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Discover Beylerbeyi Palace Istanbul in 2025

Istanbul lives on two continents and grows along two coastlines. If you wish to visit Istanbul, you will find many landmarks are in the 'must-see' lists. Mosques rise beside glass towers, and ferries glide under bridges that join Europe and Asia. In this layered city, every neighborhood has a story that reaches back centuries. Today we will talk about one landmrk which can be missed if you are not careful.

Cross the Bosphorus to Üsküdar and you meet Beylerbeyi Palace. The white-marble residence stands almost at water level, catching the light in the strait. It was once a royal summer home. Today it is an easy ferry ride, and it still feels like a hidden retreat on the busy Asian shore.

History of Beylerbeyi Palace

The first palace on this spot was a wooden retreat for Sultan Mahmud II. A fire in 1851 left only ashes. Sultan Abdülaziz wanted something grand and built the present palace between 1861 and 1865 with architects Sarkis and Hagop Balyan. The style mixes Ottoman grace with the popular French Second Empire look of the time.

Soon after its completion, the palace welcomed famous guests. Empress Eugénie of France stayed here in 1869 on her way to open the Suez Canal and loved the windows so much she copied them for her bedroom in Paris. Later rulers such as Naser al-Din Shah of Iran and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor also slept under its painted ceilings.

In the turbulent final years of the empire, the deposed Sultan Abdülhamid II spent his last days here under guarded comfort until his death in 1918.

Beylerbeyi Palace Today

Let's have a look at the today's Beylerbeyi Palace as a museum for you to visit. Step through the gate and you hear fountains instead of traffic. Inside, cool marble floors meet silk carpets. Crystal chandeliers hang above a deep indoor pool that kept the rooms fresh in summer.

The palace has six grand halls and twenty-four rooms, each one filled with a blend of French furniture and Turkish craftsmanship.

Visitors may explore Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The site is closed on Monday. Plan about ninety minutes to wander, breathe in the sea air from the terraces, and peek into the pavilions in the garden.

Local Tips for Visiting Beylerbeyi Palace

Arrive early. Doors open at 9:00 AM and the calm water feels almost glass-still in the morning light. You will have the salons to yourself for a few precious minutes before day-trippers cross the bridge from Europe. If you stay on the European side, take the Beşiktaş ferry to Üsküdar right after breakfast, then hop on a short bus ride bound for Beylerbeyi. From Kadıköy, a fifteen-minute taxi or the 15C bus slides along the coast with Bosphorus views the whole way.

The palace provides thin plastic shoe covers at the door. Slip-ons or sandals make the process quick and spare your laces. Photography is welcome in the garden and pavilions but rarely allowed in the main halls, so keep a phone ready outside and a wide-angle lens packed away once you step in. Guides sometimes rush larger groups, but with your audio guide you can linger. Sit on the wooden benches beside the indoor pool and let the trickling water lower the summer heat.

After touring, walk five minutes north to Beylerbeyi Pier. Order a Turkish tea at the small café under the plane trees and watch tankers glide under the Bosphorus Bridge. If you have extra time, stroll to Çengelköy for pistachio-filled pastries at a waterside bakery or climb the hill behind the palace to Kuzguncuk, a former Greek-Jewish quarter lined with colorful wooden houses.

Evenings are cooler, yet the palace closes at 5:00 PM, so plan that neighborhood detour before sunset. Weekends can be busy with bridal photo shoots; mid-week visits feel more relaxed.

Use your Istanbul Tourist Pass® public-transport card to tap in on ferries and buses, saving lira for baklava instead of tickets. A little planning means more time soaking up the sea breeze and the quiet elegance that still floats through Beylerbeyi’s marble halls.

Explore with Istanbul Tourist Pass®

Your Istanbul Tourist Pass® includes a fast online ticket and an exclusive audio guide for Beylerbeyi Palace. Show your QR code at the gate, skip the line, and start listening. The guide walks you through the State Apartments, the private Harem, and the Garden Pavilion at your own pace. You can pause for photos or stay longer in any salon without watching a clock.

The pass also unlocks more than one hundred other attractions across the city, plus handy perks like a public-transport card and airport transfer discounts. One purchase covers everything on either side of the Bosphorus, so your travel budget stretches further.

So, are you ready for royal living? Pick your Istanbul Tourist Pass® today, head to the Asian shore, and let Beylerbeyi Palace welcome you with Bosphorus breezes and stories carved in stone.

May 17, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About Istanbul Metro

Istanbul is a metropolis of more than fifteen million people, spread across Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus slices the city in two, and steep hills and narrow lanes shape many districts, especially the historic quarters on the peninsula. In this complex landscape the metro is not just handy; it is the backbone that keeps daily life flowing.

Building rail lines here is anything but easy. Crews dig beneath layers of archaeology and under one of the world’s busiest waterways. Istanbul has faced that challenge for a long time.

The Tünel funicular opened in 1875, making it the second oldest underground railway on Earth. Modern metro service began in 1989 and has grown quickly ever since. The network now stretches beyond 380 kilometres, and Metro Istanbul recently logged a record day with more than three million passenger trips.

In the pages ahead you will see how the system took shape, the milestones that marked its rise, and the newest lines that entered service in 2024 and 2025, all drawn from official, up-to-date sources so you can plan your journey with confidence.

A Short History of the Istanbul Metro

Istanbul’s story with rail travel began long before the word “metro” entered daily speech. The Tünel funicular opened on January 17 1875, linking Karaköy and Beyoğlu and earning the title of the world’s second-oldest underground railway after London. It still runs today, a living reminder that the city has looked to railways for a century and a half.

Modern rapid transit took shape in the late 1980s. The city founded a dedicated rail company in 1988, and the first stage of the M1 line started passenger service on March 11 1989 between Aksaray and Kocatepe. This line showed that an underground network could work even under the crowded streets and archaeological layers of Istanbul.

Expansion gathered pace in the new millennium. The M2 line reached the busy corridor from Taksim to Levent in 2000. The M4 crossed the Asian shore from Kadıköy to Kartal in 2012, giving the Anatolian side its first full metro. Turkey’s first driverless trains arrived on the M5 between Üsküdar and Çekmeköy in 2017, and Europe’s first driverless line for the city followed in 2020 when M7 opened between Mecidiyeköy and Mahmutbey.

Today Istanbul operates more than 380 kilometers of rail, with dozens of kilometers under construction and many new lines on the drawing board. Each opening brings the goal of a seamless, continent-spanning network one step closer.

Istanbul Metro Lines in 2025: A Quick Guide

Istanbul’s metro network keeps growing fast, so it helps to have a clear snapshot in one place. The summaries that follow list every passenger line in service as of May 2025, grouped by the side of the Bosphorus they serve. Distances, station counts, and opening dates come straight from Metro Istanbul’s official map and the latest statements from the Ministry of Transport, so you can plan your rides with confidence.

European side metro lines

M1A Yenikapı–Atatürk Airport.

The very first modern metro in Türkiye. It opened in 1989 and now runs 26.8 km through 18 stations from the old city waterfront to the former international airport.

M1B Yenikapı–Kirazlı.

Shares tracks with M1A as far as Otogar then branches north-west. The Kirazlı leg has 13 stations within the same 26.8 km system length.

M2 Yenikapı–Hacıosman (with a short spur to Seyrantepe).

Opened in 2000. It is 23.49 km long with 16 stations and carries roughly half a million riders a day along Istanbul’s central business corridor. This line will be your most used one since it is moving along Taksim to Eminonu.

M3 Bakırköy Sahil–Kayaşehir Merkez.

Began in 2013 and gained its southern coastal extension in March 2024. Today it is 26.7 km with 19 stations that reach the Olympic complex and the Çam and Sakura City Hospital.

