Istanbul Old City
1 dia

What you'll do

This is the perfect itinerary to visit the old town in Istanbul. You'll get recommendations and activities order in the most important area of Istanbul, perfect to optimize your time and for not missing anything important. This itinerary also includes our recommendations for the best authentic food in the region. Enjoy! :)

Day 1

1

Topkapi Palace Museum

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The most important Ottoman Palace

Topkapi Palace Museum is a masterpiece situated in Istanbul, Turkey and a true stunner. Here visitors can explore the centuries old living quarters of the Ottoman sultans as well as the revered royal treasury, library, imperial council and impressive harem. It's an fascinating journey through time to discover Turkey's rich history and culture. The palace was initially built in 1459 as the administrative centre for the Ottoman Empire and boasts majestic original architecture, beautiful gardens and lavish interior designs. Even more amazing artefacts are housed in the onsite museum within the palace walls, from priceless jewels to antique books to weapons. Topkapi Palace Museum is an absolute must-see for any visitor to Istanbul.

2

Basilica Cistern

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This is a must-see attraction in Istanbul.

Located in the city of Istanbul, Turkey, the Basilica Cistern is an enormous underground chamber covering an area of over 9,800 square meters. This subterranean cistern was built during the 6th century within the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and is known to have been used to hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. Inside the chamber stands 336 marble columns that are thought to have been recycled from ruins of older buildings- a process called 'spoliation'. Even more exciting, the northwest corner holds the bases of two mysterious Medusa column blocks which were brought here after being removed from a building of the late Roman period. Today, the Basilica Cistern is opened to the public for visits that provide a truly unique experience.

3

Kybele Hotel

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Luxury city hotel experience

Just a cute colorful picture spot with a nice architecture and fun colors.

4

Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta

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Delicious historical kofte in Istanbul

Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta is a legendary restaurant in Istanbul, renowned for its delicious Turkish lamb kofte dishes (meatballs). Located in the heart of the city, this rustic venue offers an unforgettable dining experience with its cozy atmosphere and historical vibe. The staff are friendly and attentive, making sure customers are taken care of throughout their meal. Diners can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, such as lentil soup, bean salad, baked rice pudding, and their famous kofte. Enjoy a unique and flavorful culinary journey at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta!

5

Hagia Sophia Mosque

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History of fascinating religious building

Hagia Sophia is one of the most fascinating religious buildings in history. Located in Istanbul, Turkey, it has served as a great Christian basilica, a mosque, and a museum with each chapter of its story leaving behind a unique mark on its impressive architecture and iconic aesthetic. Originally built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537, Hagia Sophia was the largest church in Christendom for almost a millennium. In 1453, the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II transformed it into a mosque, constructing minarets, mihrab, a minbar, and a grand chandelier. Today, Hagia Sophia serves as a museum, preserving both the Islamic features and the Christian mosaic and frescoes which adorn the walls. It is considered to be one of the world’s greatest monuments and it continues to awe visitors from all over the globe each year.

6

The Blue Mosque

Passeio turístico

Stunning Ottoman architecture attraction

The Blue Mosque in Istanbul is a stunning beacon of Ottoman era architecture, having been constructed between 1609 and 1617 during the rule of Ahmed I. It features a classical Ottoman layout, with its impressive central dome surrounded by four semi-domes atop the prayer hall. Inside, it is adorned by thousands of Iznik tiles and colourful floral motifs that have earned it its popular name. The mosque is seen as a rival to the famous Hagia Sophia, and it is no surprise that it is a major tourist attraction. The mosque also includes Ahmed's tomb, a madrasa, and other buildings, earning it's inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1985 under the title 'Historic Areas of Istanbul'.

7

Hippodrome of Constantinople

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Spectacular Byzantine circus in Istanbul

The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a spectacular circus that was the sporting and social center of the capital of the Byzantine Empire. It is estimated that the Hippodrome was about 450 meters long and 130 meters wide, with the carceres (starting gates) at the northern end and the sphendone at the southern end. Today, it is located in Istanbul, Turkey and is known as the Sultanahmet Square. The Hippodrome was surrounded by numerous statues of gods, emperors, animals, heroes, and some renowned works of art, such as Lysippos' Heracles and the 5th Century BC Serpent Column. It was the perfect spot for chariot races and political discussions, and the emperor even had a passage connected to his Great Palace. This marvel has endured through the centuries, and today still offers tourists an amazing experience to witness its ancient wonders.

8

Hafız Mustafa

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Delicious Turkish treat experience. Must-try!

Hafiz Mustafa is a unique treat that anyone in Istanbul must experience. It has been a staple in the city since 1864 and offers an impressive selection of cakes, baklava, Turkish ice cream, and Turkish coffee. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by the kind staff with complimentary Turkish delight. The interior is inviting, and there is seating available for dining as well as take-out counters. There are also amenities such as credit card acceptance, moderate noise levels, and more. If you're craving something sweet or a cup of coffee in Istanbul, Hafiz Mustafa won't disappoint!

9

Seven Hills Restaurant

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Rooftop with nice views of the city

You can come to this rooftop for the perfect picture, it has 360º views of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus as well. They provide leftover food for you to feed the seagulls, it's a very nice experience. You can have a Turkish coffee, some tea, or even breakfast.

10

Grand Bazaar

Passeio turístico

World's largest shopping bazaar

The Grand Bazaar, located in Istanbul, is an enormous shopping center, with over 4,000 shops and outdoor markets. It's one of the world's largest, oldest and most popular tourist attractions, with an estimated 250,000 to 400,000 visitors per day. Architecturally, it's a maze of 61 covered streets, which stretch between the mosques of Beyazit and Nuruosmaniye. Originally built in 1455, the bazaar has undergone various renovations and expansions over time. The complex is home to merchants selling everything from carpets to spices, jewelry, and textiles. With so much to offer, the Grand Bazaar is truly a unique shopping experience that has something for everyone.

11

Nusr-Et Steakhouse Sandal Bedesteni

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Best steak house in town

Nusr-Et Steakhouse Sandal Bedesteni restaurant is a unique dining experience right in the heart of Istanbul, by the famous chef Nusret (the salt bae). Located in the historic and iconic Bedesteni, the steakhouse brings the flavors and aromas of centuries old Ottoman cuisine to life! Diners will be able to try classic Turkish dishes like balik kavurma, sis kofte, and hunkar begendi as well as expertly grilled steaks, all paired perfectly with delicious sides and salads. Enjoy your meal at rustic yet inviting tables while soaking in the atmosphere of this ancient market. For an unforgettable dining experience that's sure to please even the most discerning palates, head over to Nusr-Et Steakhouse Sandal Bedesteni! The Havuc Dilimi is an unforgettable desert as well.