12-Day Istanbul & Georgia Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 3, 2025

12:00PM

Check into Hotel

Arrive at your hotel and settle in. Consider staying in the Sultanahmet area for easy access to major sights.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pudding Shop

This iconic eatery offers a range of Turkish dishes and is a favourite among travellers. Try their lamb stew for a hearty meal.
CURRENCY100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore this architectural marvel that has served as a cathedral and mosque. Its stunning mosaics and vast dome are breathtaking.
CURRENCY200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Just a short walk from Hagia Sophia, this mosque is known for its beautiful blue tiles and grand architecture. Remember to dress modestly.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Explore the Hippodrome

Stroll around this historic square and see its ancient monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius.
CURRENCY0, 45 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Famous for its kebabs and located near the spice bazaar, this restaurant offers fantastic views of the Galata Bridge.
CURRENCY150, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring olives, feta cheese, fresh bread, and local jams before your day of exploration.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Topkapi Palace

Tour the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, with its stunning courtyards and impressive collections of artefacts.
CURRENCY300, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gulhane Restaurant

Nestled next to the palace, this charming spot offers a beautiful garden setting and classic Turkish fare.
CURRENCY100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Basilica Cistern

Marvel at the atmospheric underground cistern that features ancient columns and an eerie ambiance.
CURRENCY200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Grand Bazaar Shopping

Lose yourself in the colourful market filled with spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills!
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Khorasani Restaurant

Savour authentic Turkish cuisine, including freshly made mezes and dishes cooked in traditional wood ovens.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Departure to Georgia

Istanbul, Turkey > Tbilisi, Georgia on April 5, 2025

7:00AM

Check-out and Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to the airport for your flight.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Tbilisi

Board your flight to Tbilisi, departing from Istanbul airports and arriving in approximately 2 hours.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-in to Hotel in Tbilisi

Get settled in your hotel in Tbilisi, centrally located for easy access to major attractions.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Littera

Housed in a beautiful building, this cafe serves up delicious local dishes made with fresh ingredients.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Tbilisi Old Town

Wander through the picturesque streets of Old Town, visiting historic sites, charming boutiques, and local art galleries.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sakhli No. 11

This traditional restaurant boasts an excellent selection of Georgian wines and local dishes, all in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
CURRENCY100, 2 hours

Day 4: Tbilisi Sightseeing

Tbilisi, Georgia on April 6, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a hearty Georgian breakfast to kick-start your day with fresh cheese, bread, and seasonal vegetables.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Narikala Fortress

Take a cable car up to this historical fortress for panoramic views of Tbilisi and the chance to explore its ancient walls.
CURRENCY0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Keto and Kote

Enjoy a contemporary twist on Georgian cuisine in this quaint eatery known for its creative presentation.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Peace Bridge

Stroll across this modern architectural marvel that connects different parts of the city and offers great views.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Tbilisi Botanical Garden

Relax in the beautiful landscapes of the botanical garden full of diverse flora and serene walking paths.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Barbarestan

Dine at this charming restaurant known for its unique menu inspired by 19th-century Georgian cuisine.
CURRENCY120, 2 hours

Day 5: Day Trip to Mtskheta

Mtskheta, Georgia on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Savour another delicious breakfast before your day trip to Mtskheta, one of the oldest cities in Georgia.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Mtskheta

Travel by taxi or bus to Mtskheta, located just 20km from Tbilisi, known for its rich history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Explore this magnificent cathedral, a pivotal site in Georgian Christianity with incredible architecture.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Niko

This traditional cafe offers authentic Georgian meals while enjoying views of the Jvari Monastery.
CURRENCY100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Jvari Monastery

Trek up to this monastery for stunning views over Mtskheta and the valley, it’s a must-see for its historical significance.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Tbilisi

Head back to Tbilisi, where you can spend the evening at leisure, visiting local shops or resting.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Shavi Lomi

This vibrant restaurant features a fusion of traditional and modern Georgian cuisine, all in a lively atmosphere.
CURRENCY120, 2 hours

Day 6: Tbilisi Culture & History

Tbilisi, Georgia on April 8, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy another traditional Georgian breakfast of khachapuri and local fruits to fuel your day.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Georgian National Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Georgia through various exhibits showcasing art, archaeology, and more.
CURRENCY100, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Machakhela

Relax in this popular restaurant known for its delicious khinkali and traditional Georgian wines.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Rustaveli Avenue

Stroll along the main avenue of Tbilisi, lined with theatres, shops, and cafes with a vibrant urban atmosphere.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Open Air Museum of Ethnography

Explore this fascinating outdoor museum that presents traditional Georgian architecture and lifestyles through various exhibits.
CURRENCY100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Chef's Table

Experience unique fusion dishes crafted by a talented chef, offering contemporary tastes with a local touch.
CURRENCY150, 2 hours

Day 7: Last Day in Tbilisi

Tbilisi, Georgia on April 9, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Final breakfast in Tbilisi, enjoying a buffet with both traditional and international options.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last Minute Shopping

Spend the morning picking up souvenirs and local handicrafts to take home. Check out the local markets and boutique stores.
CURRENCY0, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Khasheria

Enjoy a lunch of hearty Georgian dishes in a laid-back setting, perfect for a relaxed meal before departure.
CURRENCY100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Check-out and Depart to Airport

Check-out from your hotel and head towards the airport for your flight back to Istanbul.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

7:15PM

Flight to Istanbul

Board your evening flight back to Istanbul, arriving after a short journey.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

9:00PM

Check-in to Hotel in Istanbul

Settle into your hotel in Istanbul, perhaps in the Taksim or Beyoglu district.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:00PM

Dinner at Taksim Square

Explore a range of dining options around Taksim Square, choosing from street food to upscale dining. A must-try is the street-side simit.
CURRENCY50, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Istanbul - Final Explorations

Istanbul, Turkey on April 10, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with an extensive breakfast at your hotel, featuring local dishes to energise before a day out.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the aromas and colours of spices, dried fruits, and sweets at this bustling market, a feast for the senses.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful meal in this historical restaurant located right in the market. Their grilled fish is highly recommended.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Suleymaniye Mosque

One of Istanbul’s most stunning mosques, characterised by its architectural beauty and peaceful gardens surrounding it.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Discover contemporary Turkish art in a beautiful waterfront setting. The exhibits frequently change, so check what's on.
CURRENCY150, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Indulge in an upscale dining experience with a breathtaking view of Istanbul's skyline while enjoying sophisticated dishes.
CURRENCY300, 2 hours

Day 9: Leisure Day in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 11, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely morning breakfast while planning your last day in Istanbul.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Discover the lavish residence of the Ottoman sultans. The opulence is truly unforgettable.
CURRENCY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Dore

Enjoy casual dining at this charming cafe close to the palace, offering delightful pastries and light meals.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Ortaköy Mosque

Marvel at the beautiful Ortaköy Mosque with its picturesque waterfront setting and artisan markets surrounding it.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Last Minute Sightseeing

Use your last few hours to explore any spots you've missed or revisit your favourites in Istanbul.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Meat & Fish

Experience a wonderful dining option offering fresh seafood and meat dishes, perfect for a farewell meal.
CURRENCY200, 2 hours

Day 10: Departure from Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Have a final breakfast enjoying local delicacies before checking out.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check-out and Depart for Airport

Check-out from your hotel and travel to the airport for your flight back to Beirut.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Flight to Beirut

Catch your return flight to Beirut, concluding your wonderful adventure.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours