18 Days Exploring Istanbul Itinerary

Begin your day at the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), once the residence of Ottoman sultans. Explore its opulent rooms, courtyards, and gardens.

Visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri) to delve into Turkey's rich history through its extensive collection of artifacts.

Dine at Nicole, offering a fine dining experience with contemporary Turkish dishes.

Start your morning with a visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi). With over 4,000 shops, it's one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

Head to the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) to enjoy contemporary art exhibitions from Turkish artists.

Have dinner at Banyan Restaurant, which offers Asian fusion cuisine with beautiful Bosphorus views.

Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and historic churches. It's a great place for photography enthusiasts.

Visit the historical site of Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), an architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan.

Enjoy dinner at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, offering international cuisine with a touch of local flavors.

Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü), which connects Old Istanbul to modern Beyoğlu. Enjoy views of fishermen casting their lines into the Golden Horn.

Explore the historic district around Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani), where you can find many street vendors selling traditional snacks like simit and roasted chestnuts.

Dine at Kanaat Lokantası, known for its delicious traditional Turkish dishes.

Begin your day with a visit to the impressive fortress at Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari). This medieval structure offers stunning views over the Bosphorus.

Head over to explore another architectural gem: The magnificent palace complex at  Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi).

Enjoy dinner at  Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta serving authentic Turkish meatballs.

{ A-Beylerbeyi Palace(Beylerbeyi Sarayi)[9051]} - Visit this summer residence built during Ottoman Empire times.

{ A-Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge[16977]} - Drive across or take pictures from various viewpoints around this second bridge spanning across Bosphorus Strait.

{ R-Hafiz Mustafa 1864 Sultanahmet Şubesi} – Relish delightful desserts here post-dinner

{ A-Cicek Pasaji(Flower Passage)[16917]} - Wander through these beautiful passages filled with cafes & shops dating back centuries ago.

{ A-Istiklal Street(Istiklal Caddesi)[8869]} - Shop till you drop amidst lively atmosphere here stretching up till Taksim Square area.

{ R-Develi Kebap} – Indulge yourself into mouth-watering kebabs prepared traditionally

{ A-Maiden’s Tower(Kiz Kulesi)[16981]} - Take boat ride towards this small islet featuring legendary tower surrounded by waters on all sides.

{ A-Ortaköy[9059]} - Spend relaxing afternoon exploring cobblestone streets lined up trendy cafes overlooking waterfront scenery around Ortakoy Mosque vicinity .

{ R-Giritli Istanbul} – Savor delectable seafood specialties within cozy ambiance offered here

{ A-Rahmi M.Koc Museum(Rahmi M.Koç Müzesi)[23712]} - Delve deep into fascinating exhibits ranging vintage cars,trains,toys etc housed inside industrial complex turned museum space .