Exploring Istanbul in 5 Days

Day 1: Historic Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by walking from most hotels in the area.
90 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch of köfte at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a popular local spot.
Sultanahmet Koftecisi is a short walk from Hagia Sophia.
50 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Blue Mosque

After lunch, visit the stunning Blue Mosque with its intricate tile work and impressive domes.
The Blue Mosque is a short walk from Sultanahmet Koftecisi.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shop at the Grand Bazaar

End your day with some shopping at the historic Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
Take a tram from Sultanahmet to Beyazit, where the Grand Bazaar is located.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 2: Vibrant Beyoglu

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Galata Tower

Start your day with a panoramic view of Istanbul from the top of Galata Tower.
Galata Tower is in the Beyoglu district and can be reached by walking or taking a short taxi ride.
35 TRY, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Indulge in delicious baklava at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a famous pastry shop near Galata Tower.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is a short walk from Galata Tower.
30 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll down Istiklal Avenue

Explore the bustling Istiklal Avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Istiklal Avenue starts near Galata Tower and is a pedestrian street.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Galata Bridge

Witness a magical Istanbul sunset while walking along Galata Bridge, with views of the Golden Horn.
Walk from Istiklal Avenue to Galata Bridge for the best views.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Crossing to Uskudar

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Maiden's Tower

Start your day with a boat trip to Maiden's Tower, a historic lighthouse in the middle of the Bosphorus.
Take a ferry from Eminonu to reach Maiden's Tower.
25 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a diverse and delicious lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its authentic Turkish cuisine.
Ciya Sofrasi is a short walk from Maiden's Tower.
70 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Uskudar Mosque

Visit the impressive Uskudar Mosque and take in the serene atmosphere by the Bosphorus.
Uskudar Mosque is a short walk from Ciya Sofrasi.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Tea at Kiz Kulesi Cafe

Relax with a cup of Turkish tea at Kiz Kulesi Cafe while enjoying views of the Bosphorus and Maiden's Tower.
Kiz Kulesi Cafe is located near Uskudar Mosque.
15 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 4: Exploring Kadikoy

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Moda Park

Start your day with a leisurely stroll in Moda Park, a green oasis overlooking the Sea of Marmara.
Take a ferry from Eminonu to Kadikoy and walk to Moda Park.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Savor delicious kebabs at Ciya Kebap, a renowned restaurant in Kadikoy known for its authentic flavors.
Ciya Kebap is a short walk from Moda Park.
60 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shop at Kadikoy Market

Explore the vibrant Kadikoy Market, filled with fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts.
Kadikoy Market is a short walk from Ciya Kebap.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Return to Ciya Sofrasi for dinner and try more of their delectable Turkish dishes.
Ciya Sofrasi is a short walk from Kadikoy Market.
80 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 5: Charming Ortakoy

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Ortakoy Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Ortakoy Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.
Ortakoy Mosque is located by the Bosphorus and can be reached by taxi or public transportation.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ortakoy Borek House

Enjoy a traditional Turkish borek pastry at Ortakoy Borek House, a local favorite near the mosque.
Ortakoy Borek House is a short walk from Ortakoy Mosque.
25 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Ortakoy Street Market

Explore the bustling street market in Ortakoy, offering a variety of handmade crafts, souvenirs, and snacks.
The street market is right by Ortakoy Borek House.
Varies, 1 hour

4:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

End your day with a relaxing Bosphorus cruise, taking in the beautiful views of Istanbul's skyline from the water.
Book a Bosphorus cruise departing from Ortakoy for a scenic journey.
50 TRY, 2 hours
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