5 Days Exploring Istanbul Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), once the residence of Ottoman sultans. This palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire. Enjoy breakfast at Café Nar, located within the palace grounds.

In the afternoon, head to the bustling Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) for some shopping and exploration. This historic market is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Have lunch at Havuzlu Restaurant, situated within the bazaar, offering traditional Turkish dishes.

Conclude your day with a visit to the beautiful Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii). The mosque's stunning architecture and panoramic views of Istanbul are breathtaking. For dinner, try Deraliye Ottoman Palace Cuisine Restaurant, which serves exquisite Ottoman-inspired dishes.

Start your morning with a visit to the contemporary art haven, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). This museum showcases modern Turkish art in an inspiring setting. Enjoy breakfast at Museum Café, located within the museum premises.

Afterward, take a leisurely walk along Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), one of Istanbul's most famous avenues filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Stop for lunch at Midpoint Istiklal, offering a diverse menu in a vibrant setting.

In the evening, explore the lively neighborhood of Beyoğlu and visit Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) for panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline. For dinner, head to Meze by Lemon Tree, known for its delicious mezes and cozy atmosphere.

Begin your day with a visit to the fascinating Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri), home to an extensive collection of artifacts from various civilizations. Have breakfast at nearby café Lale Restaurant before exploring.

In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait starting from Eminonu Pier (Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)). Enjoy lunch on board or at one of many waterfront restaurants like  Fish Bread Eminönü that serve fresh seafood sandwiches.

End your day by visiting Ortaköy, known for its picturesque mosque by water & lively square filled w/ cafes & street vendors serving kumpir stuffed potatoes! Dine @ The House Cafe Ortaköy w/ stunning Bosphorus views!

. Begin w/visiting colorful streets & historic houses in Balat (Balat[9061]), vibrant neighborhood full charm! Breakfast @ quaint cafe nearby called Cooklife Balat!

. Afternoon adventure takes you underground Basilica Cistern ({ A-Yerebatan Sarnıcı[16978]}) ancient water storage site dating back Byzantine era! Lunch @ nearby Sultan Pub Restaurant serving traditional Turkish fare!

. Conclude trip visiting Rahmi M Koc Museum ({ A-Rahmi M Koç Müzesi[23712]}) dedicated industrial history transportation exhibits vintage cars trains planes more! Dinner final night @ Mikla rooftop restaurant offering panoramic cityscape views innovative cuisine!