5-Day Istanbul Exploration from Hong Kong

Day 1: Historic Istanbul Introduction

Istanbul, Turkey on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, enjoying a variety of cheeses, olives, bread, and fresh tea in this cozy spot open from 7am.
TRY120, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that has served as both a basilica and mosque, now a museum showcasing Byzantine art. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY100, 2h0m

11:45am

Blue Mosque Tour

Walk to the nearby Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and grand domes. Visitors are welcome during prayer-free times from 9am to 6pm.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy classic Turkish meatballs (köfte) at this iconic eatery near the old city, open 11am-10pm.
TRY75, 1h0m

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace Visit

Spend your afternoon exploring Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans with beautiful courtyards and treasure rooms. Open 9am-6:45pm.
TRY150, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Dine on traditional kebabs with views of the Golden Horn in this popular spot open until 11pm.
TRY200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus & Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Enjoy a gourmet breakfast with fresh pastries and Turkish delicacies in Karaköy, open from 7am.
TRY120, 1h0m

9:30am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus Strait to see Istanbul’s landmarks from the water. Cruises start at 10am and last about 2 hours.
TRY150, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Cross to the Asian side and savor Anatolian specialties at this well-known restaurant in Kadıköy, open 12pm-10pm.
TRY130, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Kadıköy Market

Stroll through the vibrant market area, sampling local street foods and browsing shops for souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to European Side & Relax at Hotel

Head back towards your accommodation to rest before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla

Experience modern Turkish cuisine with panoramic city views at Mikla, a fine dining gem open until 11pm.
TRY400, 2h0m
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Day 3: Modern Istanbul & Shopping

Istanbul, Turkey on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Privato Café

Relax in this charming café serving freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries, open from 8am.
TRY80, 1h0m

9:00am

Istiklal Street Walk

Walk along lively Istiklal Avenue, filled with shops, historic passages, and street performers.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Galata Tower

Climb up this medieval stone tower for panoramic city views. Open 9am-8:30pm.
TRY100, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Meze by Lemon Tree

Enjoy a variety of traditional mezes and small plates in a cozy modern setting, open from noon.
TRY150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Shopping at Grand Bazaar

Spend your afternoon browsing over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets to spices in the historic covered bazaar, open 9am-7pm.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Experience contemporary interpretations of Turkish cuisine in a stylish setting, open until 11pm.
TRY350, 2h0m
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Day 4: Palaces & Museums

Istanbul, Turkey on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Privato

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast of fresh bread, jams, and hot drinks before a busy day, open from 8am.
TRY80, 1h0m

9:00am

Dolmabahçe Palace Tour

Tour the lavish 19th-century palace known for its European-style architecture and exquisite interiors. Open 9am-4:30pm; closed Monday and Thursday.
TRY200, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Refuel with traditional Turkish meatballs in a casual setting, open 11am-10pm.
TRY75, 1h0m

1:30pm

Istanbul Archaeology Museums

Explore ancient artifacts spanning Mesopotamian, Greek, and Roman periods in this complex of three museums, open 9am-7pm.
TRY100, 2h30m

4:15pm

Relax at Gülhane Park

Take a leisurely stroll through one of Istanbul’s oldest parks featuring beautiful gardens and views near the palace area.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Enjoy fresh seafood in a historic neighborhood setting, open until 10pm.
TRY300, 1h30m
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Day 5: Leisure & Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast near your accommodation to start your departure day.
Included or TRY80, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Spice Bazaar

Browse vibrant stalls offering spices, sweets, and gifts. The bazaar opens at 9am.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Last-minute souvenir shopping or leisure walk

Take time for any last exploration of nearby streets or shops before heading to the airport.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Head to Istanbul Airport

Leave for the airport allowing 2-3 hours for international check-in and security for your flight back to Hong Kong.
Transport cost vary, 2h0m
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