14-Day Comprehensive Istanbul Itinerary: History, Culture, Cuisine & Scenic Escapes

Day 1: Historic Core Introduction

Istanbul, Turkey on May 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Start with a classic Turkish breakfast and their famous baklava and sweets in this historic café open 8am-10pm.
TRY40, 1h0m

10:00am

Hagia Sophia

Visit this architectural marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site combining Byzantine and Ottoman history, open 9am-6pm.
TRY100, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs in a simple, authentic setting near Sultanahmet Square.
TRY60, 1h0m

2:00pm

Blue Mosque

Visit the iconic Blue Mosque famous for its blue tiles and impressive architecture. Closed during prayer times but generally open 24/7.
Free, 1h15m

3:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Explore the former residence of Ottoman sultans with extraordinary collections and gardens, open 9am-5pm.
TRY120, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Fresh seafood in a charming traditional venue; reservations recommended. Opens 6pm.
TRY150, 1h30m
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Day 2: Beyoğlu & Galata Vibes

Istanbul, Turkey on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a rich Turkish breakfast with Eastern Anatolian specialties, open from 8am.
TRY50, 1h0m

10:00am

Galata Tower

Ascend for panoramic city and Bosphorus views. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY65, 1h0m

11:30am

Istiklal Avenue Stroll

Explore this bustling pedestrian street full of shops, cafes, and street performers.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Çiçek Pasajı

Savor meze and seafood inside this historic arcade known for lively ambiance.
TRY80, 1h0m

3:00pm

Pera Museum

View remarkable Orientalist paintings and rotating exhibitions, open 10am-6pm, closed Tuesdays.
TRY50, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Mikla

Dine on contemporary Turkish cuisine with Bosphorus views from this rooftop restaurant. Dinner starts at 6pm.
TRY300, 2h0m
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Day 3: Asian Side Highlights

Istanbul, Turkey on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Ferry to Kadıköy

Scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus from Eminönü to Kadıköy, with excellent city skyline views.
TRY15, 1h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Çiya Sofrası

Relish Anatolian specialties and traditional breakfast dishes in Kadıköy, open 8am-10pm.
TRY60, 1h0m

11:00am

Moda Neighborhood

Wander this laid-back area with seaside parks, cafes, and vintage shops.
Free, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Viktor Levi Şarap Evi

Enjoy Turkish wines paired with mezes in a cozy wine house open from noon.
TRY100, 1h0m

2:00pm

Bağdat Avenue

Shop along this lively avenue featuring local boutiques and international brands.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to European Side by Ferry

Relax on the ferry journey back to the European side.
TRY15, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Sample a variety of expertly prepared mezes near Karaköy harbor, dinner from 7pm.
TRY130, 1h30m
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Day 4: Bosphorus Cruise & Palatial Sites

Istanbul, Turkey on May 17, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy hearty breakfast favorites before the day's exploration, opening at 8am.
TRY50, 1h0m

10:30am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 2-hour cruise along the Bosphorus to see grand waterfront palaces and bridges, cruises generally run till 5pm.
TRY75, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Bebek Balıkçısı

Savor fresh fish dishes with picturesque Bosphorus views in Bebek, open from noon.
TRY140, 1h30m

3:00pm

Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour this opulent 19th century Ottoman complex with lavish European-style interiors. Open 9am-4pm, closed Mondays.
TRY150, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Dine on international fusion dishes with panoramic city views in a stylish rooftop restaurant. Dinner service begins 6pm.
TRY180, 2h0m
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Day 5: Grand Bazaar & Museums

Istanbul, Turkey on May 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Begin with a wide variety of breakfast delights including cheeses, olives, and cured meats at this gourmet market, open 7am.
TRY60, 1h0m

10:00am

Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world’s largest and most historic covered markets, open 9am-7pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy Ottoman cuisine inside the colorful Spice Bazaar in a historic setting.
TRY90, 1h30m

2:30pm

Istanbul Archaeology Museums

Discover ancient artifacts in this complex overlooking Topkapi Palace grounds, open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Feast on southeastern Turkish specialties with Golden Horn views, restaurant open till 11pm.
TRY130, 1h30m
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Day 6: Exploring Balat & Fener

