Istanbul: A 5-Day Foodie Itinerary

1. Day 1: Beyoglu District
   Estimated time from hotel: 20 minutes by taxi
   Start your foodie adventure in the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu, known for its incredible street food and trendy cafes. Stroll through the bustling Istiklal Street and try delicious simits (Turkish bagels), street cart doner, and baklava. End the day with a sunset cocktail at Leb-i Derya rooftop bar overlooking the Bosphorus.
2. Day 2: Asian Side Exploration
   Estimated time from last location: 1 hour by ferry
   Take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul and explore the food scene in Kadikoy. Start with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Sutis, famous for its menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs), pastries and teas. Later, head over to the local Mom-and-Pop restaurants that serve delicious Turkish manti and kokorec.
3. Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise and Seafood
   Estimated time from last location: 30 minutes by taxi
   Explore the city from a different perspective on a Bosphorus Cruise. Observe the historic architecture, palaces, and colonial mansions while you enjoy the sea breeze and sunshine. Head over to the charming fish village of Ortaköy for a savory seafood lunch at Midyeci Ahmet. Try their stuffed mussels with spicy rice and walnut mix.
4. Day 4: Spices and Sweets
   Estimated time from last location: 20 minutes by taxi
   Step into the ancient world of spices and sweets in the historic streets of the Grand Bazaar. Wander through labyrinth alleys and stores selling Turkish delight (lokum), candied fruit, spoons of sweet grape molasses, and nuts. Sip on a traditional Turkish tea and savor the rich flavors at the iconic tea maker Çınaraltı Çay Bahçesi.
5. Day 5: Culinary Workshops
   Estimated time from last location: 10 minutes by taxi
   Join a fun and exciting cooking class and learn to make Turkish delicacies like baklava, stuffed eggplant, and Turkish delight. Try your skills at Mutfak Sanatları Akademisi or Food Routes cooking schools. End your trip with a mouthwatering farewell dinner at the charming restaurant Asitane, specializing in Ottoman cuisine dishes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sutis Breakfast and Pastries (1 hour, 20 USD)
• Bosphorus Cruise (2 hours, 30 USD)
• Midyeci Ahmet Seafood Lunch (1 hour, 25 USD)
• Çınaraltı Çay Bahçesi Tea Break (30 minutes, 5 USD)
• Cooking Class (3 hours, 50 USD)
• Total Estimated Costs: 130 USD

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore some of the other neighborhoods in Istanbul such as Bebek, Nisantasi and Karakoy. For those with less time, reduce a day from your itinerary. You may also want to check out some of the famous landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Keep in mind that some restaurants and activities may close on public holidays or weekends, so double-check before reservation.