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Discovering Istanbul in 3 Days

Viewed by 56 travelers

Day 1: Historic Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as a church and a mosque.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram T1 from most parts of the city.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Blue Mosque

Next, visit the Blue Mosque with its impressive domes and six minarets, known for its beautiful blue tiles.
The Blue Mosque is just a short walk away from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, known for its delicious meatballs and mezes.
The restaurant is located near Sultanahmet Square.
20 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

After lunch, explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, and admire its stunning architecture and artefacts.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
60 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Indulge in a royal Ottoman dining experience at Matbah Restaurant, offering authentic Ottoman cuisine in a historic setting.
Matbah Restaurant is located in Sultanahmet.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Dolmabahce Palace

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Start your day with a relaxing Bosphorus cruise, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline and iconic landmarks.
Cruise boats depart from Eminonu or Ortakoy, easily accessible by tram or taxi.
25 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savour a diverse array of Anatolian dishes at Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant offering authentic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy, easily reachable by ferry from Eminonu.
40 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, the lavish 19th-century palace that served as the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire.
Dolmabahce Palace is in Besiktas district, accessible by tram or taxi.
90 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Tea at Cakmak Kahve

Relax with Turkish tea or coffee at Cakmak Kahve, a charming cafe with views of the Bosphorus.
Cakmak Kahve is located near Dolmabahce Palace.
15 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

End your day with a fine dining experience at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Sunset Grill & Bar is in the Ulus district, a short taxi ride from Dolmabahce Palace.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Modern Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Start your day at Istanbul Modern, a contemporary art museum showcasing Turkish and international artists.
Istanbul Modern is located in Karakoy, easily accessible by tram or taxi.
40 TRY, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Karakoy Lokantasi

Enjoy a modern twist on Turkish cuisine at Karakoy Lokantasi, a trendy restaurant known for its delicious mezes and seafood dishes.
Karakoy Lokantasi is located in the Karakoy neighbourhood.
50 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Stroll along Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into modern Istanbul.
Istiklal Avenue is in Beyoglu district, easily reachable by tram or taxi.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Indulge in a culinary journey at Mikla Restaurant, renowned for its innovative Turkish cuisine and panoramic views of the city.
Mikla Restaurant is located near Taksim Square in Beyoglu.
250 TRY, 2 hours
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