Exploring Istanbul in 4 Days

Day 1: Historical Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history of being both a church and a mosque.
Hagia Sophia is a short walk from Sultanahmet Tram Station.
30 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, known for its delicious kofte (meatballs) and mezes.
Sultanahmet Koftecisi is a 5-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
50 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Immerse yourself in the opulence of Topkapi Palace, the former royal residence of the Ottoman Sultans, overlooking the Bosphorus.
Topkapi Palace is a 10-minute walk from Sultanahmet Koftecisi.
60 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Doyuran Lokantasi

Indulge in a hearty Turkish dinner at Doyuran Lokantasi, offering a variety of traditional dishes in a cozy setting.
Doyuran Lokantasi is a 15-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Vibrant Beyoglu

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Galata Tower

Start your day by admiring panoramic views of Istanbul from the iconic Galata Tower, offering a perfect photo opportunity.
Galata Tower is a 20-minute tram ride from Sultanahmet.
25 TRY, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Treat yourself to Baklava at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned pastry shop in Beyoglu famous for its sweet delicacies.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is a 10-minute walk from Galata Tower.
40 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Stroll down the bustling Istiklal Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, offering a glimpse into Istanbul's modern lifestyle.
Istiklal Avenue is a short walk from Karakoy Gulluoglu.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Experience contemporary Turkish cuisine with a view at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant known for its fusion of flavors and stunning cityscape.
Mikla is a 5-minute walk from Istiklal Avenue.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Charming Kadikoy

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Take a Ferry to Kadikoy

Start your day with a scenic ferry ride to Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul, known for its vibrant markets and waterfront promenade.
Ferries to Kadikoy depart from Eminonu Pier, a 15-minute tram ride from Sultanahmet.
5 TRY, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savour authentic Anatolian dishes at Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of regional delicacies.
Ciya Sofrasi is a 10-minute walk from Kadikoy Pier.
60 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Moda

Discover the trendy neighbourhood of Moda, with its charming streets, boutique shops, and seaside cafes perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Moda is a short walk from Ciya Sofrasi.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Kebap

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Ciya Kebap, known for its succulent kebabs and grilled meats, a must-try in Kadikoy.
Ciya Kebap is a 5-minute walk from Moda.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historic Sultanahmet Revisited

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Blue Mosque

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, an architectural marvel adorned with blue tiles and intricate designs.
Blue Mosque is a 10-minute walk from Sultanahmet Tram Station.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the maze of shops at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, offering a unique shopping experience.
Grand Bazaar is a 15-minute walk from the Blue Mosque.
Depends on shopping, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli

Dine at Pandeli, a historic restaurant in the Grand Bazaar known for its traditional Ottoman cuisine and charming ambiance.
Pandeli is located within the Grand Bazaar.
100 TRY, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Explore the underground marvel of Basilica Cistern, an ancient reservoir with mysterious Medusa heads and atmospheric lighting.
Basilica Cistern is a 5-minute walk from the Grand Bazaar.
20 TRY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

End your day with a royal Ottoman dining experience at Matbah Restaurant, serving authentic recipes in a historic setting.
Matbah Restaurant is a 10-minute walk from Basilica Cistern.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours
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