Venture to Turkey with The Asia Collective’s ultimate Istanbul travel guide to explore everything the buzzing metropolis has to offer – from vibrant rooftop bars and luxury hotels, to quaint alleyways, cobblestone streets and wonderful historical sites.
Istanbul is truly a city where you can see modernity sprouting from century-old surrounds, with local hipsters enjoying piccolo lattes from hole in the wall historical buildings. Keep on reading our extensive Istanbul travel guide to reveal the best the vibrant city has to offer – from the 20 must-do’s and the most relaxing hammams to the best hotels, restaurants and cafés you cannot miss when staying in this colourful city!
ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE – 20 MUST DOS IN ISTANBUL
TRENDY ISTANBUL – GALATA & KARAKOY AREA
A great place to start your trip in Istanbul – Europe’s largest city – is the Galata Tower, conveniently hoisted on a hillside with a great vantage point to see all sides of the Bosphorus including, Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, the dense residential zone and CBD downtown area and across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of Turkey.
While the Galata Tower itself is a historical site well worth seeing, the 1,500-year-old lighthouse offers a 360-degree vantage point ideal for anyone to plot their itinerary.
Istanbul Travel Guide: Here are the must-visit tips in the city’s coolest Galata and Karakoy neighbourhoods.
1. DRINK TURKISH COFFEE. Right in the heart of Istanbul, you can find Mandabatmaz serving the best of this traditional and aromatic drink that will get you through the day of exploration. As the Turkish proverb deems it to be, coffee at Mandabatmaz is black as hell, strong as death, and sweet as love.
2. HAVE TURKISH BREAKFAST. Take your time when waking in the morning, like many European cities, Istanbul’s cafes and restaurants start the day at a relaxed pace. A walk around Galata’s trendy hillside cobblestone streets is a must, and search for Privato Café, a quaint alleyway restaurant with cozy surrounds serving one of the best traditional Turkish breakfasts in Istanbul.
3. VISIT THE GALATA TOWER. After breakfast, beat the crowds and head up to the Galata Tower to take in the breathtaking views. The sunset is also great from the tower, however, the popularity often causes large crowds and queuing, so find one of the many other vantage points on offer in the city.
4. STROLL ALONG ISTIKLAL AVENUE AND TAKE HISTORIC TRAM. Start at Taksim Square and walk along the elegant Istiklal Avenue to discover a range of boutique shops such as bookstores, patisseries, cafes, and art galleries. From there, you can make your way to the mid-14th century Galata Tower by taking the historical tram to Karaköy stop.
5. GO SHOPPING IN ISTANBUL’S TRENDIEST NEIGHGBOURHOOD. Take a walk down the hill into the Karaköy neighbourhood and discover the hip boutiques, vintage shopping laneways, and trendy cafes for lunch such as Karabatak Cafe.
6. TRY A TURKISH HAMMAM. Have a Turkish bath at the famous Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami in Karakoy. Nestled alongside a beautiful mosque in a great neighbourhood this particular bathhouse follows the traditional customs of segregating by gender, in the mornings for women and afternoon into the evenings for men, so try and time it according to the company you are travelling with. If you have separate timings your spouse will be more than happy in one of the trendy cafe’s or browsing the Istanbul Modern Art Museum.
7. EAT A KEBAB. Dodge the tourist traps and head to Zubeyir Ocakbasisi for an authentic kebab experience – think tender barbecued meat cooked to perfection paired with fresh vegetables, cozy ambience and friendly staff. A classic meal to whet your appetite.
THE OLD ISTANBUL – SULTANAHMET AREA
Known as the historical Old Town of Istanbul, Sultanahmet will take you for a journey back in time. Rich from all the city’s most ancient treasures, it is recommended to those venturing here to not only visit the historical sites and shop at the bazaars but to take time to sit back and reflect its beauty from the comfort of some of the coolest rooftop bars.
Istanbul Travel Guide: Here’s the must-visit tips in the city’s oldest Sultanahmet neighbourhood.
8. WALK ACROSS GALATA BRIDGE. Step into the old district of Istanbul with a walk via the Galata Bridge, spanning across the Golden Horn and connecting the old city with Beyoglu. The view at Galata Bridge is best during sunset where the pink sky serves as a stunning backdrop to the city.
