7-Day Family-Friendly Istanbul Itinerary: April 23-29, 2025

Day 1: Arrival and Sultanahmet Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on April 23, 2025

8:00AM

Arrival in Istanbul

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for the day's activities.
$0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hafız Mustafa 1864

Start your day with traditional Turkish pastries and tea at this historic patisserie.
$10 per person, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Hagia Sophia

Explore the architectural marvel that has served as a cathedral and mosque, now a museum.
$15 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy authentic Turkish meatballs and other local dishes in a family-friendly setting.
$15 per person, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tour the Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning blue tiles and serene atmosphere of this iconic mosque.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Basilica Cistern

Discover the underground water reservoir with its mystical ambiance and Medusa heads.
$10 per person, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, perfect for souvenirs.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor delicious kebabs with a panoramic view of the Golden Horn.
$25 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Beyoğlu and Taksim Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on April 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mado

Enjoy a variety of Turkish breakfast items and famous ice cream.
$12 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ride the Nostalgic Tram on Istiklal Street

Experience a historic tram ride along Istanbul's bustling pedestrian avenue.
$1 per person, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Museum of Illusions

Engage with interactive exhibits that challenge perception and entertain all ages.
$12 per person, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Galata Tower

Climb the medieval stone tower for panoramic views of the city.
$10 per person, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Taste modern Turkish cuisine in a stylish setting.
$20 per person, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Discover a vast collection of industrial and transportation exhibits, including interactive displays for children.
$10 per person, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Yıldız Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in one of Istanbul's largest urban parks.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse

Experience a renowned steakhouse known for its quality meats and unique presentation.
$50 per person, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Golden Horn and Miniaturk Park

Istanbul, Turkey on April 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Emirgan Sütiş

Delight in a traditional Turkish breakfast with a view of the Bosphorus.
$15 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Miniaturk Park

Explore miniature models of Turkey's most iconic landmarks, offering a fun and educational experience for children.
$5 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kıyı Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood in a restaurant known for its vintage photographs and ambiance.
$30 per person, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Visit one of Istanbul's most significant religious sites, offering insight into the city's spiritual heritage.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Ride the Pierre Loti Cable Car

Ascend to Pierre Loti Hill for a panoramic view of the Golden Horn.
$2 per person, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Tea at Pierre Loti Café

Relax with a cup of Turkish tea while enjoying the scenic view.
$5 per person, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Experience Ottoman-era cuisine in a historic setting.
$40 per person, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Princes' Islands Excursion

Istanbul, Turkey on April 26, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before the day's excursion.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Ferry to Büyükada

Take a ferry ride to the largest of the Princes' Islands, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
$5 per person, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Büyükada by Bicycle

Rent bicycles to tour the island's charming streets and historic sites.
$10 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

Enjoy seafood and traditional dishes with a sea view.
$25 per person, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Church of St. George

Climb to the island's highest point to visit this historic church and enjoy panoramic views.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at a Beach Club

Spend the afternoon at one of the island's beach clubs, swimming and enjoying the sun.
$15 per person, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return Ferry to Istanbul

Head back to the city after a day of island exploration.
$5 per person, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine at a renowned seafood restaurant in the historic Sultanahmet district.
$35 per person, 2 hours
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Day 5: Asian Side Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on April 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Experience a traditional Van-style breakfast with a variety of cheeses, honey, and fresh bread.
$15 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Istanbul Toy Museum

Explore a vast collection of toys from different eras, delighting both children and adults.
$5 per person, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Bağdat Avenue

Enjoy shopping and cafes along this bustling street on the Asian side.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Taste a variety of Anatolian dishes in a restaurant known for its diverse menu.
$20 per person, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Maiden's Tower

Take a boat to this historic tower and enjoy the view of the city skyline.
$10 per person, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Kadıköy Market

Wander through the vibrant market, sampling local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Tea at Moda Tea Garden

Relax with tea and pastries while overlooking the Sea of Marmara.
$5 per person, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Iskender Iskenderoğlu

Enjoy the famous Iskender kebab, a specialty of the region.
$25 per person, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Bosphorus Cruise and Dolmabahçe Palace

Istanbul, Turkey on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The House Café Ortaköy

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the Bosphorus Bridge.
$20 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the opulent palace that served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire.
$15 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lokma

Dine on Turkish cuisine with a view of the Bosphorus.
$25 per person, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a boat tour along the Bosphorus, viewing the city's skyline and historic sites from the water.
$20 per person, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Ortaköy Mosque

Explore the picturesque mosque located by the Bosphorus.
Free, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Explore Ortaköy Market

Browse through local handicrafts and enjoy street food in this lively neighborhood.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Feriye Palace

Experience fine dining in a historic palace setting by the water.
$50 per person, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Leisure and Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on April 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before checking out.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Explore the vibrant market filled with spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Gülhane Park

Take a leisurely walk in one of Istanbul's oldest parks, adjacent to Topkapi Palace.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine in a historic restaurant known for its traditional Turkish dishes.
$30 per person, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Return to hotel and check-out

Prepare for departure, ensuring all belongings are packed.
$0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Transfer to Istanbul Airport

Travel to the airport for your departure flight.
$50 per family, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability