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Istanbul's Hidden Gems: A 7-Day Local Experience

Istanbul's Hidden Gems: A 7-Day Local Experience Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Exploring the Old City

Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karakoy Lokantasi, a local favorite. After breakfast, visit the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the majestic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). Take a leisurely stroll through the Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani) and explore the historical Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi).
Afternoon
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi and then head to the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) for a guided tour. Explore the palace's stunning architecture and the intriguing Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi). End your afternoon with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi).
Evening
For dinner, experience the authentic flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. After dinner, take a relaxing evening walk along the Golden Horn (Haliç) and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
Bedtime
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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

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Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani)

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Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)

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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)

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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

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Golden Horn (Haliç)

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Bosphorus Delights

Morning
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası before embarking on a Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht. Take in the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the city's skyline. Visit the picturesque Ortaköy and savor a mid-morning snack at one of the local cafes.
Afternoon
Have a late lunch at Bebek Balıkçısı and then explore the charming neighborhood of Bebek Balıkçısı. Visit the Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) and take a walk along the waterfront.
Evening
For dinner, enjoy a delightful meal at Sunset Grill & Bar and then attend the Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show for a mesmerizing cultural experience.
Bedtime
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Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht

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Ortaköy

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Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)

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Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

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Art and Culture

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum and explore the vibrant contemporary art scene. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum's cafe. Afterward, take a walk along the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon
Have lunch at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar and then visit the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), one of the city's most magnificent mosques. Explore the surrounding area and soak in the local atmosphere.
Evening
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Mikla, known for its modern Turkish cuisine and stunning views. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the trendy neighborhood of Karaköy.
Bedtime
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Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi)

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Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

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Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)

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Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)

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Local Flavors

Morning
Start your day with a food tour of the city's best local eateries. Join the Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour and sample a variety of delicious dishes. The tour will take you to hidden gems and provide insight into the city's culinary traditions.
Afternoon
After the food tour, take a relaxing walk along the Bosphorus and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Have a late lunch at Lokma Balıkçısı and then visit the Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) for a glimpse into the city's history.
Evening
For dinner, indulge in a seafood feast at Balikci Sabahattin, a renowned fish restaurant. After dinner, take a stroll through the lively streets of Balat and experience the local nightlife.
Bedtime
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Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour

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Bosphorus

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Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)

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Balat

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Relaxation and Wellness

Morning
Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. Start with a visit to the Cagaloglu Hamam Experience, one of the city's most famous Turkish baths. Enjoy a traditional hammam treatment and unwind in the serene surroundings.
Afternoon
After the hammam experience, have a light lunch at Dürümzade and then explore the historic Sultanahmet District. Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) at your own pace.
Evening
For dinner, enjoy a meal at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, known for its traditional Ottoman cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) and enjoy the views of the city at night.
Bedtime
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Istanbul Cagaloglu Hamam Experience

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Sultanahmet District

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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

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Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)

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Hidden Gems

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi), a lesser-known but equally stunning palace. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about the palace's history and architecture.
Afternoon
Have lunch at Pandeli Restaurant, a historic restaurant located in the Spice Bazaar. Afterward, take a walk through the charming neighborhood of Karaköy and explore its art galleries and trendy cafes.
Evening
For dinner, experience the flavors of Anatolian cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse menu and authentic dishes. After dinner, take a walk along the Golden Horn (Haliç) and enjoy the views of the city's skyline.
Bedtime
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Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)

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Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)

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Golden Horn (Haliç)

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Culinary Delights

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) and explore the vibrant market. Sample local spices, sweets, and other delicacies. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the market's cafes.
Afternoon
After the Spice Bazaar, take a guided tour of the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Explore the palace's opulent rooms and learn about its history.
Evening
For your final dinner in Istanbul, enjoy a meal at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the city and delicious Turkish cuisine. After dinner, take a walk along the Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and soak in the lively atmosphere of the city.
Bedtime
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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)

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Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani)

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