8-Day Istanbul Experience: Culture, Cuisine, and Scenic Adventures

Day 1: Cultural Dive

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Start your adventure with a traditional Turkish breakfast filled with fresh bread, cheese, olives, and honey at the renowned Van Kahvalti Evi in Cihangir.
TRY 70, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hagia Sophia

Explore the architectural grandeur of Hagia Sophia, a former basilica and mosque, now a museum nestled in the heart of Istanbul.
TRY 200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor a delicious array of kebabs at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its fantastic views of the Golden Horn.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Topkapi Palace

Dive into the rich history of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace and explore its stunning courtyards and exhibit rooms.
TRY 300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Çiya Sofrası

End the day with a delightful meal at Çiya Sofrası, featuring dishes inspired by traditional Anatolian cuisine.
TRY 120, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Relaxing Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at MOC

Enjoy a cozy breakfast at MOC Cafe, known for its artisanal coffee and homemade pastries near the Bosphorus.
TRY 80, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a leisurely ferry ride down the Bosphorus, soaking in views of stunning palaces and homes lining the shores.
TRY 50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bebek Balıkçı

Indulge in fresh seafood at Bebek Balıkçı, renowned for its family recipes and inviting atmosphere.
TRY 180, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts while haggling for the best prices.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Relish Istanbul's famous meatballs at the iconic Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi, just a stone's throw from the hip sights.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Nature Retreat

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Nar

Savor a wholesome breakfast at Cafe Nar, where the menu embraces fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
TRY 90, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Belgrad Forest

Breathe in the fresh air as you take a leisurely bike ride or hike through the green trails of Belgrad Forest, a perfect retreat from the city's hustle.
Free, 3 hours

3:00PM

Picnic in Belgrad

Pack a delicious picnic with local snacks to enjoy surrounded by nature's beauty, making for a tranquil midday escape.
TRY 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to City

Head back to the city to freshen up and prepare for the evening.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kavaklıdere Restaurant

Feast on classic Turkish dishes in an aesthetic ambiance filled with locals cherishing their culinary heritage.
TRY 130, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Island Getaway

Princes' Islands, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast on the Ferry

Grab a quick breakfast from a local bakery before embarking on the ferry to the Princes' Islands, enjoying views of the sea on your way.
TRY 50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Büyükada

Stroll or cycle around Büyükada, the largest of the islands, exploring charming houses and stunning beaches.
TRY 50, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at d’Adalya

Satisfy your cravings with a delightful lunch at d’Adalya, known for its eco-friendly approach and emphasis on local flavors.
TRY 90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at the beach, soaking in the sun, and swimming in the pristine waters.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Istanbul

Catch the ferry back to Istanbul as the sun begins to set, capping off a beautiful day.
TRY 50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Asitane

Indulge in a unique dining experience at Asitane, where traditional Ottoman recipes are revitalized in a warm setting.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Cultural Day Trip

Bursa, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast provided by your accommodation before setting off for Bursa.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Bursa

Enjoy a picturesque ride to Bursa, famous for its thermal springs and historical sites.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Green Mosque

Visit the iconic Green Mosque, a striking example of early Ottoman architecture adorned with intricate tilework.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kebabçı İskender

Taste the famous İskender kebab at Kebabçı İskender, a must-try while in Bursa.
TRY 90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Bursa Uludağ National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking in Bursa Uludağ National Park, a perfect blend of nature and stunning mountain vistas.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tophane Kebab

End your day with delicious kebabs at Tophane, locals’ favorite that prides itself on rich flavors.
TRY 110, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Sakarya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast at your hotel before leaving for Sakarya, known for its lush landscapes.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Sakarya

Head to Sakarya while enjoying the beautiful rural scenery during your ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Sakarya River Park

Relax at Sakarya River Park, taking in the views, and enjoy some leisure time near the beautiful riverside.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kebapçı İsmail

Relish a local favorite at Kebapçı İsmail, serving mouth-watering kebabs and traditional food.
TRY 120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hiking at Maşukiye

Experience nature up close with a hike at Maşukiye, where lush forests and flowing waterfalls await you.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kırkpınar Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at the lakeside Kırkpınar Restaurant, known for its serene ambiance and delicious seafood.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Climactic Adventure

Sapanca, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel before the exciting day ahead.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Sapanca

Hit the road to Sapanca, a beautiful town famous for its serene lake surrounded by picturesque nature.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Sapanca Lake

Take a peaceful hike around Sapanca Lake, where stunning views calm the soul.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kırkpınar Tea Garden

Enjoy tea and snacks at Kırkpınar Tea Garden, overlooking the inviting lake.
TRY 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Zip-lining at Maşukiye

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops in Maşukiye, adding some adrenaline to your trip.
TRY 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery renowned for its home-style cooking before heading back to Istanbul.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Istanbul

Finish the day with a scenic ride back to your accommodation in Istanbul.
Free, 1 hour

Day 8: Final Day Wind Down

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Posh Donuts

Treat yourself to a sweet breakfast at Posh Donuts, well-known for their gourmet donuts and coffee.
TRY 70, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax at Emirgan Park

Spend a serene morning in Emirgan Park, taking leisurely walks among the beautiful flowers and vistas.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Borsa Restaurant

Enjoy a light lunch at Borsa Restaurant, well-known for their Turkish meze and charming ambiance.
TRY 120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Delve into history at the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, offering insights into the rich heritage of the region.
TRY 100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Nevizade Street

Cap off your adventure with a farewell dinner on Nevizade Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor dining.
TRY 150, 2 hours

7:00PM

Departure Preparations

Prepare for your departure with fond memories of Istanbul, packing up as you reminisce.
Free, 1 hour