13-Day Turkey City Break in Istanbul

Your exciting city break begins as soon as you arrive in the beautiful city of Istanbul. You’ll stay in Istanbul for 12 nights.

Drop by the renowned Galata Bridge. This popular bascule bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,649 visitors.

When the afternoon arrives, make your way to the hotel of your choice in downtown Istanbul. Check-in at hotels in Turkey normally starts around 2 to 3 PM. Each accommodation option in Istanbul offers a unique blend of comfort and style in addition to prime access to the city’s top attractions.

When you’re ready to eat, treat yourself to a nice meal at a top-rated restaurant in the region.

Make your stay in Istanbul one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at Calipso Fish, a gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful seafood cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. Calipso Fish promises exceptional dishes and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another Michelin restaurant in Istanbul you shouldn’t miss is the Bib-Gourmand awardee Sankai by Nagaya. With 1 Michelin star rating, it’s a haven for food lovers and enthusiasts. Sankai by Nagaya proudly maintains an outstanding reputation, attracting diners from near and far, all delighted by its japanese contemporary culinary offerings.

Arkestra is not just another restaurant in Istanbul. Its 1-Michelin star menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a gastronomic adventure. This restaurant’s fusion dishes and numerous glowing reviews from satisfied patrons have solidified its reputation as a culinary gem in Istanbul.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Arch Bistro, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Arch Bistro has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 798 customers.

Celebrate the start of your 13-day city break in Istanbul with a toast!

As day 2 dawns in Istanbul, embark on another day of exploration and adventure. Discover the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights at your own pace. With 11 nights left, the possibilities for discovery are endless.

Kick off the day at Suleymaniye Mosque, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mosque is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 52,271 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Rustem Pasha Mosque. Rustem Pasha Mosque is a tourist attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,173 reviews.

Mısır Çarşısı is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 166,475 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Yeni Cami Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,276 visitors.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Istanbul has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Istanbul offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

When it’s time for dinner, try one of the most popular restaurants in Istanbul. Make sure to reserve a table in advance, as the best restaurants fill up quickly.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Mivan Restaurant & Cafe. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Istanbul boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from around 3,913 visitors.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Harab'be Cafe, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Harab'be Cafe boasts an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 2,610 customers.

No matter where in Istanbul you end up, an amazing evening of relaxation and enjoyment is guaranteed.

Wake up to day 3 of your vacation in Istanbul. With 10 nights left, you'll have ample time to explore and savor all Istanbul has to offer.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hagia Sophia is a great place to start with. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 128,176 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Basilica Cistern. This palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69,691 travelers.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Istanbul has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Turkey by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

Exploring can easily make you lose track of time. Make sure to grab something to eat and use this opportunity to learn more about Istanbul's food culture.

Make a reservation at Garden Mezze | Steakhouse Restaurant | Fine Dining | Top Turkish Restaurant | Seafood | Breakfast, a popular dining spot in Istanbul. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 1,884 satisfied diners.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,447 customers.

Raise a toast and celebrate another memorable day in Istanbul, Turkey!

Wake up to day 4 of your exciting city break in Istanbul. You still have 9 nights left in Istanbul, and we recommend that you spend this day relaxing, sightseeing, and dining at the most wonderful places the city has to offer. Here's how you can make the most of today!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gülhane Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 60,543 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Istanbul Archaeological Museums. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,632 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Topkapi Palace Museum. This palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 96,057 visitors. Up to 1,932,726 people visit this place of interest annually.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Turkey is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of sightseeing, try one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Make sure to book a table at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a popular restaurant in Istanbul. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,112 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Last Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,647 customers.

Wind down and recharge for tomorrow's escapades in Istanbul, Turkey. With each day comes new experiences to cherish and enjoy.

On day 5 of your city break, you will set out to discover Istanbul, including some of the most amazing things to see and do in the city. You’ll stay 8 nights in Istanbul and enjoy plenty of time for exploring.

Make Little Hagia Sophia one of your first sightseeing stops in Istanbul. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,441 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This külliye is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,945 reviews.

You can learn more about Istanbul today by going on a tour. Istanbul offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

You have plenty of options for restaurants and bars in Istanbul. So when you’re hungry or need a break from exploring, all you have to do is take your pick.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Divella Bistro Restaurant, an acclaimed dining establishment in Istanbul. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,711 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Red River Pub, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Red River Pub has charmed many with its 4.6 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,343 happy guests.

Get some rest at your hotel in preparation for another wonderful day in Istanbul to come!

On day 6 of your fun city break in Istanbul, you’ll experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city. You now have 7 nights left in Istanbul.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kariye Mosque. This mosque is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Istanbul, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,288 visitors.

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,486 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a full day of exploring, we recommend you try one of the best places to eat in Istanbul. Enjoy the local flavors, unwind, and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don't miss out on experiencing Turkish Cuisine, a renowned dining spot in Istanbul. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,399 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop, a must-visit hotspot in the region of Istanbul. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, backed by 874 delighted customers.

As the day draws to a close, bask in the tranquility of Istanbul by night. With memories made and adventures ahead, rest well and embrace the journey anew tomorrow.

