Three-Day Istanbul Exploration

Day 1: Old City Marvels

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and learn about its fascinating history.
Entrance fee: 100 TRY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Blue Mosque

Next, visit the iconic Blue Mosque with its intricate blue tile work and impressive domes, offering a peaceful ambiance for contemplation.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, known for its delicious kofte (meatballs) and mezes.
Cost varies, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Step back in time at the opulent Topkapi Palace, once the main residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and marvel at its exquisite architecture and treasures.
Entrance fee: 150 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shop at Grand Bazaar

Conclude your day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Free to enter, shopping costs vary, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Indulge in a sumptuous Ottoman cuisine dining experience at Matbah Restaurant, offering a blend of historic recipes and elegant ambiance.
Cost varies, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Bosphorus Beauty

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to admire the beauty of Istanbul from the water, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Dolmabahce Palace and Rumeli Fortress.
Tour cost: 50 TRY, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a diverse and flavourful Anatolian cuisine lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its authentic and delicious dishes.
Cost varies, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's last architectural period, with its stunning interiors and gardens.
Entrance fee: 90 TRY, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Ortakoy Square

Unwind at Ortakoy Square, a charming area by the Bosphorus where you can enjoy tea or Turkish coffee with a view of the Bosphorus Bridge.
Cost of drinks, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and delicious international cuisine.
Cost varies, 2 hours

Day 3: Grand Bazaar & Taksim

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Spend your morning exploring the vibrant and bustling Grand Bazaar, a paradise for shoppers with its endless array of goods and souvenirs.
Free to enter, shopping costs vary, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at Pandeli Restaurant, a historic establishment within the Grand Bazaar serving up traditional Turkish delicacies with a touch of nostalgia.
Cost varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Galata Tower

Head to Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, and immerse yourself in the historical significance of this iconic landmark.
Entrance fee: 35 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Take a leisurely walk along Istiklal Avenue, a vibrant pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, offering a taste of modern Istanbul.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Conclude your Istanbul adventure with a memorable dinner at Mikla Restaurant, known for its contemporary Turkish cuisine and stunning views from the terrace.
Cost varies, 2 hours