3-Day Istanbul Itinerary: Sultanahmet, Eyup Teleferik, Suleymaniye, Bosphorus Cruise, and Istiklal/Taksim

Day 1: Sultanahmet Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on July 10, 2025

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs at the famous Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local favorite institution near the historic sites. It offers a hearty and authentic taste of Istanbul.
TRY100, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hagia Sophia Museum

Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history, open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
TRY200, 1h30m

3:45pm

Blue Mosque

Explore Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque for its stunning blue Iznik tiles; it is open for visitors outside prayer times, usually until sunset.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Basilica Cistern

Discover the underground Basilica Cistern, an ancient water reservoir with atmospheric lighting and the famous Medusa heads; open until 7 PM.
TRY100, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine at Balıkçı Sabahattin, a charming seafood restaurant in Sultanahmet offering fresh fish dishes in a historic setting.
TRY250, 1h30m
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Day 2: Eyup and Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul, Turkey on July 11, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Pierre Loti Café

Start your day with a Turkish breakfast and panoramic views of the Golden Horn at Pierre Loti Café in Eyup, open from early morning.
TRY70, 1h0m

10:30am

Eyup Teleferik Ride

Take the cable car from Eyup to Piyerloti Hill for spectacular views and to visit the Pierre Loti Hill, operating roughly 10 AM to 6 PM.
TRY50, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Tarihi Sarıyer Börekçisi

Enjoy delicious, classic Turkish börek and roasted corn at this local eatery in Eyup, perfect for a quick and flavorful lunch.
TRY60, 45m

1:00pm

Free Exploration or Rest

Use this time to relax or explore the Eyup Sultan Mosque nearby, which is an important spiritual site.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a beautiful Bosphorus sunset cruise departing from Eminonu or Kabatas; cruises typically last 2 hours and offer stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and bridges.
TRY150, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Çınaraltı Tea Garden

Post cruise, relax with tea or dinner at this quaint garden near the Bosphorus, known for its local ambiance and great views.
TRY100, 1h30m
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Day 3: Suleymaniye and Istiklal

Istanbul, Turkey on July 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mavra Café

Enjoy a modern Turkish breakfast at Mavra Café close to the Suleymaniye Mosque, serving fresh and organic options.
TRY80, 1h0m

9:30am

Suleymaniye Mosque

Visit the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural gem from the Ottoman era, open from 9 AM to 6 PM, offering insight into Ottoman culture and history.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk and Coffee at Çukurcuma

Stroll through the charming Çukurcuma neighborhood nearby, known for its antique shops and cozy cafés; stop for coffee at one of the local spots.
TRY50, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Durumzade

Eat at Durumzade, an acclaimed street food spot near Taksim, famous for its tasty dürüm kebabs.
TRY70, 1h0m

2:00pm

Istiklal Avenue Walk and Galata Tower

Explore bustling Istiklal Street with its shops, galleries, and historic tram, then visit nearby Galata Tower for a panoramic view of the city, open until 7 PM.
TRY120, 2h0m

5:00pm

Tea at Çiçek Pasajı

Relax with tea or an early dinner at Çiçek Pasajı, a historic arcade offering a lively atmosphere and traditional meze dishes.
TRY150, 1h0m
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