3-Day Immersive Cultural and Culinary Journey in Istanbul

Day 1: Cultural Awakening

Istanbul, Turkey on November 7, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at the well-regarded Van Kahvaltı Evi, featuring fresh bread, tomatoes, cheeses, olives, and honey.
Located just a short walk from Zeytinburnu, about 20 minutes by tram.
TRY200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and discover its rich history as a church and mosque.
Take the tram from Zeytinburnu to Sultanahmet; about 30 minutes.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant

Savor a delicious lunch at Doy Doy, renowned for its kebabs and authentic Turkish dishes.
A short walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Topkapi Palace

Wander through the historical wonders of Topkapi Palace and learn about the lives of Ottoman sultans.
Located near Hagia Sophia, approximately a 10-minute walk.
TRY300, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Basilica Cistern

Discover the ancient submerged cistern known for its iconic Medusa columns and atmospheric lighting.
10-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Indulge in a dinner at Hamdi Restaurant with breathtaking views of the Golden Horn, featuring perfectly cooked kebabs.
Take a tram to Eminönü station, about 20 minutes.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Culinary Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on November 8, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at MOC Café

Enjoy your morning coffee and a delicious croissant or Turkish borek at MOC Café, a local favorite.
A short 15-minute tram ride to Topkapi.
TRY100, 1 hour

10:30AM

Walking Food Tour in Kadıköy

Join a guided food tour in Kadıköy to sample local street foods, traditional snacks, and hidden culinary gems.
Take the ferry from Eminönü to Kadıköy; about 30 minutes.
TRY600, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy a hearty lunch at the famous Çiya Sofrası, known for its authentic Anatolian dishes and innovative interpretations.
Located in Kadıköy, right near the food tour finale.
TRY200, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Istanbul Modern Museum

Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum for contemporary Turkish art and stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Take the ferry back to Eminönü and then a tram to Tophane, approximately 30 minutes total.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Experience the Spice Bazaar

Stroll through the historic Spice Bazaar and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, smells, and tastes of Turkish sweets, spices, and teas.
A short 15-minute walk from the museum.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Galata Kitchen

Conclude your day with a tranquil dinner at Galata Kitchen, offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes with a fantastic view of Galata Tower.
Walk to the restaurant in about 10 minutes.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historical Insights

Istanbul, Turkey on November 9, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Privato

Kick off your final day in Istanbul with a delightful breakfast at Café Privato, serving fresh pastries and locally sourced ingredients.
A quick tram ride to Galata; 20 minutes.
TRY130, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque and immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere.
10-minute walk from Café Privato.
FREE, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar and haggle for souvenirs and local crafts in this historic marketplace.
About 15 minutes on foot from the mosque.
FREE, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a lunch break at Pandeli, a historical restaurant located in the Spice Bazaar, famous for its delicious Turkish dishes.
Return to the Spice Bazaar, a 10-minute walk.
TRY250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museums

Delve into Turkey's rich past at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, showcasing artifacts from various ancient civilizations.
Take a tram to Sultanahmet, about 20 minutes.
TRY300, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Wrap up your cultural journey with a delightful meal at Meze by Lemon Tree, known for its variety of mezze and seafood dishes.
A tram ride back to Zeytinburnu, about 25 minutes.
TRY350, 2 hours
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