Mia’s Istanbul Guide
Arts & Culture
This is a former Ottoman Bank now converted to SALT Galata which is one of my favorite cultural institutions in Istanbul that puts on a variety of talks, screenings and workshops, all of which are free.
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SALT Galata, Istanbul
No:11 Bankalar Cd.This is a former Ottoman Bank now converted to SALT Galata which is one of my favorite cultural institutions in Istanbul that puts on a variety of talks, screenings and workshops, all of which are free.
The trip here by ferry is half the fun, but this museum of fine arts, set in a sumptuous private villa, is one of the best in the city. It hosts touring exhibitions (recent ones have included Picasso and Rembrandt) and its own collection concentrates on exquisite Ottoman calligraphy. Plan your visit in time for lunch; the restaurant, MüzedeChanga, has a terrace overlooking the straits.
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Sabancı-universitetets Sakıp Sabancı-museum
42 Sakıp Sabancı Cd.The trip here by ferry is half the fun, but this museum of fine arts, set in a sumptuous private villa, is one of the best in the city. It hosts touring exhibitions (recent ones have included Picasso and Rembrandt) and its own collection concentrates on exquisite Ottoman calligraphy. Plan your visit in time for lunch; the restaurant, MüzedeChanga, has a terrace overlooking the straits.
Established in 2005, the Pera Museum takes its name from the original name for the Beyoğlu district and is housed in a handsome 19th century building. Known for its diverse and well-curated temporary exhibitions by artists from all over the world, the Pera Museum is also home to a permanent collection of Orientalist paintings, Anatolian weights and measures, and Kütahya tiles and ceramics on display. Pera Museum's in-house cinema screens a variety of independent features and shorts throughout the year.
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Pera-museet
65 Meşrutiyet Cd.Established in 2005, the Pera Museum takes its name from the original name for the Beyoğlu district and is housed in a handsome 19th century building. Known for its diverse and well-curated temporary exhibitions by artists from all over the world, the Pera Museum is also home to a permanent collection of Orientalist paintings, Anatolian weights and measures, and Kütahya tiles and ceramics on display. Pera Museum's in-house cinema screens a variety of independent features and shorts throughout the year.
Inspired by renowned novelist Orhan Pamuk's (Nobel Prize Winner) novel of the same name, the Museum of Innocence is nestled in the picturesque quarter of Çukurcuma, where much of the book transpires. The countless number of household objects and photographs meticulously collected and displayed in the museum are connected to the bittersweet love story that unfolds in the novel. Taking his cue from the works of Joseph Cornell, Pamuk has arranged these objects into installations and collages housed in custom-built vitrines, which gleam like cabinets of curiosities inside the dimly lit museum. The winner of the European Museum of the Year Award in 2014
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Museum of Innocence
2 Dalgıç Çk.Inspired by renowned novelist Orhan Pamuk's (Nobel Prize Winner) novel of the same name, the Museum of Innocence is nestled in the picturesque quarter of Çukurcuma, where much of the book transpires. The countless number of household objects and photographs meticulously collected and displayed in the museum are connected to the bittersweet love story that unfolds in the novel. Taking his cue from the works of Joseph Cornell, Pamuk has arranged these objects into installations and collages housed in custom-built vitrines, which gleam like cabinets of curiosities inside the dimly lit museum. The winner of the European Museum of the Year Award in 2014
Art gallery in Istiklal Street. Initiated by the Vehbi Koç Foundation, Arter is one of Turkey’s leading contemporary art institutions dedicated to exhibiting modern art at the heart of Istanbul. Since opening in 2010, Arter has hosted exhibitions by leading artists from Turkey and abroad, including solo shows by Mona Hatoum, Marc Quinn and the Chapman Brothers.
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Arter
No:13 Irmak Cd.Art gallery in Istiklal Street. Initiated by the Vehbi Koç Foundation, Arter is one of Turkey’s leading contemporary art institutions dedicated to exhibiting modern art at the heart of Istanbul. Since opening in 2010, Arter has hosted exhibitions by leading artists from Turkey and abroad, including solo shows by Mona Hatoum, Marc Quinn and the Chapman Brothers.
Food scene
originally called the Cité de Péra, is a famous historic passage on İstiklal Avenue in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is filled with boutiques and meyhanes.
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Çiçek Pasajı Manolya Restaurant
originally called the Cité de Péra, is a famous historic passage on İstiklal Avenue in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is filled with boutiques and meyhanes.
Cihangir Healthy Breakfast Spot! Just check if it is open before going, the hours are a little random!
