Experiencing Istanbul in 2 Days

Day 1: Historical Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast of simit, olives, cheese, and tea to fuel up for a day of exploration.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Sultanahmet Square.
15 TRY, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning architecture and history of Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque that is now a museum.
Hagia Sophia is a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
100 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Blue Mosque

Admire the intricate blue tiles and six minarets of the Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
Blue Mosque is located right across from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pandeli Restaurant, known for its Ottoman cuisine and historic ambiance.
Pandeli Restaurant is a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
50 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the maze of shops at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
Walk to the Grand Bazaar from Pandeli Restaurant.
Free to explore, 2 hours

4:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Experience the beauty of Istanbul from the water on a relaxing Bosphorus cruise, passing by iconic landmarks.
Take a tram or taxi to the Eminonu Pier for the cruise.
25 TRY, 2 hours

6:30PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans and now a museum showcasing treasures.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Sultanahmet Square.
150 TRY, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the city at Mikla Restaurant in Beyoglu.
Take a taxi to Taksim Square for dinner.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 2: Modern Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Start your day with a hearty Kurdish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi, known for its fresh ingredients and variety of dishes.
Take a taxi or tram to Dolmabahce Palace.
30 TRY, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur and history of Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning symbol of the Ottoman Empire's last period.
Walk along the Bosphorus or take a tram to Istiklal Street.
90 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Savor delicious baklava and Turkish pastries at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned bakery in the heart of Istanbul.
Walk or take a tram to Galata Tower.
40 TRY, 1 hour

2:30PM

Galata Tower

Climb to the top of Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus, a perfect photo spot.
Walk to the Spice Bazaar for your next stop.
35 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Spice Bazaar

Discover a sensory explosion at the Spice Bazaar, filled with exotic spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
Take a ferry from Eminonu to Kadikoy for a unique experience.
Free to explore, 2 hours

6:30PM

Explore Kadikoy

Stroll along the vibrant streets of Kadikoy, known for its hip cafes, street art, and local markets.
End your day by taking a ferry back to Eminonu or a taxi to your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours
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