TO DO
CLASSICS
Hagia Sophia.
Iconic! Seen from the outside, it is imposing, magical, and iconic. The interior is interesting. I visited it before it became a mosque again (it was a mosque under Ataturk, then became a church) and it was a privilege to see the enormous chandeliers, the light coming from the domes, and the impression of space. Today, visitors are confined to the galleries, which is a little disappointing. Still worth it, though!
The Blue Mosque. Photogenic with its cascading domes and minarets. Approach it from the hippodrome to enjoy this 17th-century setting. Hire a guide who will explain the origin of the blue tiles that decorate it (Iznik) and the meaning of its stained glass windows.
Topkapi Palace.
Truly breathtaking, immense, and grandiose. A visit here will allow you to imagine life during the five centuries of the Ottoman Empire. You will hear many stories of black eunuchs and concubines, the sultan's mother, and the imperial treasury. You will be amazed by the size of the kitchens, including the one reserved for pastries!
I was a little quick about the imperial treasury, but you'll see...
Take half a day to appreciate this truly unique place.
Basilica Cistern.
My favorite! This space dates back to the Byzantine era and was used to store water. With its thousands of columns reflecting endlessly, it is one of the most beautiful monuments I have ever seen.
The visit doesn't take too long, and I will never forgive you if you skip it.
OTHERWISE
The Hippodrome. Much loved by the Byzantine emperors, it was decorated with statues and obelisks, some of which are still there today. The center of Istanbul life for 1,000 years of the Eastern Roman Empire and nearly 500 years of the Ottoman Empire, the Hippodrome has a thousand and one stories to tell.
The Grand Bazar Meh! But you'll go anyway. I've seen it more authentic, less Vuitton, Chanel, and co., but it has retained a certain charm, and the merchants are still as friendly as ever. Beautiful jewelry, but you need a little time to buy diamonds! Otherwise, there are cups, colorful scarves, and if you have the right interior, the carpets aren't bad, although they don't match Persian carpets! You have to count the knots, and that makes all the difference.
SUGGESTION
To return to your hotel, which, if you follow my advice, will be on the banks of the Bosphorus, take a boat near the Ataturk Bridge. Quite a few large boats wander around the quay looking for tourists. All you have to do is convince their captain that one of them will serve as your taxi for the journey up the Bosphorus. It's a magical moment (though less magical for your wallet) and charming to be welcomed at your hotel's dock!
HOTELS
Hesitation! The historic Pera Palace (former Orient Express terminal) but a little old-fashioned! The Peninsula is the favorite of Istanbulites but for me a little too central! Istanbul is dense and lively! The Four Seasons, which I loved for its view and swimming pool, as well as its rooms and breakfast! My advice! Don't get a room with a view. They cost twice as much and aren't any bigger, and you'll always be out of the hotel, and if you are in the hotel, you'll be at the pool or the bar (gulp!). And the view from the rooms isn't that great!
FOOD
I don't really have any advice because I didn't like the tourist restaurants (Sultannahmet) or those in the trendy Beyoglu district, but I loved the Peninsula's rooftop restaurant (Amex Platinum recommended) and its open kitchen. Skip lunch and treat yourself to this pleasure!
SHOPPING
There's a lot of creativity in terms of brand copies and sometimes fun and inventive original designs. It's not my thing, so I let off steam with magnets and mugs.
TIPS
I suggest a hammam! I visited the Kili Ali Pasha Hammam before and after its restoration. The interior is stunning and very clean, of course, otherwise I wouldn't send you there. Have a good rest, because expect to walk at least fifteen kilometers a day (oops, I forgot to mention that).
Enjoy your discovery!
