From the city’s iconic Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques to its rooftop restaurants, here’s your bucket-list guide to Turkey’s largest city
TO DO LIST
01 BEYOGLU
Across the Galata Bridge on the opposite side of the Golden Horn to Fatih is Beyoglu, a once seedy district of Istanbul that’s now the beating heart of the city’s shopping, entertainment and nightlife. Its main artery is Istiklal Avenue, a wide, seemingly endless pedestrianised thoroughfare that stretches all the way from the former medieval Genoese citadel of Galata (now known as Karaköy) to Taksim Square. The avenue and its myriad side roads are filled with cafés, restaurants, cinemas, art galleries, libraries and theatres, while Karaköy – its central striking feature being the Galata Tower – is defined by steep cobblestone streets and boutique shops.
02 ORHAN PAMUK’S ISTANBUL
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Trip with Vakava
A new brunch for foodies and fiesta hunters
THE BEACH HOUSE POOL DAY
You voted it as your favourite Seafood Restaurant at the What’s On Awards in May. Does it still reign supreme?
Tea by the sea
St Regis teams with Tchaba Tea for a special afternoon collab
TAIKUN
Not for the fainthearted, Taikun sizzles with its new dinner and a show
LA CASA DEL TANGO
A round of applause or a slow hand clap for this new dinner and a show concept in DIFC?
IKIGAI
If there’s one thing Dubai isn’t short of it’s Japanese restaurants. So, is there room for one more?
HOW NOT TO LOSE YOUR COOL THIS SUMMER
This is a city that works hard, plays hard, but, on a boiling hot day, can feel like hard work. So look at this month’s magazine as a little cooling comfort pack to see you through the summer season. Let yourself be whisked off to our favourite indoor bars and hideaways – with AC, summery feels and maybe an ice-cold drink to keep you chill. Then dream of refreshing dishes to fill your belly. You’ve never had it so cool.
CATCH
A surf and turf showdown every Saturday
CARNA
Very high steaks at SLS Dubai
BEEN THERE, DONE THAT
Feel like you’ve seen all that the capital has to offer? Think again…
