4-Day Istanbul City Experience Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Landmarks

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring local cheeses, olives, honey, and freshly baked bread at Van Kahvaltı Evi, known for its delicious spread.
Take the tram to the Zeytinburnu stop and walk 10 minutes to the café.
TRY100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, where history resonates through its grand domes and ornate mosaics.
Walk 15 minutes from the café to Hagia Sophia.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Khorasani Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at Khorasani, famous for its kebabs and mezes, all set in an inviting atmosphere.
It's a short 10-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Blue Mosque

Visit the majestic Blue Mosque, noted for its beautiful blue tiles and impressive architecture, located just a short walk away from Hagia Sophia.
Walk 5 minutes to the mosque.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll in Sultanahmet Square

Relax and take in the sights of Sultanahmet Square, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding historical buildings and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Easily accessible on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Indulge in an exquisite dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, famed for its excellent views of the Golden Horn and traditional Turkish dishes.
It’s about a 15-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Privato

Begin your day at Café Privato, which offers a delicious mix of classic Turkish breakfast items and organic produce.
Take a tram to Taksim Square and walk about 12 minutes to the café.
TRY100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Dive into the rich history of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, exploring its beautiful grounds and remarkable artefacts.
Take a short 15-minute walk from the café.
TRY250, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Grab a traditional Turkish lunch at Pandeli, located inside the Spice Bazaar for a unique culinary experience.
Take a 15-minute walk to the Spice Bazaar.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Wander through the vibrant Spice Bazaar, where the aromas of spices and sweets create a sensory delight, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Just outside the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic Bosphorus cruise and experience breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and coastline.
Board your cruise from Eminönü port, a 10-minute walk from the bazaar.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Müzedechanga

Dine in style at Müzedechanga, located near the Museum of Modern Art, serving a delectable fusion of contemporary Turkish cuisine.
Take a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and History

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Journey

Start your day at Journey, where they offer a unique brunch menu focused on sustainability and local ingredients.
Take the tram to Karaköy and walk about 5 minutes.
TRY100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Istanbul Modern Museum

Appreciate contemporary art at the Istanbul Modern Museum, showcasing both international and local artists in a stunning waterfront location.
A 10-minute walk from the café.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Karaköy Güllüoğlu, famous for its delectable baklava and quick Turkish eats.
Just a 5-minute walk from the museum.
TRY80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Galata Tower

Climb the historic Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul and its beautiful skyline; a perfect photo opportunity!
Walk 15 minutes to the tower from the café.
TRY250, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Istiklal Street

Stroll down Istiklal Street, filled with shops, cafés, and vibrant street performers, showcasing the lively spirit of Istanbul.
Walk back to Istiklal Avenue from Galata Tower, around 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

End your day with a lovely dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree, known for its creative meze and fresh seafood dishes.
Head to the nearby neighbourhood of Cihangir, just 15 minutes on foot.
TRY180, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Local Traditions

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Çınaraltı Café

Kick off your final day at Çınaraltı Café on the Asian side, where you’ll enjoy traditional Turkish breakfast with a beautiful view.
Take the ferry from Eminönü to Üsküdar, then a short walk.
TRY90, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Maiden's Tower

Head over to Maiden's Tower, an iconic landmark that offers rich history and a stunning view of the Bosphorus.
Catch a boat from Üsküdar; the ride is about 10 minutes.
TRY100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kıyı Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Kıyı Restaurant, located on the coast, with fresh dishes and a relaxing ambiance.
Return to Üsküdar by boat and walk about 5 minutes to the restaurant.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Çamlıca Hill

Take a short drive to Çamlıca Hill, offering one of the best panoramic views of Istanbul and a great spot to relax.
Take a local bus from the restaurant, about 20 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Cağaloğlu Hamam

Experience the traditional Turkish bath at Cağaloğlu Hamam, allowing you to indulge in relaxation and wellness.
Head back to Sultanahmet by bus, around 30 minutes to reach the hamam.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Asitane

Conclude your journey in Istanbul with a farewell dinner at Asitane, celebrated for its historical Ottoman cuisine and warm atmosphere.
Take a short 15-minute walk from the hamam to Asitane.
TRY300, 2 hours
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