3-Day Istanbul Itinerary Featuring Sultan Eyüp Teleferik and Sunset Bosphorus Cruise on Day 2

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on July 4, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Begin the day with a traditional Turkish breakfast and famous pastries at this historic café open 8am - 10pm.
TRY50, 1h

10:15am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore the stunning Byzantine architecture and mosaics of this iconic site, open 9am - 7pm.
TRY200, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy famous Turkish meatballs in a lively historic setting, open until 9pm.
TRY70, 1h

1:45pm

Blue Mosque

Visit the beautiful Sultan Ahmed Mosque with its famous blue tiles; open 9am - 7pm but closed during prayer times.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Tour the opulent Ottoman palace with rich history and exquisite views; open 9am - 6:45pm.
TRY250, 2h

5:15pm

Coffee break at Mandabatmaz

Savor some of Istanbul’s best strong Turkish coffee before wrapping up the day.
TRY30, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Taste delicious kebabs with views of the Golden Horn; open until 11pm.
TRY150, 1h30m

Day 2: Eyüp & Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul, Turkey on July 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Enjoy an authentic and hearty Turkish breakfast with regional specialties, open 8am - 11am weekdays.
TRY75, 1h

10:00am

Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Cemetery

Visit this historic and spiritual site, peaceful with important religious significance; open 8am - 6pm.
Free, 1h

11:15am

Eyüp Teleferik

Take the cable car up to Pierre Loti Hill offering panoramic Golden Horn views; operates 9am - 7pm.
TRY30, 30m

11:50am

Pierre Loti Café

Relax at this iconic café atop the hill with beautiful scenery, perfect for photos and light refreshments.
TRY40, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kafe Pi

Dine on fresh Turkish cuisine at a nearby café open until 6pm.
TRY90, 1h

2:30pm

Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Explore Istanbul’s industrial heritage with engaging exhibits; open 9:30am - 5pm.
TRY100, 2h

5:00pm

Tea at Emirgan Tea Garden

Enjoy traditional tea by the Bosphorus in a tranquil garden setting, open till sunset.
TRY25, 1h

7:00pm

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a relaxing 2-hour cruise at sunset, taking in Istanbul's stunning skyline along the Bosphorus. Departure times around 7pm.
TRY150, 2h

9:30pm

Light Dinner or Refreshments on Board or Nearby

After the cruise, enjoy light refreshments or a casual dinner at nearby waterside cafes open late.
TRY80, 1h

Day 3: Karaköy & Beyoğlu

Istanbul, Turkey on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu

Start early with a hearty traditional Turkish breakfast, open 7am - 3pm.
TRY60, 1h

9:15am

Spice Bazaar

Browse a vibrant market full of spices, sweets, and souvenirs; open 9am - 7pm.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Walk Across Galata Bridge to Karaköy

Enjoy lively water views and street life, heading into the trendy Karaköy neighborhood with cafés and art.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantasi

Savor classic Turkish and seafood dishes in elegant surroundings; open until 10pm.
TRY120, 1h

1:30pm

Galata Tower

Climb the iconic tower for panoramic views of Istanbul; open 9am - 7pm (last entry 6:30pm).
TRY100, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Istiklal Street & Beyoğlu

Wander through this bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and galleries.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Dine in a rooftop restaurant offering spectacular views and international fusion cuisine, open till midnight.
TRY250, 1h30m