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12-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Turkey

12-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Turkey Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Ottoman Opulence and Bosphorus Delights

Morning
Begin your Turkish adventure with a sumptuous breakfast at Asitane Restaurant, known for its authentic Ottoman cuisine. Afterward, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), the former residence of Ottoman sultans.
Afternoon
Enjoy a delightful lunch at Pandeli Restaurant within the historic Spice Bazaar. Post-lunch, visit the mystical Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) and then take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) for a taste of traditional Turkish shopping.
Evening
Dine at the iconic Maiden's Tower Restaurant with a backdrop of the glittering Bosphorus. Conclude the evening with a mesmerizing Istanbul Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus to witness the city's illuminated skyline.
Bedtime
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Historic Wonders and Whirling Dervishes

Morning
Start with a rich Turkish coffee and breakfast at Sultanahmet Koftecisi. Then, explore the architectural marvels of the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya).
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the flavors of the sea at Bebek Balikcisi. Afterward, visit the ancient Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani) and the serene Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii).
Evening
Experience the mystical Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema at a traditional venue. Cap off the night with a fine dining experience at Mikla, offering panoramic views of the city.
Bedtime
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Bosphorus Cruises and Culinary Delights

Morning
Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Sunset Grill & Bar with a view. Then, embark on a Istanbul Bosphorus & Golden Horn Cruise Daytime or Sunset to witness the beauty of Istanbul's waterways.
Afternoon
Have a leisurely lunch at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi and then explore the charming neighborhood of Ortaköy, known for its artsy vibe and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque.
Evening
Dine at Karakoy Lokantasi, a modern eatery in the heart of Istanbul. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Bosphorus or enjoy a traditional Turkish bath experience.
Bedtime
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Art, Workshops, and Local Flavors

Morning
Start with a Turkish breakfast at Dürümzade, a local favorite. Then, engage in a Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop to learn about the traditional art form.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Lokma Balıkçısı for fresh seafood. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant street art and galleries of Balat, one of Istanbul's most colorful neighborhoods.
Evening
Indulge in a unique experience at Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop. Follow it with dinner at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, known for its fusion cuisine and lively ambiance.
Bedtime
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Day of Relaxation and Pampering

Morning
Enjoy a late breakfast at Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, known for its royal Ottoman dishes. Afterward, indulge in a Istanbul Private Turkish Bath, Sauna, and Massage for a rejuvenating start to the day.
Afternoon
For a light lunch, visit Tarihi Karakoy Balik Lokantasi and savor the catch of the day. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the trendy boutiques and cafes of Nisantasi or taking a Bosphorus ferry ride to the Asian side.
Evening
Dine at Balıkçı Sabahattin, a classic seafood restaurant with a serene garden setting. Conclude the evening with a visit to the vibrant Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and its surrounding nightlife spots.
Bedtime
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Day Trip to Bursa and Uludag Mountain

Morning
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Hamdi Restaurant before embarking on a Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car. Explore the historic city of Bursa and enjoy a traditional lunch in the shadow of Uludag Mountain.
Afternoon
Return to Istanbul and relax with a cup of tea at Pierre Loti Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can opt for a visit to the serene Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi).
Evening
Dine at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, known for its celebrity chef and succulent cuts. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus or enjoy a performance at one of Istanbul's theaters.
Bedtime
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Cappadocia's Wonders and Turkish Night

Morning
Begin with a breakfast at Ciya Sofrasi, offering a variety of traditional dishes. Then, catch a flight for a From Istanbul Day Trip to Cappadocia with Flight & Lunch to explore the unique landscapes and rock formations of Cappadocia.
Afternoon
Enjoy a memorable lunch experience in Cappadocia and visit the fascinating underground cities and fairy chimneys. Take in the breathtaking views from Uchisar Castle before heading back to Istanbul.
Evening
Dine at Sultanahmet Koftecisi for a comforting meal. In the evening, witness the vibrant Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show for a blend of entertainment and local cuisine.
Bedtime
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Movie Sets and Local Insights

Morning
Start with a breakfast at Sultanahmet Koftecisi and then embark on a From Istanbul Ertugrul & Osman Ghazi Movie Set Tour. to explore the historical sets and gain insights into Turkish history.
Afternoon
Enjoy a lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi and then visit the lesser-known historical sites such as Yedikule Fortress (Yedikule Hisari) and Chora Church (Kariye Müzesi) to witness the Byzantine heritage.
Evening
Dine at Maiden's Tower Restaurant and enjoy the serene ambiance. Conclude the day with a visit to the lively neighborhood of Kadikoy on the Asian side for a taste of local life and cuisine.
Bedtime
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Bosphorus Luxury and Turkish Night

Morning
Enjoy a luxurious breakfast at Mikla, known for its modern Turkish cuisine. Then, embark on a Istanbul Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show for a day of relaxation and entertainment.
Afternoon
Delight in a lunch at Asitane Restaurant, offering a historical culinary journey. Post-lunch, visit the charming neighborhood of Bebek for some boutique shopping and a stroll by the Bosphorus.
Evening
Dine at Maiden's Tower Restaurant and witness the magical Istanbul sunset. Cap off the evening with a traditional Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table for a memorable night on the water.
Bedtime
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Artistic Expressions and Local Eats

Morning
Start with a breakfast at Karakoy Lokantasi, a contemporary spot with a variety of dishes. Then, explore the art galleries and street art of Karakoy, a vibrant and trendy neighborhood.
Afternoon
Enjoy a seafood lunch at Balıkçı Sabahattin, known for its fresh catch. Afterward, visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). Alternatively, you can take a Istanbul Private Airport Transfer with Meet and Greet to catch a flight to your next destination.
Evening
Dine at Tarihi Karakoy Balik Lokantasi, a historical seafood restaurant. Conclude the evening with a visit to the lively Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) area, where you can enjoy the nightlife and the stunning views of the city.
Bedtime
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Istanbul's Culinary Highlights

Morning
Begin with a breakfast at Dürümzade, a local gem known for its wraps. Then, explore the historic Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), a symbol of the late Ottoman Empire's power and influence.
Afternoon
Have a delightful lunch at Hamdi Restaurant, offering a panoramic view of the Bosphorus. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Istanbul Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour to gain deeper insights into the city's history and architecture.
Evening
Dine at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local favorite for traditional Turkish dishes. Conclude the evening with a visit to the vibrant Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and its surrounding nightlife spots.
Bedtime
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Farewell to Istanbul

Morning
Enjoy a final breakfast at Sunset Grill & Bar with a view. Spend the morning revisiting your favorite spots or exploring the local markets for some last-minute souvenirs.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in the flavors of 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, known for its fusion cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely Istanbul Bosphorus & Golden Horn Cruise Daytime or Sunset to bid adieu to the city's iconic landmarks.
Evening
Dine at Mikla, offering a sophisticated setting and innovative dishes. Conclude your Istanbul journey with a memorable performance at the Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show, a fitting end to your cultural exploration.
Bedtime
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