$10 back on your first eligible booking — in the RatedOtels app only. Get the app Terms
BOOK
Food and drink

2 Days in Istanbul — Food & Wine

foodie wine-tasting istanbul culinary city-break
Length
2 days
Stops
9
2 Days in Istanbul — Food & Wine
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
SEARCH

What this plan covers

This two-day itinerary is designed for the epicurean traveler eager to dive deep into Istanbul's vibrant food culture and discover its growing appreciation for local wines. You'll explore historic markets, indulge in traditional and modern Turkish cuisine, and experience the city's unique blend of flavors and traditions. It's perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Istanbul.

Food 6 Shopping 1 Activity 2

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 10 hrs
1

Van Kahvaltı Evi

Food 1.5 hours

Experience a sprawling, authentic Turkish breakfast spread, a cornerstone of Istanbul's culinary tradition.

Good to know

Expect a bustling atmosphere; arrive early to secure a table, especially on weekends, to enjoy the full experience.

2

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

Shopping 2 hours

Immerse your senses in a vibrant array of spices, teas, Turkish delights, and dried fruits, essential ingredients in Turkish cuisine.

Good to know

Engage with vendors and sample products, but be prepared to politely decline if not interested in purchasing.

3

Hamdi Restaurant

Food 2 hours

Savor expertly prepared kebabs and traditional Turkish dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.

Good to know

Request a table on the upper floors for the best vantage points of the city's iconic waterways.

4

Bosphorus Cruise

Activity 2 hours

Enjoy the iconic Istanbul skyline and waterfront mansions from the water, often accompanied by tea or light snacks available on board.

Good to know

Opt for a public ferry from Eminönü for an authentic and cost-effective way to experience the Bosphorus.

5

Neolokal

Food 2.5 hours

Indulge in contemporary Anatolian cuisine with a focus on sustainable, local ingredients and a well-curated wine list featuring Turkish selections.

Good to know

Reservations are essential for this popular fine dining spot, known for its innovative approach to traditional flavors.

Day 2 4 stops · about 8.5 hrs
6

Istiklal Avenue & Çiçek Pasajı

Food 2 hours

Wander through a vibrant historic passage and explore the bustling avenue, sampling diverse street food like döner, kokoreç, or mussels.

Good to know

Explore the numerous side streets branching off Istiklal for hidden gems and local eateries offering authentic snacks.

7

Cooking Class at Istanbul Culinary Institute

Activity 3 hours

Learn to prepare classic Turkish dishes from scratch, deepening your understanding of the cuisine's techniques and ingredients.

Good to know

Book your spot in advance to ensure availability, as classes often have limited capacity and fill up quickly.

8

Sensus Wine & Cheese (Galata)

Food 1.5 hours

Discover the emerging Turkish wine scene with a guided tasting of local varietals, expertly paired with a selection of Turkish cheeses.

Good to know

Engage with the knowledgeable staff for recommendations on unique local grape varietals and their origins.

9

Çiya Sofrası (Kadıköy)

Food 2 hours

Experience a beloved local institution known for its authentic, rotating menu of regional Anatolian dishes, offering a true taste of Turkish home cooking.

Good to know

Cross to the Asian side via ferry; arrive early for dinner as it's a very popular spot and does not take reservations.

Where to stay

Hotels in Istanbul

Book direct on our own Istanbul hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Istanbul

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Istanbul itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Istanbul, from our own travel research.

Back to the Istanbul guide
Take RatedOtels with you
Cashback on eligible app bookings only, credited after check-out. Terms
$10 back on your 1st app booking
App bookings only · Terms
Get app