TOP PLACES TO VISIT

Balat & Pera Neighborhoods

Rich in character and layered with history, Balat and Pera offer a vibrant blend of cultures, colors, and eras. Wander past pastel-painted houses, synagogues, and Byzantine churches in Balat, then head to Pera for grand 19th-century architecture, art galleries, and the charm of Istiklal Street. Together, they reveal Istanbul’s multicultural soul in every winding alley and café-lined square.

Grand Bazaar

One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a vibrant maze of over 4,000 shops selling everything from handwoven rugs to jewelry and spices. It’s a sensory and cultural experience not to be missed.

Chora Mosque

Tucked away in Istanbul’s historic Edirnekapı district, Chora Mosque is a masterpiece of Byzantine art and architecture. Renowned for its breathtaking mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes, the former church-turned-mosque offers a serene and awe-inspiring window into the city’s spiritual and artistic legacy.

TOP ACTIVITIES

Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus

Sail between two continents as the sun sets over Istanbul’s skyline. This relaxing cruise offers views of Ottoman palaces, wooden mansions, and the city’s iconic minarets, all bathed in golden light.

Underground Archaeology of Istanbul

Descend into the hidden layers of the city and uncover millennia of history beneath the streets. Explore archaeological museums and subterranean sites where ancient cisterns, Roman roads, and Byzantine foundations reveal Istanbul’s buried past. From marble columns to mosaics unearthed during metro excavations, every corner tells a story of empires that once ruled this crossroads of civilization.

Private Helicopter Experience

Witness the city’s breathtaking contrasts from the sky, where East meets West in a spectacular aerial panorama. Glide above the domes of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge, as centuries-old minarets rise beside shimmering waters and a vibrant urban sprawl. A striking way to take in Istanbul’s beauty, history, and geography in just under an hour.

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS

Karaköy Lokantası (Karaköy)

A beloved Istanbul classic known for its elegant blue-tiled interior and modern takes on traditional Turkish mezes and mains. Ideal for lunch or dinner, with standout dishes like grilled octopus, lamb stews, and seasonal vegetable specialties. A stylish spot that still feels authentic.

Tuğra Restaurant (Beşiktaş)

Located inside the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Tuğra offers a regal dining experience with Ottoman-inspired cuisine and breathtaking views over the Bosphorus. Signature dishes include stuffed quince with lamb and traditional desserts like künefe. Perfect for a special night out.

Mikla (Beyoğlu)

A rooftop culinary gem offering panoramic views of the city and a refined New Anatolian menu by Chef Mehmet Gürs. Dishes fuse local ingredients with modern techniques—don’t miss the tasting menu. Stylish, minimalist, and consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world.