11-Day Ultimate Istanbul Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Hagia Sophia Visit

Start your adventure exploring Hagia Sophia, once a cathedral and mosque, now a stunning museum showcasing exquisite mosaics.
Walk approximately 10 minutes from your accommodation.
CURRENCY100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Blue Mosque Exploration

Just a few steps from Hagia Sophia, indulge in the serenity of the Blue Mosque, renowned for its magnificent architecture and blue tiles.
Short walk from Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, famous for its mouth-watering kebabs and koftes.
Walk 10 minutes to the restaurant.
CURRENCY200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Topkapi Palace Tour

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, with its stunning courtyards and impressive relics of the Ottoman Empire.
A short 10-minute walk from lunch.
CURRENCY300, 2 hours

4:30PM

Basilica Cistern

Descend into the mysterious Basilica Cistern and admire its ancient architecture and eerie lighting.
Walk 5 minutes from Topkapi Palace.
CURRENCY150, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor your first dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, offering fantastic views of the city and delicious kebabs.
Walk 15 minutes to the restaurant.
CURRENCY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Istanbul's Heritage

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Begin your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, filled with vibrant sights, sounds, and aromatic spices.
Take the tram from Sultanahmet to Eminönü (20 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boat ride on the Bosphorus

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Bosphorus, letting you experience beautiful coastal views of Istanbul.
Board the ferry from Eminönü.
CURRENCY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ortaköy

Indulge in local delicacies at one of the cafés along the Ortaköy waterfront, famous for its kumpir (stuffed baked potato).
Ferry drop-off at Ortaköy.
CURRENCY200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Dolmabahçe Palace Tour

Visit the magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace, known for its extravagant architecture and stunning decor.
Walk 15 minutes from Ortaköy.
CURRENCY300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Galata Tower

Head over to Galata Tower to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Take the tram from Dolmabahçe to Karaköy.
CURRENCY100, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Galata Restaurant

Wrap up your day with dinner at Galata Restaurant, which offers a fusion of traditional and modern Turkish cuisine.
Walk 5 minutes from the tower.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise Adventure

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Morning Market Visit

Start with a visit to the local Beşiktaş market to experience the buzz of Turkish daily life.
Take public transport, bus 28 from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

1-Hour Mini Bosphorus Boat Tour

Take a mini Bosphorus boat tour that provides an intimate view of Istanbul's waterfront.
Book the tour at the Beşiktaş dock.
CURRENCY150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch in Beşiktaş

Savor a delicious lunch at a local café, trying out the famous Beşiktaş meatballs.
Choose any nearby café.
CURRENCY200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Dolmabahçe Mosque

Explore the splendid Dolmabahçe Mosque, known for its exquisite design and symmetry.
Return by bus to Dolmabahçe.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Sip Tea by the Bosphorus

Relax at a café by the Bosphorus, enjoying the view while sipping traditional Turkish tea.
Easy walk from the mosque.
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Indulge in a memorable dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, featuring stunning views and gourmet cuisine.
Take a short taxi ride.
CURRENCY350, 2 hours
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Day 4: Getting to Know Galata

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Wander through the vibrant Istiklal Avenue, packed with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
Take tram to Taksim Square.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Çiçek Pasajı

Discover the flower passage, a charming covered bazaar with a rich history and delightful eateries.
Walk through Istiklal Avenue.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at 360 Istanbul

Enjoy an unforgettable panoramic lunch at 360 Istanbul, known for international dishes and stunning views.
Take the elevator to the restaurant.
CURRENCY300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb the iconic Galata Tower for sweeping views of the Bosphorus and city skyline.
Walk back down Istiklal Avenue.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Galata Mevlevihane

Uncover spiritual culture at Galata Mevlevihane, the home of the Whirling Dervishes.
Walk 10 minutes.
CURRENCY100, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Meze By Lemon Tree

Dine at Meze By Lemon Tree for a taste of contemporary Turkish meze in a cozy setting.
Walk 15 minutes from Galata Mevlevihane.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Dive at Taksim

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Taksim Square

Start your exploration at Taksim Square, an emblematic area filled with people and energy.
Walk from your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Gezi Park

Stroll through Gezi Park, a beautiful oasis away from the bustling city.
Just adjacent to Taksim Square.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Bonnie's

Head to Bonnie's for a modern twist on Turkish cuisine in a trendy setting.
Walk 10 minutes from Gezi Park.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Pera Museum

Discover art at the Pera Museum, showcasing both Ottoman era paintings and modern art exhibitions.
Short walk from the restaurant.
CURRENCY150, 2 hours

