3-Day Istanbul Itinerary: Sultanahmet, Eyup, Süleymaniye, Bosphorus Cruise & Taksim Exploration

Day 1: Historical exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on July 10, 2025

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs at this famous historic spot near Sultanahmet Square, perfect for a fulfilling start to your trip.
TRY100, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hagia Sophia Museum

Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a must-see cultural landmark open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in summer.
TRY200, 2h0m

4:15pm

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Explore the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue tiles. It is open until around 7:00 PM, so there is enough time to appreciate its interior and courtyard.
Free, 1h0m

5:30pm

Süleymaniye Mosque Visit

Walk to this grand Ottoman mosque with panoramic views of Istanbul; it closes at sunset so arriving late afternoon is ideal.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at the historic Pandeli Restaurant above the Spice Bazaar and try classic Ottoman dishes in a characteristic setting.
TRY250, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus & Eyüp

Istanbul, Turkey on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi in Cihangir

Savor a rich traditional Turkish breakfast featuring cheeses, olives, and fresh bread, open from 8:00 AM daily.
TRY120, 1h0m

9:30am

Eyüp Teleferik Ride

Take the cable car up to Pierre Loti Hill for breathtaking views of the Golden Horn. Teleferik operates from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
TRY40, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Eyüp Sultan District

Try local street food like borek or kumpir in the historic Eyüp area near the mosque and bazaar.
TRY80, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax or explore local markets near Eyüp

Stroll through the markets and soak in the local atmosphere before heading towards the Bosphorus cruise departure point.
Free, 1h0m

5:30pm

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Experience an enchanting 2-hour sunset cruise on the Bosphorus, witnessing Istanbul’s skyline and palatial views. Cruises typically depart around 5:30 PM and return by 7:30 PM.
TRY180, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Vira Ottoman Steakhouse

Enjoy a delicious dinner with Bosphorus views, offering traditional and modern Turkish cuisine in a cozy ambiance.
TRY300, 1h30m
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Day 3: Shopping & Views

Istanbul, Turkey on July 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Start your day with freshly brewed Turkish coffee and pastries in this quaint Karaköy cafe, open from 8:00 AM.
TRY90, 1h0m

9:45am

Walking tour through Istiklal Street and Taksim Square

Explore the lively pedestrian street with shops, street performers, and historic passages from Taksim Square through Istiklal Avenue.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Meze by Lemon Tree

Taste a variety of creative mezes in a stylish setting in the Beyoğlu district, operating daily till late afternoon.
TRY200, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Galata Tower

Ascend the medieval Galata Tower for spectacular 360-degree views of Istanbul’s skyline. Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
TRY100, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore nearby Karaköy neighborhood

Discover the artsy cafes, street art, and boutique shops, soaking up Istanbul’s modern vibe.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

End your Istanbul experience with a modern twist on traditional Anatolian cuisine at this renowned restaurant in Karaköy.
TRY350, 1h30m
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