Istanbul is the city of mouthwatering kebabs, heartbreaking sweets, and unforgettable views. But wait — maybe I should have started with something else. Istanbul is also just a five-hour flight from Dubai, with return tickets starting at only 1000 AED. More intriguing, right?

No matter which argument won you over — the first or the second — all of this makes it the perfect escape for anyone who listens to people in Dubai saying “Finally, the weather is nice” with wide, amazed eyes, while secretly dreaming of fresh air, beautiful historic streets, and, of course, endless food.

And while the usual tourist guides are everywhere, this one is different. It will take you to unique corners of the city and to spots that may be touristy, but never too touristy. Get ready for a new Istanbul!

Before we dive into the details, let’s cover a few basics. I won’t claim to be the ultimate expert, but having been to Istanbul twice, I do have some insights worth sharing.

All those famous tourist spots — the ones full of people carrying cameras — you can find without me. I am here to show you the new, still beautiful and cool experiences, and to make sure you don’t just tick off the famous sights… but also relax. Yes, really, relax! So what to do in Istanbul?

This place perfectly combines authenticity and luxury — and yes, luxury usually comes with a price. But being in Istanbul and skipping a hammam? Almost a crime. Inspired by Pinterest boards and travel guides, this is the spot to experience it properly.

Have you seen "Inferno", part of Dan Brown’s trilogy? (If not, I highly recommend it, whether or not you are planning a trip to Istanbul!) If yes, I bet you may recall the final scenes set in the Basilica, with its breathtaking columns and shimmering water. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I to store the city’s water, it is just as striking in real life — a true must-see.

If you have got a car, head to Tirmata Beach — a great spot for catching waves or just enjoying a swim in the warm water. Surfboards and wetsuits are available on-site, so there is no need to bring your own. The only thing to watch out for is the wind: if it isn't right, surfing may have to wait. And if you think September is too late, don’t worry — we were still swimming there at the end of October.

Markets in Istanbul can feel a little overwhelming at times, but that is all part of their charm — vibrant, colourful and full of life. And as the saying goes, those who search, find. You might just come across a wonderful little souvenir while wandering through the stalls.

Istanbul is well known for its prices, often much lower than in many other parts of the world. While not everything is actually cheaper, plenty comes at a much friendlier price. Here is a little tip from me: fans of Oysho, Les Benjamins and Golden Goose should definitely check out their shops here (don’t ask how I know).

And the perfect spot for shopping? Galataport — a particularly cool place that brings together a mix of shops and restaurants, all with a perfect view of the Bosphorus.

Istanbul is full of fantastic places to eat, each with its own charm and flavours. I wouldn’t be too strict about where you go — part of the joy is wandering the streets and finding a spot that feels right (that is how we stumbled across some of our favourites). Still, to make sure you don’t feel lost, here is a handy list: