İstanbul is undoubtedly one of the world’s most unique places and a visitor to the city could spend weeks seeing its many historical and touristic points. But seeing the city with a local eye is a different experience all together and equally rewarding. Keep reading to discover where İstanbul residents spend their time….and click here for flights to Istanbul!
Galata-Şişhane-Pera triangle
Even lifelong residents of İstanbul are awestruck by the Galata Tower, so this monument remains on our list – not just to enjoy the incredible city and Bosphorus views from the top of the Tower but also to visit the recently opened Galata Tower Museum. However, when leaving the Galata Tower, rather than dining at one of the nearby touristic restaurants, visitors can take a different route:
- You can walk to Şişhane Square along the narrow street at the back of the Tower, and relax in one of the cafes promising “hygge”* while watching people (and İstanbul ’s many cats and dogs) stroll towards Pera.
- You can check out the events happening at the İstanbul Literature House, which is on the same street, and savor a Turkish coffee in the café on the lower floor.
- Enjoy the sunset from a terrace: The historical İKSV building has a fine terrace with views of the Golden Horn. Don’t forget to explore other famous terraces in the area, including that of the Buyuk Londra Hotel or Soho House İstanbul.
- While we’re not focusing on museums per se, we must include the elegant café at the jewel box-like Pera Museum. Or stroll down Kumbaracı Yokuşu, dine at upscale Yeni Lokanta, and wander down Kumbaracı to Tophane Pier. The stately 16th-century Kılıç Ali Pasha Mosque, built by Mimar Sinan, the Ottoman architect, is a peaceful spot worth a visit. Then dive into the side streets of Karaköy, explore the boutiques and design shops in the French Passage and stop at one of the area’s charming cafes.
Beşiktaş-Akaretler-Kabataş line, and Maçka Park
- The Beşiktaş-Akaretler-Kabataş route is also familiar to local residents. You can check out the always crowded Beşiktaş bazaar and snack on fried mussels at the fish market. The walk from the bazaar to Akaretler will take you past some notable bookstores and, once you reach Akaretler Square, lined with galleries and cafes, its cozy atmosphere will warm you, especially in winter.
- Near Akaretler is Maçka Park. The expansive Park is a popular destination for city residents, particularly in spring and summer. Lounge on the grass like a local and enjoy a picnic or listening to music!
- Later, or the next morning, visit Kabataş Setüstü. Enjoy a weekend breakfast at one of the area’s quiet cafes, along with a view of the city.
Bomonti
Featuring narrow streets once lined with workshops and factories, Bomonti has emerged as one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods. Bomonti, in the Şişli district, offers numerous cafes and fine dining restaurants as well as local pizza and burger joints. Within Bomonti, Bomontiada – a complex set in a former brewery – hosts concerts, exhibitions and other events in addition to eateries and bars. On Sundays, the Feriköy Antique Market draws crowds looking for special gifts, home décor or other treasures, while Tuesday’s organic food market is a favorite for locals in Bomonti and surrounding neighborhoods.
Cihangir
You’ll hit this lively district when walking down Sıraselviler from Taksim Square. Similar to Kadıköy, its counterpart on the Asian side, Cihangir is a gathering place for the creative personalities of the city – and is also home to a dense concentration of expats. Dotted among the neighborhood’s countless coffee shops, cafes, bars, galleries and boutiques are supermarkets, hardware stores and butchers. Cihangir is also known for its rather charming appearance: tree-lined streets, low-rise apartment buildings and Bosphorus views around almost every corner.
Nişantaşı
Sophisticated Nişantaşı is considered the local address for luxury and high-end experiences in İstanbul. Many of the streets in this pleasant neighborhood feature haute couture boutiques, world-class brands and stylish restaurants, but the area’s historic buildings, such as the neo-Baroque Teşvikiye Mosque, also draw visitors.
Kadıköy-Moda
On the Asian – or Anatolian – side of İstanbul, we continue our local tour. Funky Kadıköy, a short walk from the ferry terminal, features colorful street murals, coffee shops and bars as well as historic bakeries and cafes. Also within walking distance of the ferry terminal is the neighborhood of Moda, offering a lovely seafront park and promenade perfect for bike riding, picnicking and dog walking.
Anatolian side coastline: Kuzguncuk, Çengelköy, Vaniköy
The Anatolian side coastline is calmer and quieter than that of the European side. You can start in Kuzguncuk for a serene Bosphorus experience, drinking bright-red herbal tea at one of the cafes nestled between charming wooden houses and art galleries. Then set off for Çengelköy. A filming location for numerous Turkish television series, Çengelköy is known for its delicious İstanbul street delicacies such as kokoreç (tripe) and mussels. Mingle with the crowds of people and pigeons at a waterfront café and stroll to Vaniköy Park for fishing and tea gardens!
*The concept of “hygge”, which has a prominent place in Scandinavian culture, especially in Denmark, is used to describe moments and spaces that promise coziness, warmth, peace and comfort.
