3-Day Istanbul Cultural and Historical Exploration Itinerary for April 2025

Day 1: Historic Landmarks

Istanbul, Turkey on April 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Start your day with traditional Turkish breakfast and famous Turkish delights at this historic patisserie near Sultanahmet Square.
TRY 60, 1h

9:45am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore the stunning Byzantine architecture and rich history of this former church and mosque, now a museum showcasing Istanbul’s layered past. Open daily from 9am to 7pm.
TRY 100, 2h

12:00pm

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Visit this iconic mosque known for its beautiful blue tiles and majestic domes, still active for prayers but open to visitors outside prayer times.
Free, 1h

1:15pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs and local cuisine in this well-loved eatery close to the Blue Mosque.
TRY 80, 1h

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Step into the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, with beautiful courtyards, treasury, and haram. Open 9am–6pm in April.
TRY 150, 2h30m

5:15pm

Basilica Cistern

Visit the largest ancient underground water reservoir in Istanbul, known for its eerie medusa-head columns and atmospheric lighting.
TRY 50, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Balikci Sabahattin

Dine on fresh seafood in a charming historic building in Sultanahmet, offering excellent mezes and fish dishes.
TRY 200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus and Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy an authentic eastern Turkish breakfast with a wide variety of cheeses, breads, and honey on the European side’s vibrant Karaköy neighborhood.
TRY 75, 1h

9:30am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 2-hour scenic boat trip along the Bosphorus Strait, viewing palaces, fortresses, and bridges connecting Europe and Asia. Book a morning cruise for pleasant weather.
TRY 120, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Üsküdar

Travel to the Asian side and explore the quaint waterfront, local markets, and historic mosques like Mihrimah Sultan Mosque.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Taste diverse Anatolian dishes in this well-known restaurant located in Kadıköy market on the Asian side.
TRY 100, 1h

2:45pm

Explore Kadıköy Market and Moda

Stroll through bustling streets with shops, cafes, and street art. Enjoy seaside parks and trendy cafes in Moda.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to European Side

Take a ferry back to the European side with scenic views of Istanbul at sunset.
TRY 20, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience fine dining with panoramic views of Istanbul at Mikla, known for its innovative Turkish and Scandinavian fusion cuisine.
TRY 350, 1h30m
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Day 3: Modern Istanbul & Shopping

Istanbul, Turkey on April 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Karabatak

Enjoy artisan coffee and a relaxed breakfast in this cozy café located in the artsy neighborhood of Galata.
TRY 60, 1h

9:45am

Galata Tower

Climb to the top of this medieval stone tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and old city. Opens 9am–7pm in April.
TRY 70, 1h

11:00am

Walk Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square

Explore the lively pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites leading up to the vibrant Taksim Square.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at 360 Istanbul

Dine at the rooftop restaurant offering a modern twist on Turkish cuisine with fantastic city views.
TRY 150, 1h30m

2:45pm

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Explore contemporary Turkish and international art in this waterside museum, open Tuesday to Sunday 10am–6pm.
TRY 100, 1h30m

4:30pm

Grand Bazaar Shopping

Finish your trip with a visit to the historic Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, perfect for souvenirs and leather goods.
Free entry, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Leb-i Derya

Enjoy dinner with a stunning view of the Bosphorus in this rooftop restaurant serving traditional Turkish fare with a modern presentation.
TRY 250, 1h30m
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