Istanbul 10 days

A monumental architectural marvel that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum. Since July 2020, it operates as an active mosque, with a new upstairs gallery for tourists added in 2024-2025. Visitors must adhere to mosque etiquette, including modest dress and removing shoes.

• Visit outside of the five daily prayer times.
• Women should bring a headscarf; loaners are available.
• The upstairs gallery offers paid access for enhanced viewing.

Famous for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles and six minarets, this active mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Entry is free, but visitors must respect prayer times and dress codes.

• Check prayer times to avoid disruption.
• Modest dress is required; scarves are available.

An ancient underground water reservoir with a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, featuring hundreds of marble columns and two mysterious Medusa heads. It's a remarkable feat of Roman engineering.

• Book tickets online to skip queues.
• Look for the Medusa heads at the base of two columns.

A legendary eatery serving traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) and piyaz (bean salad) for generations. It's a no-frills spot offering an authentic taste of local cuisine.

• Expect a queue during peak hours.
• Their signature dish is the grilled köfte.

The opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries, this vast complex offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and houses sacred relics, imperial treasures, and exquisite tilework. Explore its courtyards, chambers, and the Harem.

• Allocate ample time, especially for the Harem.
• Consider an audio guide for deeper historical context.

One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets and ceramics to jewelry and spices. It's a vibrant sensory experience.

• Haggling is expected, but be polite.
• Don't be afraid to get lost; it's part of the fun.

A colorful and fragrant market filled with stalls selling exotic spices, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, teas, and more. It's a delight for the senses and a great place for edible souvenirs.

• Sample the Turkish delight before buying.
• Look for high-quality saffron and sumac.

Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine with panoramic views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. Known for its kebabs and mezes, it's a popular spot for a more upscale dining experience.

• Reserve a table with a view in advance.
• Try the pistachio kebab.

Experience the magic of Istanbul from the water on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus strait, separating Europe and Asia. You'll see historic mansions, palaces, and fortresses lining the shores.

• Choose a cruise departing from Eminönü.
• Sit on the right side for better views of the European shore on the way up.

A charming and historic neighborhood on the Asian side, known for its colorful wooden houses, synagogues, churches, mosques, and bohemian atmosphere. It offers a glimpse into Istanbul's multicultural past.

• Wander through its picturesque streets.
• Stop by a local cafe for Turkish coffee.

Home to the massive Camlica Mosque and offering the highest panoramic viewpoint of Istanbul, stretching across both European and Asian sides, the Bosphorus, and the Sea of Marmara. The new mosque is a modern architectural marvel.

• Visit on a clear day for the best views.
• The mosque itself is worth exploring.

A celebrated restaurant in Kadıköy, famous for its authentic Anatolian home cooking with a rotating menu of regional specialties. It's a culinary institution offering a true taste of Turkish diversity.

• Go early or be prepared to wait.
• Ask the staff for recommendations based on the day's offerings.

Turkey's premier contemporary art museum, showcasing a dynamic collection of modern and contemporary Turkish art. Its striking new building along the Bosphorus is an architectural highlight.

• Check for temporary exhibitions.
• Enjoy the views from the museum's terraces.

Housed in a beautiful historic building, this museum features a notable collection of Orientalist paintings, including Osman Hamdi Bey's famous 'The Tortoise Trainer'. It also hosts temporary exhibitions.

• Don't miss the permanent collection of Anatolian weights and measures.

A vibrant pedestrian street in the Beyoğlu district, bustling with shops, cafes, cinemas, art galleries, and historic buildings. The nostalgic tram runs along its length.

• Explore the side streets for hidden gems.
• Try a traditional street food like 'ıslak hamburger' (wet burger).

Located in the historic Salt Galata building, this restaurant offers modern interpretations of traditional Turkish cuisine using seasonal ingredients. It boasts excellent city views.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Focuses on sustainable and local sourcing.

Renowned for its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, this historic structure was a church, then a mosque, and has recently reopened as a mosque (Kariye Camii) after restoration. Visitors can view the art outside of prayer times.

• Check visiting hours, as they are subject to prayer times.
• Modest dress and head coverings (for women) are required.
• Some artworks may be temporarily covered during prayer.

Explore the historic Greek Orthodox quarter with its colorful, hilly streets, impressive architecture, and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. It offers a distinct atmosphere from other parts of Istanbul.

• Walk up the steep, charming streets.
• Visit the Phanar Greek Orthodox College building.

Adjacent to Fener, Balat is known for its vibrant, bohemian vibe, antique shops, artisan cafes, and beautifully preserved historic houses. It's a popular spot for photographers.

• Look for the colorful staircases.
• Enjoy a coffee break at one of the trendy cafes.

