A Weekend In Istanbul

Istanbul is legendary for its history and culture, so it can be slightly overwhelming to decide how best to spend your time in the city that is famously split between Europe and Asia. Between the grand bazaars, exotic cats, and endlessly beautiful mosques, there’s no shortage of diversions to keep you thoroughly entertained for weeks in the city. But for visitors staying only for a weekend, we’ve rounded up the key highlights for travelers to see in Istanbul in a span of roughly 48 hours. Read on for your ultimate guide to a weekend in Istanbul.

Where To Stay

If you’re interested in luxury and an experience in modern Istanbul (and also to have your home-base be oriented where locals live), then look no further than Raffles Istanbul . This Five Star hotel boasts spectacular dining options, as well as a Hammam Spa that is simply not to be missed. Other elegant options include the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, or The House Hotel Karakoy.

Scenesters can find satisfaction abroad at the Soho House Istanbul. Another option is to stay in the Pera Palace Hotel, established in 1892 for passengers of the Orient Express. The hotel is home to the second-oldest elevator in the world, after the Eiffel Tower, and is also where Agatha Christie once stayed.

What To Do

Now that we’ve established where you should be checking in for your stay in Istanbul, up next is the decision for what to do. First up, there are, of course, the landmarks that you simply do not want to miss: the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, and the Suleymaniye Mosque. Be sure to visit the Hagia Sophia cat while you’re there (nicknamed ‘Obama cat’ for when she greeted the former president.)

Visit the ancient delights of the old city of Constantinople and explore the present-day art galleries and cafes in the Macka neighborhood. But, it is of the utmost importance to allocate the better part of an afternoon exploring the Grand Bazaar—we suggest checking out Iznik Works. Check out the Cistern, which you may recognize as the final scene in Inferno, and the more modern Cistern next-door which often houses an art exhibition.

Visit Orient 100 to witness a spectacular array of handmade, antique Turkish carpets—and request to see the magic carpet trick. Acquisitive visitors should also consider shopping at Nisantasi (also known as the Fifth Avenue of Istanbul.) If this all seems a bit overwhelming to you, then considering booking a tour with Sea Song, a company that creates immersive experiences for visitors to Turkey. Request Cenk (and select an itinerary that includes boating on the Bosphorus.) 

Where To Eat & Drink

The Sunset Grill & Bar is a perfect option for Ottoman cuisine on the Asian side of Istanbul, while Asnan and Tavanarasi offer additionally delectable cuisine. Neolokal is a must-visit, as is Namli Gurme, which can be best described as a Turkish Eataly, and located right next to the aforementioned Raffles Istanbul.

Head to the Pera Palace Hotel for 5pm tea, and visit the gorgeous pastry shop. Travelers looking for a chic throwback to home should consider cocktails at the Soho House Istanbul –this members-only club is also a good option for accommodation as well. 

Getting There

Turkish Airlines, of course! Check out the new Business Class Lounge in the Istanbul airport—you’ll never want to leave. Though, thanks to the immense Turkish Airlines stopover programs, it will certainly be easy enough to come back!