The largest city in Turkey and the fifth largest in the world, Istanbul is a cosmopolitan melting pot, connecting European and Asian culture. The city has a colorful past and a vibrant present. Take a look at our tips for enjoying a long weekend in this hotspot.

Enjoy the first day by visiting the Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Mosque) is named for the 20,000 blue ceramic tiles that cover its interior. It is an active mosque so you will need to remove your shoes and cover your head and body to go inside. It is closed to non-worshipers during the five prayer calls during the day. After the Blue Mosque, head over to the Cathedral of St. Sophia or Hagia Sophia. This enormous cathedral was the largest in the world for a thousand years before the Turks took over and converted it into the largest mosque. When secular rule came to Istanbul it was turned into an expansive museum. After your visit, relax with a trip to the cafe, Cigdem Pastanesi for baklava and traditional Turkish apple tea.

After strolling the streets of the cosmopolitan city, return to your hotel to get ready for dinner at Ulus 29 (stylish, good, great views) or Changa (contemporary international dishes) and dancing at Reina – gorgeous people and hot music, right on the water.

Day 2, Get your cash ready to spend at the Grand Bazaar. Keep your Gucci purse close and spend the day browsing the thousands of shops offering everything from apparel and glazed pottery to Turkish carpets. While you are in the bazaar, keep a look out for the Mosaic Museum. In the 1930′s excavators found a series of mosaics believed to have once been in the courtyard of Constantine’s palace, and in the middle of the largest market in Turkey, they created this unique gem of a museum. If you like a little adventure in your souvenir buying, seek out the original Turkish delight shop. Famous for their sweets, the Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekur shop is still run by the confectioner’s family. Also, don’t miss out on the Egyptian Spice Market down by the docks where there are tea sets,Turkish linens and, of course, lots of foods and spices for sale.

During the afternoon in the summer months, head over to Suada Beach Party, located on an island out on the Bosphoros. This all day party plays host to beautiful people, rhythmic music, and delectable cocktails. Dance poolside to a live band and a hot DJ. Have dinner at Koşebaşi Reina (Mediterranean fare) or Feriye Lokantası (luxurious, great seafood) and stop at Anjelique during the summer for cocktails and dancing. This place is incredibly hip.

Day 3, Take advantage of the city’s beautiful weather by spending the day on a boat ride up the Bosphorus river. Cruises offer scenes of the Turkish countryside, the Bosphoros bridge, and monuments. At the last stop, Anadolu Kavagi, you’ll have a couple hours before the return trip. Hike up the ruins of the castle for a spectacular view of Istanbul and eat fresh and delicious seafood right on the waterfront at Yedigul Restaurant. End your trip with a traditional Turkish pastime and stop inside a local hookah bar for people watching and a smoke on the water pipe.

Stay: Settle into the Witt Istanbul Suites, noted on Conde Nast’s 2009 Hot List; the Sofa Istanbul, a luxe boutique hotel; or the A’jia Hotel, located on the Bosphoros with breathtaking balcony views.

Check out Travelista videos in Istanbul and the Turkish regions of Bodrum and Cappadocia.