For a relaxing day in Istanbul, Turkey, try some of the following ideas:

Breakfast in Ulus Park
Ulus Park is located on one of the hills that faces the Bosphorus and the first suspension bridge. There is a restaurant in the park where you can enjoy an omelet and fresh orange juice, or a continental breakfast.

Stroll through Akmerkez
Akmerkez is a very big shopping mall, located near to Ulus Park. You can either shop or just sit down and observe the local people out shopping.

Visit Ortakoy area and have lunch
Take a taxi from Akmerkez to Ortakoy. Ortakoy is an area which is full of restaurants, bars and art galleries. You can visit the art galleries, sit on a bench by the Bosphorus and gaze at the passing ships, or browse in the many small jewelry shops. There are many options for snacks, meals or just a coffee over a game of backgammon.

Walk in the narrow streets of Beyoglu and Pera
Start walking from the entrance of Istiklal Street but be sure to get off the main street for some of the time - the pleasant side streets await discovery too. At the end of the Istiklal Street, you will see one of the oldest subways in the world, called 'Tunel', built in 1876. On the other side of it, you will find a cafe, called 'KV'. Stop by for a beverage.

Watch the sunset from Galata Tower
Continue to Galata Tower which was built in the 15th century. Watch the sun set over the whole city from the tower.

Have dinner in Hamam Restaurant in Sarayburnu area
Go back to the Tunel area. Take the Tunel metro (consists of only 1 stop) to the Karakoy area. Walk across the Golden horn on Galata Bridge and see the fishermen. After you pass to the other side, take a taxi to Sepetciler Kasri. End your day by having dinner in 'Hammam' restaurant in Sepetciler Kasri.

Plan to visit the rest of the gems in Turkey
There are lots of special places all around the country and if you have more time to visit outside of Istanbul, check our Turkey vacations planning section for tips and itineraries.