Secrets of Istanbul Walking Tours, Market Stalls & a Palazzo Stay

Forget a tale of two cities; Istanbul is a tale of two continents. Straddling the strait that separates Europe and Asia, Turkey’s capital has a vibrant culture defined by centuries of tumultuous history. A wearer of many hats, Istanbul has previously toted the titles Byzantium and Constantinople – and many, many more. But through its many changing identities, the city’s charm and splendour have endured.

During your four-day jaunt in this magnificent metropolis, experience the fusion of modern Turkish life with echoes of bygone empires as you explore the storied streets of Besiktas, before crossing the mighty Bosphorus to delve into the understated splendour of Uskudar.

On private tours with expert local guides you’ll visit famous sites and gain an insight into local life. And there’s plenty of time to explore Istanbul at your own pace, too; soak up the sights, revel in the history and sample some – or all – of the city’s culinary delights. Kebabs and Turkish delight, anyone?

Your Hotel: 

We’ll arrange for you to stay in a charming palazzo located in the heart of Beyoglu, on the eastern side of the glorious Golden Horn. Here, Istanbul’s most popular street, Istiklal Avenue (also known as Independence Street), is just 1,000ft away, putting you within walking distance of a whole host of restaurants, bars and shops.

Like Istanbul itself, your hotel has had many masters over the years. Initially, it belonged to Mr Ignazio Corpi, who, having made a fortune in shipbuilding, called on an Italian architect to design this beautiful building in 1877. Then, at the beginning of the 20th century, the US ambassador bought the Palazzo Corpi and moved in with his staff. This lasted until 2014, when, keen to return the buildings to their former (more leisurely) function, an English hotelier swept in.

Today, the pallazzo is a beautiful example of Belle Epoque design. Its terrace and elegant rooftop swimming pool boast magnificent views of the Golden Horn, while the 19th-century courtyard houses a delightful Italian restaurant.

Your Itinerary:

With just four days at your fingertips, the clock is ticking on your time in Istanbul. Luckily, we’ve included a private tour of the city’s eastern and western districts to ensure you squeeze in as many of the must-see sights as possible.

Start in Besiktas – on the European side – a bustling district which is popular among young families and students, and is home to the Besiktas JK sports club. Along the way, stop off at a market for some local treats. Nibble on a spicy skewer, peruse platters of fresh fish and sample a pinch of hazelnuts, raisins, olives or Turkish delights – all bite-sized for easy snacking.

Once you’ve had your fill of culinary delights, head to the Dolmabahce Palace, located on the coast of Besiktas, and the tomb of Khayr ad-Din Barbarossa (leader of the Ottoman navy under Suleiman the Magnificent), which dates back to 1541 and was built by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan.

Afterwards, cosplay a commuting local and cross the Bosphorus to reach Uskudar. This more subdued residential neighbourhood sits in the shadow of its many mosques. Here, you’ll once again run into the work of Sinan, whose Mihrimah Mosque was built in 1548. Finally, at the Selimiye Barracks, brush shoulders with the legacy of Florence Nightingale, who brought modern nursing care to life here during the Crimean War.

Beyond this, your time in Istanbul is gloriously fluid. Follow your nose down an intriguing alleyway, retrace your steps to a stall that caught your eye or simply linger over a dash of raki (anise-flavoured spirit) and watch the city perform. Of course, if you’d like more help filling your time, we can arrange a jam-packed itinerary with a hefty step-count to match, or our Concierge can organise a medley of impromptu delights on the day.