Istanbul | same architect

binbirdirek cistern, 011-90-212-517-8725. the oldest and second-largest cistern in istanbul, binbirdirek’s 224 columns once held 50,000 cubic meters of water, and then later, um, trash. today, it’s a worthwhile historic, if somewhat anomalous, family attraction. better yet, it’s open until midnight, and admission gets you free tea, coffee, or soft drinks.
cemberlitas hamami, 011-90-212-522-7974, www.cemberlitashamami.com.tr. dating back to 1584, this turkish bath is not only authentic (prepare to be scrubbed, rubbed, lathered, and bathed) and a great spot to wind down after a long day of sightseeing, but it was built by the same architect who designed the breathtaking blue mosque.