3 Days in Istanbul: History and Cuisine Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). This architectural marvel has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Its stunning mosaics and grand dome are a testament to Byzantine architecture. After exploring Hagia Sophia, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at the nearby highly-rated Sultanahmet Köftecisi. Their low-carb options include grilled meats and fresh salads.

After breakfast, head over to the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), another masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. The mosque's interior is adorned with thousands of blue tiles that give it its name. Spend some time admiring the intricate designs before walking over to the Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani), an ancient chariot racing stadium that now serves as a public square. For lunch, try Balıklı Rum Meyhanesi, known for its delicious seafood dishes that fit well into a low-carb diet.

In the evening, stroll through the historic Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and traditional Turkish goods. End your day with dinner at Dubai Restaurant, which offers an excellent selection of both Turkish and Indian cuisine.