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![7-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Istanbul and Beyond](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/018c770b-2e5a-7002-8db4-00844305eefe/location242.jpg)
7-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Istanbul and Beyond Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Iconic Landmarks and Bosphorus Delights
Morning
Begin your Istanbul adventure with a visit to the majestic Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), where you can explore the rich history of the Ottoman Empire. Afterward, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and marvel at the stunning architecture.
Afternoon
Enjoy a delightful lunch at Balkon Restaurant & Bar, offering panoramic views of the city. Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the mystical Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) and then indulge in a shopping spree at the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi).
Evening
As the sun sets, embark on a mesmerizing Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table. Savor a sumptuous dinner while being entertained by traditional Turkish music and dance, with the glittering city lights as your backdrop.
Bedtime
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![Visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/59/40.jpg)
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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![Visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/59/40.jpg)
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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![Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/15.jpg)
4.67Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
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![Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/15.jpg)
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
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![Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/1a.jpg)
4.73Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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![Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/1a.jpg)
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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![Visit Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/36.jpg)
4.65Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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![Visit Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5a/36.jpg)
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/d45f40745dc8d18a1e48967b1a23508f4fb79653120313b26bf7b6d03fb21424.png/21.jpg)
4.78Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/d45f40745dc8d18a1e48967b1a23508f4fb79653120313b26bf7b6d03fb21424.png/21.jpg)
Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
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Ottoman Heritage and Whirling Dervishes
Morning
Explore the architectural marvel of the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), followed by a guided tour of the opulent Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi). Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming Ortaköy neighborhood.
Afternoon
Enjoy a delightful lunch at Salute Pub & Restaurant, known for its fusion cuisine. Post-lunch, visit the serene Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) and then witness the mesmerizing Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema at a traditional venue.
Evening
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul at 360 Istanbul, a renowned rooftop bar. Sip on your favorite drink while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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![Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/16.jpg)
4.67Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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![Visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/16.jpg)
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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![Visit Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/4d.jpg)
4.49Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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![Visit Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/4d.jpg)
Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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![Visit Ortaköy in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/87/e4.jpg)
4.61Ortaköy
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![Visit Ortaköy in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/87/e4.jpg)
Ortaköy
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![Visit Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/82/7d.jpg)
4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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![Visit Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/82/7d.jpg)
Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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![Visit Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/6436c185777e9.png/21.jpg)
4.28Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema
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![Visit Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/6436c185777e9.png/21.jpg)
Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema
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Culinary Delights and Artistic Workshops
Morning
Start your day with a hands-on experience at the Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop. Learn the art of brewing Turkish coffee and enjoy the mystical fortune-telling ritual. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Turkish breakfast at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe.
Afternoon
Explore your creative side with a Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop. Create your own unique mosaic lamp under the guidance of a local artisan. For lunch, head to Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi for a fusion dining experience.
Evening
Enjoy a relaxing Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks on the Bosphorus. As you cruise along the iconic waterway, savor the flavors of local snacks and learn about the historical landmarks through the audio guide.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/6480c33ef3b77.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.95Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop
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![Visit Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/6480c33ef3b77.jpeg/21.jpg)
Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop
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![Visit Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5f357874822769de138024287088fb92ccfe4567a220c0a42296ef3faf0550bf.jpg/21.jpg)
4.94Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
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![Visit Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5f357874822769de138024287088fb92ccfe4567a220c0a42296ef3faf0550bf.jpg/21.jpg)
Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
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![Visit Istanbul Small-Group Sunset or Day Yacht Cruise with Snacks in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/43152da2944b426fd392b372f655a736905323cc92d1887f4ac65560e2f95c42.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.93Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks
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![Visit Istanbul Small-Group Sunset or Day Yacht Cruise with Snacks in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/43152da2944b426fd392b372f655a736905323cc92d1887f4ac65560e2f95c42.jpeg/21.jpg)
Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks
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Bosphorus Views and Evening Soiree
Morning
Take a scenic drive to the Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) and enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn. Then, visit the historic Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) and explore its impressive architecture.
Afternoon
Dine at Loti Roof Lounge and savor a delicious meal with a view. After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus and capture the beauty of the strait. Visit the vibrant neighborhood of Balat to experience the local culture.
Evening
Conclude your day with a luxurious dinner at GRACE Rooftop Restaurant, where you can enjoy a sophisticated ambiance and a delectable menu. After dinner, indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul at nearby bars and lounges.
Bedtime
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![Visit Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/13/71.jpg)
4.60Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi)
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![Visit Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/13/71.jpg)
Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi)
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![Visit Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/83/09.jpg)
4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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![Visit Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/83/09.jpg)
Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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![Visit Bosphorus in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/7a/8a.jpg)
4.54Bosphorus
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![Visit Bosphorus in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/7a/8a.jpg)
Bosphorus
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![Visit Balat in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/49.jpg)
4.82Balat
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![Visit Balat in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/49.jpg)
Balat
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Day of Leisure and Hidden Gems
Morning
Enjoy a leisurely morning with a visit to the serene Gülhane Park, one of the oldest public parks in Istanbul. Relax amidst nature and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Byzantion Bistro Restaurant and savor their signature dishes. Afterward, explore the off-the-beaten-path neighborhood of Cibali, known for its historical significance and local charm.
Evening
Experience the vibrant street food scene at Kadikoy Food Market Tour. Sample a variety of Turkish delicacies as you immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this local market.
Bedtime
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![Visit Mactan Island (Lapu Lapu) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/18/75/85.jpg)
5.00Gülhane Park
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![Visit Mactan Island (Lapu Lapu) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/18/75/85.jpg)
Gülhane Park
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![Visit Santo Niño Basilica (Basílica del Santo Niño) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/81/47.jpg)
4.07Kadikoy Food Market Tour
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![Visit Santo Niño Basilica (Basílica del Santo Niño) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/81/47.jpg)
Kadikoy Food Market Tour
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Surreal Landscapes and Hot Air Ballooning
Morning
Begin your day with a magical hot air balloon ride over the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. Watch the sunrise from high above as you drift peacefully among the fairy chimneys and rock formations.
Afternoon
After the exhilarating flight, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cappadocia Cave Kitchen, where you can taste local specialties. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the unique rock-cut churches and underground cities of Cappadocia.
Evening
Dine in a cave restaurant such as The Flintstone Cave Restaurant, where you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Relax and reflect on the day's adventures while sipping on Cappadocian wine.
Bedtime
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Coastal Charms and Ancient Ruins
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus (Efes), where you can explore well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater. Guided tours are available to enhance your experience.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Izmir Marina, with views of the sparkling Aegean Sea. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the picturesque village of Şirince, known for its quaint streets and local wine production. Sample the wines and explore the charming shops.
Evening
Return to Izmir and dine at Şirince Restaurant & Winehouse, where you can enjoy a fine meal paired with the wines of Şirince. Reflect on your journey as you watch the sunset over the Aegean.
Bedtime
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![Visit Casa Gorordo Museum in Izmir, Turkey](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/66/a4.jpg)
3.08Ephesus (Efes)
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![Visit Casa Gorordo Museum in Izmir, Turkey](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/66/a4.jpg)
Ephesus (Efes)
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![Visit Colon Street in Izmir, Turkey](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/81/82.jpg)
3.79Şirince
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![Visit Colon Street in Izmir, Turkey](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/81/82.jpg)
Şirince
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