Planning my own birthday present - a trip w/husband.
I checked out the Caribbean, yet it is cheaper to get to Turkey at this time of year.
Plus, we have always wanted to visit Istanbul.
Our ages are 60 and 69 - have traveled several times to Greece and speak Greek.
We'd like to see the sites, walk, take a boat on the Bosporus.
What will February be like? Too cold for boats? Should we hire a guide?
Any tips for hotels (mid-range, not swanky) and sites appreciated.
We live in Vermont so are not afraid of the cold, but hope the weather will be milder there.
Thanks in advance for your help.

I suggest u to hire a special guide or join a 3-4 days city tour

you should definitely stay in sultanahmet area(in museums area , historic district of istanbul)
I suggest https://www.istanbulcityhotels.com for cheap hotel prices and useful informations
dont hesitate to ask anything via email from site
people will be glad to help u in travel agency

You don't necessarily need a guide for Istanbul, unless your mode of travel is to use a guide in big cities. The Rick Steves Istanbul guidebook is excellent and worth considering. You might want to look at my trip report; just click on my name to find it.

I wouldn't even think about going in February. It isn't cold like the northeast but the wind makes it very unpleasant, especially out on the water.

It will be too cold for the Bosphorus trip. You'd better visit some authentic Turkish restaurants - Abracadabra, Tria Elegance, Zinhan, Pierre Loti cafe.