5-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 4 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Beyazit Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,152 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.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Istanbul by reserving a table at Calipso Fish. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Sankai by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Arkestra, a local favorite known for its delightful fusion cuisine in Istanbul. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning fusion foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, BrusQ Bar & Hookah Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Rounder's Irish Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

This is the time to raise a toast for your 5-day city break in Istanbul! Savor the moment and look forward to immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, stunning sights, and local delicacies of the city for the next few days to come!

Wake up to day 2 of your vacation in Istanbul. With 3 nights left, you'll have ample time to explore and savor all Istanbul has to offer.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rahmi M. Koç Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 24,022 reviews.

Galata Tower is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 172,160 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Dolmabahçe Clock Tower. This clock tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,106 reviews.

Dolmabahçe Palace is another outstanding experience in Istanbul. Around 77,834 travelers have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Saltanat Fish & Kebab House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, By Ferro Fish & Kebab Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ulus 29. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Istanbul tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Karga Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Just Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

Rise and shine for day 3 of your city break in Istanbul! Today, delve deeper into the city's offerings, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. With 2 nights remaining, there's ample time to explore and uncover the heart of Istanbul.

Kick off the day at The Blue Mosque, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mosque is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 95,369 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sultanahmet Square. Sultanahmet Square is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,594 reviews.

Grand Bazaar is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 150,014 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Egyptian Bazaar. This bazaar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,628 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Suleymaniye Mosque, a famous mosque in Istanbul. This attraction is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 53,090 travelers.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Çağrı Restaurant & Cafe Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Resto Han? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old English Pub ® Cafe & Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Istanbul.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your exciting city break in Istanbul. You still have 1 night 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!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Topkapi Palace Museum. This much-appreciated palace is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 97,459 reviews. Each year, 1,932,726 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 129,265 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Basilica Cistern. This palace has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 71,523 reviews.

Gülhane Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,194 reviews.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Vamos Estambul Restaurant & Cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hanzade Terrace Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss 11 Kadıköy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Istanbul.

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

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.

Galata Bridge is an attraction you could visit on your last day in Istanbul. This bascule bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,633 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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Harp Irish Pub, another premier location with a delectable menu.

As you prepare to leave Istanbul, remember the moments of joy, discovery, and connection you've experienced in Turkey. Carry them with you as souvenirs of your journey, guiding you as you continue to explore and create new memories.