Historic and Cultural Exploration in Istanbul: 6-Day Journey from 26 June to 1 July 2025

Day 1: Historic Old City

Istanbul, Turkey on June 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pandeli Restaurant

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast in the historic setting of Eminönü’s Pandeli Restaurant, known for its authentic flavours and vintage decor.
TRY120, 1h0m

9:45am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former basilica and mosque that showcases impressive Byzantine architecture and rich history. It’s an iconic symbol of Istanbul.
TRY100, 2h0m

12:00pm

Blue Mosque

Visit the stunning Blue Mosque located nearby, famous for its beautiful blue İznik tiles and six minarets. Entry is free, but dress modestly as it remains a functioning mosque.
Free, 1h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) at this iconic eatery, offering a straightforward and delicious meal close to major attractions.
TRY90, 1h0m

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Spend the afternoon exploring Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans. Be sure to see the treasury and the Harem section, which require separate tickets.
TRY180, 3h0m

6:00pm

Sunset walk at Gülhane Park

Relax with a peaceful walk in Gülhane Park, once part of the royal gardens, and enjoy views of the Bosphorus and the historical skyline as the sun sets.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Conclude the day with dinner at Hamdi, famous for its kebabs and views overlooking the Golden Horn, offering vibrant nightlife energy and authentic flavours.
TRY150, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bosphorus and Asian Side

Istanbul, Turkey on June 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring eastern Turkish specialities in Cihangir, known for its extensive breakfast spreads featuring cheeses, honey, and fresh bread.
TRY100, 1h0m

9:45am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a 2-hour Bosphorus boat tour departing from Eminönü to see Istanbul’s landmarks from the water, including palaces, bridges, and fortresses along the strait.
TRY120, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Cross to the Asian side to try authentic Anatolian dishes at Çiya Sofrası, a favourite for traditional and rare Turkish recipes in Kadıköy market.
TRY110, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Kadıköy Market

Wander through Kadıköy’s vibrant market area offering local produce, street art, cafes, and antique shops; a lively way to experience local daily life.
Free, 2h0m

3:45pm

Visit Moda Park

Relax along the seaside promenade of Moda, enjoying scenic views of the Marmara Sea and exploring coffee shops and bookstores.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return ferry to European Side

Take the ferry back to the European side, enjoying the evening atmosphere and splendid views across the water.
TRY20, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Dine at Neolokal in Karaköy, a modern restaurant focusing on revitalising traditional Turkish cuisine with innovative techniques and a stylish setting.
TRY160, 1h30m
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Day 3: Galata and Taksim

Istanbul, Turkey on June 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie

Enjoy an upscale breakfast with Bosphorus views at Mangerie in Bebek, perfect for a leisurely start with great coffee and pastries.
TRY110, 1h0m

10:00am

Galata Tower visit

Climb the historic Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Golden Horn, a must-see medieval landmark.
TRY75, 1h0m

11:30am

Istiklal Avenue stroll

Walk along Istiklal Avenue, a lively street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers, leading up to Taksim Square.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Leb-i Derya

Enjoy lunch at Leb-i Derya offering spectacular city views and a fusion menu that blends traditional and contemporary tastes.
TRY130, 1h0m

3:00pm

Pera Museum

Visit the Pera Museum featuring Ottoman-era art, Orientalist paintings, and contemporary exhibitions, open from 10am to 6pm.
TRY80, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee break at Mandabatmaz

Stop for a coffee at Mandabatmaz, renowned for its thick Turkish coffee and authentic atmosphere.
TRY30, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Mikla, a top Istanbul restaurant with stunning views and innovative Nordic-Turkish fusion cuisine. Reservation recommended.
TRY300, 2h0m
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Day 4: Princes' Islands

Istanbul, Turkey on June 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Café or nearby

Have a light breakfast near your accommodation before heading to the ferry for the Princes' Islands, as early start is needed.
TRY50, 30m

8:30am

Ferry to Büyükada

Take the approximately 1.5-hour ferry ride to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, enjoying serene sea views.
TRY40, 1h30m

10:15am

Bike tour of Büyükada

Rent a bicycle and explore the car-free island with historic mansions, quiet beaches, and scenic viewpoints.
TRY60, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Milto

Enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront at Milto, renowned for its meze and fish dishes.
TRY140, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery

Walk up to this historic 6th-century church with panoramic views; the hike takes about 30 minutes each way.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return ferry to Istanbul

Catch the ferry back to Istanbul, allowing time to relax and freshen up before dinner.
TRY40, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine at this classic fish restaurant in Sultanahmet with a historic atmosphere and excellent grilled fish options.
TRY170, 1h30m
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Day 5: Art and Modern Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Ara

Begin the day at Café Ara, a stylish spot for coffee and pastries in the vibrant area of Karaköy.
TRY80, 1h0m

10:00am

Istanbul Modern Museum

Visit Istanbul Modern, Turkey’s first modern and contemporary art museum, open 10am-6pm, showcasing local and international exhibitions.
TRY100, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Enjoy a modern take on traditional Ottoman dishes in a beautifully tiled restaurant in Karaköy, popular among locals and visitors alike.
TRY130, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit SALT Galata

Explore SALT Galata, a cultural institution with exhibitions, a library, and a café, open 10am-7pm. It reflects Istanbul’s modern artistic pulse.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping and exploring Galata

Browse local boutiques and galleries around Galata for unique Turkish handicrafts and contemporary design pieces.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nopa

Dine at Nopa, a contemporary restaurant known for its seasonal cuisine and elegant ambiance in the heart of the city.
TRY160, 1h30m
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Day 6: Relax and Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on July 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi or hotel café

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast revisiting your favourite Turkish breakfast treats near your accommodation before packing.
TRY100, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Spend your last hours exploring the vibrant Spice Bazaar, perfect for buying souvenirs and enjoying the atmosphere of this historic covered market.
Free entry, 1h0m

11:30am

Coffee break at Mandabatmaz (optional)

Optional short coffee break at Mandabatmaz for one last authentic Turkish coffee experience.
TRY30, 30m

12:15pm

Departure preparations

Return to accommodation to collect bags and prepare for your departure from Istanbul.
Free, Variable
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