I have to say we were impressed with this bustling city, it exceeded our expectations. So many sights to see, great restaurants, rich history and beautiful people. The city spans over both Asia & Europe, across the Bosphorus Strait.

HOTEL:
* Four Seasons- A former prison and obviously this is a high end choice; however, the location couldn’t be more perfect, being in the Old City and next to the Hagia Sophia. We had drinks on the terrace and the views from the hotel are amazing. (There is more than one Four Seasons so make sure it is the one in the Old City).
*Sumuhan on the Water– Formerly an Ottoman-era distillery, this hotel is on the Asian side of the Bosphorus.
*Boutique Hotels recommended: Hotel Karakoy; Tom Tom Suites; Witt Suites

SIGHTS: (All of the sights below are in the Old City)
*Topkapi Palace– A former imperial palace where the Ottoman sultans resided for almost 400 years is now a museum. Kids 12 and under are free, Adults 60TL. Do this first thing in the morning, opens at 9 a.m..
(closed on Tuesdays!!)

*Hagia Sophia- Greed Orthodox cathedral, later an Ottoman Imperial mosque and currently a museum. 60TL to enter & kids under 8 are free. It is a gorgeous structure.


*Basilica Cistern- This cistern was a water filtration system under the city of Istanbul. Don’t miss the upside down medusa head (supposedly to remove her powers). We really enjoyed the cistern, the kids thought it was so mysterious being underground and each column is lit with orange lights, it’s a very unique place. 20TL to enter & kids under 8 are free.


*Bosphorous Cruise– We didn’t get to do this but it would have been special to cruise the Bosphorus strait, in a boat, between 2 continents!

*Grand Bazaar– This is a must! What a fun experience, this bazaar is actually kid friendly and most vendors let you try the food, drinks, hats, etc.. We had a great time buying special souvenirs and tasting their traditional sweets (pistachio galore…..) Closed on Sunday!!!

  • Grand Bazaar entrance
  • spices
  • turkish delights


*Mosques–We did the Blue Mosque which was beautiful but under construction. A Turkish friend of mine suggested seeing the Suleymaniye Mosque instead. Always check prayer hours before visiting.


*Hammam Spa–There are 2 Hammams that were recommended to me by Turkish friends: Aya Sofya (in the Old City ) & Kilic Ali Pasa (near Taksim square). My daughter and I visited the Kilic Ali Pasa and it was an extraordinary experience. Prices: $48 for general hammam experience; $50 for full body massage; Hammam & partial massage were$80 for 75 minutes. Kids between the ages of 6-12 are allowed for $28 and there is a 7% discount if you pay by cash. Bring your bathing suit bottoms for the hammam. After the treatments you can sit and sip turkish tea/coffee in your robe surrounded by fountains & beautiful mosaics. Women only 8:00 am-4:00 pm, last appt. at 2:15 and Men only from 4:30 pm-11:30 pm.



*Whirling Dervishes–Unfortunately we didn’t have time to see this but the show at the Hodgapasha Cultural Center is highly recommended! The performance lasts @ 1 hour and consists of a spiritual & emotional dance.

FOOD:
*Nusr-Et- Famous steakhouse started by Turkish chef, Salt Bae, that has locations around the world (Miami, Dubai, New York, Doha).

  • Nusr-et


*Chef Mezze– We were lucky enough to have some insider’s tips to sights and restaurants, this gem was recommended by a Turkish friend and is a MUST! We were the only foreigners, so we knew the food would be amazing but the views are what stands out the most. Set up on a mountain on the terrace of the Opera Hotel, this gem of a place has beautiful food and wonderful ambience. You can go to a counter to choose your cold starter plates (I love seeing the food before choosing). Ask for a table outside on the terrace!!! You can do a Bosphorus night cruise after dinner!


*Kebapci- Another secret local hangout recommended by our Turkish friends. The food is really good and ask to sit in the main dining room.


*Restaurant Row: Pedestrian only alley off Divanyolu Caddesi known for its food, try Sir Evi restaurant.

*Others recommended: Lucca Style; Cantinery; Eataly; Sunset Grill & Bar; Ulus 29; Nicole (fine dining); Fenix (fine dining).