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Local Delights and Historical Wonders of Istanbul

Local Delights and Historical Wonders of Istanbul Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Iconic Istanbul Welcome

Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karakoy Lokantasi, known for its authentic flavors and cozy atmosphere. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the historic Sultanahmet District, passing by the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), and the ancient Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi).
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the local seafood at Balikci Sabahattin, a renowned restaurant with a wide selection of fresh catches. Afterward, continue your exploration with a visit to the impressive Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), where you can immerse yourself in the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire.
Evening
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, set in a unique location on the Bosphorus. After dinner, take a relaxing Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide to admire the city's shimmering skyline.
Bedtime
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Culinary and Cultural Immersion

Morning
Indulge in a rich Turkish coffee and a variety of local pastries at Sunset Grill & Bar to kick off your day. After breakfast, head to the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) to explore the colorful stalls and sample some of the finest spices and sweets.
Afternoon
For a truly authentic dining experience, have lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, a beloved restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Anatolian dishes. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Balat, known for its historic architecture and artistic flair.
Evening
In the evening, enjoy a special dinner at Asitane Restaurant, known for its exquisite Ottoman cuisine. Afterward, attend a mesmerizing Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show to immerse yourself in the mystical traditions of Sufism.
Bedtime
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Historical Treasures and Local Gems

Morning
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a popular spot for traditional Turkish meatballs. After breakfast, visit the majestic Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and a symbol of the late imperial period.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Hamdi Restaurant, a classic establishment offering panoramic views of the city and a wide array of delicious mezes and kebabs. After lunch, take a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus with a stopover on the Asian side to explore the charming neighborhood of Üsküdar.
Evening
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Bebek Balıkçısı, a renowned seafood restaurant with a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the lively streets of Bebek and enjoy the local ambiance.
Bedtime
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Royal Splendor and Culinary Delights

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri), a charming summer residence along the Bosphorus. After exploring the palace, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası, a popular seafood restaurant with a wide selection of mezes and fish dishes.
Afternoon
After lunch, continue your royal experience with a guided tour of the magnificent Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), including the fascinating Harem section. In the afternoon, take a break and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea at a local çay bahçesi (tea garden).
Evening
For dinner, savor the flavors of the Ottoman cuisine at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, a fine dining restaurant known for its historical recipes. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk around the charming neighborhood of Sultanahmet.
Bedtime
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Bosphorus Magic and Gastronomic Delights

Morning
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, a popular restaurant with a modern twist on traditional Turkish cuisine. After breakfast, take a private Bosphorus cruise with a stop at the picturesque fishing village of Anadolu Kavağı, where you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.
Afternoon
Explore the enchanting ruins of the Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari), a strategic fortress built along the Bosphorus. Afterward, visit the charming neighborhood of Ortaköy and indulge in a variety of local street food and desserts.
Evening
In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul with a dinner at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the lively streets of Taksim and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Farewell to Istanbul

Morning
On your last day in Istanbul, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Mikla, a renowned restaurant with a modern take on Turkish cuisine. After breakfast, take a relaxing walk along the historic city walls of Constantinople and soak in the rich history of the city.
Afternoon
Spend your final afternoon exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Kadıköy and Moda on the Asian side of Istanbul. Enjoy a variety of local street food, browse the eclectic shops, and take in the bohemian atmosphere of these charming districts.
Evening
Conclude your Istanbul journey with a memorable dinner at Durumzade, a popular spot for authentic Turkish kebabs and mezes. After dinner, take a leisurely evening ferry ride on the Bosphorus and enjoy the glittering city lights from the water.
Bedtime
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