Istanbul is a feast for the senses, the city of millions between two continents, Europe and Asia: the Orient begins at its gates. Awaiting travellers is the Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine church that is now a mosque and, with its almost floating dome, is considered the eighth wonder of the world. The large covered bazaar with countless narrow alleys tempts visitors to give themselves over to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Private yachts are available for a trip across the Bosphorus and offer views of the skyline full of minarets and domes. Away from the historical, the metropolis offers plenty of lifestyle: luxury brands, vintage stores and elegant cafés make Nisantasi, for example, a noble district - this is where everyone meets who is looking for pleasure during the day and entertainment at night.

Istanbul is constantly evolving, offering something new and fresh. Speaking of fresh: Fine delicacies from Anatolian cuisine are part of it. How about manti, filled pasta pockets? The waiter douses them at the table with melted butter, in which paprika and chilli store their aromas. And because the city is full of temptations, it's worth taking a look at the bakeries. What the Turks make from sugar, nuts and essences is always worth a sin.

Why is Istanbul worth a trip?

Because of the rush of senses on the streets and alleys, where much of the vibrant life takes place, by day and by night.

Don't miss:

Coffee art including special roasts - and a visit to the three suspension bridges that cross the Bosphorus and offer a unique view.

Read more: Istanbul: The insider tips of Cristina Oprea

Where to eat

Nobu Istanbul

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa has brought his world-famous Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to Istanbul. In the usual elegant atmosphere, you can enjoy Nobu classics as well as traditional Turkish dishes with a Matsuhisa twist.
noburestaurants.com

One of the best Japanese in the world: Nobu. © Nobu Istanbul

Where to sleep

Ciragan Palace Kempinski

The interior of the majestic hotel on the Bosphorus in a palace of the Ottoman Empire keeps what the facade promises: luxury and first-class service are writ large here. The sumptuous rooms amaze guests from the moment they first enter. The breathtaking Sultan Suite is one of the largest and most sophisticated hotel suites in all of Europe.

Ciragan Palace Kempinski
Ciragan Caddesi 32, 34349 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 326 4646
Web: kempinski.com
Price: double room including breakfast from € 433,- per night

Four Seasons Bosphorus

This lovingly restored 19th-century Ottoman palace combines warm Turkish hospitality with contemporary amenities. Here, guests relax in complete luxury in one of the hammams, sunbathe by the outdoor pool, and gaze out at the city's incomparable skyline. 

Four Seasons Bosphorus
Cirağan Cad. no. 28, 34349 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 381 40 00
Web: fourseasons.com
Price: double room from € 652,- per night

Weekend in Istanbul? Gladly at the Four Seasons: Here, guests reside in the Ottoman palace. © Paul Thuysbaert

Bebek Hotel

The iconic hotel, now part of The Stay hotel group, has been creating unforgettable memories in Istanbul since the 1950s. Guests enjoy breakfast on the terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. The rooftop bar and Dragon Restaurant, one of the city's best Chinese restaurants, are also extremely popular with locals. 

Bebek Hotel
Cevdet Paşa Cd. no. 34, 34342 Beşiktaş/Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 970 78 36
Web: thestay.com.tr
Price: double room from € 350,- per night

Place-to-eat: the "Dragon Restaurant" with sea view. © Kerem Sanliman

Where to Shop

MacKenzie-Childs
Best known for high quality tableware and furniture, especially with the iconic checkerboard pattern. mackenzie-childs.com

© MacKenzie-Childs

Gül Hürgel
The dresses of the Turkish designer are characterized by their colorful fabrics and comfortable cuts that flatter every woman. gulhurgel.com

© Gül Hürgel

Text: Michaela Hessenberger, Philipp Rossmann and Heidi Rietsch