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5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Istanbul, Turkey

5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Istanbul, Turkey Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Iconic Landmarks and Bosphorus Delights

Morning
Begin your Istanbul adventure with a sumptuous breakfast at Karaköy Lokantası, offering a blend of traditional and modern Turkish cuisine. After breakfast, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) with a skip-the-line entry and audio guide. Explore the palace complex, including the Harem, and enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrası in the vibrant Kadıköy district on the Asian side. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi), also known as Leander's Tower, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Evening
Dine in style at Sunset Grill & Bar, where you can savor a delightful dinner with a view. Conclude your evening with a memorable Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table, gliding along the shimmering waters while being entertained by live performances.
Bedtime
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Visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) in Istanbul

Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)

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Visit Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) in Istanbul
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Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi)

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Ottoman Heritage and Whirling Dervishes

Morning
Start your day with a rich Turkish breakfast at Asitane Restaurant, known for its historical Ottoman cuisine. Post breakfast, visit the majestic Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) and marvel at its stunning architecture. Then, explore the mystical Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) with a skip-the-line entry and audio guide.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Ottoman lunch at Asitane Restaurant. Afterward, take a guided tour of the opulent Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), the final residence of the Ottoman Sultans, with a skip-the-line entry and audio guide.
Evening
Experience the mesmerizing Istanbul Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show at the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre. For dinner, indulge in the flavors of Balıkçı Sabahattin, a renowned seafood restaurant with a cozy ambiance.
Bedtime
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Visit Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) in Istanbul
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Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

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Visit Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) in Istanbul
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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

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Artisan Workshops and Evening Yacht Tour

Morning
Begin with a visit to the Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you can learn about the intricate art of Turkish mosaic lamps and even create your own. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on experience at the Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Lokma Balıkçısı, a local favorite for fresh seafood. Post lunch, take a guided tour of the historic Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) and then explore the vibrant neighborhood of Galata with its narrow streets and bohemian atmosphere.
Evening
Relish a delightful dinner at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, located on the iconic Maiden's Tower itself. Cap off the evening with a serene Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks, cruising past the city's illuminated skyline and under the Bosphorus Bridge.
Bedtime
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Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop

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Visit Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop in Istanbul
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Istanbul Turkish Coffee Making and Fortune Telling Workshop

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Day Trip to Bursa and Uludag Mountain

Morning
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Dürümzade before embarking on a full-day excursion to Bursa. Explore the historical sites and vibrant bazaars of the city, and then ascend the majestic Uludag Mountain with the Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car. Savor a traditional lunch in Bursa, known for its rich culinary heritage.
Afternoon
After descending from Uludag, take some time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountain. You can also engage in optional activities such as hiking or simply taking in the panoramic views.
Evening
Return to Istanbul and dine at Kanaat Lokantası - Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local gem famous for its köfte (meatballs) and other Turkish specialties.
Bedtime
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Visit Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car in Istanbul
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Istanbul Bursa and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Cable Car

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Culinary Delights and Cultural Treasures

Morning
Begin with a visit to the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi), where you can explore a wide array of spices, Turkish delights, and local products. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), one of the greatest marvels of architecture and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Tarihi Karaköy Balık Lokantası and savor the freshest catch in a historic setting. Post lunch, take a guided tour of the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops.
Evening
Conclude your Istanbul journey with a memorable dinner at Mikla, a contemporary restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Visit Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) in Istanbul
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Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

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Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

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