Sights:  Haghia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Harem, Yerebatan Sarnici Cistern, Sultanahmet ("Blue") Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Egyptian Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace

 

Hotel: Seres Hotel - simple 3 star with great roof top views in the heart of the key sights & near the ferry port -- www.sereshotel.com

 

Food: 360 - "Fusion Traditional", very cool & trendy, brilliant views -- www.360istanbul.com

Amedros - Ottoman style, very friendly, good food in the middle of tourist traps -- www.amedroscafe.com

Drink: Under the Galata Bridge (across the Golden Horn)!  Watch the sunset, the fishermen, and the world go by.

 

Shopping: Grand Bazaar (rugs, leather, pottery); Egyptian Bazaar (Spices); Kadikoy, Asian Shore (books, fish, honey, veg); Istiklal Caddesi, Beyoglu (pedestrian, modern shopping)

 

Transport:  Walk or tram, avoid taxis (dangerous driving)!  A trip on the Ferry to the Asian side or to Bosphorus Villages

 

Other:  3 day trip, interesting juxtaposition of East & West, Christian & Islam