Five-Day Relaxation Itinerary in Istanbul

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, where you can enjoy a variety of cheeses, olives, and freshly baked bread.
Van Kahvaltı Evi is located in the Karakoy neighborhood, easily accessible by tram or taxi from main tourist areas.
TRY50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over centuries.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, a short walk from other major landmarks like the Blue Mosque.
TRY100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deraliye Restaurant

Indulge in Ottoman cuisine at Deraliye Restaurant near Topkapi Palace, offering a historic ambiance and delicious kebabs.
Deraliye Restaurant is located within walking distance from Hagia Sophia.
TRY120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Spend the afternoon wandering through the opulent halls and lush gardens of Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans.
Topkapi Palace is adjacent to Deraliye Restaurant, allowing for an easy transition between sites.
TRY90, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Enjoy a culinary journey back in time at Matbah Restaurant, known for its authentic Ottoman recipes and elegant setting.
Matbah Restaurant is located in Sultanahmet, making it convenient to reach after exploring Topkapi Palace.
TRY150, 2 hours
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Day 2: Spa and Wellness

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Start your day with a delicious baklava breakfast at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned pastry shop that has been serving sweet treats for generations.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is located in the Karakoy neighborhood, easily accessible by tram or taxi.
TRY40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit a Turkish Hammam

Indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience at a local hammam, where you can relax in steam rooms and enjoy a rejuvenating massage.
Numerous hammams are located throughout Istanbul, with popular options in the Sultanahmet and Taksim areas.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Treat yourself to a diverse spread of Anatolian dishes at Ciya Sofrasi, a beloved restaurant in Kadikoy known for its fresh and flavorful cuisine.
Ciya Sofrasi is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, accessible by ferry from the European side.
TRY80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relaxing Bosphorus Cruise

Unwind on a leisurely Bosphorus cruise, taking in the stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and iconic landmarks along the waterfront.
Numerous boat tours depart from Eminonu and Besiktas, offering different durations and routes for a scenic experience.
TRY50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a romantic dinner with panoramic views at Sunset Grill & Bar, where you can savor modern Turkish cuisine amidst a stylish rooftop setting.
Sunset Grill & Bar is located in the Ulus district, accessible by taxi or private car for a special evening.
TRY180, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Istanbul, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at Karabatak

Start your day with a hipster vibe breakfast at Karabatak, a trendy cafe known for its specialty coffee and delicious brunch options.
Karabatak is located in the Galata neighborhood, offering a unique blend of modern and historic surroundings.
TRY60, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, offering a treasure trove of souvenirs and local crafts.
The Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of Istanbul's historic district, easily accessible by tram or walking from major attractions.
Free entry, shopping costs vary, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asitane Restaurant

Savor Ottoman cuisine in a historic setting at Asitane Restaurant, where recipes from the palace kitchens of Topkapi are recreated with a modern touch.
Asitane Restaurant is located in Sultanahmet, providing a convenient dining option after exploring the Grand Bazaar.
TRY130, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Chora Church

Admire the stunning mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church, a hidden gem showcasing Byzantine art and history in a peaceful setting.
Chora Church is located near the city walls of Istanbul, requiring a short taxi or bus ride from Sultanahmet.
TRY45, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Indulge in modern Turkish cuisine with a Nordic twist at Mikla Restaurant, overlooking the city skyline from its rooftop terrace.
Mikla Restaurant is situated in Beyoglu, easily accessible from Sultanahmet via taxi or public transportation for a memorable dining experience.
TRY200, 2 hours
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Day 4: Nature Retreat

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kale Cafe

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Kale Cafe, nestled in the green surroundings of Yildiz Park with serene views of nature.
Kale Cafe is located near Yildiz Park, offering a peaceful escape from the city hustle with a short taxi or bus ride.
TRY50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Belgrad Forest

Embark on a nature walk or picnic at Belgrad Forest, a pristine woodland getaway with hiking trails, streams, and fresh air to rejuvenate your senses.
Belgrad Forest is located on the outskirts of Istanbul, accessible by car or public transportation for a day of outdoor relaxation.
Free entry, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Orman Doyumu

Dine amidst the lush greenery of Belgrad Forest at Orman Doyumu, a rustic restaurant serving Turkish and international dishes for a refreshing meal.
Orman Doyumu is nestled within Belgrad Forest, offering a peaceful dining experience after exploring the natural surroundings.
TRY90, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relaxing Spa Treatment

Unwind with a spa treatment at a wellness center in Istanbul, indulging in massages, sauna sessions, and rejuvenating therapies for ultimate relaxation.
Many luxury spas and wellness centers are located throughout Istanbul, offering a range of treatments for a pampering experience.
TRY300, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Lacivert Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood feast by the Bosphorus at Lacivert Restaurant, known for its fresh fish dishes and stunning views of the iconic waterway.
Lacivert Restaurant is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, providing a tranquil setting for a memorable dining experience.
TRY160, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cruise and Relaxation

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise Tour

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise tour, sailing past iconic landmarks like the Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden's Tower, and Ottoman mansions lining the shores.
Various cruise companies offer guided tours departing from Kabatas or Eminonu, providing a glimpse of Istanbul's beauty from the water.
TRY80, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Savor delicious kebabs and grilled meats at Ciya Kebap, a popular eatery in Kadikoy known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
Ciya Kebap is situated in the lively Kadikoy district on the Asian side, accessible via ferry or metro from the European side.
TRY70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Free Time at Prince Islands

Take a serene ferry ride to the Prince Islands, where you can explore car-free streets, rent bikes, and relax on the beaches for a tranquil retreat.
Ferries depart regularly from Kabatas and Bostanci to the Prince Islands, offering a scenic journey across the Marmara Sea.
Ferry costs vary, 3 hours

6:00PM

Seafood Dinner at Balikci Sabahattin

Indulge in a seafood extravaganza at Balikci Sabahattin, a renowned fish restaurant near the Spice Bazaar known for its fresh catch and cozy atmosphere.
Balikci Sabahattin is located in the Eminonu district, a short walk from the Spice Bazaar and Galata Bridge for a delightful dining experience.
TRY140, 2 hours
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