One-Day Historical Exploration of Istanbul's Historical Peninsula

Day 1: Historical Highlights

Istanbul, Turkey on May 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at this famous local spot, offering classic dishes like simit and menemen. Opens at 8:00 AM.
TRY50, 1h

9:30am

Hagia Sophia

Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing Byzantine and Ottoman history. Opens at 9:00 AM.
TRY100, 1h30m

11:15am

Blue Mosque

Explore the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque for its exquisite blue tiles and impressive Ottoman architecture. Open to visitors outside prayer times.
Free, 45m

12:15pm

Basilica Cistern

Discover the largest ancient underground water cistern in Istanbul with its dimly lit columns and mysterious atmosphere. Opens at 9:00 AM.
TRY50, 45m

1:00pm

Lunch at Deraliye Ottoman Palace Cuisine

Enjoy authentic Ottoman cuisine in a historical setting near Sultanahmet, offering rich flavors and traditional dishes. Opens at 12:00 PM.
TRY150, 1h

2:15pm

Topkapi Palace

Tour the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring beautiful courtyards, treasury, and the Harem section. Opens at 9:00 AM.
TRY200, 2h

4:30pm

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Walk around the ancient Hippodrome square, once the social and sporting center of Constantinople, now home to monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius.
Free, 30m

5:15pm

Grand Bazaar

Explore one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering a vibrant shopping experience with thousands of shops selling everything from spices to jewelry. Closes at 7:00 PM.
Free to enter, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Dine with a view of the Golden Horn at Hamdi Restaurant, famous for its kebabs and traditional Turkish dishes. Open until 10:30 PM.
TRY180, 1h30m
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