Day 1:

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café. Enjoy simit (sesame bread), olives, cheese, and fresh tomatoes.

,

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque, now a museum, known for its massive dome and beautiful mosaics. Allocate about 1.5 hours.

,

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Turkish meatballs (köfte) at this iconic restaurant nearby Hagia Sophia.

,

Explore the Blue Mosque

Visit the famous Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture. Spend around an hour here.

,

Stroll through the Hippodrome

Take a leisurely walk through the Hippodrome, the ancient center of Byzantine public life, and see the Obelisk of Theodosius.

,

Visit the Basilica Cistern

Discover the underground Basilica Cistern, a mysterious and atmospheric ancient water reservoir. Spend about an hour here.

,

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise to admire the city's skyline and palaces along the water. A short 1-hour cruise is perfect for a solo traveler.

,

Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

End your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the Bosphorus. Enjoy local dishes and unwind.

. Day 2:

Breakfast at a Local Bakery

Start with a fresh pastry and coffee at a local bakery. Try a borek (savory pastry) for an authentic experience.

,

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Allocate around 2 hours for the visit.

,

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Savor a delicious meal at this popular restaurant known for its traditional Turkish dishes.

,

Walk across Galata Bridge

Stroll across the iconic Galata Bridge and enjoy views of the Golden Horn and the bustling activity below.

,

Explore the Galata Tower

Climb to the top of the Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul. Spend about an hour enjoying the sights.

,

Visit Istiklal Street

Wander through Istiklal Street, a vibrant shopping and dining street. Enjoy some window shopping and soak in the atmosphere.

,

Dinner and Turkish Coffee

Have dinner at a local restaurant and finish with a traditional Turkish coffee to reflect on your trip.