3-Day Istanbul Itinerary: Historical Wonders, Vegetarian Delights & Vibrant Nightlife

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with numerous vegetarian options including fresh cheeses, olives, honey, and menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers). Open from 7:30am to 3:00pm.
TRY60, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore this iconic Byzantine marvel, which served as a cathedral and mosque, showcasing stunning mosaics and rich history. Open 9:00am to 7:00pm.
TRY100, 1h30m

11:15am

Blue Mosque

Visit the famous Blue Mosque, known for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles and impressive architecture. Closed during prayer times, generally open 9:00am to 6:30pm.
Free, 45m

12:15pm

Lunch at Dubb Indian Restaurant & Bar

Savor delicious vegetarian Indian dishes with generous use of spices and fresh ingredients, minutes away from Sultanahmet.
TRY80, 1h

1:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover Ottoman sultans' treasury with beautiful courtyards, artifacts, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Open 9:00am to 6:45pm.
TRY150, 2h

4:00pm

Basilica Cistern

Tour the ancient underground water reservoir featuring atmospheric lighting and Medusa head carvings. Open 9:00am to 7:00pm.
TRY50, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Zencefil

A cozy vegetarian and vegan restaurant offering wholesome Turkish and international dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
TRY90, 1h30m

Day 2: Quirky & Nightlife

Istanbul, Turkey on June 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme Karaköy

Sample freshly baked bread, cheeses, olives, and vegetarian spreads at this popular gourmet deli and cafe.
TRY70, 1h

10:00am

Explore Istiklal Avenue and Galata Tower

Walk through this vibrant shopping street filled with quirky shops and street performers, then ascend Galata Tower for panoramic city views. Tower open 9:00am to 7:00pm.
TRY60, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bi Nevi Deli

Enjoy creative vegetarian bowls and health-focused dishes in a bright and welcoming cafe near Galata.
TRY60, 1h

2:00pm

Whimsical Museum of Innocence

Visit this quirky museum inspired by Orhan Pamuk's novel, showcasing nostalgic objects and a love story. Open 10:00am to 6:00pm, closed Mondays.
TRY40, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Çınaraltı Çay Bahçesi

Unwind with traditional Turkish tea by the Bosphorus under the old plane trees in this charming tea garden.
TRY20, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ziya Bey Konağı

Have a vegetarian-friendly meal with traditional Anatolian flavors in a cozy setting near Karaköy.
TRY100, 1h30m

9:30pm

Live Music & Nightlife at Babylon Bomonti

Experience Istanbul’s best live music venue with an eclectic lineup. Open from 9:00pm till late, check schedule for performances.
TRY80, 3h+

Day 3: Bosphorus & Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on June 20, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a light vegetarian breakfast at your hotel before departure.
Included, 30m

7:00am

Airport Transfer

Head to Istanbul Airport for your 8:00am departure flight, allowing ample time for check-in and security.
TRY150, 1h