KONSEPT / ISTANBUL / THE CITY NOTEBOOK
In Istanbul, cats rule the city. Meet Sultan the Cat, your slightly unreliable local for palace gates, neighbourhood streets, art by the water and a little island escapism. Seven chapters. Countless detours. Her city, your adventure.
EXPLORE / ISTANBUL, FRAME BY FRAME
Pick the place that catches your eye.
Every photograph opens its neighbourhood notes.
Look up. Slow down. Some stories deserve your full attention.
“Even I know when to pause.” — Sultan the Cat
SULTANAHMET
A vast dome, marble surfaces and centuries of changing purpose make Hagia Sophia an essential encounter with Istanbul. Take time to look beyond its scale, to the details that connect its Byzantine and Ottoman histories.
Discover the landmarkSIRKECI · HODJAPASHA
Make time for the Mevlevi Sema ceremony at Hodjapasha, in nearby Sirkeci. A contemplative cultural experience to approach with attention and respect.
Ceremony & visitor detailsSultanahmet · Beneath the city
Below Sultanahmet, rows of stone columns rise from dark water in the Basilica Cistern. Reflections, changing light and the carved Medusa heads make this former reservoir one of the city’s most atmospheric interiors.
Visitor detailsSultanahmet · A living landmark
Cascading domes and six minarets shape the skyline; inside, blue Iznik tiles reward a closer look. The Blue Mosque remains a place of worship, bringing the city’s architectural heritage into its daily life.
Visitor detailsSarayburnu · Courtyards & collections
Topkapi unfolds through successive courtyards, intimate pavilions and gardens overlooking the water. Once the centre of Ottoman court life, it is best explored slowly, with as much attention to its quiet corners as its collections.
Visitor detailsBeşiktaş · On the Bosphorus
An ornate waterfront façade gives way to richly decorated halls at Dolmabahce Palace. Its setting on the Bosphorus is part of the pleasure: make this a visit of its own, with time to explore the Beşiktaş waterfront afterwards.
Visitor detailsA palace, a breeze, and every excuse to take the scenic way.
“I came for the view. I stayed for the breeze.” — Sultan the Cat
BEŞIKTAŞ
An ornate waterfront façade gives way to richly decorated halls at Dolmabahce Palace. Its setting on the Bosphorus is part of the pleasure: make this a visit of its own, with time to explore the Beşiktaş waterfront afterwards.
Palace visitor detailsBETWEEN TWO SHORES
See the city from the water, or follow a stretch of its shoreline. Let the strait set the pace.
View on mapBY THE WATER
A waterside square, the mosque beside the strait, and a view that asks you to linger.
View on mapA LITTLE FURTHER ALONG
Make room for a stroll by the bay and a pause by the water. No need to hurry through this one.
View on mapFollow your curiosity from neighbourhood streets to contemporary art.
“I appreciate good composition. Especially when I’m in it.” — Sultan the Cat
NEIGHBOURHOOD WANDER
Follow the side streets, pause at a café, and enjoy the contrast between the old port neighbourhood and the city around it.
View on mapART BY THE BOSPHORUS
A change of perspective through modern and contemporary art. Leave time to explore the museum’s current programme.
Museum visitor detailsWATERFRONT PROMENADE
An open stretch of Bosphorus waterfront, with room to walk, browse and watch the city across the water. Pair the promenade with a visit to nearby Istanbul Modern for an afternoon of art and sea views.
Explore GalataportThe city in full voice, with a little old-world glamour around the corner.
“A grand entrance is simply good manners.” — Sultan the Cat
BEYOĞLU
Start around Taksim, follow İstiklal, then drift towards Pera’s façades and side streets. Let the architecture do some of the storytelling.
View on mapA KONSEPT DETOUR
If the afternoon turns into an aperitif, Sultan the Cat knows just the place. Meet her at Orient Bar in our TASTE selection.
Continue to TASTEA little window-shopping. A little people-watching. A very considered detour.
“Window-shopping counts as cultural research.” — Sultan the Cat
STREET-LEVEL STYLE
Explore the neighbourhood’s boutiques, shop windows and café tables. A different lens on the city’s sense of style.
View on mapLet the mainland fade. The best detours sometimes begin on a boat.
“My diary is full. Of absolutely nothing.” — Sultan the Cat
PRINCES’ ISLANDS
A change of rhythm on Büyükada, with Splendid Palace Hotel as your grand island address. Wander first; leave room for a leisurely hotel pause.
Discover Splendid PalacePLAN THE CROSSING
Choose your departure point and check the current island ferry timetable before setting out.
Official ferry informationTwo neighbouring historic areas along the Golden Horn. Colourful streets, quiet corners and a different rhythm.
“Every street deserves a little curiosity.” — Sultan the Cat
TAKE A WANDER
Explore the neighbourhood on foot. Follow the side streets and leave room for an unexpected detour.
View on map ↗COLOUR & CHARACTER
Look for colourful houses, pause for a coffee and take your time along the neighbourhood streets.
View on map ↗