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Cuppa
22 Yeni Yuva Sk.Cihangir Healthy Breakfast Spot! Just check if it is open before going, the hours are a little random!
5. Kat Restaurant
No:3, 34427 Soğancı Sk.Fancy dinner spot in Cihangir perfect for a date!
Emirgan Sütiş
No:46 Sakıp Sabancı Cd.Traditional Turkish breakfast against the Bosphorus!
Local Favorite Secret Garden near Istiklal Street, great for coffee and breakfast!
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Limonlu Bahçe
No:74 Yeni Çarşı Cd.Local Favorite Secret Garden near Istiklal Street, great for coffee and breakfast!
Miss Pizza Şişhane
86A Meşrutiyet Cd.VERY GOOD PIZZA
Local favorite breakfast spot in Cihangir famous for its cats!
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Kaktus Kahvesi
No:16/A Cihangir Cd.Local favorite breakfast spot in Cihangir famous for its cats!
Walk around here, and grab a bite at a fish restaurant for the traditional Raki Balik!
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Nevizade Sokak
Nevizade SokakWalk around here, and grab a bite at a fish restaurant for the traditional Raki Balik!
Fancy restaurant with incredible views, a little pricy but definitely worth the view and food if you want to treat yourself!
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Divan Brasserie
No:181 İstiklal Cd.Fancy restaurant with incredible views, a little pricy but definitely worth the view and food if you want to treat yourself!
One of my personal favorite traditional Raki Balik (fish) spots in Arnavutkoy, near the Bebek neighborhood.
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Arnavutköy Balıkçısı
4 Bebek Arnavutköy CdOne of my personal favorite traditional Raki Balik (fish) spots in Arnavutkoy, near the Bebek neighborhood.
Arnavutköy Any Cafe & Bar
No:71 Bebek Arnavutköy CdVERY FAMOUS Raki Balik spot in Arnavutkoy
Another traditional Turkish Raki Balik spot in Arnavutkoy
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Sur Balık Restaurant Arnavutköy
Bebek Arnavutköy CaddesiAnother traditional Turkish Raki Balik spot in Arnavutkoy
Family-run Karaköy Lokantası turns out wonderful preparations of Turkish classics with painstaking attention to detail. Another incredible Turkish restaurant definitely worth going, but check the menu to see if the prices are within your budget.
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Karaköy Lokantası
No:57 Kemankeş Cd.Family-run Karaköy Lokantası turns out wonderful preparations of Turkish classics with painstaking attention to detail. Another incredible Turkish restaurant definitely worth going, but check the menu to see if the prices are within your budget.
famous Salt-Bae restaurant! But it's VERY overpriced
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Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler
No:87 Nispetiye Cdfamous Salt-Bae restaurant! But it's VERY overpriced
Very good Turkish food in Nisantasi. If you are only going to have Turkish food once, have it here.
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Hünkar
No:21 Mim Kemal Öke Cd.Very good Turkish food in Nisantasi. If you are only going to have Turkish food once, have it here.
One of the best places to get breakfast (or brunch) in Bebek is Mangerie, a modern restaurant on the upper floor of a building with Bosphorus views. On the weekends you’ll have to wait for a table (especially on the balcony) but the freshly made pancakes, Eggs Benedict, muffins, and even bacon are very much worth the wait.
Finding it is a little tricky, you need to go a lot of steps!
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Mangerie
69 Cevdet Paşa Cd.One of the best places to get breakfast (or brunch) in Bebek is Mangerie, a modern restaurant on the upper floor of a building with Bosphorus views. On the weekends you’ll have to wait for a table (especially on the balcony) but the freshly made pancakes, Eggs Benedict, muffins, and even bacon are very much worth the wait.
Finding it is a little tricky, you need to go a lot of steps!
Currently rated the BEST restaurant in Istanbul. It is expensive, so please check the menu to see if it is within your budget.
The cuisine is “New Anatolian Kitchen,” which is served against the most breathtaking views of the Bosphorus from the roof of the Marmara Pera. The service is absolutely impeccable. If you want a very fancy night out, you can't go wrong with Mikla.
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Mikla
15 Meşrutiyet Cd.Currently rated the BEST restaurant in Istanbul. It is expensive, so please check the menu to see if it is within your budget.
The cuisine is “New Anatolian Kitchen,” which is served against the most breathtaking views of the Bosphorus from the roof of the Marmara Pera. The service is absolutely impeccable. If you want a very fancy night out, you can't go wrong with Mikla.
