Exploring Istanbul in 5 Days

Day 1: Historic Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that has been a church, mosque, and museum.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning blue tiles and impressive domes of the Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sarnic Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in the underground cistern of Sarnic Restaurant, with a unique ambiance and delicious cuisine.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Immerse yourself in history at Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and explore its beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibits.
60 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Indulge in a regal dining experience at Matbah Restaurant, offering authentic Ottoman cuisine in a historic setting.
150 TRY, 2 hours

Day 2: Vibrant Galata and Istiklal

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Ascend Galata Tower

Start your day with panoramic views of Istanbul from Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering breathtaking cityscapes.
35 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll Istiklal Avenue

Take a leisurely walk along Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Meze by Lemon Tree

Savor a delightful Mediterranean lunch at Meze by Lemon Tree, known for its delectable mezes and seafood dishes.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Pera Museum

Discover the artistic treasures of Pera Museum, housing a diverse collection of Orientalist paintings, Anatolian weights and measures, and ceramics.
40 TRY, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience a culinary journey at Mikla Restaurant, offering modern Turkish cuisine and stunning views of the city skyline.
200 TRY, 2 hours

Day 3: Imperial Treasures

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Grand Bazaar

Embark on a treasure hunt at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, brimming with colorful stalls and unique finds.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant

Relish a satisfying lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant, known for its delicious Turkish kebabs and mezes.
90 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Suleymaniye Mosque

Marvel at the grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and an important symbol of Istanbul's skyline.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Engage your senses at the Spice Bazaar, a fragrant and colorful market offering a wide array of spices, teas, and Turkish delights.
Depends on purchases, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fes Cafe

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Fes Cafe, offering a cozy atmosphere and delectable Turkish cuisine with a modern twist.
150 TRY, 2 hours

Day 4: Bosphorus Discovery

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, where you can admire the beauty of Istanbul from the water, passing by majestic palaces, fortresses, and picturesque neighborhoods.
25 EUR, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor the diverse flavors of Anatolian cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, a beloved restaurant known for its authentic dishes and warm hospitality.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning blend of Ottoman and European architectural styles, and delve into the lavish lifestyle of the sultans.
60 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a luxurious dining experience at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering a refined menu and panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the city.
250 TRY, 2 hours

Day 5: Hagia Sophia and Spice Bazaar

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Chora Church

Discover the stunning mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church, a hidden gem that showcases the beauty of Byzantine art and architecture.
45 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Yeni Camii

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Yeni Camii, also known as the New Mosque, and witness its impressive domes and serene courtyard.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Indulge in a classic Ottoman meal at Pandeli Restaurant, located in the Spice Bazaar and renowned for its historical ambiance and delectable cuisine.
140 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Istanbul Archaeology Museums

Explore the fascinating Istanbul Archaeology Museums, housing a rich collection of artifacts and treasures from various eras of the city's history.
30 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Conclude your culinary journey with a delightful dinner at Asitane Restaurant, offering a menu inspired by centuries-old Ottoman recipes in a charming setting.
180 TRY, 2 hours