Family-Friendly Itinerary for Istanbul

Day 1: Sultanahmet Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Blue Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque.
The Blue Mosque is easily accessible on foot from most hotels in Sultanahmet. Remember to dress modestly.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Hagia Sophia

After the Blue Mosque, head to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque.
Hagia Sophia is located just a short walk away from the Blue Mosque.
GBP 6.50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sarnic Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch at Sarnic Restaurant, offering traditional dishes in a historic underground cistern setting.
Sarnic Restaurant is close to Hagia Sophia, perfect for a convenient lunch stop.
GBP 15 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore the lavish Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence and administrative headquarters.
Topkapi Palace is within walking distance from Hagia Sophia and Sarnic Restaurant.
GBP 10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

End your day with a family dinner at Matbah Restaurant, offering Ottoman cuisine in a charming setting.
Matbah Restaurant is a short walk from Topkapi Palace.
GBP 20 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Spend the morning exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest covered markets.
Take a tram to Beyazit-Kapalicarsi stop, which is a short walk from the Grand Bazaar entrance.
Free (Shopping optional), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Pandeli Restaurant inside the Grand Bazaar, known for its historical significance.
Pandeli Restaurant is located within the Grand Bazaar for a convenient dining experience.
GBP 25 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Spice Bazaar

After lunch, visit the Spice Bazaar to experience the sights and scents of various spices, teas, and Turkish delights.
The Spice Bazaar is a short walk from the Grand Bazaar.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Family Time at Gulhane Park

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Gulhane Park, perfect for a family picnic or leisurely stroll.
Gulhane Park is located near the Spice Bazaar, offering a green oasis in the city.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fuego Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Fuego Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and international cuisine.
Fuego Restaurant is a short walk from Gulhane Park.
GBP 30 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a leisurely Bosphorus Cruise to admire the city's skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.
Join a scheduled cruise departing from Eminonu or Kabatas pier. Advance booking recommended.
GBP 12 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a delectable lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, offering authentic Turkish dishes in a casual setting.
Ciya Sofrasi is a short taxi ride from the pier or use public transport to reach the restaurant.
GBP 20 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Istanbul Aquarium

Visit the Istanbul Aquarium for a fun and educational experience exploring marine life from around the world.
Take a taxi or public transport to reach the Istanbul Aquarium, suitable for families with children.
GBP 15 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at Karakoy Gulluoglu, famous for its baklava and Turkish desserts.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is located in Karakoy, easily accessible from the aquarium.
GBP 10 per person, 1 hour
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Day 4: Palace Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace, showcasing Ottoman architecture and history.
Topkapi Palace is easily accessible by tram or a short walk from Sultanahmet area.
GBP 10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Hamdi Restaurant overlooking the Golden Horn, famous for its Turkish cuisine.
Hamdi Restaurant is a short tram ride from Topkapi Palace or easily accessible by taxi.
GBP 20 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Dolmabahce Palace

Discover the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of Ottoman imperial grandeur and European elegance.
Take a taxi or public transport to Dolmabahce Palace, combining history and architectural beauty.
GBP 12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Tea at Bebek Kahve

Enjoy a relaxing tea time at Bebek Kahve, a popular cafe with panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
Bebek Kahve is a short walk from Dolmabahce Palace, ideal for a picturesque break.
GBP 5 per person, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill

Conclude your Istanbul adventure with a farewell dinner at Sunset Grill, offering a mix of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.
Sunset Grill is located in Ortakoy, providing a memorable dining experience for the family.
GBP 25 per person, 1.5 hours
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