Ultimate 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary: History, Nature, Shopping & Bosphorus Sunset

Day 1: Historic Landmarks

Istanbul, Turkey on July 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Begin your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast and famous desserts at this historic patisserie, located in Sultanahmet.
TRY100, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore this iconic architectural marvel that has served as a basilica, mosque, and now a museum, renowned for its massive dome and stunning mosaics.
TRY200, 2h

11:45am

Blue Mosque

Experience the majestic Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and six minarets, still active for worship.
Free, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) and local specialties at this legendary eatery near Sultanahmet Square.
TRY120, 1h

2:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Tour the sprawling palace complex that was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, including the Harem section and treasury.
TRY300, 3h

5:30pm

Gülhane Park Stroll

Relax with a peaceful walk in Gülhane Park, a historic urban park near Topkapi, featuring gardens and Bosphorus views.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine on fresh seafood in a charming historic Ottoman house located close to Sultanahmet, perfect for sampling local fish dishes.
TRY350, 1.5h
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Day 2: Eyüp & Nature

Istanbul, Turkey on July 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Start your day with a refined Turkish breakfast spread including cheeses, olives, and fresh bread in the Karaköy neighborhood.
TRY110, 1h

9:00am

Sultan Eyüp Mosque and Eyüp Teleferik

Visit the significant Eyüp Sultan Mosque followed by a scenic cable car ride (teleferik) up to Pierre Loti Hill for panoramic views over the Golden Horn.
Mosque Free, Teleferik TRY50, 2h

11:30am

Pierre Loti Café

Enjoy a traditional Turkish tea or coffee with spectacular vistas of Istanbul’s waterways from this historic hilltop café.
TRY70, 0h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Tarihi Safranbolu Fırını Eyüp

Sample local pastries and Kebabs from this well-rated traditional Turkish bakery and restaurant in Eyüp.
TRY130, 1h

2:00pm

Walk along the Golden Horn Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Green Park by the Golden Horn, admiring nature and the historic waterway.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Hotel / Rest

Take some time to rest and refresh before evening activities.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Board a Bosphorus cruise to experience stunning sunset views on the waterway that separates Europe and Asia; includes scenic photo opportunities of landmarks along the coast.
TRY400, 2h

8:45pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

End the day with classic Turkish dishes including kebabs at this restaurant near the Spice Bazaar, featuring Bosphorus views.
TRY350, 1.5h
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Day 3: Shopping & City Life

Istanbul, Turkey on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie

A delightful breakfast with a European flair overlooking the Bosphorus in the trendy Bebek neighborhood.
TRY120, 1h

10:00am

Grand Bazaar Shopping

Explore one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering everything from carpets to spices, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Free Entry, 2.5h

12:45pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a historic dining experience inside the Spice Bazaar with traditional Ottoman and Turkish cuisine.
TRY200, 1h

2:00pm

Istiklal Avenue Shopping

Walk along this lively pedestrian street packed with shops, cafes, and historic arcades offering fashion, art, and local crafts.
Free, 2h

4:15pm

Coffee break at Café Ara

Relax with coffee and cake in this cozy café known for its artsy vibe and proximity to Taksim Square.
TRY70, 0h45m

6:00pm

Walk up to Galata Tower

Climb or admire the exterior of this medieval stone tower with panoramic views of Istanbul at sunset.
TRY150, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Cap off the trip with a modern twist on traditional Turkish meze plates in a stylish setting near Taksim.
TRY300, 1.5h
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