Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a cozy café in the Sultanahmet area. Enjoy fresh bread, olives, cheese, and menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers).
,Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Spend about 1.5 hours admiring its stunning mosaics and vast dome.
,Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant where you can try local specialties like kebabs or pide (Turkish pizza).
,Visit the Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue tiles. Take time to appreciate its architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Plan for about 1 hour.
,Take a leisurely walk through the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine public life. See the ancient monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius.
,Explore the underground Basilica Cistern, a fascinating glimpse into Istanbul’s history. Spend about 45 minutes here.
,Walk to Galata Bridge and enjoy the sunset view over the Golden Horn. Try street food like fish sandwiches from vendors.
,Dine at a trendy restaurant in Karaköy, sampling modern Turkish cuisine. Budget-friendly options are available.
. Day 2:Enjoy a hearty breakfast either at your hotel or at a nearby café before starting your day.
,Spend the morning at Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Allow about 2-3 hours to explore the museum and gardens.
,Have lunch at a café in Sultanahmet, where you can try dishes like lentil soup or köfte (meatballs).
,Explore the extensive collections at the Archaeological Museums, including ancient artifacts. Allocate about 1.5 hours.
,Stroll through Gülhane Park, located next to Topkapi Palace. Enjoy the greenery and views of the Bosphorus.
,Take a short Bosphorus cruise to see the city from the water. Opt for a public ferry for a budget-friendly experience.
,Head to Ortaköy for dinner and try the famous kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes) from street vendors, followed by a scenic view of the Bosphorus Bridge.
. Day 3:Start your day at a local bakery with fresh pastries and tea, experiencing the morning routine of locals.
,Explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar, where you can find spices, sweets, and souvenirs. Allocate around 1 hour for shopping and sampling.
,Enjoy a lunch near the Spice Bazaar, sampling local street food such as simit (sesame bread) or döner.
,Spend a couple of hours wandering through the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Don't forget to bargain!
,Visit Suleymaniye Mosque, known for its grandeur and beautiful views of the city. Spend about 1 hour here.
,Take a break at a café with views of the Golden Horn. Enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee as you reflect on your trip.
,End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city’s skyline. Try traditional dishes and enjoy the ambiance.