Photo: praewa_koreashopping/Depositphotos
Straddling the boundary between Europe and Asia,Istanbulis a city filled with history.
First settled by Greeks during the Byzantine era, Istanbul weaves together a rich tapestry of cultures.
From early Christian churches to elaborate mosques, the city’s evolution is fascinating.
Photo: praewa_koreashopping/Depositphotos
For anyone who loves history and art, Istanbul is an excellent destination.
Recently, thanks to Turkish Airlines, we had an opportunity to spend some time in the city.
The hotel has amenities like a spa and gym and even allows pets.
Photo: The Bank Hotel
Situated on the Golden Horn, the luxurious resort has everything you could ask for.
Guests can arrive by sea and use the hotel’s private boats.
The hotel has 432 guestrooms and 67 luxury suites, 55 of which have their own outdoor terraces.
Photo: Witt Hotel Istanbul
Several suite options and connected rooms are available for larger groups.
Surrounded by Nisantasi’s famed fashion boutiques, the hotel makes a great starting point for exploration.
The ground-floor lounge features a bar and a menu of light meals that include Turkish and global favorites.
Photo: Rixos Tersane
Visitors flock here to take in the structure’s Iznik tiles and painted floral motifs.
The famed Byzantine structure is known for its stunning interior.
Considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, the mosque complex is well worth a visit.
Photo: The Stay Nisantasi
Basilica Cistern
Go underground with a visit toBasilica Cistern.
Its location close to the Hagia Sophia makes these two sites easy to visit in the same day.
The Bosphorus connects the Black Sea with the Marmara Sea and provides a divide between Asia and Europe.
Photo: Christian Perez viaWikimedia Commons(CC BY-SA 3.0)
If you want something straightforward, try options bySehir Hatlar, Istanbul’s official ferry company.
They offer several different options depending on how much time you want to spend on the water.
If you want to splurge,Zoe Yachtoffers upscale private cruises.
Photo: rognar/Depositphotos
Cooking Class
Photo: Turkish Flavours
Dive into Turkish culture via a cooking class withTurkish Flavours.
The open kitchen allows diners to observe the culinary art in action, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The restaurant also features a secluded courtyard, ideal for al fresco dining when the weather permits.
Photo: hananuk viaWikimedia Commons(CC0 1.0)
The menu is influenced by modern European cooking, focusing on soulful dishes based on seasonality.
The culinary experience at Yeni Lokanta is a blend of tradition and modernity.
Located in Beyoglu, close to Taksim Square, the restaurant offers a vibrant and authentic kebab experience.
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met
Most who eat at Zubeyir barely do any ordering.
Show up, and trust your waiter.
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met
Photo: Zeyrek Çinili Hamam
Photo: Turkish Flavours
Photo: Arkestra
Photo: Pandeli
Photo: Yeni Lokanta
Photo: Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