9. VISIT THE SPICE BAZAAR. One of the largest bazaars in the city, the Spice Bazaar offers endless stalls of unique spices, Turkish delights, cheap souvenirs, dried fruits and nuts. Even if you’re not one to shop for spices, stroll through to experience the hustle and bustle of vendors, aromatic scent of spices in the air, and vibrant colours of the bazaar.
10. VISIT HAGIA SOPHIA & BLUE MOSQUE. In the city where East meets West, Istanbul is home to The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia both conveniently located within walking distance of one another. Arrive early before the crowd kicks in to witness the juxtaposition of an impressive mosque representing the eastern world, and a just as stunning church of Hagia Sophia, a treasure from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
11. TAKE AN UNDERGROUND JOURNEY TO BASILICA CISTERN. Take a journey underground to the ‘Indiana Jones-esque’ Basilica Cistern, which has been the site for many famed Hollywood films. This historical underground treasure is the largest surviving cistern in Istanbul, with stone columns, ancient carvings and statues dating as far back as year 532.
12. GO RUG SHOPPING AT THE GRAND BAZAAR. Get lost wandering through the colourful labyrinth of The Grand Bazaar, located in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City. Here you can shop and haggle for a traditional Turkish rug, oriental pillows, hanging lamps and many more!
13. HAVE A SUNDOWNER AT A’YA ROOFTOP LOUNGE. Have a drink at A’YA Rooftop Lounge at Four Seasons Sultanahmet to enjoy the incredible views of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus in stylish surroundings. This is the prime location to watch the stars slowly emerge over Istanbul whilst enjoying a refreshing cocktail or two.
14. STROLL THROUGH TOPKAPI PALACE. What once was the residence of Ottoman sultans in the 15th century, Topkapi Palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site open to those looking to soak in some history. Magnificent gardens overlooking Bosphorus topped with precious relics, Topkapi Palace will transport you immediately to the heydays of the sultan empire.
15. SMOKE A SHISHA & DRINK TURKISH TEA AT CORLULU ALI PASA. Time stands still in this 300-year-old Medrese known as Çorlulu Ali Paşa. A short walk from the Beyazit stop, you’ll find wafting aromas of fruity shisha and Turkish tea, low wooden chairs and hanging lanterns at Çorlulu Ali Paşa. A favourite among old and young locals, Çorlulu Ali Paşa is the place to go for an authentic experience.
MODERN ISTANBUL – ORTAKOY & BEBEK AREA
Wander between Ortakoy and Bebek and you’ll quickly find yourself in the upscale neighbourhood overlooking the sea. Bebek is considered one of the nicest neighbourhood of the Bosphorus, located on the European side of Istanbul. Witness seaside homes, fancy yachts, and plentiful of swanky restaurants to explore. Come here to take long walks and enjoy a lazy day.
Istanbul Travel Guide: Here are our must-visit Istanbul tips in the city’s modern Ortakoy and Bebek neighbourhood.
16. HAVE SUNDAY BRUNCH AT RAFFLES ISTANBUL. Famous for Sunday Brunch with a difference, no culinary expense is spared with Raffles’s Mediterranean cuisine with a Turkish influence, including seafood and sushi offerings, fresh prawns, crab and lobster, as well as cold meats, dips and cheeses and hidden desserts room a mouth-watering selection of sweet delights. The must-haves include the injectable chocolate and vanilla eclair. Raffles attracts a well-heeled crowd on Sundays, creating a vibrant and trendy atmosphere as Veuve Clicquot Champagne dazzles the room.
17. TAKE A BOSPHORUS BOAT CRUISE. Hop on a Bosphorus boat cruise for 90 minutes to get wonderful views of the city’s amazing landmarks, including Dolmabahce Palace and Ortakoy Mosque, as well taking a look into the rich and famous waterside mansions further up the river. A return ticket should cost no more than 15 Turkish Liras.
18. VISIT ARNAVUTKOY. Move over Karakoy, Arnavutköy (between Bebek and Ortakoy) is quickly making a name for itself as the next cool-place-to-be. Originally a casual local hang out for fish restaurants with Bosphorus views, Arnavutköy is now attracting the city’s trendsetters with stylish restaurants and bars opening up along the waterfront. We recommend The Hudson for quality casual bites downstairs or fine dining upstairs and Any Restaurant for NYE/London city vibes.
19. VISIT ORTAKOY MOSQUE. With the Bosphorus Bridge standing in the background overlooking the waterside, the Ortakoy Mosque is set in the most picturesque spot. This Baroque styled mosque features large windows for natural light to flow in, creating a surreal atmosphere. The Ortakoy Mosque is best admired with a coffee in hand from The House Cafe located nearby.
