13-Day Turkey and Azerbaijan Journey: Istanbul Highlights & Azerbaijani Cultural Exploration

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh cheeses, olives, honey, and warm bread in this cozy spot known for authentic regional flavors.

TRY80, 1h0m

9:30am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Discover the rich history of this iconic Byzantine-turned-Ottoman architectural masterpiece with impressive mosaics and a stunning dome; open 9am-7pm.

TRY100, 2h0m

11:45am

Blue Mosque

Visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its six minarets and exquisite blue İznik tiles; open until 7pm, closed to visitors during prayer times.

Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Balikçi Sabahattin

Savor fresh seafood dishes in this historic restaurant near Sultanahmet, renowned for its grilled fish and meze platters.

TRY150, 1h15m

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans with beautiful courtyards, treasury, and exhibitions; open 9am-6pm.

TRY120, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk through Gülhane Park

Relax in this historic urban park adjacent to Topkapi Palace, perfect for a gentle stroll among gardens and fountains.

Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Dine overlooking the Golden Horn with specialties like kebabs and traditional Turkish desserts at this popular eatery.

TRY180, 1h30m

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Day 2: Bosphorus & Modern Sights

Istanbul, Turkey on June 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Start your day with a stylish breakfast in a Bosphorus neighborhood with a view, serving fresh pastries and Turkish coffee.

TRY90, 1h0m

10:00am

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a 2-hour ferry tour along the Bosphorus Strait to see palaces, bridges, and Istanbul's skyline from the water; cruises run 10am-6pm.

TRY70, 2h0m

12:30pm

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the 19th-century Ottoman palace known for its European style and lavish interiors; open 9am-4:30pm.

TRY90, 1h30m

2:15pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy rich regional Turkish dishes from Anatolia in this vibrant restaurant on the Asian side’s Kadıköy market area.

TRY100, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Istiklal Avenue & Galata Tower

Stroll this bustling pedestrian street full of shops, cafes and historic sites, then climb Galata Tower for panoramic views; tower open 9am-7pm.

TRY50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Coffee Break at Mandabatmaz

Taste some of the best traditional Turkish coffee in this cozy cafe, loved by locals for strong brews and warm atmosphere.

TRY30, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience fine dining with a modern twist and spectacular city views at Mikla, a top Istanbul restaurant with Nordic-Turkish fusion.

TRY350, 2h0m

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Day 3: Markets & Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Indulge in traditional Turkish baklava and pastries with tea in this famed dessert spot open from early morning.

TRY60, 0h45m

8:30am

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with thousands of shops selling carpets, jewelry, and souvenirs; open 9am-7pm.

Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Spice Bazaar

Discover aromatic herbs, spices, and sweets in this colorful bazaar near the Eminönü ferry docks; open 9am-7pm.

Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine at this historic eatery inside the Spice Bazaar, famous for classic Ottoman dishes and elegant ambiance.

TRY120, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Süleymaniye Mosque and Gardens

Visit this grand mosque complex with beautiful gardens and views over the Golden Horn; open until early evening.

Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Transfer to Istanbul Airport for flight to Baku, Azerbaijan

Prepare and travel to the airport for your evening flight to Baku (flight approx. 2.5 hrs).

Variable, Varies

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Day 4: Welcome to Baku

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 8, 2025

9:00am

Arrival in Baku and hotel check-in

Settle into your accommodation and refresh after the flight.

Variable, 1h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Firuze Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Azerbaijani breakfast specialties such as qutab and fresh cheeses in a charming local spot.

AZN15, 1h0m

12:00pm

Explore the Old City (Icherisheher)

Wander through Baku’s UNESCO-listed historic core featuring the Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah’s Palace; open daily 9am-7pm.

AZN10, 3h0m

3:30pm

Visit the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan

Discover the rich cultural and historical heritage of Azerbaijan in this extensive museum close to the Old City.

AZN6, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Nargiz Restaurant

Savor Azerbaijani dishes like plov and kebabs in an elegant atmosphere near Fountain Square.

AZN30, 1h30m

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Day 5: Caspian Coast & Cultural Museums

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Chayki

Start with Azerbaijani tea and pastries in this quaint cafe near the Caspian Sea promenade.

AZN10, 1h0m

10:00am

Walk along Baku Boulevard

Stroll the scenic Caspian Sea promenade featuring parks, cafes, and the iconic Baku Eye Ferris wheel; open all day.

Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mugam Club

Experience modern Azerbaijani cuisine and live mugham music performances near the boulevard.

AZN40, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit the Carpet Museum

Explore the Art Nouveau building and vast collection of Caucasian carpets and textiles; open 10am-6pm.

AZN10, 1h30m

4:15pm

Tour the Flame Towers

Admire Baku’s modern iconic skyscrapers and enjoy panoramic city views from nearby viewing points; best around sunset.

Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sumakh

Enjoy a blend of traditional and contemporary Azerbaijani dishes in a stylish setting downtown.

AZN35, 1h30m

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Day 6: Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a hearty breakfast to prepare for your day trip outside the city.

Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Day trip to Gobustan National Park

Explore ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites dating back thousands of years; park open 9am-6pm. Trip includes the Mud Volcanoes nearby, unique geological phenomena.

AZN25 (entry + guided tour), 6h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at a local restaurant near Gobustan

Sample regional Azerbaijani cuisine in a simple countryside setting.

AZN20, 1h0m

6:00pm

Return to Baku and rest

Relax after an active day of sightseeing.

Included, Varies

8:00pm

Dinner at Art Club Restaurant

Dine on authentic Azeri dishes with live music in the heart of Baku.

AZN30, 1h30m

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Day 7: Absheron Peninsula Villages

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Paul Bakery

Enjoy delicious baked goods and fresh coffee at this European-style bakery chain.

AZN12, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Ateshgah Fire Temple

Explore the ancient Zoroastrian fire temple known for its natural eternal flame; open 9am-6pm.

AZN8, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Yanardag (Burning Mountain)

See the famous natural gas fire blazes that have been burning for centuries on a hillside near Baku; open daylight hours.

AZN15, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch in the village of Mardakan at The Lighthouse Café

Dine with a sea view and enjoy fresh seafood and local Azerbaijani dishes.

AZN25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Mardakan Fortress

Tour the 14th-century fortress on the Absheron Peninsula that offers historical insight and scenic views.

AZN5, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Baku

Leisure time in the evening.

Free, Varies

7:30pm

Dinner at Chinar

Enjoy modern Azerbaijani dishes with elegant presentation in a contemporary setting with city views.

AZN40, 1h30m

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Day 8: Cultural Immersion

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Scape Coffee

Indulge in specialty coffee and fresh pastries in this popular local cafe.

AZN10, 1h0m

9:30am

Azerbaijan State Museum of Art

Explore a rich collection of Azerbaijani and international paintings, open 10am-6pm.

AZN8, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Karvansaray Restaurant

Taste traditional Azerbaijani cuisine including dolma and piti in a charming, authentic atmosphere.

AZN25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Heydar Aliyev Center

Admire Zaha Hadid’s architectural masterpiece featuring futuristic curves and cultural exhibitions; open 10am-7pm.

AZN15, 2h0m

4:00pm

Tea break at The Landmark

Enjoy Azerbaijani tea and sweets in this elegant venue with views of Baku’s skyline.

AZN15, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nakhchivan Restaurant

Sample flavors from the western regions of Azerbaijan with hearty dishes and warm hospitality.

AZN35, 1h30m

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Day 9: Day trip to Sheki

Sheki, Azerbaijan on June 13, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a full day excursion.

Included, 1h0m

7:30am

Drive to Sheki (approx. 4.5 hours)

Travel through scenic landscapes on the way to Sheki, a historic town renowned for its architecture and crafts.

Variable, 4h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Khan Palace Restaurant

Dine in the shadow of Sheki Khan's Palace on local specialties and seasonal fresh produce.

AZN30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tour of Sheki Khan's Palace

Explore this 18th-century royal residence famous for its stained glass windows and ornate frescoes; open 9am-6pm.

AZN12, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit local craft shops

See traditional silk weaving and pottery artisans at work in town.

Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Baku

Relax during the afternoon drive back to the city.

Variable, 4h30m

9:30pm

Light dinner or late snack at hotel

After a long day, enjoy a casual meal or rest.

Variable, Varies

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Day 10: Relax & Local Life

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 14, 2025

9:00am

Brunch at Paul

Enjoy a relaxed French-style brunch with fresh breads and eggs in central Baku.

AZN20, 1h0m

11:00am

Visit Botanical Garden

Stroll scenic gardens overlooking the Caspian Sea, featuring diverse plants; open 9am-6pm.

AZN5, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Paulaner Brauhaus

Enjoy European-style comfort food and local beers in lively ambiance.

AZN30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Taza Bazaar

Experience a bustling local market with fresh produce, spices, and traditional foods.

Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or local cafe

Take time to rest or enjoy people-watching at a nearby cafe.

Free, Varies

7:00pm

Dinner at Qafqaz Restaurant

Savor traditional Azerbaijani dishes with live folk music performances.

AZN35, 1h30m

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Day 11: Nature & History

Baku, Azerbaijan on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start early for a day of nature and historical exploration.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Day trip to Lahij Village

Visit Lahij, a mountain village famous for its copper crafts, cobbled streets, and traditional Azerbaijani culture; ideal for photography and artisanal shopping.

Variable (transport and entry free), 7h0m