Start your trip with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, a cozy and rustic spot in Cihangir that serves fresh ingredients from owner Ferzan Ozpetek's family farm. Next, head to the Spice Bazaar in Eminönü to immerse yourself in the scents and flavors of Istanbul's culinary culture. Then, join a street food tour with Istanbul on Food to taste the best of the city's savory and sweet delights.
Explore Istanbul's historic wonders today, starting with the iconic Hagia Sophia. Connect with the city's religious roots by visiting the Blue Mosque next door, then delve into Ottoman history at Topkapi Palace. Refuel with lunch at Ciya Sofrası, a renowned restaurant on the Asian side that specializes in Anatolian cuisine.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul's streets with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise. Admire the city's architecture and bridges from a different vantage point, then stop at Bebek Balıkçısı for lunch. This restaurant boasts gorgeous views of the Bosphorus and is known for its fresh seafood.
Begin your day at Pando Kaymak in Beşiktaş, a quaint eatery specializing in kaymak (clotted cream) and honey. After breakfast, visit the Chora Church, a stunning example of Byzantine art and architecture. For lunch, head to Bomontiada, a former beer factory turned cultural complex that houses several restaurants and bars.
Learn how to cook Turkish cuisine from scratch with a cooking class at Istanbul's Culinary Backstreets. The class is conducted by a local chef who will guide you through the steps of creating an authentic meal. After the class, enjoy a dinner at Lokanta Maya, a trendy İstanbul restaurant that features creative dishes with a modern twist.
End your trip with some last-minute shopping at the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinthine indoor market that offers a range of goods from jewelry to textiles. For lunch, head to Dürümzade, a small and unassuming eatery that's hailed as one of the best spots for dürüm (Turkish wrap) in the city.
Transportation in Istanbul is relatively affordable and accessible. Public transportation includes buses, trams, and ferries, with fares ranging from $0.50 to $2.00 per ride. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem are also available, with prices varying depending on the distance and traffic. Expect heavy traffic during rush hour and on weekends.
If you have more time, consider checking out the quaint neighborhoods of Bebek and Balat. For a unique food experience, try the fish sandwich near the Galata Bridge or the mussels stuffed with rice (midye dolma) from street vendors. If you have less time, prioritize your itinerary based on your interests, and consider taking a food tour to sample the city's culinary highlights in a shorter amount of time.
Istanbul is served by two airports: Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). IST is located on the European side, approximately 24km from the city center, while SAW is on the Asian side, about 40km away. Both airports offer various transportation options to the city, including buses, taxis, and subways.