Things To Do
Nişantaşı
Nişantaşı is Istanbul’s fashionable district, famous for luxury shopping, stylish cafés, and elegant streets. It’s ideal for a chic shopping trip or people-watching, and is about a 10 minute drive and 20 minute walk from the Swissotel.
Explore the Old Town
Istanbul is one of the world’s oldest and most historically significant cities, bridging Europe and Asia and blending centuries of culture, art, and architecture. In the Old Town, don’t miss Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque. 💡Visit in the morning before 2 pm to avoid prayer times.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Karaköy
Karaköy is a lively neighborhood by the Bosphorus, known for its trendy cafés, street art, boutique shops, and historic buildings. It’s perfect for a stroll, coffee, or enjoying the waterfront vibe.
İstiklal Caddesi
İstiklal Caddesi is Istanbul’s bustling pedestrian street, filled with shops, cafés, restaurants, and historic architecture. 🚃 Take the tram from Karaköy for an easy and scenic ride up to the street.
Bebek
Bebek is an upscale waterfront neighborhood along the Bosphorus, known for its scenic views, trendy cafés, and chic restaurants. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying a coffee by the water.
Beşiktaş Meydan
Beşiktaş is a lively neighborhood with markets, cafés, and waterfront views. It’s very convenient from the Swissôtel— 15 min on foot.
Moda
Moda is a charming seaside neighborhood on Istanbul’s Asian side, known for cafés, parks, and relaxed vibes. Take the ferry from Beşiktaş to Kadıköy for a scenic and enjoyable ride across the Bosphorus.
Bağdat Caddesi
Bağdat Caddesi is a lively shopping street on Istanbul’s Asian side, filled with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. To get there from the European side, you can take an Uber or the ferry for a scenic ride across the Bosphorus. ✨ Fun fact: This is where Asli is from!
Princes’ Islands
The Princes’ Islands are a group of car-free islands on Istanbul’s Asian side, perfect for a relaxing day trip. You can take a ferry from the European side, which takes about 1–1.5 hours, and enjoy biking, walking, or horse-drawn carriages while soaking in the peaceful seaside charm.