Many people don’t know, but the role of a concierge in a luxury hotel goes far beyond simply meeting guests’ basic needs. Concierges are professionals who know the details of cities, from the most obvious and sought-after addresses to those gems that only locals know about. Therefore, it is always worth listening to what concierges have to say.
Therefore, we asked the concierges at the luxurious Four Seasons – Derya Koçak hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmetand Kemal Berber, from Four Seasons Hotel at the Bosphorus, five tips for experiencing Istanbul off the beaten track.
Known as the jewel that unites East and West, Istanbul offers an attractive cultural mosaic. Some of the world’s most beautiful mosques, sumptuous palaces and Byzantine historical monuments are part of the menu of attractions, alongside restaurants, museums and vibrant markets. Direct flights leaving from São Paulo and Campinas and prices that remain attractive even with the devalued real boost travelers’ choice.
Check out 5 tips for what to do in Istanbul below
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Explore the colorful streets of Balat and Fener
The historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener are among the most unique and photographable in Istanbul. With colorful Ottoman houses, art galleries, antique shops and cozy cafes, a stroll along these streets offers the chance to experience the city’s multifaceted past and multicultural atmosphere.
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Experience gastronomy like the locals
If the Grand Bazaar is a mandatory stop for tourists, residents prefer the Spice Bazaar where they meet at Malatya Pazarı, famous for its selection of dried fruits, nuts and spices from the Malatya region in eastern Turkey. Still in the neighborhood, it’s worth a visit to Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi, an iconic restaurant from 1920, which serves delicious köftes (kaftas) with fresh bread and traditional accompaniments. The lively atmosphere and historic ambience attract both locals and tourists.
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Take a Turkish bath in one of the city’s most beautiful spas
The Turkish bath is a traditional relaxation ritual that has been part of local culture for centuries. At the Four Seasons Istanbul at the Bosphorus, an icon of luxury and sophistication on the banks of the Bosphorus, the space dedicated to hamman It is an architectural jewel, with a design featuring elements of Ottoman art. Located in the spacious spa From the hotel, you can even combine a bath with a massage or facial and take a dip amid mosaics and columns that date back to Turkey’s Roman heritage.
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Stay in a former Ottoman prison
A few steps from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the fantastic activity of the Grand Bazaar, is the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, a sanctuary in the heart of Istanbul’s oldest quarter, where the center of Constantinople stood so many centuries ago. Built in 1918, the building is an example of Turkish neoclassical architecture and a symbol of the city’s history, as it was a famous political prison. But nothing of this dark time has remained in the hotel, which was recently renovated. The interiors have been reimagined as a true urban oasis and the details bring back traditional Ottoman and Turkish motifs. The bedside lamps were inspired by the Basilica, the bar counter references Turkish baskets, while lampshades refer to the movement of the Whirling Dervishes and the elevator area is marked by motifs from the ancient Seljuk people.
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Slow down in Fashion and Kadıköy
Escape the hustle and bustle of Europe and enjoy a peaceful day in Fashion, a charming area in the neighborhood Kadıköy, on the Asian side of the city. Enjoy a coffee by the sea, take a walk along the shore or watch the sunset from the pier. You can also rent a bike for a relaxing ride around the Bağdat Avenue . For an authentic experience, head to the small restaurant Kandilisi Iskelesi, where the freshest fish in the city is served, always surrounded by stunning views of the sea.
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The post Istanbul: 5 tips on what to do in the city that unites East and West appeared first on CNN Brasil V&G.
Source: CNN Brasil
Johanna Foster is an expert opinion writer with over 7 years of experience. She has a reputation for delivering insightful and thought-provoking articles on a variety of subjects. Her work can be found on some of the top online news websites, and she is currently lending her voice to the world stock market.
