5-Day Family Friendly Foodie Itinerary in Istanbul

Day 1: Explore Historic Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Pierre Loti

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Café Pierre Loti, famous for its panoramic views and delectable local dishes.
Located near the Haliç (Golden Horn), it's a short tram ride from Sultanahmet.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture that has captivated visitors for centuries.
A 10-minute walk from the café along the historic Sultanahmet Square.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pano Restoran

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Pano Restoran, where you can savor traditional Ottoman dishes with a modern twist.
Only a 5-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Basilica Cistern Tour

Discover the ancient Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel that once stored water for the Byzantine Emperors.
A short stroll from the restaurant, around 5 minutes walk.
TRY300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, and indulge in some shopping and light snacking.
A quick 15-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern.
Free to enter; shopping at your discretion., 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Finish the day with an authentic kebab dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its breathtaking views of the Golden Horn.
A 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride from the bazaar.
TRY400, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Adventures in Karaköy

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at MOC

Savor a rich Turkish coffee and a fresh pastry for breakfast at the trendy MOC, popular among locals.
Take the tram from Sultanahmet to Karaköy.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Galata Tower

Climb the iconic Galata Tower for spectacular panoramic views of the city and surrounding waters.
A 10-minute walk from MOC.
TRY100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Istanbul Modern

Appreciate contemporary Turkish art at Istanbul Modern, a stunning museum on the waterfront.
A short 5-minute walk from Galata Tower.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Taste delicious traditional dishes at Karaköy Lokantası, known for its elegant ambiance and fresh ingredients.
Just a 5-minute walk from Istanbul Modern.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Take a Ferry to Kadıköy

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Kadıköy, where Asian and European cultures meet.
Walk to Karaköy Ferry Terminal, around 10 minutes from the restaurant.
TRY50, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Wander Kadıköy Market

Explore Kadıköy Market, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and delightful street food taste testing.
Several minutes walk from the ferry.
Free to browse; food costs vary., 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Çiya Sofrası

End your day at Çiya Sofrası, which offers an incredible selection of Anatolian dishes you won't find anywhere else.
A short walk from the market.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Relaxation and Leisure in Emirgan

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Emirgan Sütiş

Delight in a fulfilling breakfast featuring fresh cheese, olives, and homemade jams at Emirgan Sütiş, set along the Bosphorus.
Take a taxi from your hotel in the center, about 20 minutes.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Stroll through Emirgan Park

Take a leisurely stroll in Emirgan Park, especially beautiful during tulip season in spring.
The park is right next to the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Sakıp Sabancı Museum

Appreciate world-class art exhibitions at the Sakıp Sabancı Museum, located just a short walk from the park.
5 minutes walk from Emirgan Park.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Zeytin Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch at Zeytin Cafe, offering fresh salads, sandwiches, and local flavors.
Located inside Emirgan Park, a brief walk from the museum.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a delightful Bosphorus cruise, enjoying views of palaces and mansions lining the shore.
Catch the boat from Beşiktaş, which is an easy taxi ride away.
TRY400, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to your hotel

Relax at your hotel and unwind from an exciting day.
Use a taxi to return to your hotel in central Istanbul.
TRY100, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Indulge in a lavish dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, renowned for its spectacular sunset views over the Bosphorus.
Return to your hotel and take a short cab ride to the restaurant.
TRY600, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Vibrant Streets of Taksim

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Nero

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Café Nero, offering a wonderful selection of pastries and coffee in Taksim.
Take the tram from your hotel to Taksim Square.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Walk down Istiklal Street

Explore Istiklal Street, filled with shops, galleries, and charming cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Starting from Taksim Square, it's a pedestrian-friendly street.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Pera Museum

Discover fascinating art and cultural artifacts at the Pera Museum, located conveniently on Istiklal.
A 15-minute walk down Istiklal Street.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Azzurro Restaurant

Savor a relaxing lunch at Azzurro, featuring Mediterranean cuisine and inviting outdoor seating.
A 10-minute walk from the museum.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Chocolate Factory Tour

Take a family-friendly tour at the Istanbul Chocolate Museum, where you can watch chocolatiers at work and taste sweet treats.
Take a taxi from the restaurant, which will take around 15 minutes.
TRY150, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax and Tea Time at Çaycı

Stop for a refreshing tea break at Çaycı, where you can enjoy a variety of Turkish teas in a cozy setting.
A 10-minute cab ride back toward Taksim.
TRY50, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Enjoy an upscale dining experience at Mikla Restaurant with its impressive views and innovative dishes.
A short walk from Çaycı.
TRY700, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Leisurely Farewell

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Bakery

Start your day at a local bakery with freshly baked simit (sesame bagels) and tea for an authentic experience.
Choose a bakery near your hotel for convenience.
TRY50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Explore the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, boasting dramatic architecture and splendid gardens.
A 15-minute walk or short cab ride from your breakfast spot.
TRY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Palace's Café

Enjoy a light lunch at the café inside Dolmabahçe Palace with lovely garden views.
Conveniently located within the palace grounds.
TRY250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ortaköy Mosque

Discover the picturesque Ortaköy Mosque along the Bosphorus, a stunning blend of architectural styles.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Dolmabahçe Palace.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

A Farewell Coffee at House Cafe

Savor a farewell coffee at House Cafe, where you can reflect on your incredible journey.
A short walk to House Cafe at Ortaköy.
TRY80, 1 hour

5:30PM

Departure

Prepare for departure and reflect on a fantastic family trip full of culinary adventures.
Arrange transportation to the airport from Ortaköy.
Varies, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability