The Hagia Sophia is a wonder. Once a Byzantine church, its architecture is a glorious manifestation of this storied settlement’s shifts between Christianity and Islam. Separated only by the lawns of Sultan Ahmet Park, the Blue Mosque stands opposite, an Ottoman-era structure beloved for its intricate arabesques and divine colouring. Modest dress is advised when visiting both sacred spaces.

From here, wander towards the world-famous Spice Bazaar, with a brief pause at BIZIM Cafe for an authentic Turkish coffee or refreshing lemonade before stepping into the bustle of the market. Inside, aromatic spices, dried fruits and confections create a sensory tapestry that rewards unhurried exploration. For lunch, settle in at Mikla, a Michelin-starred address serving elevated Anatolian cuisine and panoramic city views.

After a culture-filled morning, Taksim Square introduces a more contemporary side of Istanbul, inviting leisurely browsing along the length of Istiklal Street. Between historic buildings, cafés and boutiques, the route leads to Galata Tower, wrapped in local folklore. Legend has it you’ll marry the person you climb to the top of the tower with, so make sure you’re with someone special.

As evening approaches, Helvetia provides a fitting dinner choice. A long-standing favourite among locals, the restaurant has earned its reputation as a hidden gem through its understated setting and commitment to traditional Turkish cooking. There may be less theatre than at a Michelin-starred table, but its focus on quality ingredients and authentic Turkish flavours speaks for itself. Finish the culinary journey with baklava for dessert at nearby Karaköy Güllüoğlu, one of the first places in the city to sell the treat, before hailing a taxi to Bomontiada for cocktails, live music and a buzzing after-dark scene.

Begin the second day at Topkapi Palace Museum, once the seat of Ottoman power and now home to a remarkable collection of art, artefacts and imperial relics. The journey continues to the Grand Bazaar, a true kaleidoscope of colour and craftsmanship, where generations of skilled artisans and historic trading halls remain very much alive. Emerging on the other side, Beyazit Square provides a moment to unwind and people-watch before indulging in a fresh seafood lunch at Guven Kismet Fish House 1986.

With the Bosphorus close by, the afternoon lends itself to a cruise along the strait, drifting past landmarks such as Dolmabahce Palace and the Maiden’s Tower, best enjoyed with a drink in hand.

An evening reservation at Neolokal presents a thoughtful expression of modern Turkish cuisine rooted deeply in tradition. Led by chef Maksut Aşkar, the Michelin-starred restaurant reinterprets ancestral recipes through contemporary technique, preserving flavours, ingredients and foodways that might otherwise be lost. Each dish draws from the land itself, with carefully sourced produce and a philosophy that honours heritage while allowing it to evolve. It’s a dining experience that feels timeless yet progressive.

For a final drink, TaproomX offers a laid-back introduction to local craft beers, while Gaia Cocktail Bar delivers a more polished rooftop setting, where cocktails are enjoyed against a backdrop of Istanbul’s night-time skyline.

To round out the evening, Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul provides a serene retreat along the water’s edge. Its spacious terraces and thoughtful design open onto Bosphorus views, creating a calm counterpoint to the city beyond.

Before departing, it’s worth allowing time to enjoy Istanbul Airport, consistently ranked among the world’s best. This award-winning hub has quickly become a destination in its own right for travellers passing between Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Spacious, intuitive and thoughtfully designed, it offers everything needed to make time between flights genuinely enjoyable.

Flying with Turkish Airlines, now an official partner of ASMALLWORLD, adds another layer to the experience. Its flagship international lounges transform layovers into a moment of pause, with generous dining options, quiet rest areas, showers and workspaces designed to help travellers reset before continuing their journey. Rather than rushing through, allowing extra time here turns a necessary connection into a fitting final chapter of your Istanbul stay.

For a more personalised way to discover Istanbul, our ASMALLWORLD Bespoke Travel team is on hand to curate tailored itineraries shaped around your interests