Istanbul encounter

What will your istanbul encounter be ?

• crossing your legs and admiring the tilework in the Topkapi Palace Circumcision Room (p44)
• shots of raki (aniseed brandy) while carousing with wandering musicians on Nevizade Sokak (p17)
• warm stone, soft suds and the masseur's firm hands in the hamam (p19)
• zigzagging between continents on a Bosphorus cruise (p113)
• scents of saffron, caviar and Ottoman aphrodisiacs in the Spice Bazaar (p61)
• savouring smooth apple-scented tobacco in a nargileh (water pipe) - but not inhaling (p20)

Discover twice the city in half the time...

• full-colour pull-out map and detailed neighbourhood maps for easy navigation
• our discerning author recommends the very best neighbourhoods, sights, restaurants, shops and entertainment
• unique itineraries and highlights help you make the most of a short trip
• locals reveal Istanbul's secrets: from a guide's Topkaki Palace highlights to a bazaar spruiker's shopping tips