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![5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Istanbul](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/018cc024-0d5c-7ea1-8cb7-303eb5032ff8/location385.jpg)
5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Istanbul Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Historic Wonders and Bosphorus Delights
Morning
Begin your Istanbul adventure with a guided tour of the iconic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), followed by a visit to the majestic Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii). Immerse yourself in history at the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), where you can explore the opulent chambers and the Harem. For breakfast, enjoy a traditional Turkish spread at Salute Pub & Restaurant, located in the heart of Sultanahmet.
Afternoon
After a fulfilling lunch at Balkon Restaurant & Bar with a view of the Bosphorus, delve into the underground world of the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) with skip-the-line access. Then, lose yourself in the vibrant aisles of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), where you can shop for exquisite Turkish carpets, spices, and more.
Evening
As the sun sets, embark on a memorable Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner with live entertainment as you glide past the illuminated city skyline and under the Bosphorus Bridge. Sip on your favorite drink and savor the magical atmosphere.
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 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 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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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi 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)
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
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Spago, known for its elegant ambiance. Then, head to the impressive Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), the final residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Explore its ornate rooms and the grand ceremonial hall.
Afternoon
For lunch, experience the fusion of flavors at James Joyce Irish Pub. Post-lunch, take a serene journey to the Asian side of Istanbul and visit the Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi), a symbol of the 19th-century Ottoman opulence. Later, witness the spiritual art of the Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show at a historic venue.
Evening
Dine at 360 Istanbul, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city along with your meal. Conclude the evening with a visit to the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi), an iconic structure with a rich history. You may opt for a nightcap at the tower's restaurant or return to the European side for a drink at a local bar.
Bedtime
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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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Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce 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)
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 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 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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Artisan Workshops and Sunset Serenity
Morning
Start with a hands-on experience at the Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop. Create your own unique lamp under the guidance of skilled artisans. For breakfast, visit The Junction Pub and savor their signature morning delights.
Afternoon
Post-workshop, have a light lunch at Diamond Roof & Bar while enjoying the view. Then, set out for the Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option. Learn about the city's landmarks as you cruise, and witness the enchanting colors of the sunset painting the sky and the waters.
Evening
Delight in a serene Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus, where you can relax and take in the beauty of Istanbul's shoreline as evening falls. The cruise offers a perfect ambiance for reflection and romance. Enjoy a dinner with a view at Roof 106 - Bar & Restaurant With Panoramic View upon your return.
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 Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/45fdc957892f9d60.jpeg/21.jpg)
3.95Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option
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![Visit Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/45fdc957892f9d60.jpeg/21.jpg)
Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option
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![Visit Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/0e6dc6e3a2657f5a6c94242bedb18d0e21f5375acef81b2cf7c3d48964d488cf.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.85Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus
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![Visit Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/0e6dc6e3a2657f5a6c94242bedb18d0e21f5375acef81b2cf7c3d48964d488cf.jpeg/21.jpg)
Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus
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Day of Exploration and Culinary Discoveries
Morning
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at U2 Istanbul Irish Pub. Then, set off to explore the less-touristy areas with a Istanbul Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street art, local culture, and the charming narrow streets of these historic neighborhoods.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Red River Pub and enjoy their pub-style cuisine. Afterward, visit the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), an architectural gem with stunning panoramic views of the city. Continue to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) to experience the scents and flavors of traditional Turkish spices and delicacies.
Evening
Conclude your day with a visit to the Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre. Witness mesmerizing performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Turkey. After the show, dine at Dejavu Restaurant & Bar, known for its fusion cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/642407d763206.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.91Istanbul Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour
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Istanbul Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour
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![Visit Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/82/77.jpg)
4.70Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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![Visit Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/82/77.jpg)
Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii)
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![Visit Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) in Istanbul](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/56/a4.jpg)
4.68Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Rhythm of The Dance Show in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/c6e1b5ad0dbb3075.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.63Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre
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![Visit Istanbul Hodjapasha Rhythm of The Dance Show in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/c6e1b5ad0dbb3075.jpeg/21.jpg)
Istanbul Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre
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Majestic Mountains and Culinary Heights
Morning
Take a day trip to the nearby city of Bursa and ascend the Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car. Explore the natural beauty of Uludag Mountain and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Have a delightful breakfast at the mountain top. Upon return, have a late lunch at Vogue Restaurant & Bar, known for its stylish ambiance and international menu.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at the Vialand Theme Park with tickets that include package options . Enjoy the thrilling rides and entertainment in this modern amusement park. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, opt for the Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers to revisit your favorite Istanbul landmarks or explore new ones.
Evening
As the trip comes to an end, savor a sophisticated dinner at Restaurant 24, offering a blend of Turkish and international cuisines. Reflect on your journey over a sumptuous meal. For a final taste of Istanbul's nightlife, visit Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi for innovative cocktails and a chic ambiance.
Bedtime
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![Visit Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/b17269bbda9df88b.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.13Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car
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Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car
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![Visit Istanbul Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers in Istanbul](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/bf3a33cf51065c7b.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.71Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers
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Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers
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