Istanbul, Turkey on May 19, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Forno Fener

Enjoy fresh pastries and Turkish coffee in a cozy bakery in historic Fener, open from 8am.
TRY40, 1h0m

10:30am

Walking Tour of Balat and Fener

Explore colorful streets, old churches, synagogues and the rich cultural mosaic of these historic neighborhoods.
Free, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Forno Balat

Savor traditional Turkish pide and local dishes at this well-rated eatery in Balat.
TRY70, 1h0m

3:00pm

Chora Church (Kariye Museum)

See stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes in this former church turned museum, open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee break at Walter’s Coffee Roastery

Relax with specialty coffee in a Breaking Bad-themed café near Balat.
TRY40, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Experience modern Turkish cuisine focusing on preserving local traditions in a contemporary setting. Opens at 7pm.
TRY250, 2h0m
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Day 7: Relaxed Neighborhood Strolls

Istanbul, Turkey on May 20, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Çukurcuma Kahvesi

Enjoy Turkish coffee and light breakfast in this quaint, artsy neighborhood cafe open from 8am.
TRY40, 1h0m

10:30am

Çukurcuma Antiques Walk

Explore antique shops and art galleries in this bohemian district known for its unique vibe and charm.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Privato

Relax with a varied menu featuring Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy setting in Galata.
TRY70, 1h0m

2:00pm

Salt Galata

Visit this cultural institution with exhibitions on art, architecture, and urbanism. Open 10am-7pm, closed Mondays.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee at Karabatak

Enjoy specialty coffee and relax in this cozy Karaköy café.
TRY40, 45m

6:00pm

Sunset at Galata Bridge

Watch the sunset and the boats on the Golden Horn while strolling the historic bridge.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Nevizade Street

Dine at one of the lively meyhanes (taverns) offering traditional Turkish mezes and live music.
TRY120, 1h30m
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Day 8: Princes' Islands Day Trip

Istanbul, Turkey on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby café

Early light breakfast recommended before the island trip.
TRY40, 45m

9:00am

Ferry to Büyükada

Take a 1.5-hour ferry ride to the largest of the Princes' Islands, car-free and known for natural beauty.
TRY30, 1h30m

11:00am

Bike Rental and Island Exploration

Rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island's scenic routes, historical mansions, and waterfronts.
TRY50, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Milto Fish Restaurant

Enjoy fresh fish dishes right by the sea on Büyükada, open daily.
TRY120, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax by the Beach or a Walk along the Waterfront

Spend the afternoon strolling or relaxing on the shore before returning to Istanbul.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Ferry back to Istanbul

Return ferry ride to the city. Evening views recommended for photography.
TRY30, 1h30m

8:00pm

Light dinner at Karaköy Gümrük

Enjoy a casual meal with seafood and mezes in this cozy spot near the waterfront.
TRY90, 1h0m
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Day 9: Modern Art & Cultural Discovery

Istanbul, Turkey on May 22, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Start your day with brunch specials and sea views overlooking Bebek Bay, open 8am.
TRY70, 1h0m

10:30am

Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Explore Turkey’s leading modern art museum located in Karaköy, open 10am-6pm, closed Mondays.
TRY70, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kantin Karaköy

Relax with fresh, seasonal dishes at this popular local spot near the museum, open for lunch 12pm-3pm.
TRY80, 1h0m

2:30pm

SALT Beyoğlu

Visit this cultural space with exhibitions on contemporary art, architecture, and social sciences. Open 10am-7pm, closed Mondays.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Coffee at Karabatak

Enjoy quality coffee and relax before evening activities.
TRY40, 45m

6:00pm

Sunset Walk along the Bosphorus

Stroll the waterfront, perfect for photos and relaxation as the city lights begin to glow.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Lucca

Contemporary Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a lively setting in Bebek. Reservations recommended.
TRY220, 2h0m
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Day 10: Culinary Workshops & Markets

Istanbul, Turkey on May 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Sample the best baklava and Turkish sweets alongside breakfast offerings, open 8am.
TRY50, 1h0m

