The cisterns are ace. As is the rakiIstanbul is an amazing city. You’ll absolutely love it. If you stay around the Historical qtr then the hotels are lower priced but often a bit jaded and needing modernising, but there’s more charm to them than the big US brands in the centre.
Do the obvious tourist bits (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi palace, Bosphorous cruise etc and don’t miss the Cistern as it’s fascinating.
There’s some really great little restaurants around the city walls which are low cost but great food.
The main centre is modern and no real difference from any European city so if you want branded shops and Starbucks stuff then by all means go there. As SS1 says Taksim is very easy for Brits to stay in and you’ve got the red buses too. Just depends how you want the stay to go.
I’ve got a little apartment over in Besiktas. If you are happy to leave the tourist areas there are some real bohemian areas of artisan food places and bars to hang out. If not, don’t worry the old part of the city will keep you plenty busy
Raki and a strong coffee. Ooof there’s your night out getting a kickstart.The cisterns are ace. As is the raki
(Constantinople for the older posters)
Planning an historical site-seeing 4 night trip in September.
Any tips, specifcally hotels, of a reasonable standard, and any other advice please?
Nothing to add, great city. Been 30 years since I was there, but been thinking about a return.Byzantium for Davepick!
Absolutely fabulous city, obviously steeped in history.
Had the good fortune of visiting it a dozen plus times over the past few years through work.
Agree with Seasideone; anywhere around Taksim is a good base. The Metro is very good, easy to use and a great way to move around the city.
From Taksim,stroll down Istiklal Street (downhill) to the Galata Tower and then across the Golden Horn. Catch a boat trip on the Bosphorus (a must). Get off at Ortakoy and sink an Efes / Bomonti or two in one of the swish bars overlooking the beautiful small Mosque by the waters edge, with the bridge in the background.
Obviously the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are all a must, along with the Roman Cistern; all conveniently located alongside each other.
The Grand Bazaar is a must for souvenirs, including good quality fakes!
The food is excellent and the people very friendly in the main.
So much more to do and see; Enjoy!
Never been but a couple of chaps I drink with recently did a four nighter. They said, beware the bottled beers, a lot of it is alcohol-free.