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Istanbul is a charming city located in the heart of east and west, which has been home to civilizations throughout history. With its unique texture, rich culture and unique landscapes in both Anatolia and Europe, it offers you unlimited possibilities of exploration. In Istanbul, where history, art and modern life are intertwined in every corner, it is possible to discover not only popular places, but also hidden beauties with its own soul. In this article, we have compiled for you the most special and worth visiting places on the Anatolian and European side of Istanbul. If you are ready, let's travel together to the magic of Istanbul!
The Anatolian Side is the calmer side of Istanbul, intertwined with green and preserving its local texture. Here it is possible to find special places that are integrated with both history and nature. Now let's look at 10 peaceful and beautiful spots to visit on this side.
Kuzguncuk is one of the most charming and colorful neighborhoods in Üsküdar. This neighborhood, where Jewish, Greek and Armenian communities coexisted during the Ottoman period, retains its multicultural texture today. In its narrow streets colorful wooden houses, small boutique cafes and art galleries welcome you. The history of Kuzguncuk was shaped by the construction of benches and pavilions in this part of the Bosphorus in the 19th century. You can start exploring the neighborhood from the Nail Bookstore on İcadiye Street. You can have a coffee break here. Then, we advise you to set off towards Fethi Pasha Grove. While this grove was a land belonging to Ottoman pashas in the 19th century, today it promises peace as a green space open to the public.
Çengelköy, one of the most nostalgic districts of the Bosphorus. Drinking tea in the shade of a 300-year-old sycamore tree is a must here. The history of the district begins with the construction of barns by kaptan-ı deryas during the Ottoman period. Historical buildings such as Sadullah Pasha Yalisi are still standing. Çengelköy's famous In Çınaralti Tea Garden Have a cup of tea and pay with your UPTION card. Then, Kuleli Kaymak Mustafa Pasha Mosquevisit. Built in the 1720s, this mosque is notable for its baroque architecture. After Çengelköy, on foot along the coast Vaniköy and Kandilli You can stop by.
Beylerbeyi is a neighborhood that reflects the elegance of the Ottoman Empire, located just below the Bosphorus Bridge. Beylerbeyi Palace, located here, was built as a summer palace by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1865. Blending baroque and neoclassical styles, the palace reflects the cultural interaction of the Ottomans with Europe. Crystal chandeliers, silk carpets and gold-embroidered ceilings inside the palace enchant you. The garden overlooking the Bosphorus is a place of peace where the Ottoman sultans rested. The history of the palace reveals the modernization efforts of the last Ottoman period. You can take a walk on Beylerbeyi Beach around the palace, drink coffee in cafes by the beach. Beylerbeyi is an indispensable stop for those looking for history and scenery.
The Anatolian Fortress, built by Yıldırım Beyazit in 1395, was built to control the Bosphorus before the conquest of Istanbul. Located opposite Rumeli Fortress, at the point where the Göksu Creek flows, this castle is today a quiet tourist spot. Fishing boats and small cafes around the castle make this a peaceful stopover. The history of the Anatolian Fortress is quite impressive as a reflection of the Ottoman preparations for conquest.
Located in Kuzguncuk, this national garden has one of the most beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Opened in 2018, the park was a promenade famous for its redwood trees during the Ottoman period. Today it is filled with picnic areas, walking paths and children's playgrounds. Coming here and watching the sunset is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Istanbul. Nakkashtepe is an ideal spot for both nature and history lovers.
Located in the Abraham Pasha Grove in Beykoz, this museum exhibits rare examples of Turkish glass art. Built in the 19th century by Abraham Pasha, the kethudan of the Egyptian Hidivi, the pavilion is used today as a museum. Inside, there are crystal chandeliers made in Europe for Ottoman palaces and exquisite works of Turkish glass art. The lush garden and historical texture of the museum are an ideal place for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a cultural journey in a calm atmosphere.
One of the favorite districts of Kadıköy, Moda stands out for its bohemian air and historical texture. This area, where the Levantines settled in the 19th century, is today frequented by young people. You can take a walk along the Moda Coast, sit in boutique coffee shops, drink coffee and eat sweets in its quiet and peaceful streets. At the same time, by visiting Barış Manço House, you can see the house where the legend of Turkish music lives. A perfect mix of fashion, nostalgia and modernity.
Baghdad Street, the heart of the Anatolian Side. Stretching from Kadıköy to Suadiye, this street is famous for its luxury shops, stylish restaurants and lively cafes. You can shop at stores such as Vakko or Beymen, take a coffee break at Divan Brasserie. The street is a meeting point for young people and families, especially in the evening hours. This street, with its historical texture mixed with modern life, feels the energy of Istanbul.
If you want to get a little away from Istanbul, the Islands are still one of the most pleasant escape destinations. These four islands that can be easily reached by ferry from the Anatolian Side -Buyukada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada- stands out for both its historical texture and its tranquil atmosphere.
In Büyükada you can take a walk to the Church of Aya Yorgi, walk through the old pavilions. In Heybeliada, you can see the Clergy School from afar, wander through the quiet streets. Burgazada is a beautiful stop for lovers of literature, especially with the Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum. Kınalıada, on the other hand, is a smaller but ideal spot for day trips.
The islands still retain their serenity thanks to the absence of motor vehicles. Great for taking a bike tour of the island or sitting in a cafe on the beach and drinking coffee against the view.
The European Side is where the heart of Istanbul beats. The historical peninsula, the bustling districts of the Bosphorus and the center of modern life are here. Now, let's look at 10 beautiful spots that we will discover on this side.