20. DEVOUR TURKISH STREET FOOD KUMPIR AT ORTAKOY. Hands down Ortaköy is THE place to indulge in this delightfully savoury local Turkish dish. Stroll along cobblestone path of Ortaköy to find a row of kumpir stalls for your choice. Fluffy baked potatoes stuffed with butter, grated cheese, topped with an array of fillings that are not your typical choices. Pickled red cabbage, sliced sausage, black olives, garlic yogurt sauce are just among the few examples. Get creative with mixing and matching your favourite toppings for a hearty treat!
5 BEST RESTAURANTS IN ISTANBUL
CECCONI’S
Address: Evliya Çelebi Mahallesi, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:56, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm-12am / Sunday, 11am-4pm; 6pm-10pm / Closed Mondays
Instagram: @cecconisistanbul
With worldwide locations, Italian fine dining restaurant Cecconi’s is not to be missed in Istanbul. Set in an airy courtyard of a 19th century Palazzo Corpi Building with lush surroundings and chic interior, Cecconi’s features a selection of hand-made pasta, seafood, cicchetti and dishes from Northern Italy using only the best ingredients. Spacious open kitchen with bar and relaxed atmosphere, Cecconi’s is the best location for an Italian fare with friends. The brunch, only available on Sundays, is not be missed either!
MEZE BY LEMON TREE
Address: Asmalı Mescit Mahallesi, Meşrutiyet Cd. 83/B, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm-11pm
Based on the Turkish dish “Meze”, which are small appetizers of various vegetables, seafood and meat served along raki or wine, Meze by Lemon Tree brings a twist on this traditional cuisine. With a variety of cold and warm meze, mains and desserts, Meze by Lemon Tree boasts diverse flavours and ingredients reflecting the culture and history of Turkish cuisine that will be sure to please your palate. Set in a cozy and simple atmosphere, Meze by Lemon Tree is perfect for an intimate dinner with your loved ones.
KARAKOY LOKANTASI
Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mh., Kemankeş Cd. 3, A, 34425 Karaköy/Beyoğlu
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm-12am
Created with the concept of a traditional esnaf lokantasi with a stylish interior (think patterned tiles and spiral staircase) and friendly service, Karakoy Locantasi is a longtime favourite spot for Istanbulites in-the-know. Located in a narrow street close to the Bosphorus, Karaköy Lokantası is known for offering consistently-delicious Turkish cuisine at reasonable prices. Karaköy Lokantası’s homestyle dishes are what keeps the customers rolling, including the charred eggplants on the grill, tender morsels of slow-cooked lamb drizzled with red gravy. By nighttime, this place turns into a magical taverna.
ZUBEYIR OCAKBASI
Address: Şehit Muhtar Mahallesi, Bekar Sk. No:28, 34435 Beyoğlu
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm-12am
Head to Zubeyir Ocakbasi for a quick and authentic kebab experience- a must-have when in Istanbul! A big meal that will satisfy your tastebuds, Zubeyir Ocakbasi can be considered as the hidden gem in Taksim Square. Come here with room to try their dishes, from Turkish pizza to Lamb Shish, charcoal grilled vegetables and marinated onions. Don’t be surprised if you’re the only non-local here!
ZUMA
Address: İstinye Mahallesi, Bayır Çk. No:461, 34460 Sarıyer
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm-12am
Instagram: @zumaistanbul
Award-winning London based restaurant Zuma has gloriously found its way to Istanbul. Located in the fashion district of the city, Zuma showcases modern Japanese cuisine that is famously authentic but not traditional. Trendy interior and stylish atmosphere do not disappoint at Zuma. Designed as sharing plates, each dish offers a variety of textures and bold flavours to please your tastebuds. Signature dishes such as Miso Marinated Black Cod and Japanese Rice Hotpot with Mushroom and Truffle will leave you wanting more.
BEST RESTAURANTS WITH A VIEW
SUNSET GRILL & BAR
Address: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Yol Sk. No:2, 34345 Ulus / Beşiktaş/Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 12p-3pm for lunch; Daily from 7pm-12am for dinner
Instagram: @sunsetgrillbar
Since its opening in the early 90s, Sunset Grill & Bar remains one of the top restaurants in Istanbul for fine dining paired with an unbeatable view of the Bosphorus, Bosphorus Bridge and Asian shoreline. Set in the upscale neighbourhood of Ulus, Sunset Grill & Bar is the perfect place for sunset drinks, followed by a delicious dinner of international selection.
