Secrets of Istanbul: from Palaces to the Banks of the Bosphorus

Exquisite, intricate patterns adorn the walls and are bathed in bronze light. The terrace and elegant rooftop swimming pool offer magnificent views of the Golden Horn. In the lounges, beautiful leather seats add vintage comfort to the nobility of the rooms. The adjoining glass building houses stylish bedrooms along with a spa, gym, steam room and barber shop. The decoration here is a mix of ultra-chic rustic charm and contemporary fine lines. The 19th century courtyard is home to an Italian restaurant that rivals restaurants in Italy itself in terms of authenticity and modernity. Other restaurants and terraces also offer delicious Turkish cuisine. The Club Bar takes full advantage of the splendour of the setting. From the lobby to every single bedroom, guests enjoy a sophisticated and glamorous atmosphere, a perfect expression of Istanbul's conciliatory and creative spirit. Eras and styles combine, blend and balance in the Istanbul of today.

Already included in the itinerary -

Soak up street food and the trendy lifestyle in Besiktas and Uskudar. Here, experience two continents in one day. The first district is located on the European shore of the Bosphorus strait. It buzzes with family and student life, not to mention the impressive record of Besiktas Jimnastik Kulubu or simply Besiktas J.K. football club. Bustling pedestrian streets are overflowing with restaurants, cafes and shops galore. Along the way, wander market stalls and enjoy tea, spicy kebabs, fish, hazelnuts, raisins, olives and moreish Turkish delight. The glamorous Dolmabahce Palace, which served as the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire, is located in the Besiktas district. Visit the Tomb of Hayreddin Barbarossa, the final resting place of the chief admiral of the Ottoman Turkish navy under Suleiman the Magnificent. The mausoleum was designed and built by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in 1541 Then, cross the Bosphorus to reach Uskudar, as many residents of Istanbul do every day, with their office in Besiktas and apartment in Uskudar. This neighbourhood is also a little more conservative with its many mosques. However, the neighbourhood's demographics are changing and, with new inhabitants, come new ways of socialising. Social media is shaking up old Istanbul. Nonetheless, the spirit of Mimar Sinan, who designed the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in 1548, is still very much present today, while the Selimiye Barracks, keep alive the memory of Florence Nightingale, who brought modern nursing to life during the Crimean War (1853-1856). The trip is with a private guide.



Private sunset cruise on the Bosphorus. The narrow, natural strait of Bosporus, which connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, is the radial artery of Istanbul: it provides a glimpse of the essence of the city. Crossing this strait is just part of everyday life here; for everyone from near and far. For two hours, sail from one bank to the other, soaking up one magnificent view to the next. Admire the palaces and 'yalis', famous waterfront residences, built by aristocratic families in the 19th century. Spot the Ottoman wooden mansions of Arnavutkoy, arguably a little more modest but equally as graceful. During the trip, pastries and drinks are served.

Must-sees

Hagia Sophia - The Blue Mosque - Topkapi Palace Museum - Istanbul Archaeology Museums - Suleymaniye Mosque - Dolmabahce Palace - The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora - Beylerbeyi Palace - Rustem Pasha Mosque - Turkish delight at the Spice market.

Things to experience in Istanbul

Stop for Turkish coffee (Turk kahvesi) at the Caferaga Medresseh - Dine on the terrace of a tavern in Kumkapi - Visit the fish market on the old Byzantine port - Enjoy a wellness session at the Cemberlitas Hamami - Wander the streets of Kucukpazar - Haggle at the Grand Bazaar - Explore the Zeyrek neighbourhood - Take the funicular to the Galata highlands, the old Genoese district - Try the kebabs at Garden Iskender - Spend an evening in the trendy neighbourhood of Ortakoy on the Bosphorus.