4-Day Family Friendly Budget Itinerary in Istanbul

Day 1: Getting Acquainted

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Start your day with a delicious Turkish breakfast featuring olives, cheese, and menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes).
Located in the Galata area, an easy walk from the Galata Tower.
TRY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb up the iconic Galata Tower for a stunning view of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus Strait.
Just a short walk from the cafe.
TRY50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll through Istiklal Street

Take a leisurely walk down Istiklal Street, exploring the shops, street vendors, and historic architecture.
A nice 15-minute walk from Galata Tower.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Midpoint

Enjoy a casual lunch with various options from pizzas to traditional kebabs at this family-friendly restaurant.
Located on Istiklal Street; no need to travel.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Taksim Gezi Park

Relax and let kids play at Taksim Gezi Park while enjoying the atmosphere.
Adjacent to Istiklal Street; just a short walk.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dolmabahçe Palace

Explore the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, reflecting the glory of the Ottoman Empire.
30-minute tram ride from Taksim station; take Tram T1.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Buket

Finish the day with a lovely dinner at Buket, known for delicious pide and kebabs. Perfect for families!
Located near Dolmabahçe Palace.
TRY200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Essentials

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a rich Turkish breakfast including various cheeses, olives, and fresh bread in a cozy environment.
Easily accessible via local tram.
TRY90, 1 hour

9:30AM

Blue Mosque

Visit the breathtaking Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks where you can admire its stunning architecture.
Walking distance from the breakfast spot.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00AM

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Explore the ancient Hippodrome, learning about its history as the city's center of sports and politics.
Just for a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Savor traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) served with fresh bread and salad.
Locating this restaurant near the Hippodrome.
TRY100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Topkapi Palace

Delve into the history of the Ottomans at one of the largest and oldest palaces in the world.
Short walk from the lunch spot.
TRY150, 2 hours

4:30PM

Basilica Cistern

Discover the underground Basilica Cistern, a unique landmark showcasing ancient engineering.
Just a few minutes walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY90, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Doy Doy

Relish a cozy dinner featuring various Turkish dishes catering to families.
Located within walking distance from the Basilica.
TRY180, 1 hour
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Day 3: Moroccan Vibes & Bazaars

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at MOC - My Ottoman Cousin

Start your day with a delightful breakfast offering Turkish pancakes and fresh juices.
Located nearby your accommodation, perfect for busy mornings.
TRY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

Wander through the vibrant Spice Bazaar, where you can sample and purchase local delicacies and spices.
A short tram ride to Eminonu from your breakfast spot.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

New Mosque

Visit this beautiful mosque adjacent to the Spice Bazaar.
Walking distance from the Spice Bazaar.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy delicious kebabs with views of the Golden Horn that the whole family will love.
Located just a short distance from the mosque.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a stunning and affordable ferry ride on the Bosphorus, providing views of the city from the water.
Catch the ferry from Eminonu where lunch was enjoyed.
TRY50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

walking tour around Ortaköy

Stroll around Ortaköy, visit local art galleries, and don’t miss trying a kumpir (stuffed baked potato).
Ferry ride back to Ortaköy will take around half an hour.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Feriye

Finish the day with a family meal at Feriye, sampling local specialties and kebabs.
Located in Ortaköy; a beautiful finale by the waterfront.
TRY200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Last Day Discoveries

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Klemuri

Enjoy a hearty breakfast including eggs and fresh bread in a local vibe.
Conveniently located near your hotel.
TRY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museums

Explore the rich history of Turkey through different artifacts, enthralling for kids and adults alike.
A short tram or bus ride from the breakfast spot.
TRY100, 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk in Gulhane Park

Take a peaceful stroll through Gulhane Park, letting kids run around and enjoy the park's beauty.
Just outside the Archaeological Museums.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Konyalı Restaurant

Relish some delicious local dishes and enjoy views of the Bosphorus.
Located near Gulhane Park.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the streets of Balat

Discover the colorful streets of Balat and its historic context, a hidden gem in Istanbul.
A tram ride towards the Golden Horn will take around 30 minutes.
FREE, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Chora Church

Marvel at the stunning mosaics of Chora Church, an artistic highlight.
A short walk from Balat.
TRY50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Asitane

Savor local dishes in a restaurant known for its unique Ottoman-inspired menu.
Easily walkable from Chora Church.
TRY200, 1 hour
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