The Sunset Grill & Bar’s proudly presents an extensive menu with a vast choice of specialties from Mediterranean, Turkish, and New Japanese cuisine. Thanks to Istanbul’s ever-evolving flow of diverse guests seen throughout the years, Sunset Grill & Bar caters carefully to its guests while keeping its dishes fresh and updated.
Feel at ease when choosing your dish, from the juicy selection of meats to grill to the exotic Sushi Bar, you can expect each dish to be perfected from award-winning chefs, ensuring a satisfied appetite!
360 ISTANBUL
Address: Tomtom Mahallesi, Istiklal Cd No:8 D:163, 34433 Beyoğlu/Tepebaşı/Beyoğlu
Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm- 2am / Friday & Saturday, 12pm-4am
Instagram: @360istanbul
Located in a trendy penthouse above on a 19th-century apartment building, 360 offers a spacious terrace with sweeping views of the city. You can enjoy a fabulous Turkish wine or cocktail while gazing out to the Bosphorus Strait from 360. Grab your friends for a dining experience that brings a twist on the modern Turkish meze fused with international cuisine. From sharing mezes such as Bulgar Beef Tartar made in sushi style, to legendary main courses including the Pulled Lamb Tandir or Lobster Arrabiatta Pasta, 360 has it all.
When the weekend arrives, the restaurant is transformed into a hip club called Club360, bringing live DJs, vocalists, dancers, and good vibes!
5.KAT RESTAURANT
Address: Cihangir Mahallesi, Soğancı Sk. No:7, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10am-1am / Friday-Sunday, 11:30am-2:30am
Step into the “5th Floor Restaurant”, also known as 5.kat, for a unique adventure of art, taste, and style. Since its opening in 1993, 5.kat has seen its fair share of unique parties, unforgettable concerts, cultural events and notable artists past through its doors. With an unbeatable view of little red rooftops of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait, 5.kat boasts impeccable service and exquisite dishes. For over two decades, 5.kat stays true to its young and artistic soul and continues to be one of the most special places in Istanbul. 5.kat offers a range of simple and fresh dishes both western and local, such as its mouthwatering Homemade Ravioli or the special 5.kat Shaslip Kebap.
Sit back in the 5.kat patio (you can ask for blankets if it gets too chilly) with your loved one with a glass of wine, followed by a delectable meal paired with a stellar view for a romantic and cozy experience. It doesn’t get any better than this.
MIKLA
Address: The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15, 34430, Beyoğlu, İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm-2am
Instagram: @themarmarahotels
At Mikla, expect to enjoy stellar dishes with a mesmerizing view over the Gold Horn and Old City. Created by renowned, award-winning Chef Mehmet Gürs, Mikla was voted best restaurant in Istanbul right after its opening in 2005 and has made into the “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” 51st-100th list in 2015. Mikla prides themselves in carefully sourcing the best ingredients in Istanbul and all around Turkey while transforming ingredients into humble dishes reflecting the tradition and land in which it was found. A selection of Turkish dishes, fresh seafood such as Seabass and Prawns or opt or some melt-in-your-mouth Braised Lamb or Beef Rib Steak. Feeling adventurous and hungry? Try their impressive 7-course tasting menu (with superb wine pairing) for a gastronomic journey to a happy belly!
BANYAN RESTAURANT
Address: Muallim Naci Caddesi, Salhane Sokak, No.3 Ortaköy
Opening Hours: Daily, 2pm-1am
Located on the top floor of a historical building in the heart of the bustling Ortaköy Iskelesi lies Banyan, serving flavourful Asian fusion cuisine unique to the city. Their motto, “food for the soul,” brings hearty Asian dishes made with healthy ingredients. Seabass wrapped in a banana leaf, Sichuan pepper steak, Asian beef, chicken. Duck satays served on mini charcoal bbq, and a variety of steamed Chinese ‘Dim Sums’ are some of their most loved. From the top of the restaurant, you can enjoy live jazz at sunset overlooking the fishing village of Ortaköy.
Simple pleasures of homestyle cooking, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff make Banyan one of the best places to enjoy a night out with friends or loved ones.
