3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Istanbul, Turkey

Day 1: Historic Riches

Istanbul, Turkey on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Privato

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Café Privato, known for its fresh simit and strong Turkish tea, located near Sultanahmet.
TRY50, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s historical layers. It opens at 9:00am, allowing a serene morning visit.
TRY100, 2h

11:45am

Tour the Blue Mosque

Walk over to the Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture. Visits are allowed outside of prayer times; morning visits are ideal.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs and mezes at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a beloved local eatery near the historic sites.
TRY70, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Topkapi Palace

Visit Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans. Highlights include the Harem and treasury. It closes at 5:00pm, so be sure to allocate enough time.
TRY150, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll through Gülhane Park

Relax with a leisurely walk in scenic Gülhane Park adjacent to Topkapi, a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy sunset views.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine at Balıkçı Sabahattin, a renowned seafood restaurant offering fresh fish dishes in a charming historic setting.
TRY200, 1.5h
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Day 2: Bosphorus & Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Indulge in an authentic Turkish breakfast with a variety of cheeses, honey, and fresh breads at Van Kahvaltı Evi in Beşiktaş.
TRY60, 1h

9:30am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 2-hour Bosphorus cruise departing from Eminönü, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and bridges connecting Europe to Asia.
TRY120, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Ortaköy

Explore Ortaköy, a lively neighborhood with a beautiful mosque by the water. Try the famous kumpir (stuffed baked potato) from a local vendor.
TRY40, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Cross to the Asian side and savor traditional Anatolian cuisine at Çiya Sofrası in Kadıköy, open until 9:00pm.
TRY80, 1.5h

3:30pm

Explore Kadıköy Market

Wander through Kadıköy Market, filled with boutiques, fresh produce, and street art, giving insight into local life on the Asian side.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Tea at Moda

Relax with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee at Moda neighborhood cafés, enjoying views of the Sea of Marmara.
TRY30, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Return to the European side for dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree, known for its modern twists on classic mezes and vibrant atmosphere.
TRY150, 1.5h
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Day 3: Markets & Views

Istanbul, Turkey on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Mangerie Bebek offering pastries and coffee with Bosphorus views.
TRY70, 1h

9:30am

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Dive into the vibrant shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets, open from 9:00am to 7:00pm.
Free (shopping vary), 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pandeli

Have lunch at Pandeli, an iconic restaurant known for Ottoman cuisine, located at the entrance of the Spice Bazaar.
TRY100, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Spice Bazaar

Explore the Spice Bazaar, rich with smells and colors of herbs, spices, and sweets, perfect for souvenirs.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Climb Galata Tower

Ascend Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul, open until 7:00pm, providing one last stunning perspective of the city.
TRY100, 1h

5:00pm

Coffee at Karabatak

Unwind with specialty coffee at Karabatak in Galata, ideal for relaxing after a busy day.
TRY40, 45m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Mikla

Conclude your Istanbul journey with a stylish dinner at Mikla, offering innovative Turkish-Scandinavian cuisine and spectacular night views of the city.
TRY350, 2h
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