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![Istanbul Historical Marvels, Grand Bazaar, and Charming Neighborhoods with Basilica Cistern](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/018def3b-7b4c-7921-8565-5e774b37dd26/location753.jpg)
Istanbul Historical Marvels, Grand Bazaar, and Charming Neighborhoods with Basilica Cistern Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Istiklal Avenue, Galata Tower, Karakoy, and Cevahir Mall Journey
Morning
Since you'll be arriving in the afternoon, start your day with a delightful lunch at Esmer Cafe, located in the heart of Istiklal Avenue. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and savor the local flavors.
Afternoon
After lunch, take a leisurely walk along Istiklal Avenue, one of Istanbul's most famous streets. Explore the shops, cafes, and historical buildings as you soak in the lively ambiance. Afterward, head to the modern Istanbul Cevahir Mall, where you can indulge in a shopping spree and explore the wide range of stores and entertainment options.
Evening
As the sun sets, make your way to the iconic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head towards Karakoy and indulge in a delightful dinner at Karakoy Lokantasi, known for its modern take on Turkish cuisine.
Bedtime
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![Visit Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/56/8b.jpg)
4.73Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
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![Visit Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/56/8b.jpg)
Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
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Historical Marvels, Grand Bazaar, and Charming Neighborhoods with Basilica Cistern
Morning
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, offering a variety of traditional Turkish breakfast options. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and get ready for a day of exploration.
Afternoon
After breakfast, embark on a historical journey by visiting the iconic Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Then, continue to the nearby Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), two architectural marvels that define Istanbul's skyline. Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. For a budget-friendly lunch, head to Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local favorite known for its delicious köfte (meatballs) and traditional Turkish dishes.
Evening
As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk in the charming Balat neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and rich history. Explore the narrow streets and soak in the local ambiance as the sun sets. For dinner, experience the culinary delights at Dürümzade, a popular spot for authentic Turkish street food. Enjoy the flavors of Istanbul's local cuisine before concluding your day. Don't forget to visit the hauntingly beautiful Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), an underground marvel with its hauntingly beautiful columns and the mysterious Medusa heads.
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 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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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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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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Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
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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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Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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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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Balat
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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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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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Whirling Dervishes and Local Delights
Morning
Enjoy a breakfast with a view at 360 Istanbul, and then witness the mystical Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show at a traditional venue, where you'll be mesmerized by the spiritual dance performance.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Red River Pub for a casual dining experience, and then explore the underground marvel of the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), with its hauntingly beautiful columns and the mysterious Medusa heads.
Evening
Dine at Diamond Roof & Bar, enjoying a blend of international cuisine and a stunning view of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely walk in the charming neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and rich history.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/8d4efa03c571cffc992620aeb4f362db76a66242e61a347bf5154cb14d714480.jpg/21.jpg)
4.34Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/8d4efa03c571cffc992620aeb4f362db76a66242e61a347bf5154cb14d714480.jpg/21.jpg)
Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
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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 Balat in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/49.jpg)
4.82Balat
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Balat
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Island Escape and Ottoman Serenity
Morning
Start with a hearty breakfast at The Junction Pub, and then embark on a serene From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch, where you'll visit the car-free islands, enjoy a leisurely bike ride, and savor a delightful lunch with a sea view.
Afternoon
Return to the city and relax with a late afternoon tea at U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, and then visit the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi), a summer residence of the Ottoman sultans, adorned with exquisite furniture and stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Evening
For dinner, experience the culinary creativity at Vogue Restaurant & Bar, and then cap off the night with a visit to the vibrant Ortaköy, known for its lively atmosphere and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque.
Bedtime
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![Visit From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/9c3506114ed70143.jpeg/21.jpg)
3.59From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch
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![Visit From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/9c3506114ed70143.jpeg/21.jpg)
From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch
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![Visit Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/f7.jpg)
4.52Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)
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![Visit Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/86/f7.jpg)
Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi 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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Ortaköy
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Cultural Workshops and Farewell Delights
Morning
Learn the art of Turkish craftsmanship with a Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you'll create your own unique lamp to take home as a souvenir. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe.
Afternoon
Delve into the world of Turkish coffee at the Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop, and then savor a traditional lunch at Sunset Grill & Bar, known for its exquisite cuisine and a panoramic view of the city.
Evening
Conclude your Istanbul adventure with a memorable Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks, where you can relax on a luxurious yacht, enjoy the gentle breeze, and witness the magical Istanbul skyline as the sun sets on your journey.
Bedtime
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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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Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp 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)
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 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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