M6 Levent–Boğaziçi Üniversitesi Hisarüstü.

A 3.3 km shuttle of four stations that feeds the university district into the backbone M2 line. It opened in 2015.

M7 Yıldız–Mahmutbey.

Turkey’s first fully driverless metro on the European side. The full 20 km route with 17 stations went into passenger service on 2 January 2023.

M9 Ataköy–Olimpiyat.

Links the Marmara coast with the Olympic Stadium area. Stage 2 opened on 18 March 2024 so the line now runs 17.2 km through 14 stations.

M11 Gayrettepe–Istanbul Airport–Arnavutköy.

High-speed airport line with a design speed of 120 km h. The first segment opened in 2023 and the final Arnavutköy terminus came on-line in March 2024. When the Halkalı branch is finished late 2025 the full line will cover 69 km and 16 stations.

Asian side Istanbul metro lines

M4 Kadıköy–Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

The first metro on the Anatolian shore. It now stretches 33.5 km across 23 stations after reaching the airport in October 2022.

M5 Üsküdar–Samandıra Merkez.

Turkey’s pioneer driverless line. The eastern leg to Samandıra opened in March 2024 so the operating length is 26.5 km with 20 stations. Work is under way to push on to Sultanbeyli by 2025.

M8 Bostancı–Parseller.

A north–south connector that started service on 6 January 2023. It is 14.3 km long and serves 13 stations through four districts.

Changing continents

There is still no metro tunnel beneath the Bosphorus. Riders switch sides on the Marmaray commuter rail, which meets nearly every metro in this list. Although Marmaray is a different train service, it is still using the same public transportation payment system so your Unlimited Public Transportation Cards will be valid for you to use Marmaray.

Lines to watch after 2025

M12 60 Yıl Parkı–Kazım Karabekir on the Asian shore. Eleven stations over 13 km, planned to open in the second half of 2025.

M14 Altunizade–Bosna Bulvarı in Üsküdar. Four stations over 4.5 km with an expected debut in 2026.

European projects include the Kabataş finish of M7 and the Halkalı leg of M11, both well into tunnelling and expected before 2027.

These descriptions use the latest figures published by Metro Istanbul, the Ministry of Transport, and official press releases dated up to May 2025, so you have a reliable snapshot of the network right now.

Istanbul Tourist Pass® Transport Perks

Istanbul is huge and the metro is only part of the story. Your Istanbul Tourist Pass® adds several transport services on top of the rail network so you can move around with less stress and for less money.

Ride everywhere like a local

Add the Unlimited Istanbul Public Transportation Card to your pass at a special price. It is delivered to your hotel and unlocks unlimited rides on the metro, trams, buses, metrobüs lines and city ferries for the number of days you pick. Pass holders pay a discounted rate instead of the public full rate, so the card pays for itself after a few journeys.

Smooth airport arrivals

A shared airport shuttle between Istanbul Airport (IST) and the city centre is included in every pass. If you prefer door-to-door comfort, private transfers are also discounted to €45 each way. Remember, this prices may change over time, so check for the latest rates in attraction page. Both options can be booked in advance through the pass app.

See the sights from an open-top seat

The Hop-On Hop-Off Panoramic Bus loops between twelve landmark stops on both continents. Pass holders save money on the 24-hour ticket, a handy choice on your first day when you want a quick overview without figuring out routes. Audio commentary is available in several languages.

Sail the Bosphorus and beyond

Several boat trips come free with the pass, including the Bosphorus sightseeing cruise, a sunset cruise, a dinner cruise with live shows, and return ferry tickets to the Princes’ Islands. Think of them as floating buses that double as guided tours.

Help on the go

The digital pass app bundles an offline city guide and maps. If you get stuck, the customer-support team answers WhatsApp messages quickly and in English, perfect when you need real-time directions.

With these extras you can hop between continents, cruise past palaces, and glide straight from the airport into the city, all while keeping transport costs predictable.

May 16, 2025
Best Italian Restaurants in Istanbul: 2025 Guide to Handmade Pasta and Artisan Pizza

Istanbul’s food scene is a living collage. Ottoman palace recipes mingle with Armenian meze, Greek seafood, Kurdish stews, and modern global bites. Into this colorful mix, Italian cooking slips in almost effortlessly because the two shores of the Mediterranean already share olive oil, tomatoes, and a love of lingering over the table. Today you will find trattorias and pizzerias lining busy boulevards and tucked beside centuries-old churches, each adding another layer to the city’s famously rich kitchen.

Why Istanbul Loves Italian Food?

New arrivals keep the excitement high in Istanbul. Trend-watchers rave about fresh-faced spots like Pepe’s in Kuruçeşme and V Modern Italian in Galataport, both opened within the last year and already full on weekend nights. Their menus lean on handmade pasta, slow-fermented dough, and seasonal produce, proving that Istanbul diners now expect craft as much as comfort.

Television helps, too. Since 2019, the charismatic Tuscan chef Danilo Zanna has been a judge on MasterChef Türkiye, charming households across the country and nudging curious cooks toward real Italian techniques instead of shortcut sauces. His primetime presence has turned terms like al dente and soffritto into everyday chatter.

The biggest shift is on the plate itself. After decades of thick-crust, fast-food pizza, Istanbulites now queue for leopard-spotted Neapolitan pies in Moda, or slurp ribbons of fresh tagliatelle at tiny counters in Beşiktaş. Places such as Fauna, long famed for its house-made doughs, helped spark the handmade pasta wave that keeps growing today.

In the sections that follow we will wander through buzzing bazaars, leafy backstreets, and chic rooftops to taste the city’s most delicious Italian offerings. Think of it as a journey rather than a checklist, because good food in Istanbul is always part cuisine, part adventure.

Where to Taste Italy in Istanbul: A Neighborhood Guide

Italian flavors pop up in every corner of the city. Choose a district that fits your mood, hop on a ferry or metro, and follow your nose. One day you might watch the Bosphorus shimmer while twirling tagliolini, the next you could be standing at a tiny counter in Beşiktaş biting into fresh-rolled pasta. Let the journey be as joyful as the meal. Let's have a look at the Istanbul neighborhoods for this cuisine quest.

Karaköy and Galataport

The waterfront revival turned Karaköy into a playground of art spaces and cocktail bars. Inside the new cruise terminal you will find V Modern Italian a sleek room with floor-to-ceiling Bosphorus views and a menu that jumps from burrata to black truffle tagliolini in Galataport Istanbul. Book a sunset table if you can and let the ferries provide the romance.

Kuruçeşme and the Bosphorus Line

A little farther north the Bosphorus bends toward Kuruçeşme Park. Here Pepe’s opened last summer inside the Oligarch complex and quickly drew a stylish crowd for seafood linguine and creamy tiramisu. The terrace looks straight across the water so every bite comes with a postcard view of the Asian shore.

Beşiktaş: Pasta Lab and Posh Classics

Beşiktaş has two very different Italian moods. In the bustling market streets tiny Fauna proves that three tables and a single pasta machine are enough for greatness; regulars swear by its daily changing sauces and perfect al dente bite. A short taxi ride away in chic Akaretler, Paper Moon delivers Milan-style glamour with white tablecloths and truffle-rich specials. Choose the spot that matches your appetite and your outfit.

Moda and Kadıköy: Pizza Playground

Cross to the Asian side for the most exciting pizza scene in the city. Moda’s 400 °C Pizza (there is also one in Etiler) fires leopard-spotted Neapolitan pies that disappear as fast as they land. Down the road Nappo wins word-of-mouth love for its airy cornicione while tiny Pizzeria Il Pellicano keeps the focus on buffalo mozzarella and a wood-scented crust. Grab a slice and stroll to the seaside park for a perfect Kadıköy night.

