3-Day Istanbul Itinerary Featuring Bosphorus Sunset Cruise and Sultan Eyüp Teleferik

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on July 4, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Start your day with traditional Turkish breakfast and famous pastries at this renowned historic confectionery open from 8am to 10pm.
TRY50, 1h

10:15am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore this iconic Byzantine masterpiece featuring incredible mosaics and architecture. It opens from 9am to 7pm in summer.
TRY200, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Relish famous Turkish meatballs in a historic and bustling spot open until 9pm.
TRY70, 1h

1:45pm

Blue Mosque

Visit the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque renowned for its blue tiles, open from 9am to 7pm. Note it closes during prayer times.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover Ottoman sultans’ residence with treasures and breathtaking views. Open 9am to 6:45pm, last entry 6pm.
TRY250, 2h

5:15pm

Coffee break at Mandabatmaz

Enjoy some of the best strong Turkish coffee in the city before ending the day.
TRY30, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Dine on delicious kebabs with Bosphorus views; open till 11pm.
TRY150, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 2: Eyüp & Pierre Loti

Istanbul, Turkey on July 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Indulge in a rich Turkish breakfast with authentic regional dishes, open 8am to 11am weekdays.
TRY75, 1h

10:00am

Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Cemetery

Visit this important historic religious site and peaceful cemetery, open daily from 8am to 6pm.
Free, 1h

11:15am

Eyüp Teleferik

Take the cable car from Eyüp to Pierre Loti Hill for panoramic views of the Golden Horn, operating from 9am to 7pm.
TRY30, 30m

11:50am

Pierre Loti Café

Relax at this iconic café with stunning scenic views, perfect spot for photos and light refreshments.
TRY40, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kafe Pi

Enjoy contemporary Turkish cuisine with a view nearby, open until 6pm.
TRY90, 1h

2:30pm

Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Explore Istanbul’s industrial heritage with interactive exhibits close by, open 9:30am to 5pm.
TRY100, 2h

5:00pm

Tea at Emirgan Tea Garden

Experience a traditional tea garden along the Bosphorus, open till sunset.
TRY25, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at 1920 Restaurant

Dine on nostalgic Turkish dishes in a cozy atmosphere near the Golden Horn, open till 10pm.
TRY130, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul, Turkey on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu

Early breakfast spot known for hearty traditional Turkish breakfast, open 7am to 3pm.
TRY60, 1h

9:15am

Explore Spice Bazaar

Discover vibrant market stalls with spices, sweets, and souvenirs, open 9am to 7pm.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Walk across Galata Bridge to Karaköy

Enjoy the lively bridge with views of the water and fishers then head to a trendy neighborhood popular for coffee and street art.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantasi

Classic Turkish dishes with fresh seafood in a stylish setting, open until 10pm.
TRY120, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Galata Tower

Climb for panoramic Istanbul views; open 9am to 7pm, last entry 6:30pm.
TRY100, 1h

3:00pm

Free time for exploring Beyoğlu

Wander Istiklal Street and nearby shops or visit small galleries and cafes.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing 2-hour sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in Istanbul’s skyline and palaces. The cruise departs typically around 7pm in summer.
TRY150, 2h

8:45pm

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Dine with breathtaking Bosphorus sunset views and international cuisine, open until midnight.
TRY250, 1h30m
View Hotels