Found on a charming cobblestone road mere steps from the Galata Tower, the Georges Hotel Galata is an elegant boutique hotel; a welcome antidote to many of Istanbul’s overtly touristy hotel offerings. There are l’Occitane toiletries and rainfall showers in the marble bathrooms, elegant wood parquet floors and teak furniture in the rooms, and views out over the sparkling Bosphorus and the Old City. And that’s just the start. Services here are thoughtful and aimed at pampering each and every guest, from the complimentary a la carte breakfast and hand-delivered newspapers in the morning to turn down service at night. You can even indulge in a massage or a yoga session in the privacy of your own guestroom, should the mood strike.

Le Fumoir, the bar and restaurant at the Georges Hotel Galata led by chef Clarisse Muge Özden, is inspired by Parisian menus and style – so much so that a night in its chic, leather-upholstered dining room might trick you into thinking you were miles away in the French capital. Dishes like moules marinières, escargots, and winter tartine with Roquefort, pears and smoked beef are menu staples, best washed down with one of the many French vintages on offer.