Rise and shine for day 7 of your city break in Istanbul! Today, delve deeper into the city's offerings, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. With 6 nights remaining, there's ample time to explore and uncover the heart of Istanbul.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Galata Tower. This much-appreciated tower is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 170,132 reviews.

Next up is Salt Galata. This art gallery has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,200 visitors.

Your discoveries in Istanbul do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Istanbul on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

After or in between exploring, treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nice restaurant in the region. Unwind and enjoy the local flavors and culinary delights while reflecting on the day's adventures.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in İstanbul kebab cafe & restaurant, a distinguished dining establishment in Istanbul. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,220 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Istanbul. At BrusQ Bar & Hookah Lounge, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 5 out of 5 stars by 712 customers.

Reflect on the adventures of the day as you unwind in the comfort of your hotel in Istanbul. Tomorrow holds new possibilities and discoveries!

Get ready for another exciting day in Istanbul on day 8 of your city break! From historical sites to modern attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy. With 5 nights ahead, make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories in Istanbul.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque. This mosque is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 58,559 visitors.

Cafer Paşa Medresesi is another popular attraction you could visit today. This place of worship has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 114 visitors.

Zal Mahmud Pasha Mosque is also highly recommended by travelers. This congregational mosque has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 963 visitors.

Golden Horn is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This ria is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,159 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Istanbul on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Byzantion Bistro Restaurant while you’re in Istanbul. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,165 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Cafe Amedros. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 737 customers.

Savor the memories of an amazing day in Istanbul, Turkey!

As day 9 dawns in Istanbul, embark on another day of exploration and adventure. Discover the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights at your own pace. With 4 nights left, the possibilities for discovery are endless.

Start your day with a visit to Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,268 visitors.

Next, make your way to Ismail Aga Mosque. This top attraction is a mosque with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,735 visitors.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Istanbul, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Istanbul below.

Before you know it, it’s time to head out for dinner. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nice restaurant in Istanbul.

Book a table at Gulhane Sark Sofrasi, a famous dining establishment in Istanbul. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,078 satisfied diners.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Just Bar. This famous bar in Istanbul has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 557 customers.

This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance.

Raise your glass and relax after another amazing day in Istanbul, Turkey.

Wake up to day 10 of your vacation in Istanbul. With 3 nights left, you'll have ample time to explore and savor all Istanbul has to offer.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, a remarkable art museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,577 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Pera Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,868 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 10,000 people visit it every year.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

When it’s time to eat, Istanbul has restaurants and bars to suit all budgets.

Don't forget to book a table at Resto Han, a well-known eatery in Istanbul. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 3,126 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Kybele Hotel, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Kybele Hotel has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 553 customers.

No matter where in Istanbul you end up, an amazing evening of relaxation and enjoyment is guaranteed.

Wake up to day 11 of your exciting city break in Istanbul. You still have 2 nights left in Istanbul, and we recommend that you spend this day relaxing, sightseeing, and dining at the most wonderful places the city has to offer. Here's how you can make the most of today!

Make The Blue Mosque your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mosque an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 93,360 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Sultanahmet Square. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,239 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,254 visitors.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Istanbul has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Istanbul offers and add your favorites to your Turkey travel package below.

Exploring the most popular attractions in Turkey can make you lose track of time. Be sure to grab something to eat at one of the best restaurants in Istanbul.

Reserve your spot at Istanbul Anatolian Cuisine, a popular local restaurant in Istanbul. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 2,545 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Rounder's Irish Pub, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Rounder's Irish Pub boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 453 customers.

Raise a toast and celebrate another memorable day in Istanbul, Turkey!

On day 12 of your city break, you will set out to discover Istanbul, including some of the most amazing things to see and do in the city. You’ll stay 1 night in Istanbul and enjoy plenty of time for exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Grand Bazaar. Previous visitors have rated this bazaar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 147,322 reviews.

Laleli Mosque is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,741 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Turkey that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Istanbul has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Turkey by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

When you’re ready to eat, treat yourself to a nice meal at a top-rated restaurant in the region.

Make sure to reserve a table at Las Tapas Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Istanbul. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 2,052 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Faros Restaurant Old City. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 534 customers.

Wind down and recharge for tomorrow's escapades in Istanbul, Turkey. With each day comes new experiences to cherish and enjoy.

Your city break in Istanbul is coming to an end, and it's soon time to say goodbye to the city. Before you leave, make sure to capture a few last moments to cherish your rejuvenating vacation in Turkey.

Depending on how much time you have to spare on your departure day, you may want to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Downtown Istanbul offers excellent shopping opportunities and is the perfect place to browse for souvenirs and gifts to bring home. Take a walk and discover unique items you can purchase to remind you of your city break in Istanbul.

If you can catch a later flight today, we recommend visiting some of the attractions you may not yet have had the time to explore. This extra time will let you discover more iconic landmarks and hidden gems in Istanbul.

Beyazit Square is an attraction you could visit on your last day in Istanbul. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,033 visitors.

Before you conclude your city break in Istanbul, drop by a top-rated restaurant for your last chance at a memorable dining experience in the city. Savor the destination's vibrant atmosphere over a delicious meal.

As your city break in Istanbul draws to a close, cherish the memories you've made. With your travel plans in place, you're all set for a safe journey home. Until next time, take care and safe travels!