3-Day Itinerary for Istanbul: Culture, Cuisine and Charm

Day 1: Historic Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with an authentic Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, famous for its diverse meze and fresh bread.
Take a taxi or tram to the restaurant, located in Cihangir.
TRY150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has stood the test of time.
Walk to Hagia Sophia, about 15 minutes from the restaurant.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Discover the Blue Mosque

Just across from Hagia Sophia, marvel at the beauty of the Blue Mosque with its iconic blue tiles and magnificent domes.
Walk over to the Blue Mosque, a 5-minute stroll away.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Indulge in delicious Turkish meatballs paired with rice and salad at this famous eatery.
Return to Sultanahmet area, about 10-minute walk.
TRY100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Spend your afternoon exploring the opulent Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans for centuries.
Walk to Topkapi Palace, roughly 15 minutes away.
TRY300, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Descend into the ancient Basilica Cistern to witness its Roman engineering and find a serene escape from the city buzz.
Walk to Basilica Cistern, about 10 minutes on foot.
TRY250, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy mouthwatering kebabs and enjoy incredible views of the city from the rooftop terrace.
Take a taxi to Hamdi Restaurant in Eminonu.
TRY350, 2 hours
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Day 2: Culinary Journey

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at MOC Istanbul

Try a taste of contemporary Turkish breakfast at MOC Istanbul with delicious coffee and fresh pastries.
Take public transport or a taxi to MOC.
TRY120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Spice Bazaar Visit

Wander through the Spice Bazaar, inhaling the scent of exotic spices and dried fruits while shopping for souvenirs.
Walk to the Spice Bazaar, about 10 minutes on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, taking in breathtaking views of Istanbul from the water.
The cruise departs from Eminonu, very close to the Spice Bazaar.
TRY300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Savor authentic baklava and Turkish delights at one of the most famous dessert places in the city.
Take a short walk to Karaköy, around 10 minutes.
TRY100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb to the top of Galata Tower for panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the city skyline.
Walk to Galata Tower, approximately 15 minutes from the restaurant.
TRY200, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Taksim Square

Stroll through Taksim Square, a vibrant area known for its shops, cafes, and cultural significance.
Walk to Taksim Square, about 15 minutes away.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Zubeyir Ocakbasi

Indulge in a grilled meat feast at this well-known restaurant offering a traditional Turkish barbecue experience.
Take a taxi or walk to Zubeyir from Taksim, around 15 minutes.
TRY400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Cafe Privato, known for its stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Take a taxi or tram to Arnavutköy.
TRY130, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Explore the lavish Dolmabahçe Palace, where the last Ottoman sultans resided, showcasing European architecture.
Take a taxi to Dolmabahçe, about 15 minutes.
TRY300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk Through Ortaköy

Stroll through the charming Ortaköy area, famous for its mosque and artisanal shops by the Bosphorus.
Take a taxi to Ortaköy, around 10 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ortaköy Kumpir

Feast on delicious Turkish baked potatoes filled with a variety of toppings from Ortaköy's famous Kumpir spots.
Dine in Ortaköy itself.
TRY80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Chora Church

Delve into the richly decorated mosaics and unique architecture of the historic Chora Church.
Take a taxi to Chora Church, approximately 20 minutes away.
TRY50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Balat Neighborhood

Wander through the colorful old streets of Balat, steeped in history and filled with charming cafes and shops.
Walk or take a taxi to Balat, around 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

End your trip with a delightful dining experience at Meze by Lemon Tree, offering a creative twist on traditional Turkish meze dishes.
Take a taxi to Meze by Lemon Tree.
TRY350, 2 hours
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