former Eastern Orthodox church located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace. It is the oldest church in the city and one of the only Byzantine churches in Istanbul that was never converted into a mosque. Much more impressive than Hagia Sofia, quite, mysterious and empty.

Very unusual, dark marble greek orthodox church. Hopping here for five minutes is enough, but it does brings some peace of mind.

You will be surprised with this library! On my opinion it is the best i've ever been: mindblowing architechture (both the center and the library), incredible collection of books on various fields of art such as fashion, architecture, photography, painting, sculpture, and cinema.

We are going here for one specific area: the oldest one located under cylyndrical roof. There, you will fund the most amazing vintage jewelry, decor and glasswear. You may stroll around the regular part of the market, but it can be overwhelming.

This relatively small, even intimate mosque is my favorite. You will not find tourists here – don't forget to cover your head as a woman and ask local security to show around (they will be happy to do so, but in turkish). Mosque was built by the order of Sultana Pertevniyal in 1872.

One of many ancient cisterns built in Constantinople, but less crowded and cheaper than most popular Basilica Cistern. Absolutely incredible experience – not neccessary to visit today, but if you can – do!

If you are into history of Roman and Greek empire – you need to visit this museum. I havent seen that many precious archeological find anywhere: from sarcophaguses to statues. Even my parents loved it!

Have you seen A murder on the Orient Express? Thats the station, the original starting point of a long journey from Constantinople (yes, it was still name this way) to Paris. It was opened on 1 June 1889 and the station still has this incredible feeling of a luxury voyage that is about to happen!

Scandinavian, slightly overpriced, but lovely coffee shop in one of my favorite streets of Istanbul. Walk from Hagia Triada to Norre is a beautiful, european-istanbul-kind-of-walk. Norre does simple turkish breakfasts and great coffee.

This street will sed you back to an old istanbul! Its filled with vintage shops, ruins and remains of Ottoman and Roman heritage, Hamams and old doors. Go aaaaall the way down!

This courtyard feels like a hidden time-travel machine. In the last century it belonged to a French orphanage, which adds a certain melancholy to the place. Peaceful and incredibly instagrammable – don't miss the entrance, it pops up out of nowhere!

Shop supports local brands – its best place to discover creative business of Istanbul! Plus, some cool vintage. If you need souvenirs – buy here!

Oh my, this is the best vintage shop – and the most unexpected. Tucked in the busy dark street near the hectic pier, it will surprise you with an incredible outerwear selection. All sorts of coats, jackets, blazers plus lots of leatherwear and glasses.

We are going to Istanbul Modern – but not for the museum itself. There, on a third floor is a great local restaurant – pricy but awesome. Also you will get the best view on the port and giant ships. You can also visit the museum, but you will need to buy the ticket.

Finally, we are about to explore Turkish hamam! Iv chosen this one simply because it's the best. By any local standarts this is highly overpriced, but trust me, it worths its 70 euro price. Full service, massage, foam, scrub and contrast baths. Note: women and men bath separately. Women: 8 – 16:00. Men – 16 – 23:0.