LEB-I DERYA
Address: Kumbaracı Yokuşu, Kumbaracı İş Hanı, No: 57/6 Tünel, Beyoğlu İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 4pm-1am
Serving innovative international dishes with modern twists on some Turkish classics, Leb-i Derya is the hip and happening place to be. Step into the restaurant and you’ll find a mixture of glass walls and wood furnishings complementing the space to create a contemporary atmosphere. Amazing dishes include Beef Carpaccio or choose from a series of meze options to start. Dive into the main course with delicious meats such as the Lamb Shish with plums, and seafood selection.
With a stunning view and a collection of mouthwatering cocktails and internationally-selected wine list, delicious menu, Leb-i Derya remains a favourite spot for the young and hip crowds.
5 BEST CAFES IN ISTANBUL
CAFE PRIVATO
Address: Şahkulu Mahallesi, Galata Galip Cad., Tımarcı Sok. 3/B, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:30am-11pm
Cozy space, friendly staff, and one of the best spot for breakfast – it doesn’t get any better than Cafe Privato. Hidden in a small street near the Galata, Cafe Privato offers wholesome village breakfast, also known as Köy Kahvaltısı, is considered to be the best in Istanbul. Gözleme (spinach stuffed savoury pancakes) grilled halloumi cheese, and a selection of homemade jams awaits for locals and tourists with a big appetite.
Also open for lunch and dinner serving up homestyle Turkish, Italian and Georgian dishes with a view of the Galata Tower, Cafe Privato is a must visit place in Istanbul.
ASSK KAHVE
Address: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Muallim Naci Cd. 64/B, 34330 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am-11:30pm
With white interior, cobblestone walls and seafront views, you may think you’re in Greece at Assk Kahve. “Aşşk” is a Word derived from “Aşk” which means “love” in Turkish, and you may agree to fall quickly in love with this cafe. With two locations in Istanbul, the most popular being the Kuruçeşme branch, resembling a relaxed and stylish beachside home. Serving a range of tasty dishes ranging from homemade bread, pastries, cakes, cookies, granola, egg dishes, pasta, and so much more, Kahve is the perfect place for a casual and stylish Sunday brunch!
THE HOUSE CAFE ORTAKOY
Address: Salhane Sokak No: 1 Ortaköy İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-1am
Instagram: @thehousecafe
Located along the Bosphorus, The House Cafe is a trendy restaurant popular among the local crowd of stylish Istanbulites. The menu hosts a variety of both local Turkish and international dishes ideal for large groups with a mix of appetite, available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Colourful and fresh dishes are constantly updated at The House Cafe, creating an ideal taste for all visitors alike. In the summer, expect bumping music and an exciting atmosphere with live DJ performances on the weekends on the terrace!
DELICATESSEN
Address: Mim Kemal Öke Cad. No. 19 Nişantaşı
Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-1am
Instagram: @delicatessenist
Placed in the stylish neighbourhood of Nişantaşı, you’ll find a two-storey restaurant serving Turkish and international cuisine at Delicatessen. Charcuterie, cheese, seafood platters, eggs benedict, sandwiches & toasts, canapés to start or share, and a range of meats, pasta and seafood for mains can be enjoyed at Delicatessen, paired with a smooth glass of wine to complete a hearty meal. Check out their own special line of glass, wooden, and ceramic accessories including cheese plates, jars and other containers, and pasta moulds which make for perfect gifts and souvenir!
MANGERIE BEBEK
Address: Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No.69 Bebek İstanbul, Türkiye
Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-12:30am
Tucked above a hairdresser salon in Bebek area, Mangerie is the perfect place to take it easy and spend the day with your friends while enjoying a nice view and delicious food. An airy space with the perfect amount of natural light shining through its large windows and white interior, Mangerie delivers amazing brunch to dinner bites, coffee to cocktails selection. Though brunch is by far their most popular time, head here for a drink in the afternoon sun after a day of exploring the area. You won’t regret it!
BEST HOTELS IN ISTANBUL
BUDGET: HOTEL SARI KONAK
Address: Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cd. No:26, 00000 Fatih/İstanbul
Check for Best Available Price
Instagram: @hotelsarikonak
Tucked above a hairdresser salon in Bebek area, Mangerie is the perfect place to take it easy and spend the day with your friends while enjoying a nice view and delicious food. An airy space with the perfect amount of natural light shining through its large windows and white interior, Mangerie delivers amazing brunch to dinner bites, coffee to cocktails selection. Though brunch is by far their most popular time, head here for a drink in the afternoon sun after a day of exploring the area. You won’t regret it!
- Prices from approx. US$50 per night at Hotel Sari Konak.
