5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Istanbul, Turkey

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Privato

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Café Privato, where you can enjoy a spread of olives, cheese, fresh bread, and more.
Walking distance from your accommodation if in Sultanahmet.
TRY150, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, renowned for its stunning Byzantine architecture, now a museum.
A short walk from Café Privato.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Explore the Basilica Cistern

Dive underground at the Basilica Cistern, an ancient water reservoir featuring beautiful columns and dim lighting.
Just a 10-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY200, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Relish their famous meatballs and Turkish rice, a family-friendly spot loved by locals.
Short walk from the Basilica Cistern.
TRY180, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Topkapi Palace

After lunch, wander through the historic halls of Topkapi Palace, home to sultans, and don't miss the gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.
10-minute walk from Sultanahmet Köftecisi.
TRY250, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Explore the Gülhane Park

Unwind at Gülhane Park, adjacent to Topkapi Palace, ideal for family picnics and leisurely strolls.
Directly accessible from Topkapi Palace.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Ziya Baba Restaurant

End the day with a delicious dinner featuring grilled meats and fresh salads at the family-friendly Ziya Baba.
A short taxi ride from Gülhane Park.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Highlights

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Şok Bakery

Start with a quaint breakfast of fresh pastries and tea at the local favorite Şok Bakery.
Walk to the bakery nearby.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning Blue Mosque, famous for its intricate blue tiles and captivating architecture.
10-minute walk from your breakfast location.
Free, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Go to the Hippodrome

Next, stroll through the historic Hippodrome, once a gathering place for chariot races, now dotted with historical monuments.
5-minute walk from the Blue Mosque.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00 AM

Visit the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant colors and rich smells of the Grand Bazaar, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
15-minute walk from the Hippodrome.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Havuzlu Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal at Havuzlu Restaurant, known for their kebabs and authentic Turkish dishes.
Close to the Grand Bazaar.
TRY250, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Galata Tower

Travel to the iconic Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city, making it a fantastic photo opportunity.
Take a tram from the Grand Bazaar to Karaköy, then a short walk.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Istiklal Street

Stroll along Istiklal Street, lined with shops and cafes, perfect for some family shopping.
A short walk from Galata Tower.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Snack at Mendel's Aşure

Try a traditional Turkish dessert, asure, a sweet pudding made from grains and fruits, at Mendel's Aşure.
Walking distance from Istiklal Street.
TRY40, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Enjoy a wonderful dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree, serving delicious meze plates and fresh fish.
Short ride back to Sultanahmet.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Bosphorus Adventure

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Van breakfast, including eggs, cheese, and regional delicacies at Van Kahvaltı Evi.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
TRY200, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a relaxing Bosphorus cruise, enjoying views of the city from the water and beautiful waterfront palaces.
Board the cruise from the Eminönü Ferry Terminal.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Stop at Ortaköy

Disembark at Ortaköy, famous for its picturesque mosque and delicious kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes).
Explore Ortaköy on foot.
Free, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at Waffle House

Grab a quick yet scrumptious lunch at Waffle House, known for its decadent waffle desserts.
Close to the Ortaköy Mosque.
TRY120, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Visit the stunning Dolmabahçe Palace, showcasing opulent European architecture and beautiful gardens.
Take a short taxi ride from Ortaköy.
TRY250, 2 hours

2:30 PM

Walk through Taksim Square

Explore the bustling Taksim Square, a vibrant area filled with shops and cafes.
Take a taxi from Dolmabahçe Palace.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Snack at Şampiyon Kokoreç

Try kokoreç, a famous grilled dish, at Şampiyon Kokoreç for a truly local experience.
5-minute walk from Taksim Square.
TRY60, 30 minutes

4:00 PM

Dinner at Asmali Cavit

End your day with a lovely dinner at Asmali Cavit, known for its traditional meze and fish dishes.
Take a taxi back to Sultanahmet.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Local Living

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Çınaraltı Tea Garden

Savor the serene ambiance at Çınaraltı Tea Garden with a Turkish breakfast and beautiful views of the Bosphorus.
Taxi ride to the garden.
TRY150, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Kadıköy Market

Explore the vibrant Kadıköy Market, filled with fresh produce, olives, and local delicacies.
Take a ferry from Eminönü to Kadıköy.
TRY20, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Walk in Moda Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Moda Park, a charming area with stunning views of the sea and community vibes.
Short walk from Kadıköy Market.
Free, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Delight in delicious regional dishes at Çiya Sofrası, well known for their spectacular meze.
Walk from Moda Park.
TRY250, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Explore Kadıköy Streets

Wander around the lively streets of Kadıköy, filled with boutique shops and local cafes.
Explore by foot.
Free, 2 hours

2:30 PM

Snack at Bostancı Fırını

Try fresh bread or pastries at Bostancı Fırını, a favorite local bakery.
Short walk from the Kadıköy area.
TRY50, 30 minutes

3:00 PM

Dinner at Kız Kulesi Restaurant

Enjoy dinner with breathtaking views at Kız Kulesi Restaurant, situated on the Maiden's Tower.
Take a ferry to reach the restaurant.
TRY400, 2 hours
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Day 5: Island Escape

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the day's adventures ahead.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Take the Ferry to Buyukada

Catch a ferry to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its stunning scenery and relaxed vibe.
Ferries depart from Eminönü port.
TRY65, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Buyukada

Rent bicycles or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island's charming streets.
Available near the ferry terminal.
TRY150, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Milord Restaurant

Savour a delicious seafood lunch at Milord, a charming restaurant with lovely views.
Short walk from where you explore.
TRY300, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Relax on the Beach at Buyukada

Take some time to relax at one of Buyukada's sandy beaches, as your family enjoys swimming and sunbathing.
Public beach access from the island.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Ice Cream at Buyukada Ice Cream Shop

Treat your family to delightful ice creams at the famous Buyukada Ice Cream Shop.
Walking distance from the beach.
TRY60, 30 minutes

4:00 PM

Ferry Back to Istanbul

Take the ferry back to Istanbul, reflecting on your perfect island day.
Back to ferry terminal.
TRY65, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Taksim İstiklal Cafe

Finish your Istanbul trip with a final dinner at the cozy Taksim İstiklal Cafe with comfort food.
Short taxi ride from ferry terminal.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
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