6-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Istanbul Itinerary

Start your day with a Turkish coffee at West Town Cafe & Restaurant, preparing you for a hands-on experience at the Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop. Create your own mosaic lamp under the guidance of a local artisan. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Balat, known for its colorful houses and vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Yüksek Restaurant & Bar, located in the heart of the city. Post-lunch, visit the opulent Dolmabahce Palace with a guided tour, exploring its European-influenced architecture and lavish interiors. End your palace visit with a walk in the beautiful palace gardens.

Dine at Salute Pub & Restaurant, offering a cozy ambiance and a menu featuring international and Turkish dishes. After dinner, witness the mystical Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema at a historic venue. Experience the spiritual dance performance, a unique aspect of Turkish culture.

Enjoy a breakfast at Babylonia Restaurant, known for its diverse menu. After breakfast, set off on a Taste of Two Continents Food Tour. Explore the culinary scene of Istanbul, visiting local eateries and markets to sample a variety of dishes and flavors from both the European and Asian sides of the city.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of the sea at YALI Lounge, offering a menu focused on fresh seafood. Post-lunch, take a serene Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch to Büyükada, one of the Princes' Islands. Enjoy the island's tranquility, explore by horse-drawn carriage, and savor a delightful lunch with a view.

Return to the city and have dinner at Red River Pub, a casual spot with a diverse menu. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps taking a walk in the lively Ortaköy area, known for its street food and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque.

Fuel up with breakfast at Olive Garden Cafe & Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and international dishes. Today's adventure takes you out of the city to the nearby mountains. Enjoy a day trip to Bursa and Uludag Mountain, including a cable car ride, as you explore the natural beauty and historical sites of the region.

Have lunch at James Joyce Irish Pub, a relaxed setting with a pub-style menu. After returning from Bursa, spend your afternoon learning the art of Turkish crafts at the Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop. Participate in the preparation of traditional Turkish coffee and discover the cultural significance of fortune telling.

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at 360 Istanbul, known for its panoramic views and international cuisine. Then, board a Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks to unwind. Cruise along the Bosphorus, enjoying the commentary and the illuminated cityscape.

Start with breakfast at Diamond Roof & Bar, offering a selection of morning favorites. Afterward, explore the lesser-known areas of Istanbul with a visit to Pierre Loti Hill. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn, and take a moment to relax in this tranquil spot.

For lunch, head to Arch Bistro, a modern bistro with a focus on local ingredients. Post-lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to the Rumeli Fortress, an impressive historical site with commanding views of the Bosphorus. Learn about its strategic importance and the stories of the past.

Dine at U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, known for its casual atmosphere and a menu featuring pub classics. After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul with a visit to the lively Taksim Square. Explore the surrounding streets and perhaps enjoy some live music or a drink at one of the local bars.

Enjoy a final breakfast at The Junction Pub, a popular spot with a variety of morning options. Spend your morning at the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Immerse yourself in the scents and colors of the spices, and explore the wide range of goods offered by the local vendors.

For your last lunch in Istanbul, visit Restaurant 24, a contemporary restaurant with a diverse menu. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi), an iconic structure with a rich history. Learn about its significance and enjoy the views of the Bosphorus and the city from this unique vantage point.

Conclude your Istanbul journey with a memorable dinner at Roof 106 - Bar & Restaurant With Panoramic View, where you can enjoy a sophisticated meal with stunning city views. Reflect on your time in Istanbul and savor the flavors of the cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk in the Sultanahmet District, soaking in the ambiance of the historic area and bidding farewell to the city's splendors.