4:00PM

Enjoy Turkish Coffee

Stop by a local café for authentic Turkish coffee to recharge your afternoon.
Choose any nearby café.
CURRENCY30, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Dinner at Zübeyir Ocakbasi

Enjoy a delicious dinner of grilled meat at Zübeyir Ocakbasi, popular among locals and visitors alike.
Walk 15 minutes from the café.
CURRENCY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Adventurous Kadiköy

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Morning Ferry Ride to Kadiköy

Set off on a morning ferry, enjoying beautiful views of the Bosphorus as you cross over to the Asian side.
Ferry from Eminönü to Kadiköy.
CURRENCY100, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Kadiköy Market

Delve into the delightful Kadiköy Market, brimming with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
Walk around the market area.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Savor traditional Anatolian dishes at Çiya Sofrası, a celebrated restaurant with a rich menu.
Walk 5 minutes from the market.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Kadiköy Bull Statue

A symbolic landmark, the Kadiköy Bull Statue is an excellent photo opportunity.
Walk 10 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Enjoy a Coffee at Café Rüzgar

Relax at Café Rüzgar, a local favorite for its atmosphere and delectable sweets.
Short walk from the Bull Statue.
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Peyk Restaurant

Dine at Peyk Restaurant, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a local twist.
Walk 10 minutes to the restaurant.
CURRENCY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Adventures on Princes' Islands

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Ferry to Büyükada

Take an early ferry to the scenic island of Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands.
Ferry from Kabataş to Büyükada.
CURRENCY150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Exploring the Island

Rent a bike and explore the charming streets and hills of Büyükada, taking in stunning views along the way.
Rent bikes on the island.
CURRENCY100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

Stop for a fresh seafood lunch at Milto Restaurant, overlooking the waterfront.
Walk to the restaurant nearby the docks.
CURRENCY300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Historic Mansion

Check out the stunning historic mansion, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Bike back to the mansion.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Leisurely Beach Time

Spend time relaxing on one of the island's beaches, enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Head to the beach by bike.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Beyaz Fırın

Enjoy your meal at Beyaz Fırın, known for its delicious Turkish pastries and pides.
Bike to the nearest restaurant.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Art and Culture

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Chora Church

Discover the beautiful mosaics of Chora Church, a hidden gem showcasing Byzantine art.
Take bus 28 from your hotel.
CURRENCY150, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Edirnekapı Cemetery

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the historical Edirnekapı Cemetery, filled with important graves.
Walk 15 minutes from Chora Church.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hoca Nasruddin

Enjoy a traditional lunch at Hoca Nasruddin, famed for its lentil soup and vegetarian options.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
CURRENCY200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Fener and Balat

Venture through the colorful streets of Fener and Balat, known for their historical significance and charm.
Walk around the neighborhoods.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Asmalı Cavit

Dine at Asmalı Cavit, a cozy meyhane famous for its meze and seafood.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
CURRENCY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Art and Modernism

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Start your day by visiting Istanbul Modern, showcasing contemporary Turkish art.
Take tram to Karaköy.
CURRENCY200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll along the Bosphorus

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the beautiful views.
Stroll down from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mangerie

Stop for lunch at Mangerie, a charming café with a stunning terrace.
Walk 15 minutes from the waterfront.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Maritime Museum

Explore the rich maritime history at the personal Maritime Museum.
Taxi to the museum.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Whirling Dervishes Show

End your day witnessing a mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes performance.
Take taxi to the venue here in Beyoğlu.
CURRENCY200, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Neolokal

Conclude your day with a gourmet dinner at Neolokal, emphasizing modern Turkish cuisine.
Walk or take a taxi, it’s close.
CURRENCY400, 2 hours
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Day 10: Markets and Local Flavors

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Revisit Spice Bazaar for last-minute shopping of spices and souvenirs.
Take tram back to Eminönü.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Head over to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets, and marvel at the artifacts.
Walk to the bazaar (15 mins).
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a unique lunch at Pandeli Restaurant inside the Spice Bazaar, famous for its traditional dishes.
Inside Spice Bazaar.
CURRENCY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Street Food Tour

Embark on a street food tour to sample local favorites like simit and döner.
Hire a guide from the bazaar.
CURRENCY250, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Borsa Restaurant

Enjoy your final dinner at Borsa Restaurant, known for its rich Turkish dishes.
Take a taxi.
CURRENCY350, 2 hours
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Day 11: Departure Day

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Check-out from Hotel

Prepare for your departure by checking out of your hotel and packing your bags.
Arrange airport transport with your hotel.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour
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