Suggested 3 Day Itinerary.
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Day 1
Visit the ‘Hagia Sophia’ and experience the awe-inspiring history and architecture of this former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque. Continue on to the ‘Blue Mosque’ a 17th-century architectural marvel with its beautiful blue tiles and majestic dome
Spend your time enjoying the lavish palace of Ottoman sultans, including the treasury and Harem section of ‘Topkapi palace’.
Head to ‘Mikla’ for lunch, located at the top of the Marmara Pera Hotel, offering a refined blend of modern Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine. With panoramic views over Istanbul’s old town, where you can also enjoy a tasting menu paired with exceptional wines.
For those who like markets, continue your afternoon shopping at one of the largest and largest covered markets in the world, ‘Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)’:Spend your afternoon wandering through its labyrinth of over 60 bustling streets, lined with more than 4,000 shops. A 15th-century treasure trove where you can discover exquisite Turkish carpets, shimmering jewelry, hand-painted ceramics, aromatic spices, and colorful textiles. Take your time to bargain with friendly shopkeepers and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea.
For those who are spa enthusiasts you can enjoy late afternoon rejuvenation at ‘Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı’, a stunning Ottoman bathhouse built in the late 16th century by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan.. Experience the traditional Turkish bath ritual, which includes a steam session, scrubbing, and a soothing foam massage, all set within the elegant domed interior.
Or opt for more luxurious relaxing after a long day to have the amazing afternoon tea experience at ‘Çırağan Palace Kempinski’, one of Istanbul's most iconic palaces. Savor a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, and pastries while overlooking the Bosphorus Strait and feeling the grandeur of a Bosphorus Palace.
For a refined dining experience, enjoy a dinner at ‘Sunset Grill & Bar’, or ‘Ulus 29’ located in the upscale neighbourhood of Ulus. Both restaurants are know for a Mediterranean cuisine, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
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Day 2
Start your day with a luxurious breakfast at ‘Vault Karaköy House’, located in a restored 19th-century Ottoman bank building. With its chic interior and innovative Turkish and international breakfast options, it's a great spot to fuel up for your day. Don't miss the Turkish-style eggs and signature pastries.
Stroll around the lively Karaköy district and visit ‘Salt Galata’, a contemporary cultural space offering art exhibitions, or stop by ‘Karaköy Güllüoğlu’ for the best baklava in town. Then, explore ‘Galata Tower’ for stunning panoramic views of the city.
Head to ‘Karaköy Lokantası’ for lunch, a sleek but authentic Turkish restaurant, which combines an old-school atmosphere with a modern approach to traditional Turkish cuisine. Known for its impeccable seafood, you can enjoy dishes like grilled octopus and mussels alongside fresh mezze.
Head to another fun residential neighbourhood Nişantaşı for local designer shopping and cafe culture.
Spend your afternoon in ‘Nişantaşı’, Istanbul's premier shopping district for both luxury and cutting-edge local designers. Stop by ‘Vakko’, ‘Beymen’, and ‘Mikayla’ for high-end fashion, or explore independent boutiques like “Pelit” for locally crafted artisan goods or ‘Tarkhans’ for luxurious handmade leather products. A special treat is browsing the concept store ‘Hüsamettin Ertürk’, where local artisans offer their custom-designed pieces. Nisantisi also has many nice cafe spots like ‘Beymen cafe’ where you can sit and just watch the bustle of local residential life.
Have dinner at ‘Feriye Lokantası’, located on the Bosphorus, an elegant fine-dining restaurant housed in a former Ottoman military barracks. The restaurant’s beautifully modern setting features amazing views and a refined menu that brings together Turkish flavors with contemporary twists.
Conclude your evening Istanbul experience with cocktails at ‘360 Istanbul’, a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s skyline. Known for its vibrant energy, sleek design, and great cocktails.
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Day 3
Spend a leisurely day at the ‘Bebek’ district, one of the most stylish neighborhoods on Istanbul's European side, known for its luxurious cafes, waterfront views, and upscale shops. Start your day with a stroll through ‘Bebek Park’, a green space by the water where you can relax and take in views of the Bosphorus. It's a lovely spot to unwind before exploring Shops in Bebek. Bebek has an eclectic mix of high-end boutiques and trendy shops. Visit Bebek’s local concept stores for unique clothing, Turkish artisan jewelry, and luxury home decor. Don’t miss ‘Muze Istanbul’, a stylish boutique offering contemporary Turkish fashion and accessories. Also check out ‘Bebek Butik’, known for its curated selection of local designer goods and accessories.
Have a chic lunch at the iconic ‘Lucca’ in Bebek, a stylish restaurant nestled in the neighborhood known for its modern Mediterranean-inspired menu and vibrant popular atmosphere. The outdoor terrace, with its stunning views of the Bosphorus, creates the perfect setting for a leisurely midday meal.Walk off your meal with a leisurely stroll along the Bosphorus waterfront. The area is filled with chic cafes, perfect for people-watching.
As the sun sets, head to the stylish ‘Bebek Hotel’, located in the chic Bebek neighborhood along the Bosphorus. This iconic boutique hotel is a favorite among Istanbul’s elite, blending classic charm with modern luxury. Enjoy signature cocktails on the hotel’s terrace bar while taking in breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. The lively atmosphere and elegant setting make it an ideal spot for a relaxed yet sophisticated evening.
Have dinner at “Bebek Balıkçı” for a beautiful Istanbul experience of having dinner on the Bosphorus front. Enjoy a seafood dinner either paired with a nice glass of wine or a local pairing favourite, this milky looking liquor called ‘raki’, while feeling the beautiful Bosphorus breeze of being on the water’s edge.