Istanbul

Oh, how exciting! Istanbul is a food lover's paradise, so you and your dad are in for a treat. Here's a delightful 5-day itinerary for you both:

Day 1:

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi in the lively neighborhood of Beşiktaş. After breakfast, head to the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to marvel at their stunning architecture. For lunch, indulge in some delicious kebabs at Hamdi Restaurant with a view of the Golden Horn. In the afternoon, explore the Grand Bazaar for some shopping and tasting of Turkish delights. End your day with a relaxing dinner cruise on the Bosphorus, enjoying the beautiful views of the city at night.

Day 2:

Begin your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar to sample some Turkish delights and buy spices to take home. Then, take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul and have lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its authentic Turkish cuisine. Explore the Kadıköy neighborhood and visit Moda for some coffee and dessert at a local cafe. In the evening, head back to the European side and have dinner at the trendy Karaköy Lokantası.

Day 3:

Today, start your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace to learn about the history of the Ottoman Empire. For lunch, try some fresh seafood at the famous Karaköy Balıkçısı. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoğlu and take a stroll down Istiklal Avenue for some shopping and street food. End your day with a traditional Turkish dinner at Asitane Restaurant, known for its Ottoman cuisine.

Day 4:

Embark on a food tour of Istanbul today to taste a variety of Turkish dishes from different regions. Visit local markets, bakeries, and restaurants to sample mezes, kebabs, baklava, and more. In the evening, attend a Turkish cooking class to learn how to make some of your favorite dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner.

Day 5:

On your last day, take a day trip to the Princes' Islands for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Rent bikes or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the islands and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the sea. In the evening, head back to Istanbul and have a farewell dinner at Ciya Kebap in Kadıköy.

I hope this itinerary helps you and your dad have a wonderful time exploring Istanbul's culinary delights! Bon appétit!