MID-RANGE: GEORGES HOTEL GALATA
Address: Müeyyedzade Mh., Serdar-i Ekrem Sokak No:24, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Check for Best Available Price
Instagram: @georgeshotelgalata
A trendy boutique hotel in the Galata neighbourhood, Georges Hotel Galata offers award-winning experience within 5 minutes’ walk of Istiklal Avenue, the Galata Tower and the hip Karakoy neighbourhood. Located in a historical building, Georges Galata consists of a modern design and timeless glamour that is both comfortable and pleasing to the eye. You’ll find sea view rooms, balcony suites designed with stylish interiors such as black marble bathroom with blue mosaic tiles and clean white bedroom with Victorian accents. Guests can enjoy the laid-back rooftop bar with dreamy views of the city, or break a sweat with private yoga sessions available.
- Prices from approx. US$80 per night at Georges Hotel Galata.
BOUTIQUE: THE SOHO HOUSE
Address: Evliya Çelebi Mahallesi, 34430 Beyoğlu/Istanbul
Check for Best Available Price
Instagram: @sohohouse
London-based design hotel group Soho House finds itself comfortably situated in the Beyoglu district of Istanbul. The Soho House Istanbul is considered the group’s most exciting project, built in a 19th-century palazzo with grand Corinthian columns and Carrara marble, finished with Turkish accents creating a contemporary style. All rooms of the hotel have king-size beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, Marshall speakers, minibar, and complimentary wifi. The best is yet to come, with the famed Cecconi’s as your dining option, a fully equipped gym and Cowshed spa with Traditional Hamam spa in case you decided to stay in.
- Prices from approx. US$240 per night at The Soho House Istanbul.
LUXURY: FOUR SEASONS SULTANAHMET
Address: Tevkifhane Sokak No. 1, 34122 Sultanahmet-Eminönü/İstanbul
Check for Best Available Price
Instagram: @fssultanahmet
Positioned in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet is a one-of-a-kind luxury hotel, that was formerly an Istanbul prison. As soon as you enter the Istanbul hotel you are in awe of its elegant furnishings and colourful Turkish interiors styled to perfection. In the middle is a stunning outdoor courtyard garden, that surrounds the hotel’s restaurant. It is a beautiful private sanctuary despite the hustle and bustle outside.
The rooms are equally impressive, a wonderful mix of old traditions with modern day comforts. Fall in love with its 2-storey suite with gorgeous furnishings complemented with colourful Turkish rugs.
The location is between the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, less than a 2-minute walk to each. The hotel’s gem is its rooftop terrace A’ya Rooftop Lounge, with 360 panorama views of the Bosphorus and city’s greatest monuments! Sitting on this rooftop allows you to feel like you are almost in the Mosques, listening to the Islamic prayer from the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque as they call back and forth to one another in a melodic rhythm. You are in the centre of the calls, and the experience is spine-chilling. Unforgettable! While the view at sunset is amazing, the prayer closer to 9pm is more mystical than the sunset chant.
- Prices from approx. US$290 per night at The Four Seasons Sultanahmet.
BEST HAMMAMS IN ISTANBUL
TRADITIONAL: AGA HAMAMI
Address: Kuloğlu Mh., Turnacıbaşı Cd. No:48, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am-10pm
Bookings: [email protected]
Aga Hamami is the oldest bath you’ll find in Turkey, dating back to the Ottoman Era in 1454. Transport back in time as you step into Aga Hamami, only to find a range of relaxing experiences awaiting behind its doors. Start with a powerful body scrub, also known as “kese” for the result of softer skin, followed by a foam bath that will melt all your worries away. It doesn’t end there! Continue your day of pampering with an oil massage and glowing face mask. The overall result? A relaxed, rejuvenated, and brand new you.
LUXE: KILIC PASA HAMAMI
Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Hamam Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-11:30pm
Bookings: [email protected]
From the stunning location and awe-inspiring interiors to a beautiful and relaxing treatment in the hot sauna room including, exfoliation, silky bubbles poured over your skin, gentle massage pressure and hot and iced cold buckets of water poured over your head. Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami is the Turkish spa experience giving sensations you’ve never had before. Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami is also the most popular Turkish bath aimed at tourists, in case you do not want to find yourself in a compromising situation with a naked masseuse scrubbing your body (the traditional way). Staff at Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami are friendly and professional, creating a memorable experience that will leave you floating above clouds for days.
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