My husband and I visited Istanbul from Los Angeles and stayed at Alper’s place. I am originally from Istanbul so I can guarantee you that staying in this neighborhood makes the most sense in terms of beauty, safety, and location. Alper’s place is very cozy, clean and within walking distance to the Bosphorus and only a short drive to many of Istanbul’s treasures.
Can’t help my hospitable Turkish side in sharing some recommendations, so here you go :) Istanbul is way more than “Sultanahmet”. To soak in the real Istanbul vibe, right before sun goes down, take a public ferry for a mini Bosphorus tour or rent your own private yacht from the Arnavutkoy deck (around 700 TL / an hour with drinks). Either is highly recommended. Don’t miss out on having a traditional Turkish breakfast at “Sutis Cafe” right down the street or a hearty breakfast at “Eggo Cafe.” Eggo also has a bunch of healthy juices. “Nezih Breakfast” is another fantastic breakfast spot and their spread is insane :) Take a walk or ride a city bike “IsBike” to the “Bebek” neighborhood and sip coffee at “Bebek Starbuck.” No Starbucks in the world has a better view. Take a stroll from “Asmalimescit” to “Galata Tower” in old town. Be sure to explore antique, instrument, and record shops. While you are around the area stop by the rooftop at “Monkey Bar” for a romantic afternoon cocktail. They have great house music and a killer view. Take a shuttle from “Emirgan” to a little town called “Kanlica” on the Asian side to eat at a historic yogurt shop. During the summer don’t miss out on getting a daily pass to the Four Seasons’ pool (great view)” or simply taking a cab to one of the beaches in “Sariyer” for a clean dip. If you are looking to hit the club scene, check out Ortaköy’s “Ruby” and after a long night of dancing treat yourself to “Crispy Dumplings” at “Bodrum Manti” or wet burgers (insane) at “Etiler Marmaris”. To get a nice bath house and massage fix after a long flight, check out Four Seasons Spa (a bit pricy) or “NuSpa Zorlu” (fair prices). If you want to eat at a phenomenal Kebap restaurant, check out “Fiko Kebap” (a bit pricy but worth it). If you are looking to do a little shopping, check out “Zorlu Center”. Last but not least for sure get a cocktail at sunset at Alexandra bar right down the street :) Views of the Bosphorus and the 1st bridge are breathtaking.
Alper is a very hands-on host, he is very responsive, he loves his house, and takes care of it very well. His place is stylish, clean, and full of well thought out details. Thanks much for hosting us Alper, take care!