5 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), which served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans. Have breakfast at Café Privato, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious Turkish breakfast options.

After exploring Topkapi Palace, head to the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri). This museum complex houses over one million artifacts from various cultures. For lunch, stop by Dönerci Şahin Usta for some mouth-watering döner kebabs.

In the evening, visit the bustling Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. After shopping, dine at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, known for its high-quality meats and unique dining experience.

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant neighborhood of Balat. Known for its colorful houses and historic churches, it's perfect for a morning stroll. Enjoy breakfast at Café Naftalin K, which offers charming decor and delicious pastries.

Next, explore contemporary art at the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). This museum showcases modern Turkish art as well as international works. For lunch, head to Karaköy Lokantası, famous for its mezes and traditional dishes.

In the evening, take a walk along Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), one of Istanbul's most famous avenues filled with shops, cafes, and street performers. End your day with dinner at Mikla Restaurant, offering stunning views of Istanbul along with its fine dining experience.

Begin your morning by visiting the impressive Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), which served as an administrative center during Ottoman times. Have breakfast at nearby café Kafeka Nargile & Cafe known for its relaxed ambiance.

Afterward, make your way to the historic district of Eminönü to see both the majestic 16th-century mosque complex of Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)) followed by exploring Eminönü Square (Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani)). Enjoy lunch at local favorite restaurant specializing in fish sandwiches called Balık Ekmek (Balıkçı Emin Usta).

Conclude this historical day by visiting Galata Tower (Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)), where you can enjoy panoramic views over Istanbul from atop this medieval stone tower before having dinner nearby at rooftop restaurant 360 Istanbul (360 Restaurant).

Start off early morning embarking on Bosphorus Cruise departing from Eminonu Pier (Eminonu Pier (Eminönü Iskelesi)), providing scenic views across Europe & Asia sides while enjoying light breakfast onboard provided by cruise operators themselves!

Disembark cruise around noon time then proceed towards Rahmi M.Koc Museum located Haskoy neighborhood showcasing industrial heritage items including vintage cars/aircrafts etc., followed up having sumptuous meal inside museum premises @ Halat Restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine delights!

Wrap up final night experiencing vibrant nightlife Ortakoy district bustling cafes/bars/restaurants lined along waterfront promenade - highly recommended trying out House Cafe Ortakoy renowned eclectic menu options amidst picturesque setting overlooking Bosphorus Bridge illuminated beautifully after dark!