5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Istanbul from Black Art Hotel

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Rumist

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with fresh bread, cheeses, olives and honey near your accommodation to start the day authentically.
TRY70, 1h

9:30am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore the architectural wonder and historical masterpiece of Hagia Sophia, open from 9am to 7pm, a must-visit landmark symbolising Istanbul's rich cultural heritage.
TRY150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste some of the city’s best meatballs at this famous local eatery, known for its simple, traditional dishes and prime location.
TRY80, 1h

1:30pm

Blue Mosque

Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, appreciating its intricate blue tilework and impressive architecture. The mosque is open until sunset and free to enter outside prayer times.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Basilica Cistern

Discover the ancient underground water reservoir dating back to Byzantine times, offering a cool and atmospheric contrast to the daytime heat.
TRY50, 1h

5:00pm

Back to Black Art Hotel for Rest

Return to your hotel to refresh and relax after a day of exploration.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine on traditional Turkish seafood in a well-known spot praised for its fresh fish dishes and charming atmosphere.
TRY200, 2h

Day 2: Beyoğlu & Taksim

Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey on June 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with an extensive Eastern Turkish breakfast, famous for its variety of cheeses, eggs and homemade spreads.
TRY90, 1h

10:00am

Istiklal Avenue Walk

Stroll down this bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, historic architecture and cafes, leading to the Galata Tower.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Galata Konak Café

Enjoy panoramic views and delicious local dishes atop the Galata Tower neighbourhood, after visiting the tower (open 9am-7pm).
TRY110, 1h30m

2:00pm

Galata Tower Visit

Climb to the observation deck for stunning views over Istanbul’s skyline. The tower is open until 7pm.
TRY100, 1h

3:30pm

Pera Museum

Explore art collections including Ottoman-era paintings and Anatolian weights and measures until closing time at 7pm.
TRY70, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee Break at Mandabatmaz

Sample one of Istanbul’s iconic thick Turkish coffees at this famed café known for its quality and atmosphere.
TRY30, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Enjoy authentic Turkish meze plates in a cosy, modern setting with great service in Beyoğlu.
TRY180, 2h

Day 3: Asian Istanbul

Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey on June 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Çiya Sofrası

Savour one of Istanbul’s best breakfasts with a vast range of Anatolian dishes in the Kadıköy market area.
TRY85, 1h

9:30am

Kadıköy Market Walk

Explore the vibrant food and flea markets, tasting local delights and experiencing a more residential side of Istanbul with shops open till evening.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Moda Seaside Park

Relax by the sea with stunning views, perfect for a mid-day stroll or a peaceful break.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Viktor Levi

Dine in a trendy bistro offering modern Turkish cuisine with international flair, located near the seaside.
TRY120, 1h30m

3:00pm

Sureyya Opera House Tour

Visit this historical opera house dating from the early 20th century for a guided tour until close (around 6pm).
TRY70, 1h

5:00pm

Ferry Ride Back to European Side

Take a scenic ferry ride back to the European side, soaking in panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Ferries operate frequently until late evening.
TRY30, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla

Experience fine dining with breathtaking views over Istanbul’s skyline. Reservation recommended; open until 11pm.
TRY350, 2h

Day 4: Bosphorus Cruise

Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul, Turkey on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Black Art Hotel to prepare for the day's adventure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Full Bosphorus Day Cruise

Embark on a full-day Bosphorus cruise exploring Ottoman palaces, fortresses and charming villages along the waterway. Most cruises run from 9:30am to 5pm.
TRY250, 7h

12:30pm

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a buffet lunch provided on board with views of both European and Asian shores.
Included in cruise price, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Hotel and Rest

Relax after an extensive day of sightseeing and fresh sea air.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Conclude the day with innovative Turkish gastronomy in an elegant setting, open until 11pm.
TRY300, 2h

Day 5: Art & Markets

Karaköy, Istanbul, Turkey on June 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Karabatak

An artisan coffee shop famous for excellent coffee and light breakfast near Karaköy.
TRY40, 1h

9:30am

Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Explore Turkey’s leading modern art museum featuring dynamic exhibitions open from 10am, closed on Mondays.
TRY100, 2h

11:30am

Karaköy Market Stroll

Visit local artisan shops and food stalls, perfect for buying souvenirs and enjoying street food.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Savour traditional Turkish dishes in a vibrant dining room with authentic flavours, popular with locals.
TRY120, 1h

2:30pm

Walk Along the Galata Bridge

Enjoy sunset walking views over the Golden Horn, watching the fishermen and city bustle.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Black Art Hotel

Prepare for departure or relax after a thorough exploration of Istanbul's art and market scene.
Free, Rest of day