5 Days Exploring Istanbul Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), which was once the residence of Ottoman sultans. The palace offers beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibits. Enjoy breakfast at Hafiz Mustafa 1864, famous for its pastries.

Next, head to the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri) to explore ancient artifacts from various civilizations. For lunch, dine at Matbah Restaurant, which offers Ottoman cuisine.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the historic Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü), where you can enjoy views of the Bosphorus. Have dinner at Karaköy Lokantası, known for its modern Turkish dishes.

Start your day with a visit to the contemporary art haven, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). For breakfast, try some coffee and pastries at Mum's Cafe & Restaurant.

Afterward, explore the bustling shopping street of Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi). This lively street is filled with shops, cafes, and street performers. Have lunch at Divine Brasserie & Jazz Club for some delightful food and live music.

In the evening, head over to Taksim Square for some people-watching and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at 360 Istanbul, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Begin your fourth day by visiting the impressive fortress of Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari). It's an excellent spot for history buffs. Grab breakfast at nearby café Rumelihisarı İskele Cafe before heading out.

Next up is a visit to one of Istanbul's most famous markets: The Grand Bazaar (Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)). Wander through this vast maze of shops selling everything from spices to jewelry. Lunch can be enjoyed at one of Grand Bazaar’s eateries like  Fes Cafe inside Grand Bazaar.

End your day by visiting another historic site: The Spice Bazaar (Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)). Afterward have dinner in Eminönü area at restaurant Hamdi Restaurant.

On your final day in Istanbul start with an early morning cruise on Bosphorus (Bosphorus), where you will get breathtaking views of both European & Asian sides along with many historical sites along shores such as palaces & fortresses while enjoying light snacks onboard or have breakfast after cruise ends around Ortakoy area like café Ortaköy Kahvesi.

After cruise ends visit Ortakoy neighborhood (Ortaköy[9059]), known for its picturesque mosque by water side along cobblestone streets filled w/ cafes & boutiques selling handmade crafts etc., have lunch here itself say try local delicacy kumpir baked potato from stall vendors.

Conclude trip w/visit Dolmabahce Palace({ A-Dolmabahce Palace(Dolmabahce Sarayi)[913]}) grandiose palace built during Ottoman era showcasing opulent interiors followed by farewell dinner @ restaurant nearby like high-end seafood place Ulus29 offering spectacular view over Bosphorus bridge lit up night sky.