10 Days Exploring Istanbul's Rich History Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the opulent Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi). Explore its lavish rooms, courtyards, and the Harem section where sultans once lived. The palace offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. Have breakfast at Pandeli, located within the Spice Bazaar, offering traditional Turkish cuisine.

Next, head to the bustling Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Spend time shopping for souvenirs, spices, textiles, and more. Afterward, make your way to the nearby Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) for an aromatic experience of various spices and sweets. Enjoy lunch at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its kebabs with a view of the Golden Horn.

In the evening, take part in an immersive experience with an Istanbul Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets. This tour will introduce you to some of Istanbul's best street food vendors while you learn about Turkish culinary traditions. End your day with dinner at one of these local spots recommended by your guide.

Start your morning by visiting the vibrant neighborhood of Balat. Wander through its colorful streets filled with historic buildings and charming cafes. Visit some local shops before heading over to see Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), an architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan offering panoramic views of Istanbul. Have breakfast at one of Balat’s cozy cafes like Cafe Naftalin K which serves delicious pastries.

After exploring Balat and Süleymaniye Mosque, make your way to Istiklal Street via Taksim Square (Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani)). This bustling avenue is lined with shops, restaurants, art galleries & more! Don’t miss visiting Cicek Pasaji (Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage)), a historic passage filled with lively eateries & bars! Stop for lunch at one such eatery -Midpoint- offering great food & ambiance.

Conclude your day by visiting Galata Tower (Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)). Climb up this medieval stone tower for breathtaking views over Istanbul as sunset approaches! Later on indulge yourself in an unforgettable dining experience aboard an evening Bosphorus Dinner Cruise featuring Turkish Night Show (Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table).

Begin your day with a visit to the Rahmi M. Koc Museum (Rahmi M. Koç Müzesi). This museum is dedicated to the history of transport, industry, and communications, and is located on the northern shore of the Golden Horn. It's a fascinating place for both adults and children alike. For breakfast, stop by Van Kahvalti Evi, known for its traditional Turkish breakfast.

After exploring the museum, take a stroll along the shores of the Golden Horn (Golden Horn (Haliç)). Visit the historic neighborhood of Fener and Balat, known for their colorful houses and narrow streets. Enjoy lunch at Forno Balat, which offers delicious pizzas and Turkish dishes in a cozy setting.

In the evening, head to Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi)). Take a cable car ride up to this hilltop café named after the French novelist Pierre Loti who loved Istanbul. Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul as you sip on Turkish tea or coffee. For dinner, dine at Ali Baba Nargile, which offers great food with an amazing view.

Start your day with a visit to Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri). This complex of three museums houses over one million artifacts from various civilizations that have passed through Turkey's history. Have breakfast at Cafe Marmara, located nearby offering a variety of breakfast options.

Next, make your way to Haydarpasa Railway Station (Haydarpasa Railway Station (Haydarpasa Gari)), an iconic building on Istanbul's Asian side. After exploring this historic station, take some time to wander around Kadikoy Market where you can find fresh produce, spices & more! Enjoy lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, famous for its diverse selection of Anatolian dishes.

In the evening participate in an engaging activity -Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop. Learn how to make traditional Turkish coffee & get your fortune told by reading coffee grounds! Conclude your day with dinner at Karakoy Lokantasi, known for its delicious mezes & seafood.

Begin your morning by visiting Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)). This stunning palace served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in its later years & boasts lavish interiors & beautiful gardens! Have breakfast at Kahve Dunyasi located nearby offering great coffee & pastries.

After exploring Dolmabahce Palace head towards Ortaköy (Ortaköy), a lively neighborhood located right by Bosphorus Bridge! Spend some time wandering through its charming streets filled with cafes & boutiques before enjoying lunch at one such café -House Café- offering great food with Bosphorus views!

Conclude your day by visiting Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)), an impressive fortress built during Ottoman times overlooking Bosphorus Strait! Later on indulge yourself in an unforgettable dining experience aboard an evening Bosphorus Dinner Cruise featuring Turkish Night Show -Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show.

Start your day with a visit to the Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi). This museum, formerly known as the Chora Church, is renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. For breakfast, head to Privato Cafe, which offers a delightful selection of traditional Turkish breakfast items.

After exploring the Kariye Museum, make your way to the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii). This architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan offers panoramic views of Istanbul. Spend some time wandering around its beautiful courtyards and gardens. Enjoy lunch at Daruzziyafe, located near the mosque, known for its Ottoman cuisine.

In the evening, take part in an immersive experience with an Istanbul Small-Group Sunset or Day Yacht Cruise with Snacks. This cruise will provide you with breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline as you sail along the Bosphorus. For dinner, dine at Mikla Restaurant, which offers a modern twist on traditional Turkish dishes with stunning views of the city.

Begin your day by visiting the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). This museum showcases contemporary Turkish art and hosts various exhibitions throughout the year. Have breakfast at Muze De Changa, located within the museum offering a variety of breakfast options.

Next, head to Taksim Square (Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani)), one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. From there, stroll down Istiklal Street (Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi)), a bustling avenue lined with shops, cafes & more! Enjoy lunch at 360 Istanbul, known for its panoramic views & delicious food.

Conclude your day by visiting Galata Bridge (Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)). Walk across this historic bridge while enjoying views over Golden Horn before indulging yourself in an unforgettable dining experience aboard an evening Bosphorus Dinner Cruise featuring Turkish Night Show -Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table.

Start your morning by visiting Balat neighborhood again but this time focus on exploring its cultural heritage sites such as Greek Orthodox Patriarchate & Bulgarian St Stephen Church! Have breakfast at one of Balat’s cozy cafes like -Cafe Naftalin K- which serves delicious pastries.

After exploring Balat make your way towards Eminonu Pier (Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)) from where you can take ferry ride across Bosphorus Strait! Spend some time wandering through Spice Bazaar (Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)) before enjoying lunch at -Hamdi Restaurant- offering great food & ambiance!

Conclude your day by participating in engaging activity -Istanbul Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets-. This tour will introduce you to some best street food vendors while learning about Turkish culinary traditions! End your day with dinner at one such local spot recommended by guide.

Begin your final day in Istanbul with a visit to the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi). This historic tower located on a small islet in the Bosphorus offers stunning views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Kuleli Yakamoz Restaurant, which provides a beautiful view of the Bosphorus and serves traditional Turkish breakfast.

After visiting Maiden’s Tower, head to the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). This opulent palace served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in its later years and boasts lavish interiors and beautiful gardens. Have lunch at Lacivert Restaurant, known for its exquisite seafood dishes and stunning views of the Bosphorus.

In the evening, take part in an unforgettable experience with an Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus. This cruise will provide you with breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline as you sail along the Bosphorus during sunset. Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, famous for its delicious steaks and vibrant atmosphere.