10 days in Islamabad & Istanbul Itinerary

The country's capital since 1963, Islamabad has the look and feel of a planned administrative city because, by and large, that's exactly what it is.

Kick off your visit on the 25th (Wed): stop by Libra Jewellers, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Faisal Mosque, and then see the interesting displays at Pakistan Monument Museum.

For more things to do, traveler tips, reviews, and other tourist information, refer to the Islamabad trip site.

If you are flying in from Pakistan, the closest major aiports are New Islamabad International Airport, Peshawar International Airport and Sialkot Airport. Expect a daytime high around 24°C in December, and nighttime lows around 6°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 25th (Wed) so you can travel to Istanbul.

A physical and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, the transcontinental city of Istanbul serves as a living reminder of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.

Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Escape the urban bustle at Uzuntarla Tabiat Parki and Nature & Wildlife Tours. The adventure continues: stop by Ortakoy, steep yourself in history at Galata Tower, explore the activities along Bosphorus Strait, and admire the striking features of Basilica Cistern.

For ratings, other places to visit, where to stay, and more tourist information, read our Istanbul trip planner.

Traveling by flight from Islamabad to Istanbul takes 9 hours. The time zone difference when traveling from Islamabad to Istanbul is minus 2 hours. When traveling from Islamabad in December, plan for much colder days in Istanbul, with highs around 7°C, while nights are about the same with lows around 7°C. You'll have a few hours on the 3rd (Fri) to wrap things up before traveling home.