When in Istanbul

istanbul: On a rooftop just off Istiklâl, by night the place is packed to hear the in-house DJ. At lunch you’ll find a half-empty restaurant and a view of ships on a sparkling sea.

Melissa Erdagi: This hidden gem in the egyptian part of the bazaar has been around for over a century and is regularly visited by world renowned celebrities, royals and locals alike. Take a visit and find out why...

Melissa Erdagi: Luxurious, historical setting, exquisite service and worth the relatively pricey fee.

Melissa Erdagi: The Grand Bazaar. Just get lost in here.

istanbul: Standing on the site of the original Byzantine city, the district known as Sultanahmet is the heart of tourist Istanbul, with many of the most important attractions dotted around it.

Melissa Erdagi: Must visit this parisian-inspired street with an eclectic charm - known as Cezayir Sokağı or Cezayir Çıkmazı

Melissa Erdagi: Sip on the warm turkish winter-drink specialty "salep" on a cold evening in this exquisite bosphorus-front venue.

Melissa Erdagi: For the authentic "yali" - or palace by the bosphorus - tea-time experience. Highly suggested: spend an afternoon in their exclusive spa, for an exquisite turkish-bath experience. Top notch!

Nina Yiamsamatha: Süleymaniye the Magnificent bathed in this 450+ year old hamam. Traditional Turkish bath = sitting on hot white marble/sweating out toxins before a scrub and soapy massage.

DHR.com: Also known as the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora, this amazing church is one of the finest examples of Byzantine church architecture. Lots of beautiful frescoes and paintings to be found here

Nevdogg: Take the TurYol cruise. Costs 12TL for a 1.5 hour cruise boarding at Eminonu. (Grab snacks and water before you go on!!!)