Sultanahmet is the heart of Istanbul, the region that bears the deepest traces of history. When you step here, you feel the traces of great civilizations, ranging from Byzantium to Ottoman, at every corner.
Hagia Sophia, It was built as a church by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 and has been one of the most important buildings in the Christian world for almost a thousand years. The Hagia Sophia, which was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in 1453, is today open to visitors as a museum. Inside it fascinates with its magnificent mosaics, giant dome and historical atmosphere.
Right next to Hagia Sophia, the unique architectural work of the Ottomans is the Sultanahmet Mosque, i.e. Blue Mosque is located. Named after the blue tiles inside, this mosque was completed in the early 1600s and is actively open for worship. With its dome and six minarets, it offers an impressive view both from the outside and from the inside.
Also in Sultanahmet, the mysterious one that met the water needs of Istanbul from Byzantine to Ottoman times Basilica Cistern var. Supported by thousands of columns, this underground structure takes you on a journey through time with its dim atmosphere and mystical air.
Another important point of the region is that the Ottoman sultans lived for centuries and carried out state affairs Topkapi Palace. It is necessary to devote hours to exploring the courtyards of the palace, the harem circle, the department of holy relics and the Bosphorus.
Sultanahmet is filled not only with historical buildings, but also with small cafes, authentic shops and local delicacies in the surrounding area. Walking around here, you will feel at every step that Istanbul is the cradle of civilizations.
Located in the heart of Istanbul since the 15th century, Grand Bazaar is a commercial maze with more than 4,000 shops. This bazaar, which was the center of the trade in silk, spices and jewelry during the Ottoman period, is today filled with carpets, jewelry, leather and handmade products. As you navigate its narrow streets, the history-smelling atmosphere takes you on a journey through time. The Grand Bazaar is not just shopping; it is a special place that offers an experience of culture and history.
Balat is one of the most colorful neighborhoods of Fatih. This neighborhood, inhabited by Jewish and Greek communities during the Ottoman period, is today full of art galleries, vintage shops and boutique cafes. The history of Balat extends from the Byzantine to the Ottoman. Visit the Synagogue of Ahrida, which dates from the 15th century, is famous for its prayer pulpit, reminiscent of Noah's Ark. Then, take a photo at Laddivenli Yokush and take a break at the Agora Tavern. Balat is a great mix of nostalgia and modernity.
Istiklal Street, which starts from Taksim and runs to the Tunnel, is the most vibrant and energetic street in Istanbul. Formerly known as the “Grande Rue de Pera”, this road has historically been the city's gateway to the West. Today it is full of shops, cafes, art galleries and street musicians.
Here, make sure to stop by the Flower Passage, where you can enjoy a nice dinner in the historical atmosphere. Riding the nostalgic tram along the street is another pleasure. This trip, both fast and smelling of history, is one of the beautiful ways to feel the spirit of Istiklal.
Galata Tower was built by the Genoese in 1348. Offering a 360-degree view of Istanbul, the tower was used as a fire watchtower during the Ottoman period. Climbing to the top of the tower and watching the Bosphorus and the historic peninsula is an unforgettable experience. The history of Galata reflects the multicultural fabric of Istanbul.
Karaköy is one of the most dynamic and bohemian neighborhoods in Istanbul, right at the foot of the Galata Bridge. Once a port district, this neighborhood now enchants with its colorful streets, hip cafes and art-filled corners. Wandering through the narrow streets, you will feel like you are in a movie scene among the historic buildings. In the evening, it is the perfect idea to punctuate the day with a drink against the view of the estuary.
Galata Bridge is an iconic structure that connects Karaköy and Eminönü over the estuary. In the daytime, it feels the spirit of Istanbul with its fishing rods and in the evening with its sparkling scenery. At the fish-and-bread restaurants on the lower floor of the bridge, you can have a fresh fish and bread and experience this classic Istanbul experience. Upstairs you can take in the view of the estuary on foot, watch the bustle of fishermen. Seeing the Historic Peninsula over the bridge at sunset is an inevitable moment to take pictures.
Dolmabahce Palace, located in Besiktas, was built in 1856 as the residence of the Ottoman sultans. The palace, which stands out for its Baroque verokoko style, is a jewel on the banks of the Bosphorus. The history of the palace reflects the period of modernization of the Ottoman Empire. The palace makes you feel the splendor of Istanbul.
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Ortaköy is known for the iconic Ortakoy Mosque, right next to the Bosphorus Bridge. Built in 1853, this mosque impresses you with its elegant baroque architecture. The history of the district reveals the passion of the Ottomans to decorate the shores of the Bosphorus. In Ortakoy, you should definitely eat kumpir in one of the famous kumpirs, then discover small gifts at the handicraft market on the beach.
Bebek is one of the most prestigious and fashionable districts of the Bosphorus. This area, inhabited by the elite during the Ottoman period, today attracts attention with its luxurious cafes, boutique shops and peaceful walkways. You can start from Baby Park and walk towards Arnavutköy towards the Bosphorus and watch the historic beaches that spread along the coast. You can stop at places like Bebek Kahve and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the neighborhood and the view.
Nişantaşı is one of the most modern and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul. Full of luxury shops, chic cafes and art galleries, this area is a favorite of those who want to both shop and spend a pleasant time in the city. You can take a walk along Teşvikiye Street and shop at various shops. Abdi İpekçi Street is a lively spot where world-famous brands meet. Nearby Machka Parkideal for reaching green and calm with a short walk. Nişantaşı is the perfect stop for those who want to feel the modern rhythm of Istanbul.
