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Istanbul in 2 Days

Istanbul

two days // 12 activities

🕌 Explore the Beauty of Istanbul 🌆
Immerse yourself in the captivating blend of history, culture, and cuisine that Istanbul has to offer. From majestic mosques to delectable local dishes, this itinerary is designed to make the most of your 2-day visit.

Discover the architectural marvels of the Suleymaniye Mosque and Galata Tower before indulging in a traditional meal at OLD KONAK CAFE RESTAURANT. Then, be awed by the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and the mystique of the Basilica Cistern.

On day 2, wander through the Topkapi Palace Museum and Gülhane Park before savoring a delicious meal at Daphne Restaurant. Explore the enchanting Blue Mosque and Sultanahmet Square to complete your unforgettable Istanbul experience.


Here are all our tips for a perfect itinerary of Istanbul in two days!

Day 1

Places visited: Galata Tower, Basilica Cistern

Where to eat: Pranzo presso OLD KONAK CAFE RESTAURANT, Cena presso 79 Cafe Restaurant

1 10:00

Morning

Suleymaniye Mosque

Visit time: 1 hours

Be amazed by the grandeur of the Suleymaniye Mosque!



Looking from Galata or passing by boat along the shores of the Golden Horn, your attention is immediately captured by the Suleymaniye Mosque. Located on top of a hill in the Fatih district, it is a sight to behold. The exterior grandeur is an invitation for a visit inside, leaving you in awe of its size and beauty. In front of the mosque, there is a large lawn where people sit and converse, offering a view of Istanbul.

With its magnificent and important historical significance, the Suleymaniye Mosque is a must-visit attraction in Istanbul. It is less crowded than the mosques in Sultanahmet and offers a spectacular location with views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the interior and admire the tomb of Suleiman the Magnificent and other sultans.

Words cannot fully describe the beauty of this mosque. Plan your visit now and be prepared to be amazed!

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Suleymaniye Mosque
2 11:30

Morning

Galata Tower

Visit time: 1.5 hours

Experience the breathtaking view of Istanbul from the Galata Tower!



Hey there! If you're in Istanbul, you absolutely cannot miss the Galata Tower. It's one of the city's iconic symbols and offers a 360-degree view that is simply magical, especially at sunset. The queue to go up might be a bit long, so I recommend going just before sunset to avoid the crowds. The view from the top is totally worth it!

The tower has an elevator to go up, but you can also take the stairs to explore the two upper floors. Inside, you'll find illustrations, photos, stories, videos, and even souvenirs. The price of admission is definitely worth it for the stunning view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus.

Don't worry if you can't visit the interior, even seeing the tower from afar and taking some close-up photos is impressive. The area around the tower is also beautiful, with lots of shops, bars, and characteristic restaurants. And if you're wondering about the musical instrument shops, they add to the charm of the neighborhood.

So, don't wait any longer! Get your ticket in advance and prepare to be amazed by the unique panorama from the Galata Tower. You won't regret it!

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Galata Tower
3 13:00

Afternoon

OLD KONAK CAFE RESTAURANT

Visit time: 2 hours

Delicious Turkish cuisine awaits you!



Looking for the best Mercimek Çorbasi in town? Look no further! Old Konak Cafe Restaurant serves the most delicious and well-presented dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Their impeccable service will make you feel right at home. Don't miss their mouthwatering Funghi con formaggio antipasto and flavorful Adana kebab. And make sure to try their fantastic chicken wings too! With fresh and hot dishes at decent prices, you'll definitely want to come back for more. Highly recommended by satisfied customers like you!

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OLD KONAK CAFE RESTAURANT
4 15:00

Afternoon

Hagia Sophia

Visit time: 1 hours

Experience the magic of Santa Sophia at night!



Looking for a truly enchanting experience in Istanbul? Look no further than Santa Sophia, a living piece of history. At night, the atmosphere is pure magic, with breathtaking architecture, enormous domes, and ancient mosaics that tell captivating stories.

As the moonlight reflects on the colorful mosaics, you'll be left in awe. Santa Sophia at night is an unforgettable experience that allows you to appreciate the beauty and deep history of Istanbul in a personal and tranquil way.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Santa Sophia!

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Hagia Sophia
5 17:00

Afternoon

Basilica Cistern

Visit time: 1.5 hours

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Discover the hidden beauty of Basilica Cistern!



Are you ready to be amazed? Explore the underground wonder of Basilica Cistern, a hidden gem in Istanbul. Built in the 6th century, this ancient cistern features 336 columns, some adorned with captivating Medusa heads. The mesmerizing play of lights adds a magical touch to the atmosphere. Skip the line and book your tickets online to avoid the wait. Don't miss this unique experience!

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Basilica Cistern
6 19:00

Evening

79 Cafe Restaurant

Visit time: 2 hours

Delicious food and friendly service!



Looking for a place with great food and friendly service? Look no further than 79 Cafe Restaurant! With excellent reviews and a cozy atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-visit in town.

One of the standout dishes is the mouthwatering chicken thigh, cooked to perfection. Another popular choice is the well-seasoned lamb kebab. Both dishes are highly recommended by satisfied customers.

Not only is the food delicious, but the prices are also very reasonable, especially for this area. The staff is known for their warm and welcoming attitude, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the authentic flavors of this place. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, there are options for everyone. The eggplant kebab is a vegetarian delight that will leave you wanting more.

