New Chat

Download App

Ask me about your trip!

There are no messages for this conversation.

AI Travel Planner

10-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Istanbul and Turkey

10-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Istanbul and Turkey Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Historic Wonders and Bosphorus Delights

Morning
Begin your Istanbul adventure with a sumptuous breakfast at Balkon Restaurant & Bar, offering a panoramic view of the city. Afterward, immerse yourself in the historical marvels of the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), and the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) with a skip-the-line tour.
Afternoon
Enjoy a delightful lunch at 360 Istanbul, where the cuisine is as spectacular as the view. Post-lunch, explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) and the ancient Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani), followed by a visit to the serene Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi).
Evening
As the sun sets, embark on a Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table for a magical evening on the water, accompanied by a Turkish cultural show and a delectable dinner.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul
star4.67

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

Book Now
Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul
star4.73

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

Book Now
next arrow

Ottoman Heritage and Culinary Delights

Morning
Start your day with a rich Turkish breakfast at Dejavu Restaurant & Bar. Afterward, take a guided tour of the opulent Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), the final residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and explore the nearby Istanbul Modern (Istanbul Museum of Modern Art) for a contemporary contrast.
Afternoon
Savor a traditional Turkish lunch at Vogue Restaurant & Bar. Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the trendy Ortaköy area, visit the iconic Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu), and enjoy the picturesque setting of the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi).
Evening
Dine at Sunset Grill & Bar, known for its fusion cuisine and stunning views. Conclude your evening with a Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Live Guide and Drinks, where you can witness the city's landmarks bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) in Istanbul
star4.50

Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)

Book Now
Visit Sadberk Hanim Museum (Sadberk Hanım Müzesi) in Istanbul

Istanbul Modern (Istanbul Museum of Modern Art)

Book Now
next arrow

Sufi Mysticism and Local Flavors

Morning
Begin with a visit to the spiritual heart of Istanbul, the Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema. After the mesmerizing performance, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi.
Afternoon
Explore the vibrant and bohemian neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and street art. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of the local cuisine at GRACE Rooftop Restaurant. Afterward, take a guided tour of the lesser-known Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari), a historical gem with panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
Evening
Experience the lively atmosphere of Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and enjoy dinner at Loti Roof Lounge, offering a relaxed ambiance and a selection of international dishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema in Istanbul
star4.28

Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema

Book Now
Visit Balat in Istanbul
star4.81

Balat

Book Now
next arrow

Princes' Islands Serenity and Gastronomic Delights

Morning
Take a day trip to the From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch, where you'll escape the city's hustle and bustle and explore the car-free islands. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before departing.
Afternoon
Delight in a traditional lunch on the islands, and spend the afternoon cycling or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets. Visit historical sites and enjoy the serene island atmosphere.
Evening
Return to Istanbul and dine at Red River Pub, known for its cozy ambiance and a menu featuring both local and international dishes.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch in Istanbul
star3.59

From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch

Book Now
next arrow

Artistic Treasures and Rooftop Revelry

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul New Year's Eve Bosphorus Cruise & Private Table to get a feel for the city's festive spirit. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Arch Bistro.
Afternoon
Explore the vibrant street art and galleries of the Karakoy neighborhood. For lunch, head to The Junction Pub for a laid-back meal. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Istanbul Modern (Istanbul Museum of Modern Art), immersing yourself in contemporary Turkish art.
Evening
Dine at Diamond Roof & Bar, where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal with a view. After dinner, experience Istanbul's nightlife at Istanbul New Year's Eve Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner Option, complete with live music and entertainment.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul New Year's Eve Bosphorus Cruise with Private Table in Istanbul

Istanbul New Year's Eve Bosphorus Cruise & Private Table

Book Now
Visit Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) in Istanbul
star4.73

Karakoy

Book Now
next arrow

Cultural Immersion and Evening Elegance

Morning
Begin with a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket & Audio Guide, where you'll learn about the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. After the tour, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Restaurant 24.
Afternoon
Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Kadikoy, known for its local markets and culinary scene. Have lunch at Bleu Lounge & Grill, offering a refined dining experience with a view of the Bosphorus. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and explore the area's boutiques and cafes.
Evening
Dine at Sezgin Pub & Restaurant (mekandayız), a local favorite known for its warm ambiance and traditional Turkish dishes. After dinner, enjoy a performance of the Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show, a mesmerizing display of Sufi mysticism.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul Topkapi Palace & Harem Museum Ticket & Audio Guide in Istanbul
star4.10

Topkapi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket & Audio Guide

Book Now
Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition in Istanbul
star4.34

Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show

Book Now

Day of Relaxation and Reflection

Morning
Indulge in a luxurious morning with a Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, and Massage, where you can unwind and rejuvenate in the traditional Turkish style. After your spa session, enjoy a light breakfast at the facility.
Afternoon
Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the serene Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi), where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Have lunch at Jager Pub & Bar. istanbul, known for its casual atmosphere and a menu of pub favorites.
Evening
Reflect on your journey over a quiet dinner at Salute Pub & Restaurant, where the cozy ambiance and hearty Italian dishes provide the perfect setting for reminiscing about your time in Istanbul.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, and Massage in Istanbul
star4.77

Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, and Massage

Book Now
Visit Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) in Istanbul
star4.60

Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi)

Book Now

Bosphorus Beauty and Culinary Exploration

Morning
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at James Joyce Irish Pub, known for its warm hospitality. Afterward, take a Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option to witness the beauty of the city from the water, with the option to enjoy the sunset.
Afternoon
Disembark and head to the vibrant neighborhood of Besiktas. Explore the local shops and have lunch at GAR PUB Cafe & Restaurant&Sport Bar, a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Evening
For dinner, experience the unique flavors of Istanbul's Asian side with a visit to Sunset Grill & Bar, which offers a fusion of international and local cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus to cap off the evening.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option in Istanbul
star3.95

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option

Book Now
Visit Eyup Sultan Mosque in Istanbul
star4.34

Besiktas

Book Now
next arrow

Culinary Journey and City Highlights

Morning
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi, where you can savor a blend of international and local flavors. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the iconic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon
Explore the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy, known for its vibrant street art and culinary scene. Have lunch at GRACE Rooftop Restaurant, offering a sophisticated ambiance and a menu of contemporary dishes.
Evening
Dine at Roof 106 - Bar & Restaurant With Panoramic View, where you can enjoy a blend of international and Turkish cuisine with a stunning view of the city. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Galata Bridge (Galata Koprusu) and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) in Istanbul
star4.73

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Book Now
Visit Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) in Istanbul
star4.73

Karakoy

Book Now

Farewell to Istanbul with Gastronomic Grandeur

Morning
Begin your final day with a sumptuous breakfast at Balkon Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), immersing yourself in the scents and flavors of Istanbul's culinary history.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in a culinary journey at 360 Istanbul, where you can enjoy a blend of international and Turkish dishes with a breathtaking view. After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the historic Eminonu Square and visit the nearby Rustem Pasha Mosque, known for its exquisite Iznik tiles.
Evening
Conclude your Istanbul adventure with a farewell dinner at Diamond Roof & Bar, where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal with a view. Raise a glass to the memories made in Istanbul as you bid the city adieu.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
Visit Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) in Istanbul
star4.69

Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

Book Now
Visit Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi) in Istanbul
star4.58

Eminonu Square

Book Now
next arrow

Top Istanbul Travel Videos

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