Cuma opened in the Çukurcuma neighborhood very recently and is already a firm local favorite. Located just a hundred meters from author Orhan Pamuk’s Museum of Innocence and behind a line of antique shops, its breezy terrace is transporting, creating an almost tropical vibe. Up the narrow stairs in the century-old building, visitors will find a small house-restaurant, complete with entrance area, kitchen, living room, dining hall with antique decor, even toys on the shelves – all adding up to a very homey, vintage feel.
The menu changes daily!
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Cuma
53/A Çukur Cuma Cd.Cuma opened in the Çukurcuma neighborhood very recently and is already a firm local favorite. Located just a hundred meters from author Orhan Pamuk’s Museum of Innocence and behind a line of antique shops, its breezy terrace is transporting, creating an almost tropical vibe. Up the narrow stairs in the century-old building, visitors will find a small house-restaurant, complete with entrance area, kitchen, living room, dining hall with antique decor, even toys on the shelves – all adding up to a very homey, vintage feel.
The menu changes daily!
The most famous meatballs in Istanbul! After a day spent exploring Sultanahmet, stop here for lunch like a local.
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Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta
No:12 Divan Yolu Cd.The most famous meatballs in Istanbul! After a day spent exploring Sultanahmet, stop here for lunch like a local.
Manti is turkish pasta, and is served either fried or boiled. You definitely must try it before you leave. If you want to eat it like a true local, stop by at Bodrum Manti (it's open 24/7) after a night out around 2-3am before heading back home.
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Bodrum Mantı & Cafe Arnavutköy
No:111 1. CaddeManti is turkish pasta, and is served either fried or boiled. You definitely must try it before you leave. If you want to eat it like a true local, stop by at Bodrum Manti (it's open 24/7) after a night out around 2-3am before heading back home.
Mexican restaurant on a rooftop in Galatasaray, near Istiklal street with great views and often live music.
Los Altos Mexican Restaurant
no:38/5 Yeni Çarşı Cd.Mexican restaurant on a rooftop in Galatasaray, near Istiklal street with great views and often live music.
Through the narrow streets of Pera, the glittering views of the Golden Horn are stretched out before you. Duble, which adds a new interpretation to the concept of mezes, features two separate floors with a dining area and a lounge area. Definitely worth trying. Check prices before going.
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Duble Meze Bar
No:85 İstiklal 7Through the narrow streets of Pera, the glittering views of the Golden Horn are stretched out before you. Duble, which adds a new interpretation to the concept of mezes, features two separate floors with a dining area and a lounge area. Definitely worth trying. Check prices before going.
Hacı Abdullah was established in 1888 and licensed by Sultan Abdülhamid II himself, who entrusted its founder Abdullah Efendi with hosting foreign dignitaries visiting the Empire. One of the last bastions of Ottoman palace cuisine, Hacı Abdullah has remained true to tradition and not simply with the traditional fare it serves. The restaurant upholds a system of apprenticeship where the kitchen staff and waiters undergo years of training before being deemed fit for the job, and ownership of the restaurant is handed down from master to apprentice.
It is ideal for lunch, and there is no alcohol served.
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Hacı Abdullah Lokantası
No:9/A Atıf Yılmaz Cd.Hacı Abdullah was established in 1888 and licensed by Sultan Abdülhamid II himself, who entrusted its founder Abdullah Efendi with hosting foreign dignitaries visiting the Empire. One of the last bastions of Ottoman palace cuisine, Hacı Abdullah has remained true to tradition and not simply with the traditional fare it serves. The restaurant upholds a system of apprenticeship where the kitchen staff and waiters undergo years of training before being deemed fit for the job, and ownership of the restaurant is handed down from master to apprentice.
It is ideal for lunch, and there is no alcohol served.
Zula istanbul
101a Harbiye Çayırı Sk.Very good gourmet burgers in Nisantasi!
Café
Local favorite coffee spot! It's the perfect place to relax after an afternoon spent exploring Karakoy!
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Karabatak
No:7 Karaali Kaptan Sk.Local favorite coffee spot! It's the perfect place to relax after an afternoon spent exploring Karakoy!
Very cute cafe in Galata, they have great croissants! It also a great work spot!
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Federal Galata
No:7 Küçük Hendek Cd.Very cute cafe in Galata, they have great croissants! It also a great work spot!
Delicatessen
No:19 Mim Kemal Öke Cd.Hip Bistro in famous Nisantasi neighborhood, famous for Brunch
Perfect place for tea lovers in Karakoy! Definitely stop by here and choose from the crazy variety of tea!
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Dem Karaköy
Perfect place for tea lovers in Karakoy! Definitely stop by here and choose from the crazy variety of tea!
