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A Week of Cultural Delights in Istanbul

A Week of Cultural Delights in Istanbul Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Historical Wonders of Istanbul

Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karaköy Lokantası, known for its authentic flavors and charming ambiance. After breakfast, visit the iconic 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. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and marvel at its stunning architecture.
Evening
Enjoy a magical Bosphorus dinner cruise with a show at a private table, a perfect way to end your first day in Istanbul. Experience the beauty of the city's skyline at night while indulging in a sumptuous meal. Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
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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Sultanahmet Exploration and Whirling Dervishes

Morning
Have a leisurely breakfast at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a local favorite known for its köfte. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) and immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Hamdi Restaurant and enjoy panoramic views of the city along with delicious Turkish cuisine. Afterward, visit the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) and explore its mysterious depths.
Evening
In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema, a spiritual and captivating performance. After the ceremony, have a late dinner at Maiden's Tower Restaurant with a view of the glittering Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

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Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul
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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

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Palaces of Istanbul

Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Asitane Restaurant, known for its Ottoman cuisine. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), a stunning example of Ottoman architecture.
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy the fresh seafood at Balikci Sabahattin, a popular spot for its variety of fish dishes. Afterward, visit the Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) and explore its exquisite rooms and gardens.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing Bosphorus sunset cruise on a yacht with a live guide, a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Istanbul's skyline. Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide
Bedtime
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Visit Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) in Istanbul
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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)

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Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)

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Culinary Delights and Princes' Islands

Morning
Explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) and indulge in the exotic scents and flavors of Turkish spices. Afterward, take a ferry to the From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch and enjoy a peaceful day away from the city.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch on the island and take a leisurely bike ride or horse-drawn carriage tour. In the late afternoon, return to the city and relax at your hotel.
Evening
For dinner, experience the unique flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant, located near the Chora Church. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood and soak in the historic atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

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From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch

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Art and Culture in Istanbul

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum and explore its impressive collection of contemporary Turkish art. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) and enjoy the views of the Golden Horn.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi and try their famous köfte. After lunch, visit the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) and take in the panoramic views of the city.
Evening
In the evening, enjoy a performance at the Istanbul Opera House or the Istanbul State Theatre. After the show, have a late dinner at Mikla, a renowned restaurant with a stunning view of the city.
Bedtime
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Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü)

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Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

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Hidden Gems of Istanbul

Morning
Explore the charming neighborhoods of Balat and Karaköy, known for their street art and trendy cafes. Stop for a coffee at Karaköy Lokantası and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere.
Afternoon
For lunch, try the authentic Turkish dishes at Ciya Sofrasi, a local favorite. Afterward, visit the Chora Church (Kariye Museum) and admire its stunning mosaics.
Evening
End your day with a sunset drink at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. For dinner, head to Bebek Balıkçısı and savor the fresh seafood by the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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Balat

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Chora Church (Kariye Museum)

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Farewell to Istanbul

Morning
Spend your last morning in Istanbul exploring the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) and haggling for souvenirs. Afterward, visit the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic mosque.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in the famous döner kebab at Dürümzade, a local favorite. After lunch, take a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus and enjoy the views of the city from the water.
Evening
End your trip with a memorable dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, one of the best rooftop restaurants in the city. Enjoy the stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul as you savor your final meal in this enchanting city.
Bedtime
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Visit Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) in Istanbul
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Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)

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Visit Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) in Istanbul
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Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)

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