Istanbul is full of surprises so please allow sufficient time to explore this captivating city!
All our Reception staff speak English and they are happy to assist you with booking tours of Istanbul, providing a map and directions to the many tourist attractions and offering recommedations and tips as to dining options and the best shopping venues.
Whether your time in this fascinating metropolis is long or short, there is so much to see in the Old City and the following sites are within a few minutes walk from the hotel. You may wish to self-guide, join a Small Group Tour or avail the services of one of our reputable and knowledgable Private Guides.
Beyond Sultanahmet:
Take the tram or walk across the Galata Bridge to Beyoglu and from the top of the Galata Tower, marvel at the 360 degree view of old and new Istanbul – the Bosphorus Bridge, the ancient peninsular, Sulimaniye Mosque and the recently completed Metro Bridge. Wander around the cobblestone streets at the base of the tower and investigate some of the more unusual shops and galleries.
Walk along Istiklal Caddesi to Taksim Square, stopping on route to listen to the many buskers in addition to enjoying some retail therapy at the plethora of shoping outlets. Should you feel hungry or thirsty, the choice of dining options are endless.
Catch a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side where life is more relaxed. Enjoy a coffee at some of the excellent cafes or for something more substantial, partake of a selection of Mezes at the renowned Ciya Sofrasi. You could also take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara, alighting at Buyukada for a ride in a horse-drawn carriage followed by a seafood feast at one of the waterfront cafes.
Catch a bus or taxi to Pierre Loti and enjoy a cay at the cafe whilst taking in the spectacular view of the Golden Horn.
One cannot visit Istanbul without taking a cruise on the Bosphorus where palaces, lavish summer homes and the commanding Rumeli Fortress line it’s shores. Whether you decide on the morning/afternoon cruise or a shorter 2 hour option, you will not be disappointed.
For something completely different, catch the new Marmaray train and travel from the European side at Serkeci to Uskudar on the Asian side via a tunnel under the Bosphorus. Travel back to the European side via ferry for a breath of fresh air!
Museums:
There are many museums but the most popular are the Istanbul Modern in Tophane, Turkish and Islamic Arts in the Hippodrome, Archeological Museum adjacent to Topkapi Palace, Pera Museum in Beyoglu and the Chora Museum.
No visit to Turkey is complete without visiting a Hamam or Turkish Bath. Feel totally renewed and sweaky clean after a steam, vigorious scrub and wash with olive oil soap under ancient domed roofs.