Nişantaşı to Sarıyer: Fine Dining with Green Views

If you crave linen napkins and a long wine list head to leafy Kuruçeşme or north toward the mansions of Sarıyer. Scalini sits inside Six Senses Kocataş Mansions and pairs handmade ravioli with a panorama of the Bosphorus that stretches almost to the Black Sea. It is a taste of la dolce vita wrapped in Ottoman grandeur.

Bonus: Zorlu Center: Eataly Italian Food Hall

On the ridge where Beşiktaş meets Levent, you will spot the glass curves of Zorlu Center. Step inside and follow the aroma of espresso to Eataly, an eight thousand square meter marketplace that feels like a small slice of Turin under one roof. Stalls overflow with buffalo mozzarella, Parma ham, and tins of Sicilian olive oil. Grab a basket for pantry treasures or slide onto a marble stool for a plate of pasta alla Norma cooked to order.

There is more than one way to eat here. Pizza e Cucina fires thin crust pies with slow-fermented dough while the bakery sells focaccia still warm from the oven. Upstairs on the terrace Terrazza Italia turns out seasonal plates by chef Claudio Chinali and stays open until eleven on Friday and Saturday nights, so you can watch the city lights while sipping a Negroni.

Eataly also hosts friendly cooking classes where you knead your own tagliatelle then sit down to taste it. Check the weekly schedule near the deli counter. Whether you come for groceries, a quick espresso, or a long dinner, Zorlu’s Italian hub proves that Istanbul embraces la dolce vita with open arms and a hungry heart.

Quick Guide to Top Italian Tables in Istanbul

Eataly (Zorlu Center, Beşiktaş): A huge food hall and terrace restaurant for fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and a market packed with Italian staples. Great if you want to taste and shop in one go.

Cecconi’s Istanbul (Soho House, Beyoğlu): Elegant garden setting, classic cicchetti and hand-rolled pasta, plus a long wine list. Reserve for dinner and try the signature fritti zucchini.

Da Mario (Etiler): Long-standing favourite with a calm leafy terrace, thin-crust pizzas, and seasonal truffle or asparagus pasta specials. A safe bet for a relaxed lunch.

Gina (Galataport, Karaköy): Stylish harbour-side spot serving antipasti, seafood linguine, and a good tiramisu; perfect after a Bosphorus stroll.

Paper Moon (Akaretler, Beşiktaş): Milanese-style fine dining, known for carpaccios, black tagliolini, and a smart crowd. Dress up and expect higher prices.

Paps Italian (French Passage, Karaköy & Emaar Square): Neapolitan chef Luigi Mariconda turns out chewy-crust pizzas and family-recipe pasta in an open kitchen. Book at peak times.

Aida – vino e cucina (Moda, Kadıköy): Cozy Michelin-listed trattoria in an old house, with homemade focaccia, regional olive oil, and a short but thoughtful wine list.

Mezzaluna (İstinyePark & other malls): Casual chain with reliable four-cheese pizza, lasagna, and kid-friendly menus; handy for a quality bite during a shopping day.

These spots cover everything from market-style eating to white-tablecloth treats, so you can match your mood and budget while tasting real Italian flavours in Istanbul.

Fuel Your Food Quest with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®

Take your spice hunt to the next level at the Spice Bazaar. Thanks to your digital pass, pop in your earbuds, and follow the free audio guide that explains how saffron, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes link Turkish and Italian kitchens. You will leave with the aromas still on your hands and fresh ideas for tomorrow’s pasta.

Keep your Instagram buzzing with a discounted Rooftop Galata Flying Dress Photoshoot. Step onto a terrace beside the Galata Tower, twirl in a flowing gown, and receive ten edited photos plus two short videos. The skyline glows behind you and your pizza posts will never look the same.

Stay connected while you roam from trattoria to pizzeria with the Tourist eSIM that comes with two gigabytes of free data. Search maps, grab last-minute reservations, and upload that perfect burrata shot without hunting for Wi-Fi.

The Istanbul Tourist Pass® unlocks more than one hundred attractions for one to five days, is fully digital, and lets you enter most places with a single QR code. It saves money, skips ticket lines, and adds thoughtful extras like WhatsApp support when you need quick tips on where to eat next. Buy your pass, charge your phone, and taste Istanbul with confidence.

May 14, 2025
From the Thames to the Bosphorus: London-Style City Break in Istanbul
Hello, London friend. Picture this. You swap the grey morning drizzle of Camden for the call of gulls over the Golden Horn. Your Oyster card turns into a digital Istanbul Tourist Pass® that unlocks palaces, ferries, and hidden art corners with one quick scan. The city greets you with the smell of fresh simit, the echo of prayer over rooftops, and a rhythm that feels both new and familiar.

Istanbul moves fast, just like home, but here Roman walls brush shoulders with glass towers and fishermen share the bridge with street musicians. One tram ride drops you at Hagia Sophia, another finds you tasting meze in Kadıköy. The price of a London pint covers a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus. Every narrow street hints at a story older than the Tower of London.

This guide speaks your language. We will wander through music spots that match a night in Soho, food markets that rival Borough, and bars that pour craft beer without the London price tag. Most stops come free or deeply discounted with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®. No queues, no paper tickets, no stress.

Ready to swap the Tube map for a ferry timetable and collect fresh tales for your next pub night back in Shoreditch? Let’s dive in.

What Makes a Londoner

A Londoner feels at ease in crowds and loves the hum of a busy street. The city teaches them to move quickly yet greet strangers with a quiet “sorry” when paths cross. They live in a place where more than three hundred languages mix, so curiosity about other cultures comes naturally.

Weather chat is their social glue. One glance at the sky and talk begins. They respect a good queue and never jump it. A Londoner knows which Tube carriage lines up with the exit and keeps an Oyster card close to hand.

Music and art shape daily life of Londoner. One night might be grime in Brixton, the next a jazz trio in Soho. Food markets are weekend treats. Borough, Maltby Street, and Broadway Market feed their appetite for world flavours. May be some Turkish food also?

Travel is a habit, not a luxury. Cheap flights mean city breaks happen often. Istanbul this month, Berlin the next. Even at home, they chase new corners of the capital and chat with visitors like old friends.

In short, a Londoner is a fast-walking, culture-hunting urban soul who loves fresh ideas and new faces. That spirit is the perfect match for Istanbul.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul for a Londoner

Think of this as your friendly map for a short escape from the Thames to the Bosphorus. You land in a city where ancient walls meet rooftop DJs, where a ferry ride costs less than your morning latte, and where every corner café is ready to chat in English or teach you a new Turkish phrase. The Istanbul Tourist Pass® sits in your pocket like a digital key. It unlocks palaces, ferries, and hidden bars without queue stress or surprise costs. Below you will find the must-do experiences that match a Londoner’s love of music, markets, night life, and quick bursts of history. Pick and mix, follow your curiosity, and let the city write the stories you will share back at the pub.

Step Inside Living History

Use your Istanbul Tourist Pass® to breeze into Hagia Sophia before the crowds. Let the audio guide wrap you in stories of emperors and sultans while sunlight spills through the great dome. Roll straight on to a guided Segway spin around the Old City and tick off Constantine’s Column, the Aqueduct, and Suleymaniye Mosque in little more than an hour.

See the City from a Red Double Decker

Climb aboard Busforus, the open-top hop-on hop-off that circles Istanbul’s star sights. The bright red coach feels like the Number Eleven back home, only warmer and framed by minarets. Buy with your Istanbul Tourist Pass® for a sweet discount, grab the top deck for wide-angle photos, and hop off whenever a cafe or museum tempts you.

