10-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through Antalya and Istanbul, Turkey

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town

Antalya, Turkey on May 18, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious Turkish breakfast at Seraser, located in Kaleiçi, known for its charming ambiance and extensive breakfast offerings.
TRY80, 1h

10:30am

Explore Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Stroll through the historic narrow streets of Antalya’s Old Town, visit Hadrian’s Gate and admire Ottoman-era architecture.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at 7 Mehmet

Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine with a view of the Mediterranean at this well-known Antalya restaurant.
TRY150, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Antalya Museum

One of Turkey’s best archaeological museums, showcasing artifacts from the region’s rich past.
TRY30, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along Konyaaltı Beach

Relax and enjoy the scenic Mediterranean coastline in the evening.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Conclude your day with elegant Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
TRY200, 1.5h

Day 2: Ancient Ruins & Waterfalls

Antalya, Turkey on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasa Bey Kebap

Enjoy a flavorful breakfast with local specialties such as Menemen and fresh bread.
TRY50, 1h

9:30am

Day trip to Perge Ancient City

Explore the ruins of a once thriving Roman city, including the stadium, theater, and ancient gates.
TRY40, 2h

11:30am

Visit Aspendos Theater

Admire one of the best-preserved Roman theaters, famous for its fantastic acoustics.
TRY40, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Aspendos

Have a quick bite or picnic-style lunch near the Aspendos area with local snacks.
TRY30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Düden Waterfalls

Spend the afternoon enjoying the spectacular waterfalls just outside Antalya offering beautiful nature and photo opportunities.
TRY20, 1.5h

6:00pm

Return to Antalya City Center

Relax before dinner with some leisure time in the city.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Arma Restaurant

Dine with views of the Mediterranean and harbor while savoring seafood and Turkish specialties.
TRY180, 1.5h

Day 3: Boat Tour & Shopping

Antalya, Turkey on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vanilla Lounge

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with coffee and fresh pastries near the waterfront.
TRY60, 1h

9:30am

Antalya Boat Tour

Take a half-day coastal boat tour exploring hidden coves, swimming spots, and scenic views of the Mediterranean coastline.
TRY200, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Balıkçı İsmail

Post boat tour, enjoy fresh grilled fish dishes at this authentic local seafood restaurant.
TRY150, 1h

3:30pm

Shopping at Antalya Bazaar

Browse the traditional markets for souvenirs, spices, and Turkish delights.
Varies, 2h

6:00pm

Rest at hotel

Take some downtime to relax before dinner.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at 7 Mehmet

Return for evening dinner with a refined taste of Turkish cuisine featuring mezes and fresh seafood.
TRY200, 1.5h

Day 4: Nature Park & Departure

Antalya, Turkey on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park

Explore this peaceful nature park with lovely waterfalls and walking trails perfect for a morning escape.
TRY20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Zeytintaşı Restaurant

Taste Mediterranean cuisine in a charming garden setting near the nature park.
TRY100, 1h

1:30pm

Travel to Antalya Airport for Flight to Istanbul

Prepare for your flight to Istanbul to begin the next leg of your trip.
Varies, 1h

Day 5: Istanbul Arrival & Historic Center

Istanbul, Turkey on May 21, 2025

3:00pm

Arrive in Istanbul and Check-in

Settle into your centrally located hotel near Sultanahmet to start your Istanbul experience.
Varies, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Sultanahmet Square

Discover key landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern, all within walking distance.
Blue Mosque free, Hagia Sophia TRY100, Basilica Cistern TRY50, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Seven Hills Restaurant

Enjoy rooftop dining with stunning views of the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque while savoring fresh seafood and mezes.
TRY200, 1.5h

Day 6: Palaces and Bazaars

Istanbul, Turkey on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Sample traditional Turkish breakfast and sweets in this historic confectionery and café.
TRY60, 1h

9:30am

Topkapi Palace Tour

Explore the opulent palace of Ottoman sultans with its beautiful gardens, treasury, and harem sections. Open 9am-6:45pm.
TRY350, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Historic restaurant located in the Egyptian Spice Bazaar serving classic Ottoman cuisine.
TRY150, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Grand Bazaar

Discover one of the largest covered markets in the world with thousands of shops selling carpets, jewelry, and souvenirs. Open 9am-7pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse

Indulge in premium steak and Turkish meat specialties in a trendy atmosphere.
TRY300, 1.5h

Day 7: Historic and Religious Sites

Istanbul, Turkey on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a rich breakfast spread featuring regional Turkish delicacies.
TRY70, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore this architectural masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman elements. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY100, 1.5h

11:30am

Visit Basilica Cistern

Experience the historic underground water cistern with its unique atmosphere. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste traditional Turkish meatballs in an iconic local eatery.
TRY60, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Süleymaniye Mosque

Admire one of Istanbul’s grandest mosques with panoramic city views. Open daily 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Coffee at Pierre Loti Cafe

Enjoy Turkish coffee while overlooking the Golden Horn from this scenic hillside café.
TRY30, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience modern Turkish fine dining with spectacular city views. Reservation recommended.
TRY400, 2h

Day 8: Asian Side Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Çiya Sofrası, Kadıköy

Taste authentic Anatolian breakfast specialties on Istanbul’s Asian side.
TRY80, 1h

9:30am

Explore Kadıköy Market and Streets

Wander through vibrant markets, shops, and street art in this lively district.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Moda Kaymak Café

Enjoy light Turkish snacks and excellent kaymak (clotted cream) at a popular café.
TRY70, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Maiden's Tower

Take a short boat trip to this iconic landmark in the Bosphorus, open 9am-7pm.
TRY60, 2h

4:00pm

Return to European Side via Bosphorus Ferry

Enjoy scenic ferry ride with views of palaces and Bosphorus bridges.
TRY25, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Savor authentic seafood dishes in a historic Istanbul location near Sultanahmet.
TRY220, 1.5h

Day 9: Bosphorus & Museums

Istanbul, Turkey on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie, Bebek

Start the day with a Western-style breakfast and stunning views by the Bosphorus.
TRY100, 1h

9:30am

Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a half-day scenic cruise along the Bosphorus strait, viewing Ottoman palaces and bridges.
TRY150, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Feriye Lokantası

Dine at a fine restaurant by the water with traditional and contemporary Turkish dishes.
TRY180, 1.5h

3:30pm

Visit Istanbul Archaeological Museums

Explore a vast collection of artifacts from Turkey and surrounding civilizations, open 9am-7pm.
TRY50, 2h

6:00pm

Relax at Gülhane Park

Spend a tranquil late afternoon in one of Istanbul’s oldest and most beautiful parks.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Experience dinner with panoramic views and a fusion menu atop a historic building in Beyoğlu.
TRY350, 2h

Day 10: Departure Day

Istanbul, Turkey on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Istanbul relaxing at the hotel.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Last-minute Shopping or Sightseeing

Use your last morning to revisit favorite spots or do quick shopping in Istiklal Street.
Varies, 2h

12:00pm

Check-out and Transfer to Airport

Head to Istanbul Airport for your departure flight.
Varies, 1h