Istanbul 5-Day Adventure, City Experiences, Foodie, Nature, Rail/Train Trip Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi, known for its delicious spreads of cheese, olives, honey, and more.
£15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox Christian basilica, later an Ottoman imperial mosque, and now a museum. Marvel at its impressive architecture and historical significance.
£14, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Indulge in a delightful lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu, famous for its mouthwatering baklava and other Turkish delights.
£20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant and bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, offering a treasure trove of Turkish goods, from spices to carpets.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner with panoramic views of the city at Mikla Restaurant, known for its modern Turkish cuisine and stylish ambience.
£50, 2 hours

Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to admire the iconic landmarks lining the strait, including the majestic Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and the Bosphorus Bridge.
£25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savour authentic Turkish cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, renowned for its diverse and delicious mezes and kebabs.
£30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Step into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace, home to exquisite courtyards, holy relics, and breathtaking views of the city and sea.
£12, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Kebap

Delight in a dinner of succulent kebabs and grilled meats at Ciya Kebap, a beloved local eatery known for its authentic flavours.
£35, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Explore Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Lades Menemen

Start your day with a delicious Turkish breakfast at Lades Menemen, known for its scrumptious menemen (Turkish-style scrambled eggs).
£12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Wander through the vibrant Kadikoy Market on the Asian side, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and charming cafes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Restaurant

Indulge in an authentic Anatolian lunch at Ciya Restaurant, offering a rich tapestry of flavours from southeastern Turkey.
£40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Camlica Hill

Head to Camlica Hill for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus, and unwind in the serene surroundings of this picturesque spot.
£5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Return to Ciya Sofrasi for dinner and savour more of their delightful Turkish dishes, each bursting with authentic flavours.
£30, 2 hours

Day 4: Cappadocia Exploration

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Embark on a magical hot air balloon ride over the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, where you can witness the sunrise painting the sky with vibrant hues.
£150, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum

Discover the ancient rock-cut churches and captivating frescoes at the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum, offering a glimpse into Cappadocia's rich history.
£15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Relish a hearty meal at Dibek Restaurant, known for its traditional Cappadocian cuisine and warm hospitality.
£25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Pasabag (Monks Valley)

Stroll through the fascinating landscape of Pasabag, also known as Monks Valley, famed for its mushroom-shaped rock formations and fairy chimneys.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe, offering a charming ambiance and delectable international and Turkish fusion cuisine.
£45, 2 hours

Day 5: Historical Sites & Farewell

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture and exquisite blue tiles of the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman design.
£10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Basilica Cistern

Descend into the underground world of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient reservoir with captivating columns and medusa head sculptures.
£6, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Asitane Restaurant

Indulge in a regal Ottoman-inspired lunch at Asitane Restaurant, where you can savour authentic recipes from the palace kitchens of the Ottoman Empire.
£40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Suleymaniye Mosque

Explore the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and an important symbol of Istanbul's skyline, offering sweeping views of the city.
£8, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Conclude your trip with a memorable farewell dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, savouring exquisite cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
£60, 2 hours