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![Istanbul's Rich Tapestry: 5-Day Journey of Culture, Cuisine, and Cruises](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/018e4f9f-e8fa-7f5b-afdc-05dfe39b05e5/location510.jpg)
Istanbul's Rich Tapestry: 5-Day Journey of Culture, Cuisine, and Cruises Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Dive into the Ottoman Heritage
Morning
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the renowned Karakoy Lokantasi, offering a mix of traditional and modern Turkish dishes. Afterward, immerse yourself in history with a guided tour of the iconic Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), where you'll explore the opulent rooms and learn about the sultans' lives. Don't miss the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), a marvel of Byzantine architecture.
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the flavors of the Ottoman Empire at Asitane Restaurant, known for its authentic recipes. In the afternoon, visit the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), an underground reservoir with a mystical atmosphere. Conclude your day with a relaxing Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table, enjoying a sumptuous meal while admiring the city's skyline.
Evening
After the cruise, unwind at Sunset Grill & Bar, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views. Indulge in a fusion of Turkish and international cuisine as you watch the sunset over the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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![Visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/59/40.jpg)
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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![Visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/59/40.jpg)
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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![Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/16.jpg)
4.68Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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![Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/16.jpg)
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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![Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/1a.jpg)
4.73Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/d45f40745dc8d18a1e48967b1a23508f4fb79653120313b26bf7b6d03fb21424.png/21.jpg)
4.78Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/d45f40745dc8d18a1e48967b1a23508f4fb79653120313b26bf7b6d03fb21424.png/21.jpg)
Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
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Exploring the Enchanting Old City
Morning
Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local favorite. Then, embark on a guided tour of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), two architectural wonders. Stroll through the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a historic eatery known for its köfte (meatballs). In the afternoon, visit the Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu), connecting Europe and Asia. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Ortaköy, known for its lively atmosphere and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque.
Evening
Dine at Bebek Balıkçısı, a seafood restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the enchanting views of the city at night.
Bedtime
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![Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/15.jpg)
4.67Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
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![Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/16.jpg)
4.68Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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![Visit Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/36.jpg)
4.65Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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![Visit Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/60.jpg)
4.45Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)
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![Visit Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/60.jpg)
Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)
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![Visit Ortaköy in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/87/e4.jpg)
4.61Ortaköy
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Ortaköy
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From Palaces to Whirling Dervishes
Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Hamdi Restaurant, offering traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist. Then, visit the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), a stunning example of Ottoman architecture.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası, a seafood restaurant with a rich history. In the afternoon, witness the mesmerizing Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show, a spiritual dance performance that is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Evening
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, located on a small islet in the Bosphorus. Indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying the magical ambiance of the tower.
Bedtime
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4.49Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/8d4efa03c571cffc992620aeb4f362db76a66242e61a347bf5154cb14d714480.jpg/21.jpg)
4.34Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/8d4efa03c571cffc992620aeb4f362db76a66242e61a347bf5154cb14d714480.jpg/21.jpg)
Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
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From Hidden Gems to Turkish Delights
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delights. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Balikci Sabahattin, a historic restaurant known for its mezes and fish dishes.
Afternoon
Take a guided tour of the Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi), a lavish summer residence of the Ottoman sultans. For lunch, savor the flavors of the Ottoman Empire at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul. In the afternoon, explore the charming neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, known for their colorful houses and rich history.
Evening
Dine at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant offering a diverse range of Anatolian dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Golden Horn (Haliç), a historic and picturesque inlet of the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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![Visit Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/56/a4.jpg)
4.69Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
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![Visit Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/f7.jpg)
4.52Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)
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Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)
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![Visit Balat in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/49.jpg)
4.82Balat
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![Visit Balat in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/49.jpg)
Balat
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![Visit Golden Horn (Haliç) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/58/75.jpg)
4.45Golden Horn (Haliç)
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Golden Horn (Haliç)
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Cultural Immersion and Culinary Delights
Morning
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Durumzade, a popular spot for Turkish breakfast and street food. Then, participate in a Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you'll learn the art of creating traditional mosaic lamps.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Nusr-Et Steakhouse, a renowned steakhouse with a stylish ambiance. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), where you can shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere.
![Visit Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5f357874822769de138024287088fb92ccfe4567a220c0a42296ef3faf0550bf.jpg/21.jpg)
4.94Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
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Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
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![Visit Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/36.jpg)
4.65Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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![Visit Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/36.jpg)
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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