Sail the Two-Continent Waterway

A public ferry ride costs less than a London bus yet drifts between Europe and Asia. Take it by day for palace views or book the free Dinner Cruise that comes with the Pass. Meze arrives, bridges glow in blue and red, and dancers whirl on deck. The skyline feels as grand as the Thames at night, only older.

Chase the Night Pulse

Join the Party Pub Crawl on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday. Raki shots on a bus break the ice, then guides lead the group through one pub and three clubs. Prefer something mellow? Head to Beyoğlu for indie sets at Babylon, late jazz at Nardis, or drag shows in hidden bars near Taksim. English slips easily into Turkish on these streets.

Taste the City One Bite at a Time

Spend a morning in Kadıköy Market. Snack on stuffed mussels, sample pomegranate juice, and pick up pastries still warm from the oven. Cross to Karaköy for murals in back lanes and a flat white that could sit proudly in Shoreditch. The Museum of Illusions stands two streets away and your Pass opens the door.

Find Your Crowd

Istanbul’s queer scene is small yet spirited. Tekyön thumps with Turkish pop and friendly faces, while Chianti pours cocktails until sunrise. Nobody minds if you turn up solo; conversation comes easy on the dance floor.

Unlimited Rides with the Istanbul City Card

Swap your Oyster for a visitor card that never runs empty. The Istanbul City Card arrives at your hotel, ready to tap on metros, trams, buses, metrobuses, and ferries for one set price. Choose one, three, five, seven, or fifteen days of unlimited travel and forget about topping up. Buy it with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and keep up to forty percent in your pocket at all. Each card carries a playful Istanbul sketch of a tower, a cat, or the red İstiklal tram, so it doubles as a keepsake when the trip is done.

Escape in a Flash

Hop on a ferry to the Princes Islands for a tour coming free your Pass. Rent a bike, circle pine scented roads, and swim from a quiet pier. If ancient wonders call, take the discounted day trip to Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. Flights and transfers are arranged, so you stand in front of the Celsus Library before lunch and sleep back in Istanbul that night.

Feel the Roar of Local Football

Walk into the Beşiktaş JK Museum on match day. Trophies gleam under spotlights and fan songs echo through the corridors. It is free with the Pass and pairs well with a pint on a rooftop near Galata Tower as the sun sets.

Your Istanbul Tourist Pass® keeps queues short, costs clear, and plans flexible. All that is left is you, the city, and the stories waiting for the next pub night back home.

Why the Istanbul Tourist Pass® clicks with Londoners
- Everything lives on your phone. You book gigs with an app, so you expect attraction tickets to work the same way.
- More than one hundred perks in one bundle. Hagia Sophia audio guide, hosted Topkapı Palace entry, Bosphorus cruise, Museum of Illusions, an unlimited transport card, and plenty more sit under the same QR.
- One fee, no drip-feed costs. It beats paying for each sight on its own, which leaves spare cash for craft beer or a fresh vinyl find.
- Thirty years of local know-how. The pass comes from a travel team that has been guiding visitors since long before budget flights were a thing.
- Help that speaks your language. Londonliterate Istanbulites answer on WhatsApp and can even tell you which pub screens Premier League matches. (our bosses are Londoners from Istanbul *hi boss* 🙂 )
A two-day sampler for a Londoner

Day One

Walk straight into Hagia Sophia with the pass. The audio guide fills the vast space with stories.

Drift around Sultanahmet and swap your Pret croissant for a warm simit.

Skip the queue at Topkapı Palace and stare at jewels that rival the Crown collection.

Linger over meze at Karaköy Lokantası.

Play with optical tricks at the Museum of Illusions, ticket already sorted.

Catch the sunset ferry to Kadıköy and follow the craft beer trail.

Round off the night with live music at Salon İKSV or a cosy jazz bar in Moda.

Day Two

Tap your transport card on the ferry to the Princes Islands. Cycle pine-scented lanes and spot wooden mansions.

Return to Karaköy for balik ekmek by the boats.

Take hosted entry to Galata Tower and compare the view with the Shard.

Grab a quick thrill at Frankenstein Horror House in Kadıköy with a pass discount.

Share meze and raki in a classic meyhane. Think tapas night, Turkish style.

End on a Beyoğlu rooftop. City lights pulse while a DJ spins into the small hours.

Extra hooks for London tastes

Football buzz. Free entry to the Beşiktaş JK Museum with the pass, and adding a match ticket is easy.

Stand-up in English. TuzBiber hosts regular comedy nights; the pass blog posts current line-ups.

Open-air cinema. Topkapı Palace gardens project classics on warm summer evenings.

Pop-up art and markets. Weekends at Bomontiada mix local design stalls, street food, and live sets.

Slip these ideas into any long weekend, let the city surprise you in the gaps, and head home with stories ready for the next pub round.

Next Stop: Istanbul

You already know how to own a city. You queue with grace, flow through crowds, and spot good coffee in seconds. Istanbul rewards those skills with a bigger canvas. Every street holds a story older than London itself, yet the energy feels just as fresh.

Drop the worries about tickets and timetables. Your Istanbul Tourist Pass® sits ready on your phone, waiting to unlock palaces at dawn and rooftops at midnight. With one scan you ride trams, sail ferries, and slip past long lines like a local who has lived here for years.

So pack light. Bring a sense of wonder, a strong appetite, and maybe an extra memory card for your camera. Istanbul is calling. The Bosphorus is sparkling. Your table is set with meze, and the city soundtrack is already rising. Click buy, grab your pass, and meet us where Europe shakes hands with Asia. We will keep a simit warm for you.
May 13, 2025
Marilyn Manson Istanbul Concert 2025

Istanbul never sleeps and 2025 proves it once again. Festivals light up the Bosphorus, small clubs echo with new sounds, and huge open-air shows pull global stars into the city every month. Travelers mix with locals on warm summer nights and share the same rhythm. Music is part of daily life here, as essential as simit and tea.

On September 3 2025 Marilyn Manson will bring his dark, theatrical rock to Parkorman in Maslak, Sarıyer. The show starts at 7:00 PMand it is set to be one of the standout concerts of the year. Expect a raw performance, bold visuals, and a crowd ready to sing every word. Keep reading for details on how to get tickets, what to expect at the venue, and smart ways to fit the concert into your Istanbul adventure.

About the Marilyn Manson Istanbul Concert

Parkorman is a forest clearing in Maslak. Tall pines circle the stage and the night air smells like fresh wood and street-food smoke. Gates will open at 5:00 PM, giving everyone time to settle in before Marilyn Manson steps out at 7:00. Expect a full festival setup with food trucks, craft beer stands, and easy metro links from Taksim and Şişli.

Manson shows are half concert, half dark theatre. Strobes cut through thick fog. Giant backdrops flash twisted religious symbols. His voice shifts from a low growl to a sharp scream in the space of a heartbeat. Classics like “The Beautiful People” and his “Sweet Dreams” cover still hit hard, but recent tracks add new heavy synth layers that shake the ground. Crowds at his gigs are a mix of long-time fans in black leather and curious newcomers. Everyone ends up chanting together by the final chorus.

Energy moves in waves at a Manson gig. One moment he stands still under a single white spotlight, the next he swings a mic stand like a preacher on fire. Expect confetti cannons and bursts of flame during the biggest hooks. The volume is loud but the mix is clear, so lyrics cut through. Bring comfortable shoes, leave the big bags at your hotel, and be ready to lose yourself in the dark carnival for two unforgettable hours.

The Venue: Parkorman Maslak

Parkorman rests in a pocket of woodland just above the glass towers of Maslak in Sarıyer. Pine and oak circle a gentle slope that opens onto a broad stage lawn. City lights peek through the branches, yet the air smells like forest, not traffic. The space holds around ten thousand people, roomy enough for a buzz without a crush. Fans lay blankets on the grass during daylight and drift toward the rail once the first lights flash.

