3-Day Family Adventure in Istanbul on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Historic Wonders

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh bread, cheeses, olives, and honey.
Located in the neighborhood of Cihangir, you can easily walk here from Taksim Square.
TRY 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a majestic structure steeped in history, now serving as a museum and mosque.
Take tram T1 from Kabataş to Sultanahmet (20 minutes).
TRY 200, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Sultanahmet Square

Enjoy a leisurely walk around Sultanahmet Square, taking in stunning sights with plenty of family photo opportunities.
All attractions are within walking distance in the square.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Indulge in reasonably-priced delicious meatballs that are a local favorite, accompanied by fresh bread.
Just a short walk from the square.
TRY 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Wander through the opulent gardens and museums of Topkapi Palace, home to the Ottoman sultans.
2-minute walk from the restaurant.
TRY 300, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Marvel at the ancient underground reservoir, featuring fascinating columns and serene waters.
5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY 300, 1 hour

5:00PM

Coffee Break at Çınaraltı Cafe

Relax with a cup of Turkish tea and a sweet pastry, soaking in the atmosphere.
A nice walk along the waterfront in Sultanahmet.
TRY 40, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Doy Doy Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish dishes like kebaps and mezes at this family-friendly, budget-eating establishment.
Short walk back towards the heart of Sultanahmet.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Grand Bazaars and Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Simit Sarayı

A quick and inexpensive breakfast spot specializing in simit (sesame bagels) served with cheese and jam.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
TRY 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Grand Bazaar

Wander through the vast corridors of the Grand Bazaar, where you can find a variety of crafts and local goods.
Tram from Taksim to Grand Bazaar area (30 minutes).
Free (unless purchasing), 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Experience the vibrant colors and aromatic scents of spices, teas, and Turkish delights in the iconic Spice Bazaar.
10-minute walk from Grand Bazaar.
Free (unless purchasing), 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy budget-friendly authentic Turkish dishes within the Spice Bazaar.
Located within the Spice Bazaar.
TRY 90, 1 hour

1:30PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a short ferry ride along the Bosphorus strait and admire the stunning skyline of Istanbul from the water.
Walk to Eminönü ferry terminal and board a ferry (10 minutes).
TRY 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace Gardens

Stroll through the gardens of this opulent palace by the Bosphorus, offering a peaceful retreat.
Take tram T1 to Kabataş (10 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Ice Cream at Mado

Stop for delicious Turkish ice cream which is famously stretchy and fun!
Located near Dolmabahçe Palace.
TRY 50, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Hünkar Restaurant

Taste traditional Turkish home-cooked meals at this family-friendly spot, known for its kebabs and stews.
Short walk back towards Kabataş.
TRY 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Treasures

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Savor a Mediterranean-style breakfast with locally sourced ingredients and stunning views.
A short walk from your stay, located in Galata.
TRY 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Galata Tower

Climb to the top of Galata Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Old City and the Bosphorus.
5-minute walk from the cafe.
TRY 250, 1 hour

10:45AM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Wander along Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street filled with shops, cafes, and local street artists.
Walk down from Galata Tower to Istiklal (10 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

12:15PM

Lunch at Kızılkayalar Hamburger

Grab an iconic ‘Çiğ Köfte’ sandwich from this popular local spot, perfect for a quick lunch on-the-go.
Located along Istiklal Avenue.
TRY 45, 1 hour

1:15PM

Visit Pera Museum

Explore the Pera Museum, which showcases beautiful artwork while being friendly on the wallet.
A short walk from the lunch spot.
TRY 200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax in Taksim Gezi Park

Unwind in one of the city’s green oases, perfect for letting the kids play.
Walk from the museum (10 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Snack at Güllüoğlu Baklava

Treat the family to world-renowned baklava at this famous shop near Taksim.
Walk back towards Taksim square.
TRY 70, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at As닷gajk BBQ

Wrap up your trip with a hearty Turkish BBQ dinner with delicious kebabs and grill options to share!
A walk or tram ride back to Taksim.
TRY 200, 1.5 hours
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