Istanbul
Istanbul, where Europe and Asia meet, is a city of contrasts, blending centuries-old history with modern energy. The city’s skyline is defined by architectural wonders such as the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has served as a Byzantine cathedral, an Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. Just a short walk away, the Blue Mosque captivates with its six minarets and intricate Iznik tilework, creating a mesmerising interior. The Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the sultans, with its lavish courtyards, treasury, and panoramic views over the Bosphorus. Beyond the grand monuments, the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar and the aromatic Spice Bazaar provide an immersive experience of Istanbul’s centuries-old trade and craftsmanship.
Culture thrives in every corner of Istanbul, from its traditional arts to its contemporary creative scene. The whirling dervish ceremonies, rooted in Sufi mysticism, offer a hypnotic spiritual experience, while modern galleries in the Beyoğlu district showcase Turkey’s dynamic contemporary art. Music is woven into the city’s identity, with everything from classical Ottoman compositions to lively meyhane performances in the taverns of Kumkapı. Istanbul’s theatre and film scene are also thriving, with independent cinemas and annual festivals drawing global talent. The city’s many hammams, such as the 16th-century Çemberlitaş Hamamı, continue the centuries-old tradition of Turkish baths, offering a glimpse into a ritual that remains a key part of local culture.
Istanbul’s food scene is just as diverse as its history, offering an array of flavours that span the Ottoman, Anatolian, and Mediterranean traditions. Street food is an essential part of the experience, from freshly grilled balık ekmek (fish sandwiches) along the Golden Horn to crispy simit rings sold by vendors on every corner. Traditional meze spreads, featuring dishes like haydari (yoghurt with herbs) and şakşuka (aubergines in tomato sauce), are best enjoyed in the city’s lively meyhanes. The bustling Kadıköy district on the Asian side is a food lover’s paradise, with vibrant markets, artisan coffee shops, and some of the best lahmacun (Turkish flatbread) in the city. Whether dining at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus or discovering hidden street-food gems, Istanbul offers a culinary journey that reflects its unique place at the crossroads of continents.
Highlights of Istanbul
Our Favourite Hotels in Istanbul
Pera Palace
The Pera Palace, once the grand hotel of Istanbul, reopened in 2010 after a meticulous restoration. Originally opening in 1892, it was designed to accommodate passengers from the Orient-Express. Throughout its illustrious history, many distinguished guests have stayed here, including Agatha Christie, who is said to have found inspiration for her famous novel ‘Murder on the Orient-Express’ while residing in room 411. The aptly named ‘Agatha’ restaurant pays tribute to the three major stops of the Orient-Express by serving a delightful fusion of French, Italian, and Turkish cuisines. The ‘Patisserie de Pera’ offers delectable hand-made cakes, while the ‘Kubbeli Saloon’, with its ornate high ceilings, provides the perfect setting for an afternoon tea. The spa boasts a traditional Turkish bath, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna, and an indoor jet stream pool.
Ciragan Palace Kempinski
Nestled on the shores of the Bosphorus and spread across expansive grounds, the Ciragan Palace is adjacent to the original palace, now transformed into a restaurant and suites. With 323 rooms, many offer breathtaking views of Asia across the water. Each room boasts a balcony and is designed for utmost comfort. The public areas are spacious and include a variety of amenities, such as restaurants, lounges, shops, bars, an indoor swimming pool with a fitness centre, sauna, and Turkish bath, and a stunning open-air summer infinity pool.
Romance
Nestled in the heart of Sultanahmet, just a 10-minute walk from the iconic Topkapi Palace and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, the Romance has undergone a recent renovation to a high standard in a traditional Ottoman style. Each of the 40 stylish rooms is adorned with a talisman shirt, a garment believed to bring good luck and protection to sultans. These rooms boast wooden floors, Turkish rugs, rich fabrics, and marble bathrooms with walk-in showers.
The elegant breakfast room offers complimentary tea, coffee, and light snacks from 2 to 4 pm. Just a short 2-minute walk away, the rooftop restaurant of the sister hotel, the Yasmak Sultan, provides a delightful dining experience. Here, you can savour Turkish cuisine and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul. The spa at the Romance includes a small indoor pool, jacuzzi, hammam, steam room, and a range of massages, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating retreat.
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01442 879787
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