2 day itinerary for Istanbul

Itinerary

Istanbul is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 2 days in Istanbul, with a focus on Balat:

Day 1:

9:00 AM - Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi in Balat. This cozy spot serves up delicious breakfast dishes like menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs), simit (Turkish bagel), and kaymak (clotted cream). 10:00 AM - After breakfast, take a stroll through the colorful streets of Balat. This historic neighborhood is known for its charming Ottoman-era houses, street art, and vintage shops. 11:00 AM - Visit the Chora Church, a stunning Byzantine church that dates back to the 4th century. The church is famous for its intricate mosaics and frescoes. 1:00 PM - Head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here, you can shop for everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. 3:00 PM - Take a break from shopping and visit the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. This stunning mosque is known for its six minarets and beautiful blue tiles. 5:00 PM - End your day with a sunset cruise along the Bosphorus. This scenic boat ride offers stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and the Bosphorus Bridge.

Day 2:

9:00 AM - Start your day with a cup of Turkish coffee at Fazil Bey's Turkish Coffee in Balat. This cozy coffee shop serves up traditional Turkish coffee and delicious pastries. 10:00 AM - Visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, which showcases contemporary Turkish art. The museum is located in a converted warehouse on the Bosphorus and offers stunning views of the water. 12:00 PM - Head to the Topkapi Palace, a sprawling complex that was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans. The palace is home to beautiful gardens, ornate courtyards, and stunning collections of art and artifacts. 3:00 PM - Take a break from sightseeing and indulge in a traditional Turkish hammam (bath) at the Cagaloglu Hamami. This historic bathhouse dates back to the 18th century and offers a luxurious and relaxing experience. 6:00 PM - End your day with a dinner at Forno Balat, a cozy restaurant that serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas and other Italian dishes. The restaurant is located in a restored Ottoman-era building and offers a charming atmosphere.