Getting there is simple. Ride the M2 metro toward Hacıosman and hop off at ITU Ayazağa or Atatürk Oto Sanayi, each about a ten-minute walk from the gate. From Taksim or Şişli the trip runs roughly fifteen minutes. Taxis from the historic center old town need twenty to thirty minutes depending on traffic, but the metro often feels smoother. Limited paid parking waits near the entrance, so public transit or a ride-share drop-off saves time.

Parkorman has welcomed Bonobo sets, Charlotte de Witte nights, and the long-running Soundgarden festival. Food stalls line the back with Turkish street bites, veggie bowls, and cold craft beer, and credit cards work everywhere. Restrooms sit in clean container units behind the left wing of the stage. Cell signal may dip after dark, so choose a meeting point before the show. Pack a light jacket for the evening breeze, wear shoes that handle forest paths, and give yourself a few extra minutes after the encore to wander among the trees on your way out. The weather in September in Istanbul is great. That quiet walk is part of the magic.

Who Is Marilyn Manson?

Marilyn Manson was born Brian Hugh Warner in Canton, Ohio, in 1969. He formed the band that still carries his stage name in 1989 and quickly built a reputation for mixing industrial rock, gothic textures, and shock rock theatre. Early albums like “Antichrist Superstar” and “Mechanical Animals” turned him into a household name, earning platinum plaques and provoking more talk shows than any other rock act of the nineties. His look with white makeup, jet-black hair, mismatched contact lenses, became part of pop culture, and his lyrics about media, religion, and fame still spark debate.

Manson concerts feel like a collision of heavy guitars, pounding electronic beats, and performance art. One minute he whispers through a single spotlight, the next he towers over the crowd on stilts or waves a burning Bible prop. Fans know to expect thick layers of fog, strobe bursts, and sing-along anthems such as “The Beautiful People,” “The Dope Show,” and his eerie cover of “Sweet Dreams.” Recent tours add tracks from his latest release “One Assassination Under God,” which blends gritty synth lines with the punch of classic metal riffs.

Istanbul has met the dark prince of rock once before. On July 2 2007 he headlined the Radar Live festival at Solar Beach and unleashed a full “Rape of the World” tour set. Long-time Turkish fans have waited nearly two decades for a return, so demand for Parkorman is expected to be fierce.

Whether you come dressed in leather boots and black eyeliner or just curious to witness rock theater at its loudest, be ready for a show that blurs the line between concert and gothic carnival.

Istanbul Tourist Pass®: The Easy City Break for Manson Fans

The concert is one big night. Turn it into a full adventure with Istanbul Tourist Pass® and you will fit more into the trip without stress. The pass is fully digital, works on your phone, and comes in one to five day options. Each day you open a fresh bundle of credits that unlock over one hundred attractions and handy services. Tap the app near Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, Basilica Cistern, or Maiden’s Tower and a QR ticket pops up. You walk straight to security, scan, and start exploring. Topkapı Palace is the only place that still uses a hosted entry, so a guide meets you at the gate and you skip the ticket queue there too.

Two and a half day game plan

Day one, September two

Land in the morning and head to the historic peninsula. Use the pass for Hagia Sophia with the audio guide, then drift over to the Archaeology Museums. Sip Turkish coffee in Gülhane Park, hop on the Bosphorus sunset cruise that is also included, and watch the city glow as you float between two continents.

Day two, concert day

Spend the late morning around Galata Tower. The tower ticket is on your pass, and the nearby Museum of Illusions is as well. Grab lunch in Karaköy, then ride the M2 metro north for a sound-check walk at Parkorman. The show starts at 7:00 PM, and your metro ride back after the encore is free if you used your pass for the unlimited transport card add-on.

Day three, cool down in Kadıköy

Take the ferry to the Asian side. The pass gives a deep discount at Frankenstein Horror House, a campy jump scare maze that sits five minutes from the ferry pier. After screams and laughter, wander the street art in Yeldeğirmeni, taste pickles at Özcan Turşuları, and rest with craft coffee on Moda’s shoreline before you fly home.

The Pass still covers practical perks like airport transfer deals, WhatsApp support on weekdays, and discounts at spots such as Nomads for dinner. Buy your chosen day count, activate when you arrive, and let the credits guide your feet. Less queue time means more songs, more mezze, more memories. Buy your Pass now!

May 13, 2025
Women in Istanbul: A Guide to Discover the City from a Woman’s Perspective

One city that defies clichés is Istanbul. This vibrant, ever-evolving city is a blend of innovation and tradition, where women play a vital role in many aspects of life, and modernity and history coexist. Whether you are a student, an expat, or a lone tourist, Istanbul has something to offer everyone. From its rich history to its vibrant districts, the city welcomes women with open arms and offers exciting and enlightening experiences.

As a woman living in Istanbul, I am always inspired by the city's diverse history, culture, and the vibrant roles that women have played and still play. With International Women's Day coming up on March 8th, it is fitting to take a look at Istanbul from a female point of view, honoring the role of women in the city's history and offering insightful information for female visitors and locals.

Before we dive into Istanbul's women, let's take a moment to examine the best way to experience the city: the Istanbul Tourist Pass®. For those who want to confidently and easily explore Istanbul, the Istanbul Tourist Pass® is the perfect travel companion. It gives you easy access to over 100 attractions, museums, and experiences while allowing you to skip long ticket lines, and benefit from specially curated audio guides.

The pass ensures a flawless experience whether you are taking a calm Bosphorus cruise, discovering the city's hidden gems, or taking in Topkapi Palace's magnificence. Enjoy organizing your days with ease thanks to its completely digital format and generous credits system. So, Istanbul is a city meant to be explored and fallen in love with, and the Istanbul Tourist Pass® lets you do so with ease while making the most of your time and taking in the city's vibrant spirit. Enjoy every minute, so let's start!

Being a Woman in Istanbul

Being a woman in Istanbul is living in a dynamic, colorful, yet historically loaded city where old customs mix with a culture fast changing. This road is one of both exciting possibilities and ongoing problems. Women are becoming more and more visible in Istanbul's business sectors; they run established companies, inspire innovation in tech startups, and greatly help the city's vibrant artistic scene. While entrepreneurship is a burgeoning path with women starting companies from fashion boutiques to internet platforms, universities and research facilities are bursting with female professors and researchers pushing the envelope of knowledge.

The works of female artists, writers, filmmakers, and musicians, whose varied skills and points of view reflect Istanbul, thrive in this city's artistic environment. With civil society organizations playing a vital role in empowerment, women are also more active in local and national politics, campaigning for their rights and helping to shape policies even if obstacles still exist.

Everyday life in Istanbul offers a complex experience. The city is a site of contrasts where women may come across both liberal and conservative viewpoints, so, women must constantly negotiate between honoring conventional beliefs and adopting new lifestyles. Cultural expectations can affect family duties, social contacts, and clothing choices as well as other aspects.

Experiences vary widely by district, and navigating the busy streets, public transit, and social events calls for knowledge and fortitude. Whether family, friends, or professional associations, women in Istanbul typically find support and solidarity inside their social networks; social media is a critical instrument for connection and organization. Istanbul is a cultural melting pot that enhances the social fabric but also creates problems with language, cultural diversity, and integration. For women residing all throughout the city, economic inequalities provide quite distinct reality.

Being a woman in Istanbul is, fundamentally, a colorful, sometimes chaotic, and finally a complicated experience. It's about appreciating the vitality of the city, negotiating its paradoxes, and creating one's own path in a setting where modernism and legacy live side by side. While always reinventing their responsibilities in a fast-changing world, women in Istanbul are actively creating the future of the city and supporting its cultural, economic, and social development.

