Istanbul is best enjoyed when you mix a little culture with good food and drinks. From palaces by the Bosphorus to lively neighborhoods and cozy wine houses, the city has plenty to offer in just one day. Below you’ll find one of our favorite routes to experience that mix. And if you’d like even more handpicked spots, hidden corners, and food tours, you can always check our Istanbul Guidebook — it’s packed with tips to make exploring easier (and tastier)
🏰 Dolmabahçe Palace – Start your day by visiting one of Istanbul’s most iconic and glamorous palaces, right by the Bosphorus.
☕ Dolmabahçe Café – Take a break with a drink and enjoy a stunning view of Istanbul’s waterside elegance.
🚡 Beşiktaş – Head to lively Beşiktaş for a street food walk using our curated restaurant list. It’s a bustling neighborhood full of flavor, energy, and local eats.
🕌 Ortaköy Mosque – Visit one of Istanbul’s most picturesque mosques, located right under the bridge that connects Europe and Asia. The view here is unforgettable!
↩ Then head back to Beşiktaş to catch a ferry.
🍷 Optional Experience:
Bosphorus Yacht Cruise – Enjoy a scenic sunset cruise with music and wine while gliding between continents.
🕌 Afternoon
🌶 Kadıköy – Take the ferry from Beşiktaş to Kadıköy and explore the Asian side’s vibrant food and drink culture. Use our favorite picks or just follow your taste buds!
🍷 Viktor Levi Wine House – Craving something cozy? Tucked away in Kadıköy’s backstreets, this charming wine house is perfect for sampling delicious Turkish wines.
🚢 Your Choice – From Kadıköy, take a ferry wherever the night takes you. Want to keep the vibe going? Galataport is always a great spot for more drinks and Bosphorus views.
🍇 Optional Experience
Join a private chef on her beautiful Bosphorus viewed house for a hands on cooking. workshop and enjoying more wine in a beautiful terrace.
⎻ For Yacht Cruise: Sunset & Music & Wine, click here!
⎻ For Chef’s Terrace Bosphorus Dinner, click here!
Enjoy your day, taste everything you can, and let Istanbul surprise you!
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