New Chat

Download App

Ask me about your trip!

There are no messages for this conversation.

AI Travel Planner

10 Days in Istanbul: A Journey Through History and Culture

10 Days in Istanbul: A Journey Through History and Culture Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Historic Sultanahmet District

Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karakoy Lokantasi, known for its authentic flavors. After breakfast, visit the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) and marvel at its stunning architecture.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi and try their famous köfte. Afterward, explore the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and learn about its rich history.
Evening
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a historic restaurant. Take a leisurely walk through the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
activity-image

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

star4.67

click to access prices

activity-image

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

star4.68

click to access prices

activity-image

Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)

star4.61

click to access prices

Palaces of the Ottoman Empire

Morning
Have a leisurely morning and savor a cup of Turkish coffee at Pandeli Restaurant, a place with a long history. Visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı) and explore its opulent rooms and courtyards.
Afternoon
Enjoy a royal dining experience at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, known for its Ottoman cuisine. After lunch, take a guided tour of the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı), a symbol of the late Ottoman Empire.
Evening
Relax with a Bosphorus view dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering a panoramic scene. Take a leisurely evening stroll along the Bosphorus to end the day.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
activity-image

Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)

star0.00

click to access prices

activity-image

Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)

star4.50

click to access prices

Religious and Architectural Wonders

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), enjoying the serene atmosphere. Afterward, have a traditional Turkish lunch at Hamdi Restaurant.
Afternoon
Explore the underground marvel of the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) and then take a guided tour of the Rumeli Fortress (Rumelihisarı).
Evening
For dinner, experience a blend of history and cuisine at Asitane Restaurant, known for its Ottoman recipes. End the day with a leisurely walk around the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi).
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
activity-image

Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)

star4.70

click to access prices

activity-image

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

star4.70

click to access prices

activity-image

Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)

star4.49

click to access prices

activity-image

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

star4.70

click to access prices

Art and Culture in Beyoğlu

Morning
Enjoy a modern Turkish breakfast at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar with a view. Visit the Istanbul Modern for a contemporary art experience.
Afternoon
Have a casual lunch at Durumzade, famous for its dürüm. Explore the vibrant streets of Istiklal Avenue and visit the Galata Whirling Dervish Hall for a cultural performance.
Evening
Dine at Mikla, a renowned restaurant for its fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine. Enjoy the nightlife in Karaköy, known for its trendy bars and cafes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.

Culinary Delights and Local Markets

Morning
Start your day with a food tour at the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı), sampling a variety of Turkish delights.
Afternoon
Enjoy a seafood lunch at Lokma Balıkçısı near the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü). Explore the Karaköy neighborhood and its street art.
Evening
For dinner, indulge in a meze experience at Ciya Sofrası, known for its authentic Anatolian dishes. Take a leisurely evening walk along the Golden Horn (Haliç).
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
activity-image

Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

star4.69

click to access prices

activity-image

Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)

star4.73

click to access prices

activity-image

Golden Horn (Haliç)

star4.45

click to access prices

Day of Relaxation and Wellness

Morning
Pamper yourself with a traditional Turkish bath experience at Acemoglu Historical Turkish Hamam.
Afternoon
Enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment at Hotel Sultania's Spa, followed by a light lunch at the hotel's restaurant.
Evening
For dinner, savor a meal at Bebek Balıkçısı by the Bosphorus. Take a leisurely evening cruise to relax and enjoy the city's skyline.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.

Exploring the Princes' Islands

Morning
Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands and explore the car-free streets by bike or horse-drawn carriage.
Afternoon
Enjoy a seafood lunch with a view at Maiden's Tower Restaurant. Visit the historic Hagia Yorgi Church and enjoy the island's peaceful atmosphere.
Evening
Watch the sunset over the sea before heading back to the city. Have a relaxed dinner at Balikci Sabahattin, known for its fresh fish.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.

Bosphorus Discovery and Whirling Dervishes

Morning
Embark on a Bosphorus cruise with a stopover on the Asian side. Enjoy the views and learn about the city's history.
Afternoon
Have a late lunch at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası, a local favorite. Visit the Galata Mevlevi House for a Sema ceremony.
Evening
Dine at Nusr-Et Steakhouse for a modern culinary experience. End the day with a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.

Artisan Workshops and Local Experiences

Morning
Participate in a Turkish mosaic lamp workshop to learn about this traditional art form.
Afternoon
Enjoy a light lunch at Salt Galata, a restaurant with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Explore the Balat neighborhood and its colorful streets.
Evening
For dinner, try the unique flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. Take a sunset cruise on a yacht for a memorable end to the day.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.

Farewell to Istanbul

Morning
Visit the Chora Church (Kariye Müzesi) to admire its stunning mosaics.
Afternoon
Have a farewell lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu, a famous baklava shop. Spend your last afternoon shopping for souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı).
Evening
Dine at Hamdi Restaurant for a final taste of Turkish cuisine. End your trip with a Bosphorus dinner cruise and Turkish night show for a memorable farewell.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
activity-image

Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)

star4.61

click to access prices

Top Istanbul Travel Videos

kayakFind the right stay during your trip.
Got a question about your trip?