Terms and conditions apply.
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