Şimdi, is one of the nicest places in Asmalımescit. The menu consists of flavors selected from international cuisine including meat dishes, fish, salads, and pastas. They are very impressive when it comes to coffee. Located in the 100-year-old Atlas Apartment building Şimdi is an original venue ideal to enjoy a wonderful meal or delicious coffee while reading a book.
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Şimdi
5 Asmalı Mescit Sok.Şimdi, is one of the nicest places in Asmalımescit. The menu consists of flavors selected from international cuisine including meat dishes, fish, salads, and pastas. They are very impressive when it comes to coffee. Located in the 100-year-old Atlas Apartment building Şimdi is an original venue ideal to enjoy a wonderful meal or delicious coffee while reading a book.
Sightseeing
Built in the mid-19th century, the Dolmabahçe was a last-ditch attempt on the part of Ottoman sultans to sit up straight. They moved here, from the cushioned divans of the Topkapi Palace to straight-backed Louis XIV chairs, with the idea that they should remodel themselves as progressive modern monarchs. Naturally, the idea didn't include cutting back on royal expenditure. The palace's interiors were designed by the chap who did the Paris Opera, and it has the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, a staircase with Baccarat crystal balustrades, a terrace that seems to run for several miles and 285 rooms. Most of the rooms were devoted to the ever-expanding harem.
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Dolmabahce-palasset
Dolmabahçe CaddesiBuilt in the mid-19th century, the Dolmabahçe was a last-ditch attempt on the part of Ottoman sultans to sit up straight. They moved here, from the cushioned divans of the Topkapi Palace to straight-backed Louis XIV chairs, with the idea that they should remodel themselves as progressive modern monarchs. Naturally, the idea didn't include cutting back on royal expenditure. The palace's interiors were designed by the chap who did the Paris Opera, and it has the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, a staircase with Baccarat crystal balustrades, a terrace that seems to run for several miles and 285 rooms. Most of the rooms were devoted to the ever-expanding harem.
Storbasaren
Beyazıt CaddesiSpent a day discovering the shops in Grand Bazaar
The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. Absolutely breathtaking and definitely worth seeing.
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Basilika Cistern
1/3 Yerebatan Cd.The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. Absolutely breathtaking and definitely worth seeing.
a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of Istanbul, Turkey, just to the north of the Golden Horn's junction with the Bosphorus. It is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and offers a panoramic vista of Istanbul's historic peninsula and its environs.
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Galatatårnet
a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of Istanbul, Turkey, just to the north of the Golden Horn's junction with the Bosphorus. It is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and offers a panoramic vista of Istanbul's historic peninsula and its environs.
Hagia Sophia is the former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal cathedral, later an Ottoman imperial mosque and now a museum (Ayasofya Müzesi) in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in AD 537 at the beginning of the Middle Ages, it was famous in particular for its massive dome. It was the world's largest building and an engineering marvel of its time. It is considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and is said to have "changed the history of architecture".
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Hagia Sophia
No:1 Ayasofya MeydanıHagia Sophia is the former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal cathedral, later an Ottoman imperial mosque and now a museum (Ayasofya Müzesi) in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in AD 537 at the beginning of the Middle Ages, it was famous in particular for its massive dome. It was the world's largest building and an engineering marvel of its time. It is considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and is said to have "changed the history of architecture".
The largest and most prominent Catholic church in Istanbul, the majestic St. Antoine on Istiklal Caddesi was built between 1906 and 1912 in the Venetian Neo-Gothic style. St Antoine offers masses throughout the week in English, Turkish, Polish and Italian, and is a nice place to pop in for a moment of silent reflection after spending the morning traversing the crowded Beyoğlu district. Before being elected as pope, Pope John XXIII preached at St. Antoine for a number of years when he served as Vatican's apostolic delegate to Turkey. He is commemorated by a statue located in the courtyard.
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Sent Antuan Kilisesi
171 İstiklal Cd.The largest and most prominent Catholic church in Istanbul, the majestic St. Antoine on Istiklal Caddesi was built between 1906 and 1912 in the Venetian Neo-Gothic style. St Antoine offers masses throughout the week in English, Turkish, Polish and Italian, and is a nice place to pop in for a moment of silent reflection after spending the morning traversing the crowded Beyoğlu district. Before being elected as pope, Pope John XXIII preached at St. Antoine for a number of years when he served as Vatican's apostolic delegate to Turkey. He is commemorated by a statue located in the courtyard.
Experience
BEST HISTORICAL HAMAM (TURKISH BATH) IN MY OPINION! VERY CLEAN AND INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!
