A former Ottoman Palace, The Ciragan Palace Kempinski was renovated in 2007 adding the latest modern conveniences to its imperial grandeur. This 315-room bustling hotel is located on the Bosphorus, and the best rooms have a full sea view. There is a spa with a traditional style Turkish Hamam, a fitness center and indoor pool (open 24 hours a day), and an outdoor swimming pool heated in the winter. The Gazebo Restaurant with its view of the Bosphorus and service on the terrace is open 24 hours a day, and the breakfast buffet is delicious. When booking, specify whether you want a smoking or non-smoking room.

Sunday brunch at the Ciragan Palace is spectacular and is widely considered to be the best in town.  There is an extensive selection and everything is delicious.  There is also a wonderful view of the Bosphorus.

This 19th century palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans and, later, Atatürk.    Visitors are admitted in groups, led by the museum’s guides.

In this airy modern space, you’ll be treated to great fish and great views. The grilled fish, grilled calamari and tomato salad are tops. When you finish dinner, there’s delicious ice cream to be found at nearby Girondola. – Ask the restaurant for directions.

In a glorious setting overlooking the Bosphorus, the Four Seasons in 2008 opened this 166-room luxurious hotel in a former 18th century palace. Expect the usual Four Seasons amenities including a huge fitness center, a 90 foot outdoor heated pool, an indoor pool and lavish spa. As ever, the Four Seasons is particularly welcoming to children with special treats as well as cribs, rollaway beds and babysitting services.

This upscale restaurant serves excellent Italian cuisine to a local chic crowd. Keep this in mind for lunch too.

This jewelry shop in the W hotel features innovative jewelry and is especially for their very expensive, artistic  rings.

The Swissotel is located on a hilltop overlooking the Bosphorus near chic Nistantasi. We recommend the Executive Floors in the Northeast Tower with the wonderful private lounge,  glorious views, computers; there’s an ongoing daily buffet starting with breakfast followed by snacks and fruit going through to tea and happy hour. It’s a great place to gather if you’re traveling with business associates or with friends and family. There’s a large outdoor pool, 2 tennis courts and a brand new gorgeous spa.

A new shopping destination near the Dolmabahce Palace and the W Hotel where there are such international boutiques as Chloe, Marni and Catherine Maladrino.