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![6 Days Cultural and Leisure Istanbul Trip](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/019003dd-f409-7b12-8a5e-40fc30031eb4/location519.jpg)
6 Days Cultural and Leisure Istanbul Trip Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 28Exploring Sultanahmet
Morning
Start your first day in Istanbul with a visit to the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). This iconic landmark, once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, offers an incredible insight into the rich history of Istanbul. The stunning architecture and intricate mosaics are sure to captivate you. After exploring Hagia Sophia, take a short walk to the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), another architectural marvel known for its beautiful blue tiles and impressive domes.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Matbah Restaurant, which offers traditional Ottoman cuisine in an elegant setting. After lunch, continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Sultanahmet District. This area is home to many of Istanbul's most famous historical sites. Don't miss the Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani), where you can see ancient monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius.
Evening
In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at Balikci Sabahattin, known for its delicious seafood dishes. After dinner, embark on the Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide. This tour offers stunning views of Istanbul's skyline as you cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.
Bedtime
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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 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 Sultanahmet District in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5c/62.jpg)
4.73Sultanahmet District
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![Visit Sultanahmet District in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5c/62.jpg)
Sultanahmet District
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![Visit Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/88/e9.jpg)
4.69Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)
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Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5be1e3da0b2f0930777c670c52bc3a6ceace35a946e00a2dfa91e4fbea31add1.jpg/21.jpg)
4.86Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5be1e3da0b2f0930777c670c52bc3a6ceace35a946e00a2dfa91e4fbea31add1.jpg/21.jpg)
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide
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Historical Treasures and Modern Art
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket. This former royal residence is now a museum showcasing Ottoman treasures and artifacts. The guided tour will provide fascinating insights into the lives of sultans who once lived here.
Afternoon
For lunch, dine at Karaköy Lokantası, which serves modern Turkish cuisine in a stylish setting. Afterward, head to the nearby Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). This museum features contemporary Turkish art and hosts various exhibitions throughout the year.
Evening
In the evening, have dinner at Mikla Restaurant, offering panoramic views of Istanbul along with its innovative dishes. Conclude your day with an unforgettable experience at the Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema. This spiritual performance provides deep insight into Sufi traditions.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5b744e05d23f9.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.74Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket
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Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket
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![Visit Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/84/72.jpg)
4.90Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
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![Visit Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/84/72.jpg)
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi)
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![Visit Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/6436c185777e9.png/21.jpg)
4.28Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema
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![Visit Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/6436c185777e9.png/21.jpg)
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema
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Bazaars and Bosphorus Views
Morning
Start your third day by visiting one of Istanbul's most famous markets, the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi). With over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewelry to spices, it's a shopper's paradise. Take your time exploring this vibrant market.
Afternoon
Have lunch at Pandeli Restaurant, located within the Spice Bazaar itself. Afterward, explore another bustling market: the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi). Here you can find an array of spices, sweets, teas, and other local products.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, known for its high-quality meats and lively atmosphere. End your day with a relaxing evening on board the luxurious yacht during the tour: Istanbul: Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show.
Bedtime
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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)
4.61Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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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 Istanbul Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/640b27514b353.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.44Istanbul: Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show
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Istanbul: Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show
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Cultural Insights and Scenic Views
Morning
Begin your fourth day with a visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri). This complex of three museums houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various civilizations, providing a deep dive into the history of the region. The museum's serene garden is also a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi, renowned for its diverse menu of traditional Anatolian dishes. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the historic neighborhood of Balat. Known for its colorful houses and narrow streets, Balat offers a glimpse into Istanbul's multicultural past. Don't miss visiting some of the local churches and synagogues that reflect the area's rich heritage.
Evening
In the evening, dine at Asitane Restaurant, which specializes in Ottoman cuisine inspired by historical recipes. After dinner, enjoy a unique cultural experience with the Istanbul: Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre. This vibrant performance showcases traditional Turkish dances in an atmospheric setting.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/62/a6.jpg)
4.75Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
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Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
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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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Balat
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Rhythm of The Dance Show in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/c6e1b5ad0dbb3075.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.63Istanbul: Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre
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Istanbul: Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre
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Artistic Exploration and Bosphorus Delights
Morning
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide will be your first stop on day five. This ancient underground water reservoir is an architectural marvel with its forest of columns and atmospheric lighting. The guided tour will provide fascinating insights into its history and construction.
Afternoon
Lades Menemen is an excellent choice for lunch, offering delicious Turkish breakfast dishes throughout the day. Afterward, visit the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and capture some memorable photos.
Evening
360 Istanbul offers stunning views along with its modern fusion cuisine, making it a perfect spot for dinner. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening on board during the Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Drinks & Entertainment. Enjoy delicious food, live music, and traditional dance performances as you cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/e3c7c55ce97a74d8.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.30Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide
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Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide
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![Visit Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/56/8b.jpg)
4.70Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
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Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Drinks & Entertainment in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/acdac86ff2749f9e.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.51Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Drinks & Entertainment
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Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Drinks & Entertainment
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Historical Landmarks and Farewell Dinner
Morning
Istanbul: Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket will be your first destination on your final day in Istanbul. This grand palace was once home to Ottoman sultans and now serves as a museum showcasing imperial collections.
Afternoon
For lunch, dine at Deraliye Ottoman Palace Cuisine Restaurant, which offers authentic Ottoman dishes in an elegant setting. Afterward, explore more historical sites by visiting Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), one of Istanbul's largest mosques known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.
Evening
Enjoy your last dinner in Istanbul at Nicole Restaurant, known for its exquisite fine dining experience featuring seasonal ingredients. End your trip on a high note with an unforgettable performance at Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show, providing deep insight into Sufi traditions.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
![Visit Istanbul Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5b744e05d23f9.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.74Istanbul: Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket
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Istanbul: Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket
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![Visit Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/82/77.jpg)
4.70Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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![Visit Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/82/77.jpg)
Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/8d4efa03c571cffc992620aeb4f362db76a66242e61a347bf5154cb14d714480.jpg/21.jpg)
4.34Istanbul: Mevlevi 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)
Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
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