All in all, this city is a must-add to your travel bucket list.
So, when you start planning, here’s what you better know.
But it’s not just a great place to awe at, the hotel amenities are top-notch too.
(To be expected of Soho House’s reputation.)
The hotel has several restaurants and bars to eat at, which serve meals to accommodate many eating preferences.
Finally, the spa offers several indulgent treatments and two hammam rooms.
Ciragan Palace Kempinski
Every city has that one hotel that’s synonymous with Old World luxury.
That’s the Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, a truly iconic hotel.
Sitting on the Bosphorus strait, the palace has world-class views of the water and city.
There’s a lot to do in Istanbul (and Turkey in general).
(It functions as both an active prayer site and a museum.)
It also served as the headquarters and center of the Ottoman Empire.
So, yes, a lot of history has happened within its walls.
Basilica Cistern
This’ll be a quick tour but worth seeing the ancient underground cistern.
Hammams are traditionally public bathhouses (in the vein of Roman bathhouses), separated by sex.
There are private hammam experiences, too, if you’re more comfortable alone.
(Emphasis on vigorouslythis is serious exfoliation.)
Grand Bazaar
This is a cultural experience you simply can’t miss.
Spend half a day wandering around the Grand Bazaar.
It’s one of the oldest and largest bazaars in the world.
And not far from the Grand Bazaar is also the Egyptian Bazaar.
This is where you’ll find perfume oils, spices, herbs, and delicacies.
Bartering is par for the course, so brush up on your negotiation skills.
Shopping tip:
Be prepared for meze plates, fresh seafood, kebab, and sweet treats.
Located on the waterfront, it also serves stunning views of the strait and Galata Bridge.
Rutin
A small cafe serving impressive and experimental dishes, this hideaway is for the serious foodie.
Come prepared with these essentials.
But do leave room in your suitcase for what you plan to bring home from the bazaar.
The star ingredient is the propolis harvested from the Anatolian region of Turkey.
The formulas rounded out aloe vera, shea butter, olive oil, vitamin E, and more.
Come ready to walk, explore, and learn all about Turkish culture.
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