Catstanbul Adventures — Cats, 1-Day Packed Tour & Souvenirs
Catstanbul is less than 1 week away. And the Jupiter community is super excited for the gathering.
The event will have a packed schedule and all the details of Catstanbul are on the official website: https://catstanbul.jup.ag/
This is a guide on what to do in Istanbul if you have a day to spare before or after Catstanbul and want to make the most of it.
There are 3 things to focus on for the short excursion if you have time:
- Cats
- 1 — day packed itinerary
- Souvenirs
Why Cats are at the Heart of Istanbul
Istanbul and cats share a special bond that dates back centuries. Cats have been cherished as symbols of good luck, protectors of grain, and companions to locals.
And one of the reasons why Catstanbul is happening in Istanbul is because it is a celebration of Jupiter cats — you, me and our friends.
While cats are not a part of the itinerary, you will anyways meet your feline friends when you are in Istanbul.
To fully appreciate this do watch this documentary before you land for Catstanbul.
1 — Day Packed Tour
Here’s a 1 Day packed itinerary covering the most iconic landmarks.
I have arranged the itinerary based on the must visit attractions in Istanbul and grouped them based on indoor and outdoor activities.
Be prepared for some walking as the places are nearby.
- The most famous historical landmarks are in the proximity in Sultanahmet District: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
- For your shopping needs and sunset experiences Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar and Bosphorus Cruise trip are also in the proximity.
Hopefully the queues won’t be long as January is not the peak season. Still it is going to be a 12 hour excursion including time spent at the attractions, walking time and eating breaks. Do remember to have breakfast before you start the journey.
Morning: Sultanahmet & Surroundings — Old City, Historical Heart of Istanbul
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Time needed: 1–2 hours
- One of the most famous monuments in the world — a UNESCO world heritage site. You get to see stunning Byzantine architecture, mosaics, and a mix of Christian and Islamic heritage.
- It remains closed during noon prayers on Fridays for non-worshippers and tourists. If you are visiting on Friday then plan accordingly to visit before or after the prayers.
- Arrive early morning to avoid long queues. Be mindful of clothing in a place of worship
- Fee is 25 Euros for foreign non-muslim visitors and entry is allowed only for the 2nd Floor (Gallery Section).
- Opening Hours: 8AM — 7 PM
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- It is just 5 minutes walk from Hagia Sophia.
- It is named because of the blue tiles in the interior
- Do check the prayer timings, as it’s closed to visitors during prayers. Be mindful of clothing in a place of worship
- No entry fees
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM — 5:30 PM (Fridays 8:30 AM — 2:30 PM)
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
- Time needed: 45 minutes
- Visit after blue mosque
- This is an underground ancient cistern with mesmerizing columns and the Medusa head carvings.
- Entry Fees: 900 Turkish Lira (Normal Hours) and 1400 Turkish Lira (Night Shift)
- Opening Hours: 9 AM — 6:30 PM (Normal Hours) and 7:30 PM — 10 PM (Night Shift)
Topkapi Palace
- Time needed: 2–3 hours
- Distance: 10 minutes walk from the Blue Mosque.
- This museum used to be the royal residence of the Ottoman Empire. Get a close view of the lavish rooms, Ottoman treasures, and the stunning views of the Bosphorus from the palace grounds.
- Don’t miss the Harem section (requires an additional ticket).
- Entry Fee is 2000 Turkish Liras for foreign visitors
- Opening Hours: 9 AM — 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Do remember to have Lunch in between.
Afternoon: Bazaars and Bosphorus
Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Distance: 15 minutes walk from the Topkapi Palace
- Shop for souvenirs, spices, ceramics, and Turkish carpets.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM — 7 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşısı)
- Time needed: 45 Minutes
- Distance: 10 minutes walk from the Grand Bazaar.
- Shop for spices, dried fruits, and teas.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM — 7 PM
Sunset Bosphorus Cruise
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Departure point: Eminönü, a 5-minute walk from the Spice Bazaar.
- You can try the ferry ride on the Bosphorus for the scenic views. You will glide between Europe and Asia, passing by landmarks like the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Ortaköy Mosque.
Late Evening:
Galata Tower
- Time needed: 1–2 hour
- The tower shows a 360 degree view of Istanbul. You will get panoramic views of lit-up Istanbul from the observation deck in the evening.
