Eat
Old: Borsa
This restaurant serves traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs, meze, mant (Turkish ravioli) and dolma (stuffed vine leaves), prepared as they have been since the reign of the Ottoman Empire. Businessmen come here to have working lunches, while most locals bring foreign guests here when they want to impress. Bit of a stuffy vibe though, so raucous dinner parties might want to go elsewhere. Harbiye, +90 212 232 4201; www.borsarestaurant.com.

New: Mikla
Swedish-Turkish Chef Mehmet Gürs combines Nordic flavors with those of the Ottoman kitchen in Mikla’s dishes to much success. In contrast with the super fancy dishes at Borsa, Mikla’s dishes are rather simple, purposefully so, but still delicious. Located in the Marmara Pera hotel, Mikla also enjoys a wraparound view that enhances your dining experience. Plus, the 12-course tasting menu is a deal at 110 Turkish Lira (about £40). The Marmara Pera, Mesrutiyet Caddesi, Beyoglu, +90 212 293 5656.

Sleep
Old: Çiragan Palace Kempinski
Turkey’s one and only Palace Hotel Çiragan will make you feel like a real Sultan. The hotel’s located right on the Bosphorus, and is incredibly opulent– they’ve even got a butler. Celebrities, politicians and musicians all stay here. The outdoor infinity pool makes you feel like you’re swimming in the Bosphorus. If you’re lucky your stay might coincide with a wedding, as it’s a popular spot for wealthy folks worldwide. 32 Ciragan Caddesi, Besiktas, + 90 212 326 46 46; www.kempinski-istanbul.com.

New: A’jia Hotel
Located on the Asian side, boutique hotel A’jia Hotel is a more unique option. Formerly an Ottoman mansion, the hotel has just 16 rooms and also operates as a restaurant. One of the most impressive aspects of the hotel? You can take a ferry across the Bosphorus and make a stylish entrance to any number of clubs along the shore.

Do
The old: Bosphorus Tour
Touring one of the most famous straits in the world is certainly never a dull activity. The tour, which passes palaces, Ottoman houses, fancy clubs, and the two bridges that connect Asia and Europe, is a great way to gain a better understanding of the city. Because Istanbul has such horrific traffic, it’s the easiest, not to mention most relaxing and informative, way to see the city.

The new: Su Ada
Man-made island Su Ada is a popular location for those who wish to be on the Bosphorus, but also want the comfort of returning to dry land in seconds. A boat takes you to the island where you can wine and dine at five different restaurants or go for a dip in the Olympic-size outdoor pool. Trendy crowds enjoy summer pool parties, with 360-degree views of the city.

For more information, see Time Out Istanbul.

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