9 AM
Head to Istanbul’s old town and spend the morning at the Blue Mosque. It is one of the defining structures of the city’s skyline, and it’s even more impressive up close. Note that you have to dress in the traditional wear before you enter as this is still a working mosque. Don’t forget to look up to gaze at the intricate ceiling work.

11 AM 
Venture to the well-known Grand Bazaar for a bit of shopping. Albeit mainstream, it’s a fun market to explore and is housed in one old cisterns of Istanbul. Stop by the smaller Arasta Bazaar to buy Turkish towels and some souvenirs.

12:30 PM 
Leave old town and head to Bebek, a village by the Bosphorus worth visiting, yet lesser known among tourists. Bebek is a lively, green, and wealthy neighborhood by the Bosphorus. It’s well known and frequently visited by locals during the weekends. It’s a local all-time favorite to have a (late) breakfast with a stunning view followed by a nice stroll on the boardwalk, topped with a drink in one of the many cafes. Or come later, and enjoy the buzzing nightlife.

5 PM 
A trip to Istanbul is not complete without a Bosphorus cruise. There are several cruises you can take – a short one (to the second suspension bridge and back), a long one (all the way to the Black Sea and back), you can also enjoy a sunset tour in summertime.

7 PM
In the evening have dinner at Restaurant 360 right in the centre of the city, which fabulous restaurant serving traditional Turkish food and the restaurant has entertainment with a twist. This restaurant also has views of Istanbul with stunning outdoor terraces. Other hip restaurants worth checking out are Milka, Ulus 29 or Asitane for a traditional Ottoman cuisine.

9 PM
Have a night cap in one of Istanbul’s trendy bars such as Nuterasor Reina

Visit Chic Collection for a full list of their member hotels in Istanbul.

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