A highly-regarded seafood restaurant located near the Sea of Marmara, offering fresh fish and mezes in a pleasant setting. It's known for its quality and service.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try the grilled sea bass or bream.

A magnificent imperial mosque designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. It offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Golden Horn.

• Visit the tombs of Suleiman and Roxelana within the complex.
• The mosque complex includes a complex of buildings for charitable purposes.

A towering remnant of Roman engineering, this impressive aqueduct once supplied water to Constantinople. It's a striking landmark still standing in the modern city.

• Best viewed from the Atatürk Boulevard.
• Often seen in conjunction with visits to nearby mosques.

A vibrant local market area known for its fresh produce, traditional foods, and lively atmosphere. While historically a market for women, it's now a bustling hub for locals to shop and eat.

• Try local street food and sweets.
• Experience a slice of authentic Istanbul life away from tourist crowds.

Located near the Chora Church, Asitane specializes in recreating historical Ottoman palace cuisine. It offers a unique culinary journey through the empire's past.

• Reservations are essential.
• The menu changes seasonally and features rarely-seen dishes.

An iconic medieval stone tower offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Istanbul, including the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and historic peninsula. It's a must-visit for its vistas.

• Go early to avoid long queues.
• The views are spectacular at sunset, but it's often crowded then.

A legendary establishment famous for its wide variety of delicious baklava and Turkish delight. It's the perfect spot to indulge your sweet tooth.

• Try a mix of different baklava types.
• Enjoy with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.

Based on Orhan Pamuk's novel, this unique museum displays objects that tell the story of fictional characters Füsun and Kemal. It offers a poignant and intimate glimpse into Istanbul's past.

• Reading the novel beforehand enhances the experience.
• The museum is located in the Çukurcuma neighborhood.

A fine-dining establishment offering a sophisticated tasting menu with modern interpretations of Turkish and international flavors. It provides an elegant culinary experience with city views.

• Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
• Consider the wine pairing option.

A charming, more relaxed bazaar located behind the Blue Mosque, offering a curated selection of high-quality Turkish handicrafts, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. It's a pleasant place to shop for souvenirs.

• Look for handmade carpets and Iznik-style tiles.
• It's less crowded than the Grand Bazaar.

A famous Ottoman-era sweet shop and cafe chain, renowned for its traditional Turkish desserts like baklava, künefe, and puddings, as well as Turkish coffee and tea.

• A great spot for an afternoon treat.
• Their range of Turkish delight is extensive.

A bohemian and artistic neighborhood known for its trendy cafes, antique shops, art galleries, and vibrant street life. It offers a more contemporary and laid-back vibe.

• Enjoy people-watching from a cafe.
• Explore the narrow, winding streets.

A stylish restaurant and bar offering contemporary Turkish cuisine with stunning Bosphorus views. It's a popular spot for a chic evening out.

• Reservations are strongly advised, especially for a table with a view.
• Dress code is smart casual.

A second visit to the Chora Church (Kariye Camii) allows for a deeper appreciation of its intricate mosaics and frescoes, especially if you missed details on the first visit or wish to experience it outside prayer times.

• Consider visiting at a different time of day than your first visit.
• Focus on specific panels or details you found most striking.

Take a scenic cable car ride up to Pierre Loti Hill for stunning panoramic views over the Golden Horn and the city. The hill is named after a French novelist who loved this spot.

• Enjoy Turkish coffee or tea at the cafe at the top.
• The cable car ride itself offers great views.

A significant pilgrimage site for Muslims, dedicated to Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. The mosque complex is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.

• Be mindful of prayer times and respectful attire.
• The surrounding area is a traditional Istanbul neighborhood.

A popular restaurant in the Karaköy district offering a refined take on traditional Turkish mezes and main courses. It's known for its stylish ambiance and delicious food.

• Reservations are recommended.
• Try their selection of creative mezes.

Explore the vibrant food market on the Asian side, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, spices, cheeses, olives, and local delicacies. It's a feast for the senses.

• Sample local cheeses and olives.
• Great place to buy edible souvenirs like spices and dried fruits.

A cozy spot in Cihangir famous for its extensive Turkish breakfast spread, featuring a variety of cheeses, olives, jams, honey, kaymak (clotted cream), eggs, and more. A perfect way to start the day.

• Come hungry, the portions are generous.
• Try their regional specialties from the Van region.

An elegant example of Ottoman Baroque architecture, located near the Grand Bazaar. Its unique design features a dome and a courtyard surrounded by arcades.

• Admire the intricate tilework and calligraphy.
• It's often less crowded than other major mosques.

Located atop the Marmara Pera hotel, Mikla offers a sophisticated dining experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Bosphorus. It serves modern Turkish cuisine with Scandinavian influences.

• Reservations are essential and should be made far in advance.
• Consider this for a special farewell dinner.