Famous Women of Istanbul

The Women in the Ottoman Era

Hurrem Sultan (1502–1558) was a remarkable figure who originated from what is now Ukraine. She transformed her life from that of a slave to becoming the legal wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, ultimately emerging as one of the most influential women in the history of the Ottoman Empire.

Kösem Sultan (1589–1651) was a remarkably influential Valide Sultan, or Queen Mother, in Istanbul history. She played a pivotal role as regent for both her son and grandson, significantly influencing the political landscape of the empire during her time.

The Era of the Turkish Republic

Halide Edib Adıvar (1884–1964) was a remarkable figure in history: a pioneering feminist, a talented novelist, and a passionate nationalist. Her contributions were vital during the Turkish War of Independence, where she made a significant impact.

Sabiha Gökçen (1913–2001) was not only the world’s first female fighter pilot but also a remarkable symbol of women's empowerment in Turkey. Today, one of the airports in Istanbul proudly carries her name.

International Women of Istanbul

Expat Women Living in Istanbul

A lot of expat women find themselves calling Istanbul home, captivated by its vibrant culture, abundant opportunities, and the warm, inviting spirit of the city. In neighborhoods such as Cihangir, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş, you'll find vibrant expat communities that provide a warm social and professional network for those who are new to the area.

International Women Students in Istanbul

Istanbul's universities draw in thousands of international students, with a significant number being women. They discover a nurturing atmosphere, both within educational settings and throughout the vibrant social landscape of the city. Universities offer vibrant student clubs and welcoming expat communities, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone looking to integrate.

Exploring Istanbul as a Solo Woman Traveler

Istanbul is often considered a safe destination for solo female travelers, particularly in popular neighborhoods such as Sultanahmet, Beşiktaş, Karaköy, and Kadıköy. The locals are warm and welcoming, always ready to lend a hand, creating a vibrant and close-knit community spirit. Like in any bustling city, it's important to stay mindful of your surroundings. However, Istanbul is just as safe as any other European capital.

March 8th International Women's Day in Istanbul

In Istanbul, International Women's Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and participation from the community. Feminist marches, vibrant cultural events, and engaging discussions on women's rights are taking place. Numerous organizations, galleries, and universities come together to celebrate with special events, creating a vibrant and thrilling atmosphere in the city during this time.

Tips for Women Visiting Istanbul

Feel free to wear what makes you comfortable: There's no need to cover your head unless you're visiting a mosque. Istanbul is a vibrant and contemporary city, where in neighborhoods such as Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and Nisantasi, women embrace the warmth of summer by wearing shorts, crop tops, and dresses with confidence and style.

All big cities have good and bad neighborhoods: Istanbul's central and touristy areas are typically considered safe for visitors and residents alike. Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, Nisantası, and Cihangir stand out as some of the safest and most lively neighborhoods for women to explore and enjoy.

Turkish Hospitality: The warmth and generosity of the Turkish people towards tourists is truly remarkable. At times, this warmth might seem a bit much for Europeans who aren't accustomed to such openness, but it truly stems from a heartfelt sense of hospitality.

Use Public Transportation: Istanbul boasts a public transport system that is not only well-connected but also safe for women. You can comfortably hop on buses, trams, and ferries to explore the city. That said, it's often better to choose ride-sharing apps or trusted taxi services when you're out late at night.

Stay Alert: In bustling urban environments, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings, as petty theft can occur in crowded places. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings. It is as it is in every big city in the world.

Exploring Istanbul with Ease: Istanbul Tourist Pass®

For women eager to explore Istanbul freely and confidently, the Istanbul Tourist Pass® is the ultimate travel companion. Offering access to over 100 attractions, it allows you to skip ticket lines, listen audio guides effortlessly, and experience the city's highlights with ease.

Whether you're admiring the stunning views from Galata Tower, enjoying a relaxing Bosphorus cruise, or stepping back in time at the Hagia Sophia, the pass ensures a smooth and stress-free journey. With its fully digital format, you can travel light and move around the city effortlessly. Istanbul is a city best enjoyed without hassle, and with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your adventure!

Istanbul is a truly amazing city for women to discover and enjoy. No matter if you're here for just a short visit or looking to settle in for a while, you'll discover a vibrant city rich in history, buzzing with energy, and filled with remarkable women who are paving the way for its future. This International Women’s Day, let’s take a moment to honor the incredible women of Istanbul and the lively, inviting city that serves as a source of inspiration for them.

May 12, 2025
Istanbul Encyclopedia Filming Locations Guide | Netflix Series Travel Tips
Istanbul is a city that always feels alive. Its skyline rises between two continents and two seas. Filmmakers love this mix of east, west, old, and new. From James Bond to arthouse dramas, countless shows and movies have chased light in its winding streets and grand palaces.

Istanbul Encyclopedia brings a fresh gaze to that familiar backdrop. The story pairs two women at opposite points in life. Zehra is a hopeful architecture student who thinks the city will unlock her future. Nesrin is a celebrated surgeon who feels Istanbul has taken more than it has given. Their paths cross in a shared apartment, setting up a gentle clash between new dreams and tired memories.

The series uses real locations instead of studio sets, so Istanbul itself becomes a main character. Viewers see graceful Ottoman mansions, busy university halls, and a lighthouse that blinks over the Bosphorus at night. Each place carries the weight of memory for Zehra or Nesrin, and that weight now invites you to visit in person.

Reşad Ekrem Kocu’s Istanbul Encyclopedia

In 1944 historian and novelist Reşad Ekrem Koçu set out to write what he called “the grand register of the city.” His plan was bold: twenty-four volumes that would capture every street, story, and eccentric character of Istanbul. Eleven volumes reached print between 1944 and 1973, ending at the letter G. The entries range from grand mosques and forgotten fountains to coffeehouse gossip, murders, tourist habits, and urban legends. Each piece reads like a short tale, often backed by lively illustrations created by well-known artists of the day.

Koçu wrote most of the text himself but also invited leading historians, literary scholars, and academics to add their voices. The result blends the Ottoman tradition of tezkires (biographical anthologies) with Western-style encyclopedias. It is more than a reference work. It is a portrait of Istanbul seen through everyday life, recorded at the very moment the city was shifting from imperial capital to republican province.

After Koçu’s death, boxes of drafts and sketches for the missing volumes sat untouched until Kadir Has University acquired the archive in 2018. More than forty thousand documents now give researchers a rare look at his working method and at mid-twentieth-century Istanbul itself.

Who Was Resad Ekrem Kocu?

Koçu was born in Istanbul in 1905. He studied history at Istanbul University and taught the subject at several high schools, including the Kuleli Military High School. To make ends meet he contributed popular history columns to newspapers such as Cumhuriyet and Milliyet and to magazines like Hayat Tarih Mecmuası. He also published historical novels and lively monographs on Ottoman figures.

In November 1944, he released the first fascicles of the Istanbul Encyclopedia. “From now on I will squander my life on it,” he told friends, and he kept that promise. Financial troubles halted the work in 1951, yet he restarted it in 1958 and kept going until 1973. By then he had published 173 fascicles across eleven bound volumes, stopping with the entry “Gökçınar (Mehmed).”

Koçu lost his savings, his inherited mansion, and eventually his health in the process. He died on 6 July 1975 and was buried in Sahrayıcedid Cemetery. Admirers later discovered that even the exact spot of his grave had vanished, a final echo of the sacrifices he made to tell Istanbul’s endless story.