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Kilic Ali Paşa Hamam
1 Hamam Sk.BEST HISTORICAL HAMAM (TURKISH BATH) IN MY OPINION! VERY CLEAN AND INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!
Take a boat tour of the Bosphorus from Karakoy iskele! Also stop by at the Balik (Fish) & Ekmek (Bread) restaurants near the Karakoy shore. The number two most popular street food in the city is indisputably balık-ekmek, better known as the fish sandwiches that are impossible to ignore anytime you’re near the Karaköy or Eminönü shore. You might be tempted to sit down at any one of the restaurants below the Galata Bridge to feast on these tasty sandwiches, but take it from the locals: the balık-ekmek you’re served at a table is just not the same as the one you enjoy on your feet.
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Karaköy Pir
No:13 Rıhtım Cd.Take a boat tour of the Bosphorus from Karakoy iskele! Also stop by at the Balik (Fish) & Ekmek (Bread) restaurants near the Karakoy shore. The number two most popular street food in the city is indisputably balık-ekmek, better known as the fish sandwiches that are impossible to ignore anytime you’re near the Karaköy or Eminönü shore. You might be tempted to sit down at any one of the restaurants below the Galata Bridge to feast on these tasty sandwiches, but take it from the locals: the balık-ekmek you’re served at a table is just not the same as the one you enjoy on your feet.
Definitely check out Bomonti Ada! A historic beer factory in the Bomonti neighborhood of Istanbul has undergone a complete renovation and repurposing to become Bomontiada, a large complex full of restaurants, shops, an art gallery, and a concert hall.
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Kiva Bomonti
Birahane SokakDefinitely check out Bomonti Ada! A historic beer factory in the Bomonti neighborhood of Istanbul has undergone a complete renovation and repurposing to become Bomontiada, a large complex full of restaurants, shops, an art gallery, and a concert hall.
Walk around the Bosphorus in Bebek and stop by at the cute cafes for coffee!
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Bebek
Walk around the Bosphorus in Bebek and stop by at the cute cafes for coffee!
Ortakoy is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Istanbul, located right under the first Bosphorus bridge.
There are many cute cafes, bars, traditional tea houses, and little shops around Ortakoy square near the water or in the alleys. They all range from moderate to very expensive. There is also a market which gets very lively during the weekends. In the summer time there are even small size concerts or street shows sometimes. Many world class night clubs are also in this area, on the Bosphorus.
Ortakoy center lies within a triangle of a Muslim mosque, a Christian church, and a Jewish synagogue, witnessing the religious freedom in Turkey.
I personally would recommend walking around here during the day, and coming again at night to experience the nightlife!
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Ortaköy
Ortakoy is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Istanbul, located right under the first Bosphorus bridge.
There are many cute cafes, bars, traditional tea houses, and little shops around Ortakoy square near the water or in the alleys. They all range from moderate to very expensive. There is also a market which gets very lively during the weekends. In the summer time there are even small size concerts or street shows sometimes. Many world class night clubs are also in this area, on the Bosphorus.
Ortakoy center lies within a triangle of a Muslim mosque, a Christian church, and a Jewish synagogue, witnessing the religious freedom in Turkey.
I personally would recommend walking around here during the day, and coming again at night to experience the nightlife!
Çukurcuma, an up and coming neighborhood tucked between Cihangir and Galatasaray is famous for its antique stores. This quirky neighborhood is fun to explore with its windy streets that lead one to another, stairs and small hills, and an antique shop on every corner.
It is very common to see the shop owners displaying their antiques outside their stores, but don’t hesitate to go inside, you will see amazing collections of objects dating back multiple decades.
One of its famous landmarks is the Museum of Innocence, the only museum in the world based on a novel, by the Nobel-prize winner Orhan Pamuk.
Çukur Cuma Caddesi
Çukur Cuma CaddesiÇukurcuma, an up and coming neighborhood tucked between Cihangir and Galatasaray is famous for its antique stores. This quirky neighborhood is fun to explore with its windy streets that lead one to another, stairs and small hills, and an antique shop on every corner.
It is very common to see the shop owners displaying their antiques outside their stores, but don’t hesitate to go inside, you will see amazing collections of objects dating back multiple decades.
One of its famous landmarks is the Museum of Innocence, the only museum in the world based on a novel, by the Nobel-prize winner Orhan Pamuk.
Very nice neighborhood to explore. Great for shopping and having lunch at the cute cafes!
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Nişantaşı
Very nice neighborhood to explore. Great for shopping and having lunch at the cute cafes!
