Exploring Istanbul in 5 Days

Day 1: Historical Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Hagia Sophia is within walking distance from Sultanahmet tram station.
60 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Blue Mosque

After Hagia Sophia, visit the nearby Blue Mosque with its impressive blue tiles and unique architecture.
A short walk from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Matbah Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Ottoman meal at Matbah Restaurant, offering a taste of the city's culinary history.
Located in Sultanahmet Square.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Topkapi Palace

Explore the Topkapi Palace to delve into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans.
A short walk from the Blue Mosque.
120 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Doy Doy Restaurant

Indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine at Doy Doy Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors.
Short walk from Topkapi Palace.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Vibrant Beyoglu

Beyoglu, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Galata Tower

Start your day at the iconic Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
You can take a taxi or tram from Sultanahmet to reach Beyoglu.
35 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Istiklal Street

Walk along Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Easily accessible from Galata Tower.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Karakoy Lokantasi

Dine at Karakoy Lokantasi for a modern twist on traditional Turkish dishes in a trendy setting.
Located in Karakoy, a short walk from Istiklal Street.
90 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Explore contemporary Turkish art at Istanbul Modern, showcasing a diverse range of works.
A short walk from Karakoy Lokantasi.
40 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience fine dining with a view at Mikla Restaurant, offering a fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine.
Located near Istanbul Modern.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Coastal Besiktas

Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a Bosphorus Cruise from Besiktas to enjoy the scenic views of Istanbul's skyline and waterfront palaces.
Take a taxi or bus to Besiktas from Beyoglu.
50 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lucca

Savor Mediterranean cuisine at Lucca with a view of the Bosphorus, creating a perfect dining experience.
Located along the Bosphorus in Besiktas.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's last architectural period.
A short walk from Lucca restaurant.
90 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Feriye Palace

Dine at Feriye Palace, an elegant restaurant with a historical setting and delightful Turkish cuisine.
Located near Dolmabahce Palace.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 4: Charming Kadikoy

Kadikoy, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Moda Sea Club

Start your day with a relaxing visit to Moda Sea Club, a serene spot by the sea offering stunning views.
Take a ferry from Besiktas to Kadikoy.
25 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Stroll through Kadikoy Market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste local delicacies.
Short walk from Moda Sea Club.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a diverse array of Anatolian dishes at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant in Kadikoy.
Located in the heart of Kadikoy Market.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Baris Manco Museum

Visit the Baris Manco Museum to learn about the life and music of this iconic Turkish musician.
Short walk from Ciya Sofrasi.
20 TRY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Tea at Cinaralti Teahouse

Relax at Cinaralti Teahouse with a cup of traditional Turkish tea while enjoying the sea view.
Located along the Kadikoy coastline.
15 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Kebap

End your day with dinner at Ciya Kebap, known for its delicious kebabs and authentic Turkish flavors.
Close to Kadikoy Market.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Grand Bazaar

Explore the vibrant and historic Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.
Take a ferry from Kadikoy to Eminonu, then a tram to Sultanahmet.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Shopping at Spice Bazaar

Discover the colorful array of spices, sweets, and souvenirs at the Spice Bazaar for a sensory experience.
A short walk from the Grand Bazaar.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at Pandeli Restaurant, a historic spot offering traditional Turkish cuisine with a view of the Golden Horn.
Located near the Spice Bazaar.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Gulhane Park

Relax at Gulhane Park, a beautiful green space near Topkapi Palace, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
A short walk from Pandeli Restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Asitane Restaurant, known for its authentic recreation of Ottoman palace cuisine.
Located near Gulhane Park.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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