The call to prayer rising above the Bosphorus, the scent of spices drifting through centuries-old bazaars, the shimmer of mosaics inside Byzantine domes — Istanbul is a city that stirs the senses at every turn. Here, East and West meet not just in geography but in taste, texture, and rhythm, creating a city that is as intoxicating as it is timeless.
A short round-up of Istanbul’s must-see sights…
- The Grand Bizarre and Spice Market: The flavours of Asia, Europe and the Middle East collide in colourful rows of spices, and cubes of fresh Turkish delight tempt even the most reluctant sweet-toothed travellers. Known for haggling, you will find it a challenge to leave all the handmade ceramics, dazzling lamps, and artisan delicacies behind without making at least one purchase.
- Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque: Both stand tall above the Bosphorus in Sultanahmet Square, a spectacle of ceramic tiles, vibrant colours, and sacred beauty. Once the principal church of the Byzantine Empire, Hagia Sophia was built on the site of an ancient Roman temple. The majestic Blue Mosque followed during the Ottoman Empire, and is still used for worship today.
- The Galata Tower: A medieval Genoese tower located in the bustling area of Beyoğlu. It’s a striking centrepiece of the city and is jumbled between quaint cafés and boutiques.
...and a longer look at Istanbul’s lesser-known spots
Zeyrek Çinili Hamam
Bathe in history at this 500-year-old traditional Turkish bathhouse, tucked away in the Fatih District. Prepare to be scrubbed and pampered from head to toe — you’ll leave feeling reborn (yes, there’s a treatment called that).
The Princes' Islands
For a tranquil pause, visit these nine tiny islands in the Sea of Marmara. The only sounds you’ll hear are bicycle bells and footsteps as you wander through narrow lanes lined with untouched pine forests and charming wooden Victorian cottages. Büyükada is the largest of the nine, and many locals retreat here when the city begins to feel overwhelming.
Pierre Loti Hill
Located on the European side of Istanbul, this peaceful hilltop offers a slower, sleepier way to soak in the city’s views — especially of the Golden Horn, which made it into the pages of Aziyadé by French writer, Pierre Loti, who used to come and daydream on these very slopes.
What — and where — to eat in Istanbul
For those in search of a sweet treat to break up the afternoon, Viyana Kahvesi serves the best Basque cheesecake in town. Shaded by the Galata Tower, it’s the perfect spot to sit back and watch the world go by. Others make a pilgrimage to Köşkeroğlu for its now legendary baklava, where each honey-sweet bite is crafted using the finest ingredients by Türkiye’s top baklava artisans.
After a high-step-count day around the city, head to Antakya Mutfağı in Taksim. This is a case of not judging a book by its cover — or an entrance, for that matter. Once inside, sit down and enjoy mezes, kebabs, and all your Turkish favourites. Be sure to order the beyti kebab, which has become a staple for both locals and tourists alike.
If you’re looking to level up your dining experience, head to Nicole Restaurant at TomTom Suites for a Michelin-starred culinary experience. Menu highlights include the catch-of-the-day and homemade kunefe (a sweet, cheesy pastry). Toast to the city’s mesmerising skyline with one of your five wine pairings.
Where to stay
Vakko Hotel & Residence Sumahan Bosphorus... Perched on the banks of the sea strait, French architects have breathed new life into this centuries-old Ottoman distillery. Wake to sunrise on the water and get serenaded to sleep with Jazz at Caviar Kaspia. For an obligatory cruise down the Bosphorus, hop on the Vakko boat which runs every half hour from Kuruçeşme to Çengelköy.
Vakko Hotel & Residence... In the stylish heart of Nişantaşı, these butler-serviced residences enjoy exclusive access to the brand’s fashion and lifestyle universe and a gourmet restaurant worth reserving ahead of time. From penthouse terraces with sweeping views to in-room couture consultations, this sophisticated stay builds on the fashion-loaded heritage of the Vakko name.
Tomtom Suites... This lovingly restored former convent is now a chic boutique hotel with 20 spacious suites, hidden in the cool, cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Beyoğlu. The stylish interiors are dressed in original works of art, there’s a rooftop terrace bar with sweeping Bosphorus views, a library, and a knockout restaurant.
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