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Istanbul 15-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Exploring the Historic Heart
Morning
Begin your Istanbul adventure with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karaköy Lokantası. Afterward, take a stroll through the Sultanahmet District, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). Immerse yourself in history at the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) and the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi).
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), where you can shop for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the bustling market atmosphere.
Evening
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner with a view at Sunset Grill & Bar. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus, taking in the magical lights of the city's skyline.
Bedtime
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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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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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Bosphorus
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Sultans and Sufis
Morning
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Hamdi Restaurant. Then, embark on a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), delving into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans.
Afternoon
Enjoy a lunch of authentic Turkish kebabs at Dürümzade. Afterward, visit the spiritual center of the city, the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), and gain insight into the mystical world of the Whirling Dervishes with the Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show.
Evening
Dine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse Anatolian dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Balat neighborhood, soaking in the charming, old-world ambiance.
Bedtime
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
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Balat
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Byzantine Wonders and Bosphorus Views
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at Pandeli Restaurant, offering stunning views of the city. Then, marvel at the engineering marvel of the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) and explore the underground palace.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Bebek Balıkçısı and enjoy a delightful meal by the Bosphorus. Spend your afternoon in the upscale neighborhood of Ortaköy, visiting the Ortaköy Mosque and browsing through the quaint boutiques.
Evening
Cruise the Bosphorus on a Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Live Guide and Drinks, witnessing the city's landmarks bathed in the golden hour light. Enjoy a dinner onboard, accompanied by live music and entertainment.
Bedtime
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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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Ortaköy
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Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide
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Culinary Delights and Cultural Insights
Morning
Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, set on a historic islet. Post breakfast, visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) for a more intimate, early morning experience.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Lokma Balıkçısı and enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Post lunch, engage in a Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you'll learn the intricate art of Turkish mosaic lamp making.
Evening
Dine at Mikla, one of Istanbul's finest restaurants known for its innovative fusion of Scandinavian and Turkish flavors. After dinner, take a Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table for a luxurious evening on the water, complete with a private table and live entertainment.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
click to access prices
Popular
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
click to access prices
Sensory Souks and Historic Haunts
Morning
Begin with breakfast at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası, where you can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist. Then, set off to explore the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), letting the aromas and colors of the exotic spices and goods transport you to another time.
Afternoon
For lunch, visit Balıkçı Sabahattin, a restaurant that has been serving delectable seafood for decades. Afterward, take a guided tour of the lesser-known Istanbul Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers, visiting hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Evening
Enjoy a dinner with a view at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, where you can take in panoramic views of the city. Cap off your evening with a visit to the vibrant Istanbul Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City, indulging in a traditional Turkish bath experience to relax and rejuvenate.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
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Istanbul Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers
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Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City
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Majestic Mosques and Magnificent Museums
Morning
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a local favorite. Then, visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) for the morning prayer, experiencing the serene ambiance of this architectural gem.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Ottoman lunch at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul. Afterward, immerse yourself in the world of Islamic art at the Istanbul Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour, gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural and religious significance of the exhibits.
Evening
Dine at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, popularly known as the "Salt Bae" restaurant, and savor their signature steaks. Conclude your day with a visit to the Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema, a mesmerizing performance that showcases the spiritual dance of the Whirling Dervishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
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Istanbul Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets
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Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema
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Artistic Expressions and Culinary Journeys
Morning
Begin with a delightful breakfast at Mikla, known for its panoramic views and contemporary Turkish cuisine. Then, spend your morning exploring the vibrant street art and galleries of Karaköy, a hub for modern artistic expressions.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi and enjoy a traditional Turkish meal. Post lunch, visit the Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop to learn the art of making Turkish coffee and indulge in the mystical practice of fortune telling.
Evening
Dine at Sunset Grill & Bar, where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal with stunning views of the Bosphorus. Cap off your evening with a Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Live Guide and Drinks, cruising along the majestic waterway as the city lights come to life.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop
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Popular
Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Live Guide
click to access prices
Historic Hues and Modern Views
Morning
Start your day with a classic Turkish breakfast at Pandeli Restaurant, set in the historic Spice Bazaar. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu), learning about its significance and enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Dürümzade, known for its delicious wraps and sandwiches. Spend your afternoon at the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), ascending to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of Istanbul.
