Originally Posted by
arlflyer
A minority viewpoint could also be to suggest considering some time at the DT in Kadikoy. I rather like it over there myself.
I'm a fan of the DT Moda in Kadikoy, having stayed there at least 3 times. A quick cab ride from the DT Old Town to Yenikapi and you can catch the boat to Kadikoy which leaves you a few hundred meters walk from the DT Moda.
Although similar to the European side, the Asian side certainly has a different feel to it. There's lots to do around the Kadikoy area, as well as countless options a short trip away via either taxi or the various public transport. It's also relatively easy to make your way from there to the Taksim area via visa/funicular.