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6-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Istanbul Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Historic Wonders and Bosphorus Delights
Morning
Start your Istanbul adventure with a delightful breakfast at Balkon Restaurant & Bar, offering a panoramic view of the city. Afterward, immerse yourself in the ancient history of the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Explore its opulent chambers and the impressive Harem section.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Moretenders’ Cocktail Crib & Sushi for a fusion experience. Post-lunch, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), a marvel of Byzantine architecture. Continue to the majestic Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and then take a leisurely walk through the historic Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Meydani).
Evening
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Bosphorus with live music and a traditional Turkish show. Indulge in a sumptuous meal while taking in the illuminated skyline. After the cruise, visit the vibrant Ortaköy area and treat yourself to a famous Turkish dessert, the "kumpir" (stuffed baked potato) from a local vendor.
Bedtime
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)
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4.68Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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4.68Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
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Palaces, Bridges, and Culinary Delights
Morning
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at 360 Istanbul, known for its stunning views. Post-breakfast, visit the European-style Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), one of the last palaces built by the Ottoman Empire. Explore its grand halls and the impressive crystal staircase.
Afternoon
Enjoy a lunch with a view at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering a wide selection of international cuisine. Afterward, take a walk on the Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu), connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Once on the Asian side, visit the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) and explore its royal rooms and lush gardens.
Evening
Dine at Litera Restaurant / Lounge-Bar, where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal with a mix of Turkish and world cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll on the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) and soak in the mesmerizing views of the city and the Bosphorus. End the evening with a visit to the lively Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) for a panoramic night view of Istanbul.
Bedtime
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4.50Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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4.50Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)
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4.45Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)
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4.45Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu)
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Culinary Exploration and Cultural Treasures
Morning
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at West Town Cafe & Restaurant. After breakfast, visit the underground marvel, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), and witness the ancient Medusa head columns. Continue to the vibrant and historical Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi) for a morning of shopping and exploring its labyrinthine alleys.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to GRACE Rooftop Restaurant and savor a meal with a view. Post-lunch, explore the charming neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and rich Jewish heritage. Visit the Chora Church (Kariye Müzesi), famous for its stunning mosaics depicting biblical scenes.
Evening
Dine at Vogue Restaurant & Bar, offering a blend of Turkish and international dishes in a stylish setting. After dinner, take a serene evening walk around the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the panoramic view of the city from the mosque's courtyard.
Bedtime
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4.70Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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4.70Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
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4.61Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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4.61Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)
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City Views and Cultural Immersion
Morning
Enjoy a breakfast with a view at 360 Istanbul, where you can take in the panoramic sights of the city. Post-breakfast, take a cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) and enjoy the serene atmosphere with a cup of Turkish tea, while overlooking the Golden Horn.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Spago, known for its contemporary European cuisine. Afterward, visit the Istanbul Modern (Istanbul Museum of Modern Art) to explore the vibrant world of Turkish contemporary art. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along the trendy Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), with its boutiques, art galleries, and historic tram line.
Evening
Dine at Arch Bistro, offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring a fusion of Turkish and international flavors. After dinner, experience the lively nightlife of Istanbul at Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and its surrounding areas, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Bedtime
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4.60Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi)
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4.60Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi)
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4.85Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi)
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4.85Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi)
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Day of Discovery and Local Flavors
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the lesser-known Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri), a charming 19th-century palace by the Bosphorus. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe.
Afternoon
Explore the Asian side of Istanbul by visiting the serene Camlica Hill (Çamlıca Tepesi), where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of the region at U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, which offers a unique blend of Irish and Turkish cuisine.
Evening
Dine at Dejavu Restaurant & Bar, known for its elegant ambiance and a menu that combines local and international dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi), also known as Leander's Tower, and enjoy the magical evening views of the Bosphorus.
Bedtime
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4.65Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri)
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4.65Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri)
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3.71Camlica Hill (Çamlıca Tepesi)
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3.71Camlica Hill (Çamlıca Tepesi)
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Final Day of Icons and Farewell Feasts
Morning
Enjoy a breakfast at GAR PUB Cafe & Restaurant&Sport Bar, where you can fuel up for a morning of exploring. Begin with a visit to the Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari), an impressive fortress that once guarded the Bosphorus. Then, take a serene cruise on the Bosphorus, passing by the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) and under the Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu).
Afternoon
For your final lunch in Istanbul, head to The Junction Pub and enjoy a laid-back meal. Spend your afternoon at the peaceful Sakip Sabanci Museum (Sakip Sabanci Muzesi), housed in a beautiful mansion with a collection of calligraphy, paintings, and ceramics. Reflect on your journey through Istanbul as you appreciate the art and the serene surroundings.
Evening
Conclude your Istanbul experience with a grand farewell dinner at Salute Pub & Restaurant, where you can enjoy a mix of Turkish and international cuisine. Raise a glass to the memories made in this vibrant city and savor the flavors of the evening.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Istanbul.
4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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4.49Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari)
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4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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4.51Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
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