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): look for gifts at Libra Jewellers, take in the spiritual surroundings of Faisal Mosque, and then examine the collection at Pakistan Monument Museum.

To find reviews, maps, where to stay, and tourist information, read Islamabad online trip maker .

If you are flying in from Pakistan, the closest major airport is New Islamabad International Airport. In December, plan for daily highs up to 24°C, and evening lows to 6°C. Finish up 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 / Church (Ayasofya) and Topkapi Palace. Step out of the city life by going to Selale Parkuru and Uzuntarla Tabiat Parki. There's still lots to do: admire the striking features of Basilica Cistern, contemplate the waterfront views at Bosphorus Strait, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and take a stroll through Ortakoy.

To see other places to visit, maps, ratings, and tourist information, use the Istanbul day trip planning tool .

Traveling by flight from Islamabad to Istanbul takes 9 hours. Due to the time zone difference, you'll gain 2 hours traveling from Islamabad to Istanbul. While traveling from Islamabad, expect much colder days and about the same nights in Istanbul, ranging from highs of 7°C to lows of 7°C. You'll have a few hours on the 3rd (Fri) to wrap things up before traveling home.