3-Day Cultural and Historical Itinerary for Istanbul, Turkey

Day 1: Historic Sultanahmet

Istanbul, Turkey on May 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Indulge in traditional Turkish breakfast with a variety of cheeses, olives, honey, and fresh bread at Hafiz Mustafa 1864, a famous local patisserie known for its pastries and warm ambiance.
TRY50, 1h0m

9:45am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a magnificent architectural masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman influences, open daily from 9:00am to 7:00pm.
TRY200, 1h30m

11:30am

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Visit the iconic Blue Mosque with its stunning blue tiles and six minarets, a functioning mosque open to visitors outside prayer times (generally open until 5:00pm).
FREE, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy delicious traditional Turkish meatballs at the famous Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a renowned spot for authentic local flavors.
TRY70, 1h0m

2:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Tour the historic residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring lavish rooms and beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Open from 9:00am to 6:45pm.
TRY250, 2h0m

4:15pm

Basilica Cistern

Descend into the ancient underground water reservoir with its atmospheric columns and soft lighting, open daily until 5:30pm.
TRY100, 0h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Savor fresh seafood dishes in the historic Sultanahmet area at Balıkçı Sabahattin, known for its welcoming atmosphere and local flavors.
TRY150, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus and Karaköy

Istanbul, Turkey on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Start your day with a gourmet breakfast at Namlı Gurme in Karaköy, offering a plentiful spread of cheeses, eggs, and Turkish delicacies.
TRY70, 1h0m

9:45am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 1.5-hour scenic Bosphorus cruise departing from Eminönü, offering stunning views of Istanbul's landmarks along the strait. Cruises operate from 9:00am until early evening.
TRY120, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Galata Tower

Ascend the medieval Galata Tower for panoramic views over Istanbul, open from 9:00am to 7:00pm.
TRY100, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Taste contemporary Turkish cuisine with fresh ingredients at Karaköy Lokantası, widely praised for its stylish decor and delicious mezes.
TRY100, 1h0m

2:15pm

Explore Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Discover modern and contemporary Turkish art at Istanbul Modern, open from 10:00am to 6:00pm on weekdays.
TRY80, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk across Galata Bridge to Eminönü

Enjoy fish sandwich vendors and waterfront views while crossing the iconic Galata Bridge back to Eminönü.
FREE, 0h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Experience innovative dishes that modernize traditional Anatolian flavors at Neolokal, a restaurant with a superb Bosphorus view.
TRY200, 1h30m
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Day 3: Asian Side Culture

Istanbul, Turkey on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Çınaraltı Çay Bahçesi

Start with a traditional Turkish breakfast and tea in this charming garden café by the Bosphorus in Çengelköy, open early morning.
TRY50, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kadıköy Market

Explore the lively Kadıköy Market, full of fresh produce, seafood, and local shops. It's bustling and colorful, open starting early morning.
FREE, 1h30m

11:15am

Street Art Tour in Kadıköy

Enjoy a walking tour appreciating Istanbul’s vibrant street art, murals, and creative expressions in the Kadıköy district.
FREE, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Sample authentic and diverse regional Turkish dishes at Çiya Sofrası, famous for its rich Anatolian cuisine, open until 9:00pm.
TRY80, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Moda Neighborhood

Relax in the Moda area visiting parks, cafés, and the seaside promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching.
FREE, 1h30m

4:00pm

Fenerbahçe Park

End the afternoon at this beautiful park with views over the Sea of Marmara offering peaceful green landscapes.
FREE, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Viktor Levi Şarap Evi

Dine at this cozy wine house in Kadıköy, pairing Turkish wines with delicious mezes in a relaxed setting.
TRY150, 1h30m
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