The best of Istanbul is outside our front doors. Tour the ancient underground Basilica Cistern, admire the photography exhibits at Ara Güler Museum, or ride a cable car to the top of Pierre Loti Hill for views of the Golden Horn waterway. The repurposed beer factory Bomontiada features art galleries, bars, and concerts at the Babylon music venue. You can also take a ferry ride to the legendary Maiden’s Tower in the middle of the Bosphorus, wander the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, or shop for luxury goods in the upscale Nisantasi shopping district.