New Chat

Download App

Ask me about your trip!

There are no messages for this conversation.

AI Travel Planner

5-Day Istanbul Itinerary with Bosphorus Highlights

5-Day Istanbul Itinerary with Bosphorus Highlights Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Bosphorus Views and Ottoman Splendors

Morning
Begin your Istanbul adventure with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, known for its local flavors. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic Sultanahmet District, visiting the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the majestic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). Explore the ancient Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani) and then enjoy a guided tour of the fascinating Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi).
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the fresh catch of the day at Balikci Sabahattin, a renowned seafood restaurant. Spend your afternoon at the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), immersing yourself in the maze of shops and stalls. Later, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), enjoying the panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Evening
Dine at Sunset Grill & Bar, where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal with stunning views. Conclude your evening with a relaxing Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table, taking in the glittering cityscape and live entertainment.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Sultanahmet District in Istanbul
star4.73

Sultanahmet District

Book Now
Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul
star4.67

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

Book Now
next arrow

Bosphorus Daytime Exploration

Morning
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, located on a small islet in the Bosphorus. After breakfast, take a refreshing Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks}, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the Bosphorus in the morning light. Visit the charming neighborhood of Ortaköy and enjoy the iconic Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) from below.
Afternoon
Have a casual lunch at Dürümzade, famous for its Turkish wraps. Spend your afternoon exploring the opulent Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), with its stunning architecture and rich history. After the palace, take a guided tour of the impressive Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari), strategically located on the European shore of the Bosphorus.
Evening
Enjoy an evening of Turkish cultural experiences with a visit to the Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre. Before the show, indulge in a dinner of authentic Ottoman cuisine at Asitane Restaurant, known for its historical recipes and elegant ambiance.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul Small-Group Sunset or Day Yacht Cruise with Snacks in Istanbul
star4.93

Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks

Book Now
Visit Ortaköy in Istanbul
star4.61

Ortaköy

Book Now
next arrow

Historical Wonders and Culinary Delights

Morning
Kick off your day with a visit to the mystical Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), where you'll be amazed by the ancient underground water chamber. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the lesser-known but equally impressive Best of Hagia Sophia Tour, gaining insights into this architectural marvel.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi in Kadikoy and indulge in a variety of authentic Anatolian dishes. Afterward, take a walk along the Kadikoy waterfront, exploring the vibrant markets and local boutiques.
Evening
Dine at Karakoy Lokantasi, a contemporary restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Turkish flavors. Cap off the evening with a serene Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus, admiring the city's illuminated skyline and the shimmering waters.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul
star4.73

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

Book Now
Visit Best of Hagia Sophia Tour in Istanbul
star4.24

Best of Hagia Sophia Tour

Book Now
next arrow

Sultan's Life and Sapanca Escape

Morning
Begin with a hearty breakfast at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, fitting as "Hünkar" means "Sultan" in Turkish. Then, explore the lavish Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket, delving into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans.
Afternoon
Enjoy a day trip to the picturesque town of Sapanca with a visit to the From Istanbul Sapanca and Masukiye Day Trip with Lunch. Relax by the lake, stroll through the verdant landscapes, and savor a mouthwatering lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening
Return to Istanbul and have dinner at Lokma Balıkçısı, where you can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes in a cozy setting. Conclude your day with a tranquil Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option, taking in the sights and sounds of the city at dusk.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul Topkapi Palace and Harem Guided Tour with Ticket in Istanbul
star4.74

Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket

Book Now
Visit From Istanbul Sapanca and Masukiye Day Trip with Lunch in Istanbul
star3.97

From Istanbul Sapanca and Masukiye Day Trip with Lunch

Book Now
next arrow

Cultural Immersion and Whirling Dervishes

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), where you can explore a myriad of stalls offering spices, teas, and local delicacies. Then, take a guided tour of the exotic Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar), immersing yourself in the scents and flavors of Istanbul.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in the delectable dishes at Pandeli Restaurant, which has been serving fine Ottoman cuisine since 1901. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) and ascend to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Evening
Dine at Mikla, located on the top floor of the Marmara Pera Hotel, offering contemporary Turkish cuisine and breathtaking views of the city. Conclude your Istanbul journey with a mesmerizing Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show, where you'll witness the spiritual dance of the Mevlevi Order.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) in Istanbul
star4.69

Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

Book Now
Visit Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) in Istanbul
star4.73

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Book Now
next arrow

Top Istanbul Travel Videos

kayakFind the right stay during your trip.
Got a question about your trip?