Discover the Wonders of Istanbul: 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at 360 Istanbul

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at 360 Istanbul, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city.
Located in the Istiklal Street area, 360 Istanbul is easily accessible by tram.
TRY 150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A short 10-minute walk from your breakfast location.
TRY 200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Savor traditional Turkish meatballs at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, famous for its authentic taste.
5-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY 120, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Blue Mosque

Next, marvel at the breathtaking interiors of the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles.
Located directly across from the Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Dive into the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
Take a 15-minute walk from the Blue Mosque.
Free (shopping optional), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, renowned for its delicious kebabs and gorgeous views of the Golden Horn.
A short 10-minute walk from the Grand Bazaar.
TRY 250, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Gems

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Indulge in a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, known for its extensive spread.
Accessed easily by taxi or public transport.
TRY 180, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans with an array of historical artifacts.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the breakfast location.
TRY 300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pideci Selim Usta

Enjoy a hearty Pide (Turkish pizza) for lunch at Pideci Selim Usta, a local favorite.
A short 10-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY 100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Discover the stunning underground Basilica Cistern, an ancient cistern famous for its impressive columns.
A 15-minute walk from lunch spot.
TRY 300, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Spice Bazaar

Wander through the vibrant Spice Bazaar, filled with exotic spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
A 10-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern.
Free (shopping optional), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor a delightful dinner at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its Anatolian dishes and authentic flavors.
Take the ferry to Kadikoy from Eminönü, then a short walk.
TRY 220, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historic Routes

Istanbul, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at Simit Sarayı

Start your day with a traditional Turkish simit and tea at Simit Sarayı.
Easily reachable by tram.
TRY 80, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Chora Church

Discover Chora Church, known for its beautiful mosaics and frescoes reflecting Byzantine art.
Take a taxi to reach Chora Church.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Edirne Kapi

Enjoy a local lunch at Edirne Kapi, famous for its homemade dishes.
10-minute walk from Chora Church.
TRY 120, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque

Admire the grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque, an iconic example of Ottoman architecture.
A short taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Dive into centuries of history at the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts.
A 20-minute walk from the mosque.
TRY 200, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at Pandeli Restaurant, known for its stunning tile work and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Adjacent to the Archaeological Museum.
TRY 250, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Bosphorus Bliss

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Privato

Enjoy a lovely breakfast with a view of the Bosphorus at Café Privato.
Located in Galata, easily accessible via tram.
TRY 150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Board a scenic Bosphorus cruise to take in the city's skyline and historic landmarks from the water.
A short walk to the ferry terminal.
TRY 300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Anadolu Kavağı

Disembark at Anadolu Kavağı and enjoy fresh fish at a local restaurant.
Accessible through a charming walk around the area.
TRY 220, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Yoros Castle

Explore Yoros Castle for panoramic views of the Bosphorus and surrounding scenery.
A 20-minute hike from lunch.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Istanbul and Relax

Take the ferry back and unwind by the Galata Bridge.
Ferry back to the original terminal.
TRY 100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Galata Kitchen

Enjoy a casual dinner at Galata Kitchen, known for its fusion of traditional and modern Turkish cuisine.
A 15-minute walk from Galata Bridge.
TRY 240, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Local Life & Departure

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at MOC İstanbul

End your trip with a delightful breakfast at MOC İstanbul, famous for its cozy ambiance and artisan coffee.
Located in the Karaköy area, easily reachable by tram.
TRY 170, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb up Galata Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
A short 10-minute walk from breakfast.
TRY 250, 1 hour

11:00AM

Souvenir Shopping in Karaköy

Stroll through the charming streets of Karaköy and pick up souvenirs from local shops.
Walking distance from the Galata Tower.
Free (shopping optional), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Meze by Lemon Tree

Relish a final lunch with various small dishes at Meze by Lemon Tree.
A quick 10-minute walk.
TRY 150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Visit the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, blending European architectural styles with Ottoman grandeur.
Easily reached by taxi.
TRY 300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Final Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a stunning sunset dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar offering diverse international cuisine.
Directly accessible from Dolmabahçe Palace.
TRY 400, 2 hours
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