Discover Istanbul: A 5-Day Adventure with Friends

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on April 8, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast of menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers) and simit (a sesame-covered bread) in a cozy cafe.
TRY150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox basilica, later an Ottoman imperial mosque, and now a museum, showcasing extraordinary architecture and history.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a delicious plate of Turkish meatballs (köfte) with rice and salad at this historic restaurant known for its traditional flavors.
TRY180, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Blue Mosque

Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and impressive blue tiles, offering a serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Wander through the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and countless shops.
FREE, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor a feast of kebabs with a view of the Golden Horn at Hamdi, renowned for its delicious meat dishes and stunning scenery.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Stroll along the Galata Bridge

Take a leisurely evening walk on the Galata Bridge, enjoying views of the city and the sunset with local fishermen.
FREE, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Istanbul, Turkey on April 9, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi

Experience a traditional Kurdish breakfast with a variety of cheeses, olives, and eggs at this popular spot renowned for its breakfast options.
TRY160, 1 hour

10:30AM

Topkapi Palace Tour

Visit the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, exploring its beautiful courtyards and stunning collections of artifacts.
TRY300, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli

Dine at Pandeli, famous for its vibrant ambiance and Turkish dishes, including an array of delicious mezes.
TRY220, 1 hour

2:30PM

Basilica Cistern Visit

Explore the ancient Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir with stunning columns and ambiance, showcasing the ingenuity of Byzantine architecture.
TRY150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Dive into the fragrant world of spices, teas, and Turkish delights at the Spice Bazaar, where you can sample and purchase local products.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Zubeyir Ocakbasi

Enjoy a hearty dinner of grilled meats and fresh salads at Zubeyir, an authentic ocakbasi (grill house) located in the heart of Taksim.
TRY300, 2 hours

8:30PM

Explore Istiklal Avenue

Stroll down the vibrant Istiklal Avenue, where you'll find shops, cafes, and lively nightlife, immersing yourself in the local culture.
FREE, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Historical Insights

Istanbul, Turkey on April 10, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at MOC Cafe

Start the day with a breakfast of fresh pastries and exceptional coffee at MOC Cafe, known for its modern twist on traditional Turkish breakfast.
TRY180, 1 hour

10:30AM

Chora Church Visit

Marvel at the stunning mosaics and frescoes in the Chora Church, a hidden gem that showcases the brilliance of Byzantine art.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Savor traditional dishes from various regions of Turkey at Çiya, known for its extensive menu and authentic flavors.
TRY210, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Suleymaniye Mosque Tour

Visit the grand Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most significant mosques in Istanbul, designed by the famous architect Sinan.
FREE, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Istanbul Archaeology Museum

Discover fascinating artifacts from various eras and cultures at the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, offering insights into Turkey's rich history.
TRY130, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Experience Ottoman cuisine at Asitane, renowned for its historic recipes and rich flavors, providing a culinary journey through time.
TRY320, 2 hours

8:30PM

Bosphorus Night Cruise

End the day with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, offering stunning views of the illuminated city skyline and historic waterfront.
TRY200, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Modern Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 11, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Urban Cafe Istanbul

Indulge in a modern twist on breakfast favorites at Urban Cafe, known for its fresh ingredients, smoothies, and artisanal coffee.
TRY190, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb the iconic Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn, capturing breathtaking photographs.
TRY160, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Taste modern interpretations of Turkish classics at Karaköy Lokantası, a stylish eatery famous for its fresh, seasonal ingredients.
TRY240, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Dolmabahce Palace

Tour the beautiful Dolmabahce Palace, a lavish residence of Ottoman sultans, impressive for its architecture and gardens.
TRY250, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Taksim Square

Explore Taksim Square, the energetic heart of modern Istanbul, filled with shops, street performances, and cultural sites.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Wrap up your day with dinner at Mikla, acclaimed for its breathtaking rooftop views and creative dishes that combine Nordic and Turkish influences.
TRY450, 2 hours

8:30PM

Relax at a Rooftop Bar

Unwind at one of Istanbul's trendy rooftop bars, sipping cocktails while enjoying magnificent views over the city.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Departure & Farewell

Istanbul, Turkey on April 12, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pano Ekmek

Enjoy a light breakfast of fresh pastries and bread with jams in a quaint café, perfect for a last taste of Istanbul.
TRY130, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Istanbul

Spend your last hours at this museum, discovering important artifacts and exhibitions that highlight Istanbul's rich history.
TRY130, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hatay Medeniyetler Sofrası

Delight in a fusion of flavors from southern Turkey at Hatay, known for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant dishes.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Last-Minute Shopping at Nişantaşı

Take some time for final shopping at Nişantaşı, a chic area filled with fashionable boutiques and unique stores.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Depart for Airport

Make your way to the airport for your flight home, reflecting on a fantastic trip filled with wonderful memories.
FREE, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability