Nişantaşı has no monuments to speak of; the draw is the neighborhood itself. This is Istanbul's fashion district, where Abdi İpekçi Street plays the role of Fifth Avenue, lined with international luxury brands. Local Turkish designers hold their own alongside them, and the surrounding blocks are full of handsome Belle Époque apartment buildings. It is where the city's fashion crowd meets for brunch and where creatives shop for boutique pieces. Come for a morning of shopping or just a slow walk with a coffee in hand: the café culture here is a scene in its own right.

Trade here has connected Europe and Asia for over 500 years. The Grand Bazaar alone holds about 4,000 shops. Haggling is expected at most stalls, so take your time and compare prices.

Shoppers can find handmade crafts alongside standard souvenirs. The buildings themselves have housed merchants for centuries.

First-time visitors and solo travelers both manage easily here. The area is walkable, and staff at most sites are used to tourists.

Nearby bazaars sell Turkish crafts and souvenirs. Tea houses in the side streets are a good place to rest between sights.