One of the most famous avenues in Istanbul, Turkey, visited by nearly 3 million people in a single day over the course of weekends. Located in the historic Beyoğlu (Pera) district, it is an elegant pedestrian street, 1.4 kilometers long, which houses boutiques, music stores, bookstores, art galleries, cinemas, theatres, libraries, cafés, pubs, nightclubs with live music, historical patisseries, chocolateries and restaurants.
The avenue, surrounded by late Ottoman era buildings (mostly from the 19th and early 20th centuries) that were designed with the Neo-Classical, Neo-Gothic, Renaissance Revival, Beaux-Arts, Art Nouveau and First Turkish National Architecture styles; as well as a few Art Deco style buildings from the early years of the Turkish Republic, and a number of more recent examples of modern architecture; starts from the medieval Genoese neighborhood around Galata Tower and ultimately leads up to Taksim Square.
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Istiklal Caddesi
İstiklal CaddesiOne of the most famous avenues in Istanbul, Turkey, visited by nearly 3 million people in a single day over the course of weekends. Located in the historic Beyoğlu (Pera) district, it is an elegant pedestrian street, 1.4 kilometers long, which houses boutiques, music stores, bookstores, art galleries, cinemas, theatres, libraries, cafés, pubs, nightclubs with live music, historical patisseries, chocolateries and restaurants.
The avenue, surrounded by late Ottoman era buildings (mostly from the 19th and early 20th centuries) that were designed with the Neo-Classical, Neo-Gothic, Renaissance Revival, Beaux-Arts, Art Nouveau and First Turkish National Architecture styles; as well as a few Art Deco style buildings from the early years of the Turkish Republic, and a number of more recent examples of modern architecture; starts from the medieval Genoese neighborhood around Galata Tower and ultimately leads up to Taksim Square.
Prominently marked with the presence of the historic Galata Tower, Galata is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Istanbul. From laid-back neighborhood cafes to trendy fashion boutiques, Galata offers the perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals.
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Galata
Prominently marked with the presence of the historic Galata Tower, Galata is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Istanbul. From laid-back neighborhood cafes to trendy fashion boutiques, Galata offers the perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals.
Karakoy stands out as one of the most beautiful neighborhoods that reflect the cosmopolite structure of the Ottoman Empire. It’s possible to observe the multicultural business life of Istanbul throughout its history via the cultural heritance in Istanbul Karakoy Neighborhood. There are many cafes, shops, restaurants, and bars in this neighborhood.
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Karaköy
Karakoy stands out as one of the most beautiful neighborhoods that reflect the cosmopolite structure of the Ottoman Empire. It’s possible to observe the multicultural business life of Istanbul throughout its history via the cultural heritance in Istanbul Karakoy Neighborhood. There are many cafes, shops, restaurants, and bars in this neighborhood.
The Princes’ Islands (Kızıl Adalar or just Adalar) are a chain of nine rather small islands in the Sea of Marmara. They evolved from a place of exile during the Byzantine era, to a popular destination for tourists and Istanbulites alike to escape the hectic city life for a day. Of those nine islands, only four of them are open to the public: Büyükada, the biggest and most popular, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Kınalıada.
The main feature of any of the Princes’ Islands is the sound of … silence. All motorized vehicles are banned, making the islands an oasis of peace and quiet. The only sounds you’ll hear are bicycle bells and the typical sounds of horse hoofs. Yep, that’s right. Horse-drawn carriages and bicycles are the main transportation means on the islands.
Just a quick ferry ride away, in the summer time the Princess Islands are definitely worth visiting.
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Adalar
The Princes’ Islands (Kızıl Adalar or just Adalar) are a chain of nine rather small islands in the Sea of Marmara. They evolved from a place of exile during the Byzantine era, to a popular destination for tourists and Istanbulites alike to escape the hectic city life for a day. Of those nine islands, only four of them are open to the public: Büyükada, the biggest and most popular, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Kınalıada.
The main feature of any of the Princes’ Islands is the sound of … silence. All motorized vehicles are banned, making the islands an oasis of peace and quiet. The only sounds you’ll hear are bicycle bells and the typical sounds of horse hoofs. Yep, that’s right. Horse-drawn carriages and bicycles are the main transportation means on the islands.
Just a quick ferry ride away, in the summer time the Princess Islands are definitely worth visiting.