10:00am

Cooking Workshop at Cooking Alaturka

Join a guided Turkish cooking class and learn to prepare classic dishes, sessions typically last 3-4 hours.
TRY400, 4h0m

2:30pm

Light Lunch at Workshop or nearby café

Enjoy the dishes prepared during the workshop or a light meal in the area.
TRY50, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Kadıköy Market

Explore the vibrant local food market for fresh produce, spices, and street food, open until 7pm.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Çiya Sofrası

Delight in rare Anatolian dishes and regional specialties in Kadıköy.
TRY100, 1h30m
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Day 11: Religious Heritage & Gardens

Istanbul, Turkey on May 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at House Cafe Ortaköy

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the Bosphorus, open from 8am.
TRY60, 1h0m

10:00am

Ortaköy Mosque & Market

Visit the scenic mosque by the water and browse the weekend craft and food market (active weekends), open 10am-6pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ortaköy kumpir stands

Try kumpir, the famous stuffed baked potatoes street food, from one of the popular vendors.
TRY40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Emirgan Park

Relax in one of Istanbul’s largest parks famous for its tulip gardens and serene Bosphorus views, open 24 hours.
Free, 2h30m

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Short rest before dinner to recharge for the evening.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Try international and Turkish cuisine with impressive Bosphorus views, reservations recommended. Open 6pm.
TRY280, 2h0m
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Day 12: Palaces & Museums Revisited

Istanbul, Turkey on May 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Firuzağa Medresesi Kahvesi

Enjoy traditional Turkish coffee and breakfast in this historic setting near Sultanahmet, open from 8am.
TRY40, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

View exquisite Islamic calligraphy, carpets, and ceramics in the historic İbrahim Pasha Palace, open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 1h30m

11:45am

Arasta Bazaar

Explore this small, historic bazaar behind the Blue Mosque for souvenirs and artisanal products.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Khorasani Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish and Ottoman dishes in Sultanahmet, including gözleme and pide.
TRY80, 1h0m

2:30pm

Yerebatan Cistern

Explore the atmospheric ancient underground water reservoir with striking columns and ambient lighting. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Süleymaniye Mosque

Marvel at one of the grandest Ottoman mosques with peaceful gardens and panoramic city views, open 24/7 except prayer times.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Tarihi Fişekçi

Dine on traditional Turkish meze and kebabs in a historic setting, open from 6pm.
TRY140, 1h30m
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Day 13: Day Trip to Eyüp & Pierre Loti

Istanbul, Turkey on May 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or local café

Light breakfast before traveling to the historic Eyüp district.
TRY40, 45m

9:30am

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Visit this sacred mosque and complex important in Islamic tradition, open 8am-6pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Pierre Loti Hill

Take the cable car up for panoramic views of the Golden Horn and enjoy tea at the historic café at the summit.
TRY20, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Seyit Hanim Kebab House

Savor classic Turkish kebabs and pide in Eyüp’s traditional setting.
TRY80, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Rüstem Pasha Mosque

Admire baroque Iznik tile work in this jewel of Ottoman architecture near the Spice Bazaar, open 9am-6pm.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at a Bosphorus Café in Karaköy

Unwind with a tea or coffee along the waterfront.
TRY40, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Conclude the day with creatively reinvented traditional cuisine, reservations recommended. Opens 7pm.
TRY250, 2h0m
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Day 14: Final Day Leisure & Farewell

Istanbul, Turkey on May 27, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Relaxed breakfast in Galata with a menu of Turkish and Mediterranean favorites, opens 8am.
TRY70, 1h0m

10:30am

Last-minute shopping or sightseeing

Visit any favorite spots again, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a final waterfront stroll based on your interests.
Free, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Enjoy classic Turkish dishes one last time in this charming and popular restaurant.
TRY100, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at hotel or a nearby café

Prepare for departure with some downtime before your journey home.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Farewell dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Celebrate the end of your Istanbul adventure with fine dining and stunning views over the city and the Bosphorus. Reservation recommended.
TRY280, 2h0m
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