Inside Netflix’s Istanbul Encyclopedia

The limited series landed on Netflix worldwide on April 17, 2025. It runs for eight hour-long episodes (most sit between forty-five and fifty-two minutes) and streams in Turkish with subtitles and dubs in several languages.

Story and setting

The plot follows two women in Istanbul who share an apartment yet see the city through very different eyes. Zehra (Helin Kandemir) has just arrived to study architecture and wants to taste everything Istanbul promises. Nesrin (Canan Ergüder) is a renowned surgeon who feels the city has drained her spirit and plans a fresh start abroad. Their daily clashes and quiet moments reveal how a single street can signal hope for one person and exhaustion for another.

Creator and cast

Writer-director Selman Nacar brings the same careful realism that earned him festival awards for his films. The main cast pairs veteran star Canan Ergüder with rising talent Helin Kandemir, while Tolga Tekin and Müjde Ar round out the ensemble. The series is produced by ANS Productions and Evrensel Film for Netflix.

A-to-Z episode structure

Each chapter is named after an entry in Reşad Ekrem Koçu’s unfinished encyclopedia, starting with “A – Alçakdam Slope” and “B – Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque.” The alphabetical march echoes Zehra’s coursework as she documents the city, and it gives viewers a playful checklist of real locations to track down on their own walks.

Themes to watch

The show asks what it means to “belong” in a city that never stops changing. It weighs ambition against contentment, tradition against reinvention, and always keeps Istanbul’s streets, cafes, and ferry decks in the foreground. Reviewers have praised its slow-burn pace, careful cinematography, and layered performances that avoid easy heroes or villains.

Why it matters for travelers

Because the production filmed on location, almost every episode doubles as a travel guide. University courtyards, Ottoman mansions, and a blinking Bosphorus lighthouse all appear exactly as you can see them today. In the next sections we will map these spots and share tips on how to reach them so you can step into the series frame by frame on your own Istanbul trip.

Walk the Screen: Real Places From *Istanbul Encyclopedia* and How to Visit Them with Istanbul Tourist Pass®

Visiting the filming spots lets you feel the same first-day thrill Zehra feels and the same city-fatigue that sits on Nesrin’s shoulders. Below you will find five key locations that appear on the show, plus easy ways to fold them into your own itinerary with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®. Keep your phone ready because your Pass sends instant QR tickets the moment you get close to an included attraction; no paper, no waiting.

Bomonti Fransız Fakirhanesi (Şişli)

A nineteenth-century red-brick complex that once sheltered the elderly now plays the role of Nesrin’s apartment exterior. Its long balconies and arched windows give the series a quiet, old-world mood. The building is still a nursing home, so limit your visit to respectful photos from the street or check local listings for occasional art fairs that open the courtyard to the public. Afterward walk ten minutes to Bomontiada for coffee, then hop on the Metro to Taksim where your Pass unlocks the Museum of Illusions on İstiklal Street and the Galata Tower entry with audio guide.

Local tip: The neighbourhood wakes up late. Arrive after eleven in the morning if you want the bakeries and cafes in full swing.

Istanbul Technical University Ayazağa Campus (Sarıyer)

Every classroom scene was filmed inside this modern campus. Zehra studies architecture here and sketches façades between lectures. Visitors can enter the main courtyard during daylight with a simple ID check at the gate. Once you are inside, look for the marble-lined auditorium shown in Episode Two. From the campus gate it is a short taxi ride to Rumeli Fortress, where your Pass gives skip-the-ticket-line entry plus an audio guide that tells the story of Mehmed the Conqueror.

Local tip: The student canteens serve cheap Turkish breakfast until noon and welcome guests politely as long as you clear your tray.

Kireçburnu Lighthouse (Bosphorus North)

The green-and-white lighthouse flashes in Episode Four when Zehra walks the shore at dusk. Ships curve around the point while the Bosphorus Bridge glows behind her. You can reach the lighthouse by bus from Sarıyer square, then keep walking north for a quiet water-side stroll. Your Pass includes several Bosphorus cruises that depart from Kabataş and cruise right past this very beacon, so you can grab the same view from the deck without extra cost.

Local tip: Buy a warm açma from the bakery on the corner and watch local anglers land horse mackerel right below the lighthouse wall.

Maiden’s Tower (Üsküdar Off-Shore)

The tiny islet never hosts a major scene yet appears in almost every skyline shot. Directors love its lonely romance and so will your camera. Your Pass covers the Maiden's Tower museum ticket, plus a free audio guide that untangles every legend from doomed princesses to Byzantine fire beacons. Time your visit for late afternoon and you will sail back under a peach-orange sky.

Local tip: Sit on the Üsküdar promenade after sunset. Street musicians gather here, and the tower lights flicker like a film set.

Galata Bridge and Karaköy Back Streets

Episode Seven opens with Zehra crossing the bridge at dawn while fishermen cast lines beside her. She soon weaves through Karaköy’s narrow lanes and grabs tea in a tiled café that used to be an Ottoman bank. With the Pass you can climb Galata Tower a five-minute walk uphill and listen to the audio guide tell you why Genoese merchants once ruled this hill. Finish the loop with your free Turkish coffee tasting under the bridge, another Pass perk.

Local tip: The bridge railings hide small brass number plates that mark each fishing spot. Regulars have favourites and will proudly tell you why plate fifty-six is lucky.

How to Stitch These Spots into One Easy Day

Morning: Start at ITU Ayazağa campus, enjoy student breakfast, then ride Metro M2 south to Şişli for Bomonti photos.

Midday: Walk to Taksim and use your Pass for the Museum of Illusions and Galata Tower.

Late afternoon: Take the tram to Kabataş, board the Bosphorus Sunset Cruise included in your Pass, glide past Kireçburnu Lighthouse, and watch the city turn gold.

Evening: Disembark at Üsküdar, catch the last shuttle to Maiden’s Tower, and sip salep on the quay while the skyline twinkles.

Nearly every step is covered by your digital pass with its 100+ attractions and services, so you only pull out your phone, tap the QR code, and walk in. No paper tickets, no queues, lots of screen-worthy moments.

Quick Pass Reminders
- 100+ attractions and services all around Istanbul
- Choose one to five day validity.
- Credit system gives you flexibility so pick any attraction that fits your mood.
- Instant WhatsApp support if you get lost.
Ready to film your own chapter of Istanbul Encyclopedia? Grab the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and the city becomes your open set.
May 12, 2025
Shopaholic’s Guide to Istanbul: From Bazaars to Boutiques

Istanbul, the city where East meets West, is a shopper’s paradise that offers an eclectic mix of traditional bazaars, luxurious boutiques, and everything in between. Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs, high-end fashion, or quirky local finds, Istanbul’s shopping scene caters to all tastes and budgets. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best shopping spots in Istanbul—from the grand bazaar to chic designer stores.

1. Grand Bazaar: A Timeless Treasure Trove

No trip to Istanbul would be complete without visiting the iconic Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of vibrant alleys. Here, you’ll find everything from handwoven carpets and kilims to Turkish delights, spices, jewelry, and more. Bargaining is a tradition, so don’t hesitate to haggle for the best prices.

What to Buy: Turkish carpets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, textiles.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and get the best deals.

2. Spice Bazaar: The Scent of Istanbul

Just a short walk from the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) is a sensory overload with its heady aromas of saffron, cinnamon, and dried fruits. While it’s a great spot for picking up authentic spices, it’s also the place to shop for Turkish teas, dried flowers, and sweets like Turkish delight and baklava. The colorful stalls are a feast for the eyes and the perfect spot to pick up gourmet gifts or a unique souvenir.

What to Buy: Spices, Turkish delight, teas, dried fruits, rose water.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to taste different varieties of Turkish delight before purchasing.