Visit 79 Cafe Restaurant and indulge in a culinary experience like no other!

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79 Cafe Restaurant

Day 2

Places visited: Topkapi Palace Museum, Gülhane Park, Sultanahmet Square

Where to eat: Pranzo presso Daphne Restaurant, Cena presso Beso Restaurant Bistro

1 10:00

Morning

Topkapi Palace Museum

Visit time: 2 hours

Step into the enchanting world of Palazzo Topkapı!



Get ready to be amazed by the centuries-old residence of the sultans. Explore the four courtyards, each with its own unique buildings and pavilions. Marvel at the Byzantine terraces, ancient fountains, and the imperial mint. Don't miss the stunning views of the Bosporus and the Sea of Marmara from the fourth courtyard.

Inside, you'll find a treasure trove of Islamic art and architecture. Take a guided tour to learn more about the palace's rich history. Keep an eye out for the world's largest diamond and be sure to visit the Harem. And don't forget to snap a photo of the breathtaking collection of ancient weapons, jewelry, and Islamic relics.

Located in the heart of Istanbul, Palazzo Topkapı is a must-visit attraction for history and art lovers alike. Get ready to step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty of this fascinating palace.

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Topkapi Palace Museum
2 11:30

Morning

Gülhane Park

Visit time: 2 hours

Discover the enchanting Parco Gülhane!



Escape the bustling streets of Istanbul and immerse yourself in the beauty of Parco Gülhane. This stunning park offers a green oasis with colorful flower beds and artistic hedges. Take a leisurely stroll along the path, relax on the benches, and admire the unique fountains. Don't miss the breathtaking tulip blooms in spring!

Whether you want to unwind or explore, Parco Gülhane is the perfect place. And while you're here, make sure to visit the fascinating museum located within the park. It's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered!

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Gülhane Park
3 13:00

Afternoon

Daphne Restaurant

Visit time: 2 hours

Delicious food and live music!



Looking for a place with a great atmosphere, delicious food, and live music? Look no further! Daphne Restaurant is the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends. With a diverse menu and reasonable prices, you'll be sure to find something you love. Don't miss their mouthwatering Iskander dish, it's a must-try! The friendly and professional staff will make you feel right at home. Come and experience the most relaxing atmosphere in town!

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Daphne Restaurant
4 15:00

Afternoon

The Blue Mosque

Visit time: 1 hours

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Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Mosque!



Looking for a must-visit attraction in Istanbul? Look no further than the Blue Mosque! This majestic and imposing mosque is a sight to behold, visible from various points in the city. Step inside (remember to remove your shoes!) and prepare to be amazed by the stunning interior. Admission is free, making it even more appealing. To make the most of your visit, consider going in the late afternoon or evening to avoid the crowds and the scorching sun. Don't forget to cover your head and arms (if you don't have anything suitable, there's a kiosk that can provide you with the necessary items). And remember, bring a bag for your shoes and maybe an extra pair of socks, as the carpet has quite the memory 😉

With its rich decorations and historical significance, the Blue Mosque is a top choice for both locals and tourists. It's a sacred place for Muslims, and while it may not have personally impressed one reviewer as much as Christian churches, it's still worth a visit to experience the unique culture. The mosque is conveniently located near the iconic Hagia Sophia in the historic center of Istanbul, which is a pedestrian zone. So, what are you waiting for? Come and explore the architectural and stylistic beauty of the Blue Mosque, both inside and out!

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The Blue Mosque
5 17:00

Afternoon

Sultanahmet Square

Visit time: 1.5 hours

Discover the wonders of Sultanahmet Square!



Looking for a fascinating and beautiful attraction? Look no further than Sultanahmet Square! This square is home to two stunning tourist attractions: the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, as well as the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace. With its well-maintained park, benches, and a beautiful illuminated fountain, it's the perfect place to relax and take in the sights.

Once an ancient Roman hippodrome, Sultanahmet Square has a rich history as the former court of Byzantine emperors and Ottoman sultans. It's always bustling with tourists and locals, especially on weekends.

Don't miss the chance to explore the architectural beauty and intricate decorations of the Blue Mosque. Remember to remove your shoes at the entrance and, ladies, bring a scarf or pashmina to cover your head during the visit. The stunning stained glass windows were crafted by Venetian artisans.

Make sure to also visit the remnants of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, located next to the Blue Mosque. Take a seat on a bench and imagine the ancient chariot races and festivities that once took place here. You can still see three surviving monuments: the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine VII.

With its rich history and breathtaking sights, Sultanahmet Square is a must-visit destination in Istanbul. Don't miss out!

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Sultanahmet Square
6 19:00

Evening

Beso Restaurant Bistro

Visit time: 2 hours

Try the delicious kebabs!



Looking for a good restaurant near Sultanahmet Square? Look no further! Beso Restaurant Bistro offers a variety of fish dishes that are not only tasty but also creatively presented. And if you're lucky, you might even get a visit from some adorable kittens!

The staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring a perfect dining experience. They also have a great selection of wines, which is not always easy to find in Turkey.

But the real highlight here are the kebabs. They are incredibly delicious, and the staff goes above and beyond to make sure you enjoy every bite. Don't miss out on this culinary delight!

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Beso Restaurant Bistro

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