Istanbul's Hidden Gems: A Week of Local Delights Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the lesser-known Balat neighborhood. Explore its colorful streets and charming atmosphere. Have a traditional Turkish coffee at a local cafe.

For lunch, try the fresh seafood at Balikci Sabahattin, a hidden gem in Sultanahmet. Afterward, visit the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), one of the city's most impressive mosques.

Have dinner at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası, a local favorite known for its delicious fish dishes. Afterward, take a walk along the Golden Horn and enjoy the views of the city at night.

Start your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi). Explore the colorful stalls and sample some of the local spices and sweets.

For lunch, try the famous köfte at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi. Afterward, take a walk around the historic Sultanahmet district and visit the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi).

Enjoy a dinner with a view at Sunset Grill & Bar, located on a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum. Explore the museum's collection of contemporary Turkish art.

For lunch, try the traditional Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. Afterward, visit the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) for panoramic views of the city.

Have dinner at Mikla, a restaurant known for its modern Turkish cuisine. Afterward, take a walk through the trendy Beyoglu district and explore its vibrant nightlife.

Start your day with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). Explore the palace's opulent interiors and beautiful gardens.

For lunch, try the seafood at Bebek Balıkçısı, a popular restaurant located on the Bosphorus. Afterward, take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus and enjoy the views of the city from the water.

Have dinner at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, a restaurant located on the Asian side of the city with stunning views of the Bosphorus. Afterward, take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy the evening breeze.

Take a day trip to Bursa, known as the "Green City" for its beautiful parks and gardens. Visit the Bursa Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii) and the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii). Enjoy a traditional Iskender kebab for lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Explore the historic covered bazaar and the silk market. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous candied chestnuts and lokum (Turkish delight).

Return to Istanbul in the evening and have a relaxed dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine. Afterward, take a walk around the Eminonu district and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Take a morning flight to Cappadocia and start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the unique landscape of fairy chimneys and rock formations.

After the flight, explore the underground cities and the rock-cut churches. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.

Return to Istanbul in the evening and have a farewell dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, known for its high-quality steaks. Afterward, take a walk along the Bosphorus and enjoy the views of the city at night.

Spend your last morning in Istanbul exploring the charming neighborhood of Ortaköy. Visit the Ortaköy Mosque and enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast by the waterfront.

Take a walk along the Bosphorus and enjoy the views of the city from the water. For lunch, try the famous fish sandwich at the Eminönü waterfront.

Have a farewell dinner at Pandeli Restaurant, located in the historic Spice Bazaar. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets of Eminönü and enjoy the lively atmosphere.