Ultimate 2-Day Istanbul Itinerary: Explore Historic and Modern Wonders

Day 1: Historic Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hafız Mustafa 1864

Start your day with traditional Turkish breakfast including simit and menemen at this famous historic bakery and café located in Sultanahmet.
TRY50, 1h

9:00am

Hagia Sophia

Visit the iconic former basilica and mosque, now a museum, to admire its stunning Byzantine architecture and mosaics. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY150, 1h30m

10:45am

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Explore this masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, known for its blue İznik tiles. Closed during prayer times, open 9am-7pm.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs at this beloved local eatery located close to the historic sites.
TRY70, 1h

1:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Tour the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring imperial collections, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Open 9am-6:45pm.
TRY200, 2h

4:00pm

Basilica Cistern

Discover the mysterious underground water reservoir supported by hundreds of columns. Open 9am-5:30pm.
TRY100, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine on fresh seafood dishes in an atmospheric historic wooden house near Sultanahmet.
TRY200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Modern & Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey on May 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Experience an authentic and hearty Turkish breakfast spread from the Van region in vibrant Beyoğlu.
TRY60, 1h

10:00am

Galata Tower

Climb this medieval stone tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY120, 1h

11:30am

Istiklal Avenue

Stroll this lively historic pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites leading to Taksim Square.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Çiçek Pasajı

Savor mezes and fresh seafood in this vibrant historic arcade on Istiklal Avenue.
TRY100, 1h

2:30pm

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 2-hour scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to see Istanbul’s unique position straddling Europe and Asia.
TRY150, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Ortaköy Mosque and Surroundings

Explore the charming neighborhood at the Bosphorus waterfront, famous for Ortaköy Mosque and local markets.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Feriye Lokantası

Enjoy upscale Turkish and seafood cuisine with stunning Bosphorus views in this elegant historic mansion.
TRY250, 1h30m
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