Istanbul: A 5-Day Culinary and Cultural Journey Itinerary

Have a leisurely breakfast at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, known for its köfte. Then, explore the ancient underground water reservoir, Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), with a skip-the-line entry.

For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi in Kadikoy and enjoy a variety of authentic Anatolian dishes. Afterward, take a ferry ride to the Asian side and visit the vibrant neighborhood of Kadikoy.

Dine at Balikci Sabahattin, a renowned seafood restaurant. After dinner, experience the mystical Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema.

Start your day with a rich Turkish coffee at Dürümzade in the Karakoy area. Then, visit the modern art museum, Istanbul Modern, to explore contemporary Turkish art.

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Karakoy Lokantasi, known for its mezes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the trendy streets of Karakoy and visit the historic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi).

For dinner, experience the innovative Turkish cuisine at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views. After dinner, take a stroll across the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü).

Explore the vibrant and chaotic Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) and immerse yourself in the scents and flavors of Turkey. Have a traditional Turkish breakfast at Pandeli Restaurant inside the bazaar.

After the bazaar, take a private cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Turkish dishes. Enjoy the meal you prepared for lunch.

For dinner, indulge in a seafood feast at Bebek Balıkçısı in the upscale neighborhood of Bebek, overlooking the Bosphorus.

Enjoy a final breakfast at Hamdi Restaurant with a view of the Golden Horn. Then, take a private guided tour of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) and hone your bargaining skills.

For a late lunch, savor the famous Dönerci Sahin Usta in the Taksim area. Afterward, visit the vibrant Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and take a leisurely walk down Istiklal Street.

Conclude your culinary journey with a dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, known for its theatrical presentation of dishes. After dinner, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Karakoy and bid farewell to the enchanting city of Istanbul.