Explore Istanbul - 7-Day Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Historical Wonders

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey on August 21, 2024

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Begin your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel showcasing Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by foot or tram.
EUR 12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Blue Mosque

After Hagia Sophia, head to the Blue Mosque to admire its stunning blue tiles and unique architecture.
The Blue Mosque is situated right across from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Doyuran Lokantasi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Doyuran Lokantasi, savouring delicious local flavours.
Doyuran Lokantasi is a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
EUR 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Topkapi Palace

Spend the afternoon at Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman Sultans, filled with opulent courtyards and treasures.
Topkapi Palace is near the Blue Mosque, a brief walk away.
EUR 10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matbah Restaurant

Relish an authentic Ottoman dining experience at Matbah Restaurant, offering a taste of history with each dish.
Matbah Restaurant is located close to Topkapi Palace.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Modern Istanbul

Taksim Square, Istanbul, Turkey on August 22, 2024

9:00AM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Start your day with a stroll along Istiklal Avenue, a bustling shopping street lined with cafes, boutiques, and historic buildings.
Istiklal Avenue is the heart of modern Istanbul, easily reached from Sultanahmet by tram.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Indulge in delicious baklava and Turkish delights for lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a renowned dessert shop.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is a short walk from Istiklal Avenue.
EUR 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Explore contemporary Turkish art at Istanbul Modern, a leading museum showcasing works by local and international artists.
Istanbul Modern is located near Taksim Square, a quick taxi ride away.
EUR 8, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Taksim Square

Head to Taksim Square, a vibrant hub with cultural events, restaurants, and the iconic Independence Monument.
Taksim Square is the central point of modern Istanbul, easily accessible by foot or tram.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience a blend of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine with stunning views over the city at Mikla Restaurant.
Mikla Restaurant is located in Beyoglu, a short taxi ride from Taksim Square.
EUR 50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Market Exploration

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey on August 23, 2024

9:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Spend the day getting lost in the vibrant lanes of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
The Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of Istanbul, easily accessible by tram.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Ottoman meal at Pandeli Restaurant, a historic spot known for its delicious cuisine.
Pandeli Restaurant is situated within the Grand Bazaar.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Suleymaniye Mosque

After lunch, explore the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of the city.
Suleymaniye Mosque is a short walk from the Grand Bazaar.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Tea at Rustem Pasha Mosque

Unwind with a traditional Turkish tea at Rustem Pasha Mosque, admiring its stunning tile work and peaceful ambiance.
Rustem Pasha Mosque is a leisurely walk from Suleymaniye Mosque.
EUR 5, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Fuego Restaurant

Enjoy a fusion of Turkish and international flavours at Fuego Restaurant, ending your day with a culinary delight.
Fuego Restaurant is located near the Grand Bazaar.
EUR 40, 2 hours
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Day 4: Crossing Continents

Kadikoy, Istanbul, Turkey on August 24, 2024

8:00AM

Ferry to Kadikoy

Start your day with a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus to Kadikoy on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Ferries to Kadikoy depart from Eminonu and Karakoy, providing a picturesque journey.
EUR 2, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling Kadikoy Market, filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Kadikoy Market is a short walk from the ferry terminal.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya

Enjoy a diverse array of Turkish dishes at Ciya, a renowned restaurant in Kadikoy known for its authentic flavours.
Ciya is located in Kadikoy Market area.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Moda Sahili

Stroll along Moda Sahili, the seaside promenade offering stunning views of the Marmara Sea and a relaxing atmosphere.
Moda Sahili is a pleasant walk from Kadikoy Market.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Neolokal

Indulge in modern Turkish cuisine with international influences at Neolokal, overlooking the Bosphorus and the Old City.
Neolokal is situated in the Kadikoy area, accessible by taxi or a short walk.
EUR 45, 2 hours
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Day 5: Spice and Sights

Spice Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey on August 25, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Start your day exploring the colourful Spice Bazaar, filled with aromatic spices, teas, and local treats.
The Spice Bazaar is located near the Galata Bridge, easily reachable by tram or walking.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Walk Across Galata Bridge

Take a leisurely walk across Galata Bridge, connecting the old city to Beyoglu, and enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn.
Galata Bridge is close to the Spice Bazaar, offering a scenic route.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli

Head back to the Grand Bazaar area for lunch at Pandeli, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and historic charm.
Pandeli Restaurant is a short distance from the Spice Bazaar.
EUR 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Gulhane Park

Relax in Gulhane Park, a serene oasis near Topkapi Palace, offering a peaceful escape amid lush greenery.
Gulhane Park is within walking distance from the Grand Bazaar.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Round off your day with a fine dining experience at Mikla, savouring innovative Turkish flavours and breathtaking views.
Mikla Restaurant is in Beyoglu, accessible by taxi or public transport.
EUR 50, 2 hours
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Day 6: City Views

Galata Tower, Istanbul, Turkey on August 26, 2024

9:00AM

Climb Galata Tower

Start your day by climbing Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul, spanning the Bosphorus and historic landmarks.
Galata Tower is located in Beyoglu, offering a bird's eye view of the city.
EUR 5, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Karakoy

Descend from the tower to explore the trendy Karakoy neighbourhood, filled with hip cafes, street art, and boutique shops.
Karakoy is situated at the foot of Galata Tower, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

For lunch, revisit Karakoy Gulluoglu for more of their delectable baklava and sweet treats.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is a must-visit dessert spot in the Karakoy area.
EUR 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Street Art Walk

Embark on a walking tour of Karakoy's vibrant street art, discovering hidden gems and artistic expressions around every corner.
Karakoy's streets are an open canvas waiting to be explored on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Van Kahvalti Evi

Savour a traditional Turkish breakfast for dinner at Van Kahvalti Evi, experiencing a unique twist on evening dining.
Van Kahvalti Evi offers a dining experience with a focus on traditional Turkish breakfast dishes.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Island Retreat

Princes' Islands, Istanbul, Turkey on August 27, 2024

8:00AM

Ferry to Princes' Islands

Embark on a ferry journey to the Princes' Islands, a serene archipelago in the Sea of Marmara known for its tranquillity and natural beauty.
Ferries to the Princes' Islands depart from Kabatas or Bostanci.
EUR 5, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Bike Tour on Buyukada

Explore the largest island, Buyukada, by bike, discovering charming streets, pine forests, and picturesque sea views.
Rent a bike upon arrival at Buyukada's port for a day of leisurely exploration.
EUR 10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ada Cafe

Enjoy a seaside lunch at Ada Cafe, savouring fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavours in a relaxed island setting.
Ada Cafe offers a scenic dining experience overlooking the Marmara Sea.
EUR 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Swim at Buyukada Beach

Cool off with a swim at Buyukada Beach, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with crystal-clear waters and sandy shores.
Buyukada Beach is a short walk from the main promenade.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Café Patisserie Husrev

Indulge in Turkish pastries and sweets at Café Patisserie Husrev before heading back to the mainland, ending your island retreat on a sweet note.
Café Patisserie Husrev is located on Buyukada's main street, perfect for a delightful treat before departure.
EUR 10, 1 hour
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