New Chat
Download App
Ask me about your trip!
There are no messages for this conversation.
5 Days in Istanbul: History and Cuisine Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Exploring Sultanahmet
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii). This iconic mosque is known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture. Spend some time admiring the intricate details and learning about its history.
Afternoon
Head over to the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), just a short walk away. This former church-turned-mosque-turned-museum is a marvel of Byzantine architecture. Take your time exploring its vast interior and historical significance. For lunch, enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at Pandeli Restaurant, located nearby.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Sultanahmet District, where you can stroll through historic streets and soak in the atmosphere. For dinner, dine at Asitane, known for its Ottoman-era recipes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
4.67Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
Book Now
4.67Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
Book Now
4.68Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Book Now
4.68Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Book Now
Palaces and Bazaars
Morning
Begin your day at the magnificent Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi). Explore the opulent rooms, courtyards, and gardens of this former royal residence. Don't miss the Harem section for a glimpse into the lives of sultans.
Afternoon
Next, visit the nearby Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices to jewelry. Have lunch at Konyalı Lokantası Topkapı Sarayı, located within Topkapi Palace grounds.
Evening
In the evening, head to Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) for more shopping and sensory delights. Conclude your day with dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, famous for its delicious steaks.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
Book Now
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
Book Now
4.61Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
Book Now
4.61Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
Book Now
Cultural Immersion
Morning
Start your morning with a visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri). This complex houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various civilizations that have shaped Istanbul's history.
Afternoon
Afterward, take a short walk to Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) where you can enjoy views of both sides of Istanbul while having lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants underneath it.
Evening
In the evening, explore Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. For dinner, head to Mikla, offering stunning views over Istanbul along with contemporary Turkish cuisine.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
4.75Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
Book Now
4.75Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
Book Now
4.73Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)
Book Now
4.73Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)
Book Now
Modern Art and Historic Neighborhoods
Morning
Visit the renowned Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) to start your day immersed in contemporary art exhibitions from Turkish artists.
Afternoon
Next, explore the historic neighborhood of Balat. Wander through colorful streets lined with old houses and churches while discovering local cafes for lunch such as Cumbalı Kahve.
Evening
Conclude your day by visiting Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) for panoramic views over Istanbul as sunset approaches. Enjoy dinner at nearby restaurant Neolokal which offers innovative dishes inspired by traditional Anatolian flavors.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
4.90Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
Book Now
4.90Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
Book Now
4.82Balat
Book Now
4.82Balat
Book Now
Bosphorus and Beyond
Morning
Start your day with a serene Bosphorus cruise. This will give you a unique perspective of Istanbul, seeing both the European and Asian sides of the city from the water. The cruise usually lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Afternoon
After your cruise, visit the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). This stunning palace is known for its opulent interiors and beautiful gardens. Spend a couple of hours exploring the palace and learning about its history. For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi, which offers a variety of traditional Turkish dishes.
Evening
In the evening, take a stroll along Ortaköy, a lively neighborhood by the Bosphorus known for its vibrant nightlife and street food. Enjoy dinner at 360 Istanbul, which offers panoramic views of the city along with delicious cuisine.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
4.54Bosphorus
Book Now
4.54Bosphorus
Book Now
4.50Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
Book Now
4.50Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
Book Now
Top Istanbul Travel Videos
Find the right stay during your trip.