DK Travel : Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the greatest cities the world has ever known. Inhabited for at least 5,000 years, it was capital of two of the world’s most powerful empires – those of the Byzantines and the Ottomans – and its every stone is steeped in history. The highlights are easy; you can cover the major attractions in the first couple of days. But after that, the choice can be overwhelming, especially as this ancient city is reinventing itself once more as a modern centre for nightlife, food and shopping. The only answer is to come back again – and again. If you do, this endlessly fascinating city will certainly reward you.

Note that all price indications in this guide are given in US dollars, based on an exchange rate of 1YTL (New Turkish Lira) : US $0.70.

Page
1
2
3
4

Adamar Hotel

This hotel is a great place to stay because the staff are so friendly and helpful ,nothing is too much trouble for them. The location is superb, the buffet breakfasts were very good and the top floor restaurant has wonderful views over the city and the Hagia Sofia, just a couple of minutes walk away. Public transport is close by which makes it easy to travel around the city. The rooms are smallish but very clean, with toiletries provided. The standard is very high for such a resonably priced hotel, I'd definitely go back there.
Akmerkez

It's a bit pricey but you'll be able to find all of the big brands and good quality in this huge shopping mall. Most of the celebrities shops there too. It has over 200 stores including women's, men's and children's clothing and textiles, stationery, toys, sports shoes, eyewear and gift shops along with restaurants, a hairdresser, a currency exchange office, electronic goods, car maintenance, shoe shine services, a dry cleaner, a tailor, travel agents, orthopedic goods and a supermarket.
Anemon Hotel

It is a boutique hotel just located next to Galata Tower, Beyoglu. It has a great view of Bosphorus and Golden Horn. Even if you will not stay there, you should go for a tee at the roof, where you should not miss sunset.
Cagaloglu Hammam

This is a beautiful traditional turkish bath. It has wonderful architecture, and the full experience of being scrubbed and washed is incredible. And the drink in the little courtyard afterwards isn't bad either!
Capitol Shopping Center

It has over 150 retail stores, great cinema and restaurants. Very easy to get to with taxi or local buses. If you ask it to anyone on street they will be able to help as well as it's very known.
Cooking Alaturka

Spice up your trip to Istanbul!

Take home some of the local specialities by learning how to cook them. As Turkish cooking classes are very rare outside of Turkey, "Cooking Alaturka" is a great, entertaining and unique event to get started with Turkish cooking skills. Eveline runs an informative and interesting cooking class, during which you will learn, prepare and try a few traditional Turkish dishes. All very delicious!

While you're there make sure to also either hear or read stories from the "Expad Harem".
Egyptian Bazaar

One of the oldest bazaars in the city. It is the second largest covered shopping complex after the Grand Bazaar.
Egyptian or Spice Bazaar

It has the wonderfully fragrant smells of the Orient, and local families have shopped here for spices, seeds, nuts, sweets and traditional medicinals for over 340 years. The vaulted ceilings in this unique building are fascinating, as is the people watching.
Fasıl Restaurant

Opened in 1982 on the Asian side of Istanbul, Fasıl Restaurant is a popular local choice. The restaurant specialises in fresh fish and seafood, including meze, which changes depending on the season. They also offer a good variety of wines and the traditional Turkish drink, Raki.
Fasuli

Avoid the tourist trap places with English menus selling warmed up kebabs, and eat at this cheap and cheerful chain specialising in beans in all their manifestations, cooked deliciously with and without meat. Don't bother with dessert, but for a quick, healthy and filling sit-down lunch for about 6YTL you won't do better.