Currently the heart of Istanbul’s nightlife, Arnavutköy is an upscale neighbourhood right by the Bosphorus which is known for its Ottoman waterfront mansions and fish restaurants. Nowadays, you’ll find lots of cocktail and gastro bars that have taken over the neighbourhood in a youthful frenzy and, during the evenings, the venues become so full that people stand on Bebek Arnavutköy street with their drinks in their hands enjoying a late night out. During the day it’s also great to just wander around Arnavutköy and take a look at the many beautiful houses that decorate the picturesque neighbourhood right by the glittering water.
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Arnavutköy
Currently the heart of Istanbul’s nightlife, Arnavutköy is an upscale neighbourhood right by the Bosphorus which is known for its Ottoman waterfront mansions and fish restaurants. Nowadays, you’ll find lots of cocktail and gastro bars that have taken over the neighbourhood in a youthful frenzy and, during the evenings, the venues become so full that people stand on Bebek Arnavutköy street with their drinks in their hands enjoying a late night out. During the day it’s also great to just wander around Arnavutköy and take a look at the many beautiful houses that decorate the picturesque neighbourhood right by the glittering water.
Shopping & Design
Vitruta Karaköy
30 Boğazkesen Cd.Concept Store, great for fashion lovers!
MAE ZAE
No:16-A Hoca Tahsin Sk.Concept Store that sells everything from jewelry to clothing in Karakoy!
Amazing vintage store close to flat! you can find everything from retro space suits to classic lounge suits. There are even household objects - anything from chandeliers to martini sets. This fabulous labyrinth of vintage riches has become as much a favourite with the Turkish film and television industry as it is with Istanbul’s fashion-forward. Def worth checking out if you like fashion and enjoy vintage shopping :)
6 lokalkjente anbefaler
By Retro
Amazing vintage store close to flat! you can find everything from retro space suits to classic lounge suits. There are even household objects - anything from chandeliers to martini sets. This fabulous labyrinth of vintage riches has become as much a favourite with the Turkish film and television industry as it is with Istanbul’s fashion-forward. Def worth checking out if you like fashion and enjoy vintage shopping :)
Nightlife
Klein.Garten
No:67 Kat:6 Meşrutiyet Cd.Electronic music spot with sick views in Pera! Local favorite.
Geyik
22 Akarsu Ykş. Sok.Cute bar to have drinks in Cihangir before going out clubbing!
Very hip tavern in Beyoglu, you can start the night by having dinner here and staying for drinks.
17 lokalkjente anbefaler
Markus Tavern
No:16/A Hayriye Cd.Very hip tavern in Beyoglu, you can start the night by having dinner here and staying for drinks.
Fancy nightclub with incredible views! They also have a restaurant. The crowd is a little older though and it is definitely upscale and pricy.
30 lokalkjente anbefaler
RUBY
5 Ortaköy Salhanesi Sk.Fancy nightclub with incredible views! They also have a restaurant. The crowd is a little older though and it is definitely upscale and pricy.
Birdy Pera
No:5-7 Şehbender Sk.Rooftop bar with beautiful views in Pera.
Baylo
No:107/A Meşrutiyet Cd.VERY cool bar with great music and great vibes in Pera.
Electronic music spot, better for the winter than the summer.
28 lokalkjente anbefaler
Mitte Restaurant
66/A Necatibey Cd.Electronic music spot, better for the winter than the summer.
Walk around in the famous Asmalı Mescit street and check out the bars!
55 lokalkjente anbefaler
Asmalı Mescit
Walk around in the famous Asmalı Mescit street and check out the bars!
Best lounge / bar in Istanbul. It is located in Istanbul’s trendy Bebek neighborhood near the beautiful Bosphorus. It’s well known for its delicious cocktails, especially its mojitos and satsuma vodka. At 11 pm the bistro transforms into a bar where you can dance and enjoy quality music.
Also good for lunch on a nice Sunday! It's very upscale, and crowd is always great!
101 lokalkjente anbefaler
Lucca
51/A Cevdet Paşa Cd.Best lounge / bar in Istanbul. It is located in Istanbul’s trendy Bebek neighborhood near the beautiful Bosphorus. It’s well known for its delicious cocktails, especially its mojitos and satsuma vodka. At 11 pm the bistro transforms into a bar where you can dance and enjoy quality music.
Also good for lunch on a nice Sunday! It's very upscale, and crowd is always great!
Raphael is basically Lucca in Nisantasi, which is another very nice neighborhood in Istanbul. Has a cool crowd, and always a good DJ playing.
Raphael
Raphael is basically Lucca in Nisantasi, which is another very nice neighborhood in Istanbul. Has a cool crowd, and always a good DJ playing.
