Ultimate 8-Day Istanbul Adventure with Bursa Day Trip Itinerary

Explore the architectural marvel of the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), the final residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Enjoy a guided tour with skip-the-line access. Have a royal breakfast at Yüksek Restaurant & Bar with panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

After a sumptuous lunch at Spago, take a serene trip to the Asian side of Istanbul and visit the Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi), another exquisite example of Ottoman architecture. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the vibrant Kadikoy district.

Witness the mesmerizing Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show at a historic venue. The spiritual dance performance is a unique experience. After the show, enjoy a late dinner at James Joyce Irish Pub for a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

Embark on a full-day excursion to the nearby city of Bursa. Enjoy the scenic drive and visit the historical sites including the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii) and the Green Tomb (Yesil Turbe). Indulge in a traditional Bursa kebab for lunch and explore the famous silk market.

Take a ride on the Bursa Cable Car (Teleferik) to the peak of Mount Uludag, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area. Engage in winter sports activities if the season allows, or simply relax and enjoy the alpine atmosphere.

Return to Istanbul and unwind with a dinner at 360 Istanbul, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. Reflect on the day's adventures and prepare for more cultural experiences in Istanbul.

Begin with a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), delving into the opulent lives of the Ottoman Sultans. Visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museums (Arkeoloji Muzeleri) to witness a vast collection of historical artifacts. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Junction Pub.

Have a sumptuous lunch at Diamond Roof & Bar and then take a leisurely walk to the nearby Gulhane Park (Gulhane Parki) for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature. Later, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Ortaköy and visit the iconic Ortaköy Mosque.

Conclude your day with a memorable Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks, cruising along the Bosphorus with the cool breeze and the city's glittering lights. Enjoy the onboard snacks and commentary, and witness the magical sunset. Have dinner at Roof 106 - Bar & Restaurant With Panoramic View with a stunning view of the city.

Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern Sanat Muzesi), where you can explore contemporary Turkish art. Enjoy a brunch at U2 Istanbul Irish Pub with a relaxed atmosphere and some live music.

After brunch, take a stroll through the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy, known for its street art and hip cafes. Explore the local boutiques and galleries, and then head to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) to experience the vibrant colors and aromas of the traditional market.

For dinner, indulge in the culinary delights of Red River Pub, offering a diverse menu in a lively setting. Afterward, enjoy a laid-back evening at Loti Roof Lounge with panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus, sipping on your favorite drinks.

Begin your day with a guided tour of the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), one of the grandest architectural legacies of the Ottoman Empire. After the tour, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Dejavu Restaurant & Bar.

Post-breakfast, take a short walk to the historic Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas of the market. Explore the nearby area of Eminonu Square and enjoy a delightful lunch at Vogue Restaurant & Bar.

Spend a leisurely evening at the Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you can learn about the art of Turkish mosaic lamp making and even create your own masterpiece. After the workshop, head to Restaurant 24 for a sophisticated dinner experience, featuring a fusion of Turkish and international cuisines.

Explore the historic Sultanahmet District on foot, visiting the Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani) and the ancient Column of Constantine (Cemberlitas Sutunu). Enjoy a guided tour of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums (Arkeoloji Muzeleri) and then have a delightful breakfast at Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi.

After breakfast, visit the majestic Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) for a unique shopping experience. Explore the labyrinthine alleys and discover a wide array of Turkish carpets, ceramics, and other treasures. For lunch, head to GRACE Rooftop Restaurant and savor a gourmet meal with a panoramic view of the city.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing performances of traditional Turkish dances. After the show, enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, known for its exquisite cuisine and stunning views of the Bosphorus.

Begin your day with a guided tour of the Istanbul Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern Sanat Muzesi), where you can explore the vibrant world of contemporary Turkish art. After the tour, enjoy a delightful breakfast at Arch Bistro.

Post-breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the charming neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and rich history. Explore the local shops and cafes, and then head to the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) for a unique perspective of the city. For lunch, indulge in the culinary delights of Sezgin Pub & Restaurant (mekandayız).

Conclude your Istanbul journey with a farewell dinner at Dejavu Restaurant & Bar, reminiscing about the wonderful experiences you've had in the city. After dinner, take a relaxing evening stroll along the Galata Bridge (Galata Koprusu) and soak in the magical ambiance of Istanbul's skyline.