48 hours in… Istanbul
WHERE TO STAY
Locationwise, you can’t beat The House Hotel Nisantasi. The Bosphorus-facing hotel is in the centre of town and it’s surrounded by chic boutiques. The modern rooms also come with a cocktail shaker, glasses and plenty of liquor for budding mixologists. From £147 per night, visit thehousehotel.com
WHERE TO EAT
If you’re ever disappointed by dinner, skip dessert and head to Karakoy Gulluoglu, a legendary sweetshop serving 30 layer squares of baklava, traditional flan and Turkish delight that’s filled with locals and tourists alike. Karakoygulluoglu.com
WHERE TO DRINK
The Goethe Institute is one of the finest arts venues in the city. Spend an evening out there then climb to the fifth floor to Litera Bar. With high stools and glass walls, it has one of the best views over the old town and the ocean. goethe.de/istanbul
WHERE TO GO
The Tunel is the world’s second oldest underground railway system (our Tube is the first). The train may only run 500m from Karakoy to Beyoglu but the journey would be a real uphill struggle without it.