Evening
Dine at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy a fusion of international flavors with a side of stunning city views. Conclude your day with a visit to the Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show, where you'll be entertained with live music and dance performances as you cruise the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)
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Popular
Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
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Popular
Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show
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Royal Residences and Culinary Experiences
Morning
Begin with a regal breakfast at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, fitting for a day that includes a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). Explore the opulent interiors and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Bebek Balıkçısı and enjoy a delightful meal by the Bosphorus. Post lunch, take a guided tour of the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), admiring its European-influenced architecture and grandeur.
Evening
Dine at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, set on a historic islet, and enjoy the magical ambiance. Cap off your evening with a Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus, savoring the gentle breeze and the shimmering city lights.
Bedtime
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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus
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Savoring Sights and Flavors
Morning
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a local favorite. Then, visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) for a more intimate, early morning experience.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse Anatolian dishes. Post lunch, take a guided tour of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), where you can shop for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the bustling market atmosphere.
Evening
Dine at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, popularly known as the "Salt Bae" restaurant, and savor their signature steaks. Conclude your day with a visit to the Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema, a mesmerizing performance that showcases the spiritual dance of the Whirling Dervishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
click to access prices
Popular
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
click to access prices
Popular
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema
click to access prices
Historical Hues and Culinary Views
Morning
Begin with breakfast at Karaköy Lokantası, offering a modern twist on Turkish classics. Then, set off to explore the Sultanahmet District, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). Immerse yourself in history at the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) and the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi).
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the flavors of Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant. Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), where you can shop for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the bustling market atmosphere.
Evening
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner with a view at Sunset Grill & Bar. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus, taking in the magical lights of the city's skyline.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Sultanahmet District
click to access prices
Popular
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
click to access prices
Popular
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
click to access prices
Popular
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
click to access prices
Popular
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
click to access prices
Popular
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
click to access prices
Popular
Bosphorus
click to access prices
Sultans and Sufis
Morning
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Hamdi Restaurant. Then, embark on a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), delving into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans.
Afternoon
Enjoy a lunch of authentic Turkish kebabs at Dürümzade. Afterward, visit the spiritual center of the city, the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), and gain insight into the mystical world of the Whirling Dervishes with the Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show.
Evening
Dine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse Anatolian dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Balat neighborhood, soaking in the charming, old-world ambiance.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
click to access prices
Popular
Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
click to access prices
Popular
Balat
click to access prices
Shopping Splendor and Modern Malls
Morning
Embark on a shopping extravaganza at the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Immerse yourself in its labyrinthine alleys filled with treasures, from carpets to jewelry to spices. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Asitane Restaurant to fuel your day of retail therapy.
Afternoon
Explore the modern side of Istanbul's shopping scene with a visit to the luxurious Istinye Park or the trendy Kanyon. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Mikla, offering a contemporary take on Turkish cuisine with panoramic city views.
Evening
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy a fusion of international flavors with a side of stunning city views. Reflect on your shopping adventures as you sip on a cocktail and take in the Istanbul skyline.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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Eyup Sultan Mosque
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Sadberk Hanim Museum (Sadberk Hanım Müzesi)
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Culinary Delights and Cultural Insights
Morning
Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, set on a historic islet. Post breakfast, visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) for a more intimate, early morning experience.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Lokma Balıkçısı and enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Post lunch, engage in a Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you'll learn the intricate art of Turkish mosaic lamp making.
Evening
Dine at Mikla, one of Istanbul's finest restaurants known for its innovative fusion of Scandinavian and Turkish flavors. After dinner, take a Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table for a luxurious evening on the water, complete with a private table and live entertainment.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
click to access prices
Popular
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
click to access prices
Sensory Souks and Historic Haunts
Morning
Begin with breakfast at Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası, where you can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist. Then, set off to explore the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), letting the aromas and colors of the exotic spices and goods transport you to another time.
Afternoon
For lunch, visit Balıkçı Sabahattin, a restaurant that has been serving delectable seafood for decades. Afterward, take a guided tour of the lesser-known Istanbul Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers, visiting hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Evening
Enjoy a dinner with a view at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, where you can take in panoramic views of the city. Cap off your evening with a visit to the vibrant Istanbul Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City, indulging in a traditional Turkish bath experience to relax and rejuvenate.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Popular
Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers
click to access prices
Popular
Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City
click to access prices
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