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5 Days in Istanbul: A Journey of History, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Ignacio Arnulfo

Ignacio Arnulfo

8 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling adventure through Istanbul, where ancient marvels meet vibrant culture and mouthwatering cuisine. Discover the grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque, explore the bustling Egyptian Bazaar, and ascend Galata Tower for breathtaking views. Indulge in aromatic coffee at Velvet Cafe and browse unique finds at Dükkan Galata. Uncover the secrets of Basilica Cistern and marvel at the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. Savor traditional Ottoman cuisine at Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant and relish the delectable treats of Çengelköy Börekçisi. Immerse yourself in history at Istanbul Archaeological Museums and indulge in a delightful breakfast at Saade Kahvaltı. Get lost in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, wander through the opulent Topkapi Palace Museum, and satisfy your cravings at Çengelköy Börekçisi. Experience the splendor of Dolmabahçe Palace, marvel at the intricate Miniaturk models, and savor a mouthwatering dürüm at Can 2 Dürüm Evi. Conclude your journey with a cozy read at Çayistanbul Kitap&Kafe.

Day 1Unveiling Istanbul's Treasures
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$114

·

$ 2

Suleymaniye Mosque
Ornate 16th-century mosque with gardens, plus a terrace with views over the Golden Horn.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
7 - 10 min

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Directions

Egyptian Bazaar
Covered, 17th-century market known as the Egyptian Bazaar, with spice, food & textile shops.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Free
11 - 14 min

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Directions

Galata Tower
Restored 14th-century tower and former prison overlooking the Bosphorus with a top-floor restaurant.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
$68
1 - 2 min

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Directions

Velvet Cafe
Hatıralarla yaşayan bir cafe, Anne elinden lezzetler, Antika fincanlarda servis edilen kahve ve çay keyfi, Günün her saati kahvaltı saati :)
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$20
4 - 5 min

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Directions

Dükkan Galata
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$26
Day 2From Ancient Wonders to Culinary Delights
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$84

Basilica Cistern
Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$32
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Hagia Sophia
Iconic, storied mosque set within a vast, domed former Byzantine church with stained-glass windows.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Free
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$26
2 - 3 min

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Directions

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$26
Day 3Immersing in History and Breakfast Bliss
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$74

Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Neoclassical museum showing the country's rich archaeological heritage within landscaped gardens.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$26
7 - 10 min

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Directions

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$26
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Saade Kahvaltı
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$22
Day 4A Shopper's Paradise and Majestic Palaces
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$106

·

$ 2

Grand Bazaar
Historic sprawling network of indoor souks & market streets peddling leather, jewelry & gifts.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Free
16 - 20 min

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Directions

Topkapi Palace Museum
Huge, opulent 15th-century palace, occupied by sultans for 400 years, housing Ottoman treasures.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
$54
8 - 11 min

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Directions

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$26
0
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$26
Day 5Royal Residences and Miniature Marvels
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$102

·

$ 3

Dolmabahçe Palace
Grand, domed sultan's palace, now a museum, including collections of art, calligraphy and carpets.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$48
11 - 14 min

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Directions

Miniaturk
Park with Turkish landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, depicted in miniature format.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
$16
15 - 22 min

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Directions

Can 2 Dürüm Evi
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
$20
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Çayistanbul Kitap&Kafe
Türkiye'nin en keyifli Kitap Kafesi. Açık ve kapalı bahçemiz 73 çeşit çayımız ile Eyüp ve Fatih'deyiz.
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
$18

Budget breakdown: $485 In total

Activities & Food:$480
Transport:$5