As the name suggests, Minimüzikhol is an intimate affair nestled in an apartment floor in the trendy Cihangir neighbourhood. Founded in 2009 by a collective of local DJs, whose previous efforts played a formative role in putting Istanbul’s electronic music scene on the map, Mini hosts local and international DJs from Thursday to Saturday.
Definitely would recommend if you want to experience the subculture of Istanbul and listen to some good tunes.
108 lokalkjente anbefaler
Minimüzikhol
3 Soğancı Sk.As the name suggests, Minimüzikhol is an intimate affair nestled in an apartment floor in the trendy Cihangir neighbourhood. Founded in 2009 by a collective of local DJs, whose previous efforts played a formative role in putting Istanbul’s electronic music scene on the map, Mini hosts local and international DJs from Thursday to Saturday.
Definitely would recommend if you want to experience the subculture of Istanbul and listen to some good tunes.
Great place to grab beers and relax in the afternoon! Definitely worth going! It is a brewery-turned-bar, and one of the more notable recent additions to Istanbul's booming craft-beer scene. The building is a two-story wall of windows which fronts the soaring brick structure; inside, six fermentation tanks perch on a mezzanine overlooking a brass-topped bar, well-spaced tables, and a bright-red VW camper van bearing the brewery's motto: Serve the People. The 12 beers on tap, which change by the week, might include a hoppy IPA, sweet-spicy honey pepper ale, and a Cabernet-colored wheat beer with hints of berry.
28 lokalkjente anbefaler
The Populist bomontiada
No: 1/D Birahane Sk.Great place to grab beers and relax in the afternoon! Definitely worth going! It is a brewery-turned-bar, and one of the more notable recent additions to Istanbul's booming craft-beer scene. The building is a two-story wall of windows which fronts the soaring brick structure; inside, six fermentation tanks perch on a mezzanine overlooking a brass-topped bar, well-spaced tables, and a bright-red VW camper van bearing the brewery's motto: Serve the People. The 12 beers on tap, which change by the week, might include a hoppy IPA, sweet-spicy honey pepper ale, and a Cabernet-colored wheat beer with hints of berry.
Gizi Bahçe (Turkish for 'Secret Garden') is hidden in plain view on Nevizade's (on Istiklal) main meyhane street in the dead center of Beyoğlu. A great late-night spot that regularly hosts solid DJs, Gizli Bahçe is also well-known as an LGBT-friendly venue – no macho behavior tolerated. Super local bar.
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Gizli Bahçe
No:15 Nevizade Sk.Gizi Bahçe (Turkish for 'Secret Garden') is hidden in plain view on Nevizade's (on Istiklal) main meyhane street in the dead center of Beyoğlu. A great late-night spot that regularly hosts solid DJs, Gizli Bahçe is also well-known as an LGBT-friendly venue – no macho behavior tolerated. Super local bar.
Nardis Jazz Club
8 Galata Kulesi Sk.One of the best jazz clubs in Istanbul, located in Galata
Very cool local favorite cocktail bar in Arnavutkoy. Featuring one of the most impressive cocktail menus in the city, Arnavutköy's Alexandra is easily among Istanbul's best bars. Situated on Arnavutköy's ever-so-buzzy main street and spread out over several floors of a historic building, Alexandra's sophisticated decor and candlelit tables make it a great date spot, while its rooftop terrace offers an ethereal Bosphorus view.
28 lokalkjente anbefaler
Alexandra Cocktail Bar
No:50 Bebek Arnavutköy CdVery cool local favorite cocktail bar in Arnavutkoy. Featuring one of the most impressive cocktail menus in the city, Arnavutköy's Alexandra is easily among Istanbul's best bars. Situated on Arnavutköy's ever-so-buzzy main street and spread out over several floors of a historic building, Alexandra's sophisticated decor and candlelit tables make it a great date spot, while its rooftop terrace offers an ethereal Bosphorus view.
This place is hidden in on Istiklal. Used to be called Kasette and now is called Citizen! Usually has a 20 lira cover charge (3 Euros) so unlike many spots on the guide this is guaranteed entry once you pay! It’s one of my favorite spots in Istanbul and a true locals only bar!!! It’s very unpretentious, just great DJs and cool people having fun.. also only 10 min walk from the flat :)
27 lokalkjente anbefaler
Kasette Bar
No:2 Korsan Çk.This place is hidden in on Istiklal. Used to be called Kasette and now is called Citizen! Usually has a 20 lira cover charge (3 Euros) so unlike many spots on the guide this is guaranteed entry once you pay! It’s one of my favorite spots in Istanbul and a true locals only bar!!! It’s very unpretentious, just great DJs and cool people having fun.. also only 10 min walk from the flat :)