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Exploring Istanbul, Turkey in 5 Days

Viewed by 56 travelers

Day 1: Historic Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture.
25 TRY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Blue Mosque

Head to the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and intricate design.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sarnic Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Turkish meal at Sarnic Restaurant located in a historic cistern.
50 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore the grand Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans, and admire its opulent architecture.
40 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Ottoman dining experience at Matbah Restaurant.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Continuing Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Grand Bazaar

Spend the morning exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Cruise on the Bosphorus

Take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
25 TRY, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at Pandeli Restaurant, offering authentic Ottoman cuisine with a view of the Golden Horn.
60 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Explore the underground Basilica Cistern, an ancient reservoir with impressive Medusa head columns.
20 TRY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at a Turkish Bath

Unwind with a traditional Turkish bath experience at Cagaloglu Hamami.
100 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Magical Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cappadocia from above with a sunrise hot air balloon ride.
250 EUR, 3 hours

12:00PM

Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum

Visit the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum to see ancient cave churches and unique rock formations.
30 TRY, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Cappadocian meal at Dibek Restaurant, known for its local flavours.
40 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Uchisar Castle

Explore the towering Uchisar Castle, offering panoramic views of the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia.
15 TRY, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Greek House

Taste authentic Cappadocian dishes at Old Greek House, a charming restaurant in Urgup.
60 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Charming Kadikoy

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Discover the vibrant Kadikoy Market, offering a variety of fresh produce, spices, and local goods.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Take a Ferry to Uskudar

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus to Uskudar and explore the Asian side of Istanbul.
5 TRY, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savour authentic Anatolian cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant in Kadikoy.
50 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Moda

Stroll through the trendy neighbourhood of Moda, known for its cafes, boutiques, and seaside promenade.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Kebap

Enjoy a delicious kebab dinner at Ciya Kebap, a popular spot for traditional Turkish cuisine.
60 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Princes' Islands

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take a Ferry to Buyukada

Embark on a ferry journey to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its charming atmosphere.
10 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Horse Carriage Tour

Explore Buyukada on a leisurely horse-drawn carriage tour, taking in the island's picturesque landscapes.
50 TRY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ada Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Ada Cafe, offering panoramic views of the Marmara Sea.
40 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Swim at Nakibey Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy shores of Nakibey Beach and take a refreshing swim in the sea.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ada Hotel

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Ada Hotel, known for its seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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