Istanbul

The local area

Acting as the ancient meeting point between East and West, Istanbul is a captivating blend of cultures that has formed over countless centuries.

It's a city buzzing with a vibrant love for life, fuelled by coffee from its famous coffee houses and filled with people ready to welcome each new visitor with boundless generosity.

Dive into the exhilarating hub-bub and explore fascinating layers of history from the tranquil sophistication of our luxury apartment, deep in a metropolis that has been the capital of empires.

The History of Istanbul

Istanbul's perfect strategic position has meant it's seen the rise and fall of the world's greatest empires. It's been home to the Greeks, Persians, Romans, Venetians and finally the Ottomans throughout the thousands of years since its conception. Going through numerous changes in identity and name during its tumultuous history, each successive culture has left its mark on the city. This can be seen everywhere, from the mosaics and frescos of the Byzantines and magnificent mosques of the Ottomans, to the cultural diversity which makes the city so inclusive. Having once been the final stage of the Silk Road, this is a true travellers' city, open-hearted and convivial.

What To See and Do In Istanbul

The coffee house, known a kahvehani, was invented in Istanbul almost 500 years ago, and with tea gardens, bustling kebab restaurants and Turkish taverns, there's plenty of opportunity to get caught up in the exciting social hum of Istanbul. This extends into the city's vibrant nightlife with the suburb of Beyoğlu containing many of the Istanbul's great bars. Beyoğlu is also one of the city's oldest districts, containing the 15th-century Galata Tower, which soars above the other historic buildings.

Most of the buildings and monuments that make up Istanbul's distinctive skyline lie in the Old City of Constantinople, on the southern shore of the Golden Horn. Cross the Galata Bridge and head for the area in and around Sultanahmet Square, where such architectural wonders as Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar are all located.

Turkish Cuisine

With such a vast history of disparate cultural influences, it's no surprise that Turkish cuisine has developed into something wonderful. You'll find kebabs, koftes and each delicious nibble of a meze, from hummus to baba ganoush, represented at their best in this city, and still have barely scratched the surface of Turkish cookery. Beyoğlu - the location of our luxury apartment - is one of the most popular places to eat out, and some say it's the place where you'll find the best baklava. Try the anise-flavoured clear brandy, Raki, for an authentic taste of Turkey, as well as the orchid and cinnamon drink Salep, which is unavailable outside of Turkey's borders.

The Experience

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Istanbul

The local area

The History of Istanbul

What To See and Do In Istanbul

Turkish Cuisine

The Experience

Liman Lokantasi

Ulus 29

Nardis Jazz Club

Galata Tower: A 14th-Century Landmark

Genoese Icon with Panoramic Views

Hagia Sophia Museum: Architectural Marvel & Historical Icon

Witness to a Millennium of History

Topkapi Palace: Heart of the Ottoman Empire

Istanbul's Iconic Landmark

Discover Modern Art at Turkey's First Contemporary Art Museum

Showcasing Turkish Contemporary Art

Sultan Ahmet Blue Mosque: Blend of Faith and Architecture

Istanbul's Landmark of Ottoman Splendor

Basilica Cistern: Istanbul’s Hidden Gem

Explore the Ancient Basilica Cistern

Kiliç Ali Pasa Hamami

Raffles Spa

Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam

Sail the Bosphorus

Istanbul's Beauty from the Bosphorus

Day trip Princes' Islands

Victorian-Era Adventure

Beyoglu: The Lively Core of Istanbul

Where Art, Food, and Nightlife Meet

Grand Bazaar Istanbul: A Historic Marketplace of Treasures and Traditions

A Shopping Experience Like No Other

Spice Bazaar: A Sensory Journey Through Exotic Flavors

A Taste of Istanbul's Rich Culinary Heritage

Ritz-Carlton Spa

Neolokal

Mikla

Istiklal Caddesi: Istanbul’s Iconic Shopping Street

Explore Turkish and International Brands

Sunset Grill & Bar

Private Guide to Istanbul's Historical Gems

Experience Istanbul's Rich History

Yeni Lokanta

Karakoy Lokantasi

Hodan

The Stay Bebek Hotel

Lokanta 1741

Sakıp Sabancı Museum: Cultural Treasures in Istanbul

Art, History & Exhibitions

Nicole Restaurant

Ortaköy Mosque: An Icon on the Bosphorus

Built by Sultan Abdülmecid I

Discover the Unique Charm of Balat in Istanbul

Istanbul's Oldest District with Colorful Streets

Pierre Loti Hill: Istanbul’s Enchanting Escape

A Beloved Tourist Spot

Otağtepe Fatih Grove: Istanbul’s Scenic Retreat

Enjoy Panoramic Views of the Bosphorus

Kadıköy's Vibrant Market and Artistic Alleys

Istanbul's Trendy Neighborhood

Discover Üsküdar: From Beylerbeyi Palace to Maiden's Tower

A Historic District

Rumelihisarı: The Bosphorus's Guardian

Istanbul's Strategic Stronghold

Grand Çamlıca Mosque: A Symbol of Faith and Unity

Istanbul's Majestic Place of Worship

Beylerbeyi Palace: A Historic Summer Residence

The Ottoman Summer Retreat

Seven Hills Restaurant

Suleymaniye Mosque: A Monument of Ottoman Architecture

Sinan's Ottoman Masterpiece

The Camondo Stairs

Explore One of Beyoğlu's Most Iconic Landmarks

Mackenzie-Childs: Whimsical Home Decor and Handcrafted Elegance

Playful Patterns and Unique Home Accessories

Dolmabahçe Palace: Where Sultans Lived and History Was Made

A Grand Symbol of Ottoman Legacy

Cipriani Istanbul

Atatürk Cultural Center: Reviving Istanbul’s Artistic Heart

A Cultural Icon Reimagined