- Be prepared for a short climb and long queues.
- Entry Fees: 30 Euros
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Turkish Souvenirs
Here are a few of the souvenirs you can bring home from Istanbul.
Turkish Delight (Lokum)
This is a classic gift you can get from Istanbul. Look for authentic, high-quality versions in flavours like pistachio, rose, or pomegranate.
Where to buy: Hafiz Mustafa or Koska, or local shops in the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar.
Spices and Teas
You can bring home aromatic spices like saffron, sumac, and Turkish chilli flakes. Turkish teas (especially apple tea or herbal blends) make for a perfect souvenir.
Where to buy: Spice Bazaar
Turkish Coffee and Coffee Sets
Grab a bag of finely ground Turkish coffee (e.g., Mehmet Efendi brand) and a traditional cezve (coffee pot) or coffee cup set.
Where to buy: Kuru Kahveci Mehmet Efendi or Grand Bazaar.
Handmade Ceramics
These are beautiful, hand-painted tiles, bowls, or plates inspired by Ottoman and Turkish designs.
Where to buy: Stores in the Grand Bazaar or artisan shops in Sultanahmet.
Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu)
The Evil eye is the opposite of its name in English. These blue-glass talismans are believed to ward off the jealousy of others. You can find them as keychains, wall hangings, bracelets, or pendants.
Where to buy: Almost everywhere, but look for better quality at artisanal shops.
Carpets and Kilims
These authentic Turkish rugs or kilims (flat-woven rugs) are stunning and long-lasting. Look for certified, handmade rugs. Prices vary widely depending on size, material, and craftsmanship.
Where to buy: Trusted shops in the Grand Bazaar or specialized carpet dealers.
Turkish Textiles
Towels and bathrobes made from peshtemal (Turkish cotton). These are lightweight and luxurious.
Where to buy: Shops in Sultanahmet or the Spice Bazaar.
Jewelry
Gold, silver, and gemstone jewelry inspired by Ottoman designs.
Where to buy: Look for certified and reputable shops in the Grand Bazaar to buy authentic jewelry.
Baklava
Many shops sell boxed baklava that can be taken home.
Where to buy: Hafiz Mustafa, Karaköy Güllüoğlu, or other trusted baklava stores.
Calligraphy Art
Framed Islamic calligraphy or personalized name art can be a meaningful souvenir for your loved ones.
Where to buy: Art galleries or shops near Sultanahmet.
Copper and Brass Items
Handcrafted trays, tea sets, or decorative items made from copper or brass.
Where to buy: Grand Bazaar or smaller artisan markets.
Turkish Hammam Accessories
Traditional bath accessories like soap, scrub mitts (kese), or hammam bowls.
Where to buy: Shops near historical hammams or in the Grand Bazaar.
Perfumes and Oils
Traditional Turkish rose oil and other locally made fragrances.
Where to buy: Specialty shops near the Spice Bazaar.
Scarves and Pashminas
High-quality silk or wool scarves with intricate designs.
Where to buy: Shops in the Grand Bazaar or boutique stores in Taksim.
Miniature Lanterns
These are colorful glass mosaic lanterns or lamps that are signature Turkish.
Where to buy: Grand Bazaar or artisan shops in Karaköy.
What to Pack?
- Comfortable shoes for exploring the streets
- Snacks and water
- And an empty bag for all the souvenirs
- Warm layers and winter accessories
Istanbul in January can be chilly. These are forecasts for the temperatures during Catstanbul.
Other resources shared by Catdets
Collection of community-created resources: https://www.jupresear.ch/t/catstanbul-resource-megaguide/30010
Transport & Food Guide by our friends Jupiter Turkey: https://x.com/jupturkey/status/1871558877915079011
Local recommendations from a local by Cos: https://x.com/cos_medici/status/1871348813014634521
Event Guide: https://jup.cat/guides/catstanbul-2025-your-ultimate-jupiter-community-event-guide
Reddit AMA: https://www.reddit.com/r/jupiterexchange/comments/1hmocid/catdet_ama_istanbul_with_venge_dazai/
For any feedback or suggestion please reach out to me @its0xRay on X or Discord. If you found this essay helpful, do consider sharing it with your friends who may be interested in exploring the Jupiverse.
