Your essential guide to Istanbul

Just upstream along the Bosphorus shore from Mandarin Oriental is the stylish Bebek neighbourhood, dotted with high-end shops, local boutiques, and artisanal perfumeries. If you head east, you’ll stumble upon the luxurious neighbourhood of Nişantaşı with its cluster of international fashion brands and local haute couture ateliers. For traditional goods, venture further afield to the Grand Bazaar, the historic centre of goods and commerce in the city. Expert crafts artisans have their workshops here, and it's possible to find new and antique jewellery, copper, leather goods, and more.

A short walk from Kuruçeşme is Arnavutköy, notable for its distinct pastel-coloured wooden waterside mansions and cobblestoned backstreets. For the full scope of Ottoman architecture, head to Süleymaniye Mosque to experience celebrated architect Mimar Sinan’s 16th-century masterpiece – and make sure to take time to enjoy the sweeping views from the mosque’s courtyard. Stroll up the Golden Horn to experience the textures of the Fener, Balat, and Eyüp neighbourhoods, where synagogues and Byzantine churches intermingle with trendy cafés and antiques shops. Hop on a ferry to see Istanbul’s Asian side, where you can explore the arty enclave of Kadıköy or the Ottoman mosques along the waterfront at Üsküdar.