Nisantasi is a glamorous, upscale, largely secular neighbourhood just one metro stop from the central Taksim Square.
Sultanahmet is the oldest part of the city. The former imperial capital has a high concentration of historic landmarks including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
The Bosphorus Strait, the iconic waterway separating Europe and Asia, is dotted with bays, grand maritime mansions and imposing fortresses.