5 Days Exploring Istanbul's Best Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi). This sprawling palace complex was home to Ottoman sultans for centuries. Allocate around 3 hours to explore its opulent rooms and courtyards.

After visiting Topkapi Palace, walk over to the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri) for an enriching experience. For lunch, head to Karaköy Lokantası, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine. Post-lunch, spend some time wandering through the bustling lanes of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

For dinner, make your way to Nusr-Et Steakhouse for an unforgettable dining experience. End your evening with a relaxing walk across the historic Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü), offering stunning views of Istanbul's skyline.

Kick off your day by visiting the contemporary art haven that is the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). Spend around 2 hours admiring modern Turkish art.

After soaking in some art, head over to Taksim Square and stroll down Istiklal Street (Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi)), one of Istanbul's most famous avenues filled with shops and cafes. Enjoy lunch at Mikla Restaurant, which offers not only delicious food but also panoramic views of Istanbul.

In the evening, visit the historic Galata Tower (Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)), where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul from its observation deck. For dinner, dine at 360 Istanbul, renowned for its rooftop setting and diverse menu.

Start your morning with a visit to Balat (Balat), one of Istanbul's oldest neighborhoods known for its colorful houses and historic churches. Spend around 2 hours exploring this charming area.

Make your way to Eminönü Square (Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani)) next. For lunch, try out traditional Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. Afterward, take a scenic ferry ride along the Bosphorus (Bosphorus), which offers spectacular views of both European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

End your day with dinner at Neolokal, which serves innovative dishes inspired by traditional Turkish flavors. If you have time afterward, consider visiting Ortaköy (Ortaköy) for some evening tea by the Bosphorus.

Begin your last day in Istanbul with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). This opulent palace, located on the European coast of the Bosphorus, was the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in its final years. Spend around 2 hours exploring its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens.

After visiting Dolmabahce Palace, head to Çiya Sofrası for a delightful lunch featuring a variety of Anatolian dishes. Post-lunch, take a short trip to the Rahmi M. Koc Museum (Rahmi M. Koç Müzesi), which showcases industrial and engineering history with fascinating exhibits.

Conclude your trip with dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, which offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and an exquisite menu. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk along the Bosphorus Bridge (Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)), enjoying the beautiful night views of Istanbul.