Istanbul, 48 Hours
TRAVEL GUIDE
Best time to visit: fall or winter
I recently spent two nights in Istanbul. It wasn’t my first time there and every time I leave, I feel this little frustration, like there’s still so much I haven’t seen or discovered yet. I really enjoy this city, and I wanted to share my favorite spots with you, just in case you’re planning a trip. And if you have any secret Istanbul places or personal recommendations for my next stay, please share them with me, I’d love that!
Stay: Soho House
Set in the impressing 19th-century Palazzo Corpi, Soho House Istanbul offers a world-class blend of neoclassical grandeur and modern club culture. While it’s an exclusive private club, booking a room grants you "Member on Stay" status, giving you full access to the rooftop pool and vibrant social spaces that are otherwise off-limits. It’s an investment worth every penny for those seeking an immersive, ultra-stylish sanctuary in the heart of Beyoğlu. My tip: travel in winter! Rates at Soho House are significantly lower in colder months. Istanbul is particularly enchanting during this quieter season, offering a much more authentic atmosphere with fewer crowds at iconic sites and cozy, vibrant life in the city’s many historic tea houses and bazaars.
Shop
Begüm Khan
Inspired by nature, her designs bring to life a menagerie of exotic ecosystems, crafted from pink sapphires, baroque pearls, and other rare and precious materials. This is a boho dream turned into fine jewelry. Precious, incredibly beautiful and so glam! Just like the store, that resembles a French patisserie.
LOCATION
Gül Hürgel
Located in the chic Bebek neighborhood, Gül Hürgel'sflagship store is a stunning reflection of her signature Mediterranean aesthetic, featuring breezy linen designs and elegant floral prints. The showroom blends Parisian-style moldings with bold modern pieces to create a super sophisticated shopping experience. It works!
LOCATION
Fey
Clothing, home, vintage & curiosity – I love Fey's eclectic mixture. Founded by former Marie Claire editor Fatoş Yalın, this is a hidden gem in Nişantaşı that offers a curated collection of timeless, vintage-inspired fashion and unique accessories. Love the sophisticated atmosphere and "slow fashion" philosophy!'
LOCATION
Aslı Günşiray Interiors
The showroom of a celebrated interior designer and antique specialist who has been a fixture in Istanbul's design scene since 1988. Her signature style is a sophisticated blend of historical soul and contemporary functionality. Her showroom is much more than a furniture store: it is a curated gallery of curiosities.
LOCATION
Hikmet Mizanoğlu Arts & Antiques
This shop is a sanctuary for vintage treasures and sophisticated interior design that has even earned prestigious recognition in Vogue. The curated collection seamlessly blends historical charm with modern luxury, making it a premier destination for those seeking to bring unique, high-end decor back home.
LOCATION
Eat
Lunch: Pandeli
Istanbul’s culinary icon and historical pearl right in the Spice Bazaar has existed for over a hundred years. Famous guests, fantastic customer service and delicious authentic food. Pandeli is closed for (Turkish) dinner time, i.e. it is only open until 19:00. On Sundays, the restaurant is completely closed.
LOCATION
Adana İl Sınırı Nişantaşı
Authentic "Ocakbaşı" culture, where premium hand-cut kebabs meet a sophisticated Istanbul vibe. It’s the ultimate spot in the city for those seeking traditional Adana flavors in a stylish, upscale setting.
LOCATION
Kontuar Pera
At Kontuar, plates do not shout for attention or chase unnecessary bravado; instead, they build an honest culinary language rooted in familiar flavors. The warmth felt in the space finds its counterpart on the plate.
