Considering traveling to Istanbul for new years eve

Hello,

Im considering visiting Istanbul for a week with my GF. I hope it is currently considered safe. I don't wanna sound paranoid but I am from western europe and I've also never been to an arabic country/citi. I know its very big as well.

We have limited travel options for visa reasons and my GF's mom who lives in Turkey told us several times to not go to Istanbul but our options are very limited(especially if we want a direct flight and something not very expensive)

Is it safe there ? For a white couple if that matters. We would stay for 7-9 days. We look like your typical western european.

If it is safe, we are looking for recommendations for restaurants so please let me know. Also looking for spa/hammams where we could go together.

But as you can tell my main concern is safety. I was even told i should avoid certain areas during broad daylight in Taksim etc where the police won't even go..

Its not very reassuring but I'm looking for opinions. Thanks