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Cultural and Culinary Delights of Istanbul

Cultural and Culinary Delights of Istanbul Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Iconic Istanbul Landmarks

Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karaköy Lokantası, known for its authentic flavors and charming ambiance. After breakfast, visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) and explore the rich history of the Ottoman Empire.
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the delicious mezes at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant offering a variety of traditional dishes. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the stunning architecture of the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and the mystical atmosphere of the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi).
Evening
Enjoy a magical evening with a Bosphorus dinner cruise and Turkish night show. Indulge in a feast at your private table with a view of the shimmering waters, accompanied by live music and a traditional performance. (Activity: Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show)
Bedtime
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Visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) in Istanbul

Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)

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Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul
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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

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Culinary and Cultural Immersion

Morning
Start your day with a hands-on experience at a Turkish coffee making and fortune-telling workshop. Learn the art of brewing the perfect cup of coffee and enjoy the mystical practice of fortune telling. (Activity: Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop)
Afternoon
For a truly unique experience, join a Turkish mosaic lamp workshop where you can create your own colorful masterpiece to take home as a souvenir. (Activity: Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop) For lunch, head to Dürümzade for their famous dürüm wraps.
Evening
In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes ceremony, a spiritual dance performance that is a UNESCO-recognized heritage of humanity. (Activity: Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema) After the show, enjoy a delightful dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin, known for its fresh seafood.
Bedtime
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Visit Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop in Istanbul
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Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop

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Visit Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Istanbul
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Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop

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Sultanahmet Wonders and Culinary Delights

Morning
Explore the historic Sultanahmet district with a guided tour that includes the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), and the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi). Learn about the fascinating history and architecture of these iconic landmarks.
Afternoon
For a taste of the local cuisine, have lunch at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a favorite spot for traditional Turkish meatballs. Afterward, visit the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) for a shopping experience like no other.
Evening
Enjoy a fine dining experience at Mikla, a renowned restaurant offering modern Turkish cuisine with a panoramic view of the city. End your day with a leisurely walk around the historic streets of Sultanahmet.
Bedtime
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Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul
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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

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Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul
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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

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Palatial Splendors and Bosphorus Beauty

Morning
Begin your day with a guided tour of the opulent Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's last period. Explore the lavish interiors and learn about the history of this magnificent palace.
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy the fresh catch of the day at Bebek Balıkçısı, a popular seafood restaurant by the Bosphorus. In the afternoon, take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise and admire the city's skyline and the charming waterside mansions. (Activity: Istanbul Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide)
Evening
Dine at Sunset Grill & Bar, a stylish restaurant with a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. Watch the sunset over the water and savor a gourmet meal inspired by Mediterranean and Turkish flavors.
Bedtime
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Visit Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) in Istanbul
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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)

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Visit Istanbul Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide in Istanbul
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Istanbul Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide

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Art and Architecture in Istanbul

Morning
Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum to explore contemporary Turkish art in a waterfront setting. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Bosphorus and enjoy the views of the city and the water.
Afternoon
For lunch, try the authentic Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant, known for its historical recipes and elegant ambiance. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Evening
Experience a traditional Turkish dance show at the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre, where you can witness the vibrant costumes and dynamic performances. (Activity: Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre) After the show, have dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, a popular spot for its kebabs and mezes.
Bedtime
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Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre

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Relaxation and Reflection in Istanbul

Morning
Indulge in a private Turkish bath, massage, and spa experience in the Old City. Relax and rejuvenate your body and mind in a tranquil setting. (Activity: Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City)
Afternoon
For a late lunch, enjoy the historic flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps strolling through the charming streets of the Balat and Beyoğlu neighborhoods.
Evening
Have a farewell dinner at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. Reflect on your time in Istanbul and savor the last moments of your cultural and culinary journey.
Bedtime
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Visit Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City in Istanbul
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Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City

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Departure Day in Istanbul

Morning
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe, savoring the last moments of your time in Istanbul. Take a final walk through the city streets, soaking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis.
Afternoon
Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or a visit to a favorite spot in the city. For a light lunch, try the mezes at Lokma Balıkçısı, a charming seafood restaurant.
Evening
Conclude your trip with a private transfer from your hotel to Istanbul Airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey home. Reflect on the memories you've made and the experiences you've shared during your time in Istanbul. (Activity: Istanbul Private Transfer from/to Istanbul Airport (IST))
Bedtime
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Visit Istanbul Private Transfer from/to Istanbul Airport (IST) in Istanbul
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Istanbul Private Transfer from/to Istanbul Airport (IST)

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