3. Istiklal Avenue: Fashion and Culture Combined

If you’re looking for the latest trends, Istiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) in Beyoğlu is where fashionistas flock. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with international chains, local boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. From high-street fashion brands like Zara and H&M to local Turkish designers, Istiklal offers a mix of modern and traditional, ensuring every shopaholic finds something to suit their taste.

What to Buy: Contemporary fashion, accessories, local artisan products.

Pro Tip: Stop by one of the charming cafes for a Turkish coffee break between shopping sprees.

4. Nişantaşı: Luxury Shopping at Its Best

For those seeking high-end luxury shopping, Nişantaşı is Istanbul’s answer to the Champs-Élysées or Fifth Avenue. This chic neighborhood boasts a collection of designer stores such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. It’s not just about shopping—Nişantaşı is also home to upscale cafes, elegant restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene. This is where Istanbul’s elite come to shop and socialize.

What to Buy: Designer clothing, jewelry, accessories, high-end cosmetics.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to visit the famous Maçka Park for a relaxing stroll after a shopping day.

5. Kadıköy: Vintage and Local Finds

On the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy offers a completely different vibe compared to the European side. This lively district is known for its vibrant local markets, vintage stores, and eclectic boutiques. The Kadıköy Market is the heart of the area, where you can find fresh produce, local spices, and handmade goods. For something more offbeat, explore the vintage stores tucked away in side streets.

What to Buy: Vintage clothing, local crafts, handmade jewelry.

Pro Tip: Take a ferry ride across the Bosphorus to Kadıköy for a scenic shopping experience.

6. Designer Shopping at Zorlu Center

For a modern, luxury shopping experience, head to Zorlu Center. This upscale shopping mall houses high-end international brands like Prada, Burberry, and Saint Laurent, along with a variety of Turkish boutiques. The mall offers a relaxed shopping experience with plenty of dining options, a concert hall, and a cinema. It’s an excellent place to indulge in some retail therapy.

What to Buy: Luxury fashion, cosmetics, jewelry.

Pro Tip: After shopping, catch a performance at the Zorlu PSM (Performing Arts Center).

7. Arasta Bazaar: The Hidden Gem

Located in the Sultanahmet district, Arasta Bazaar is a charming, less crowded alternative to the Grand Bazaar. It’s the perfect spot for buying traditional Turkish souvenirs, including hand-painted ceramics, textiles, and brass items. Arasta Bazaar offers a quiet, relaxed shopping experience where you can enjoy the quaint atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of other markets.

What to Buy: Handmade souvenirs, ceramics, textiles, antique items.

Pro Tip: Arasta Bazaar is right next to the Blue Mosque, so it’s a great spot to visit after exploring this iconic landmark.

Final Thoughts:

From the historic charm of the Grand Bazaar to the luxurious shopping experiences in Nişantaşı, Istanbul offers an incredible variety of shopping experiences. Whether you're looking for unique handicrafts or the latest fashion trends, you’ll find everything you need in this vibrant city. Make sure to include Istanbul Tourist Pass® in your journey to get the most out of your shopping adventure while skipping the lines and saving time.

May 11, 2025
Cihangir: Istanbul’s Coolest Corner of Creative Buzz
Istanbul is a city that never sits still. Ferries criss-cross the Bosphorus, prayers drift from slender minarets, and side streets burst into sudden song. Yet behind all the movement, the city keeps pockets of calm where artists think, cats nap, and conversations spill out of tiny cafés. One of those pockets is Cihangir.

Perched on the hillside between lively Taksim and the ferry piers of Kabataş, Cihangir feels close to everything while guarding its own pace. Painters and actors chat over strong coffee, antique shops hide treasures behind misted windows, and the scent of fresh simit floats up narrow lanes. In these streets you can still hear stories of emperors and poets, but the neighborhood’s heartbeat is modern, bohemian, and welcoming.

Slip down from the rush of İstiklal Avenue and you will find a place that asks you to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and stay for one more tea. This guide will show you how to make the most of Cihangir whether you stop by for a quick breakfast or decide to linger long enough to call it home.

Cihangir Istanbul Neighborhood Guide: Art, Cafés, Bosphorus Views

Cihangir is small but full of life. Fewer than four thousand people live on its sloping streets, yet the buzz never stops. The area sits between Taksim Square and Kabataş, so you can walk down from Istiklal Avenue and reach the water in minutes.

The name comes from Şehzade Cihangir, son of Süleyman the Magnificent. His mosque still looks over the Bosphorus. Old apartments and leafy pockets surround it, giving the neighborhood a timeless feel.

Artists, writers, and actors made Cihangir their base years ago. That spirit remains. You can sip tea at Firuzağa Kahvesi and end up chatting with painters or film students. Street cats wander everywhere, and locals feed them with pride.

Cihangir feels safer than many nearby districts, though it pays to stay aware after midnight. Coffee shops, vintage stores, and tiny bars line the lanes. Many offer vegan snacks and strong espresso. At sunset the sea breeze moves up the hill, and the call to prayer blends with soft guitar from a window above.

It is easy to love this place. You can wake to a Bosphorus view, explore antique shops in Çukurcuma, and finish the day with meze on Akarsu Street. Cihangir is calm yet creative, historic yet young at heart. Come for an afternoon and you may start looking for an apartment.

Best Things to Do in Cihangir Istanbul in 2025

Cihangir looks quiet at first glance. Give it a day and the streets open like a storybook. One corner hides a seventeenth-century mosque. The next serves hand-pulled espresso beside vinyl records. Walk slowly, talk to the cats, and use this guide to dive deep.

Streets Worth a Slow Walk

Akarsu Yokuşu: The life of the neighborhood. Tables crowd the pavement, waiters balance tea glasses, and music drifts from open windows. Stay long enough and the street feels like a living room.

Sıraselviler Caddesi: Start at Taksim Square and drift downhill. Small bakeries sell warm simit, and halfway down the Bosphorus flashes between buildings. Keep going and you reach the Kabataş tram in ten minutes.

Çukurcuma Lanes: Cobblestones, antique shops, and sleepy cats. Every shopkeeper has a story about the lamp or gramophone you are holding, so take time to listen.

Historic Spots

Cihangir Mosque: Built in 1559 for Prince Cihangir, rebuilt in 1889. The tiny courtyard frames a postcard view of Seraglio Point across the water. Step inside for quiet and the faint scent of old cedar.

Firuzağa Mosque: A pocket-size sanctuary in pale green tiles. It marks the true entrance to Cihangir. Sit on the wall outside with a tea and watch daily life swirl past.

Çukurcuma Hamamı: A mixed-gender Turkish bath from the 1830s. Book the full scrub and massage package. You walk out lighter, skin glowing and mind clear.

Art and Galleries

Museum of Innocence: Orhan Pamuk turned a novel into a real house. Cabinets hold faded photos, matchboxes, and letters that trace a love story set in 1970s Istanbul. Audio guide recommended to catch every secret.

Galerist: Bright white rooms, bold Turkish painters, and regular openings where artists actually show up. Perfect place to see what Istanbul’s next art wave looks like.

Pi Artworks: Small space, big ideas. Shows rotate often so there is always something fresh on the walls.

Wellness and Yoga

Cihangir Yoga: One of Istanbul’s best-loved studios. Classes run from sunrise Vinyasa to evening Yin, and the “Yoga for Everyone” vibe makes newcomers feel safe. Travellers can drop in for a single session or stream live classes online.

Coffee and Food

Firuzağa Kahvesi: Wooden stools under a plane tree, endless glasses of tea, and random debates about cinema. Old Istanbul social life at its best.

Kronotrop: Third-wave roaster that serves flat whites strong enough to power the steep walk back to Taksim. Almond croissants vanish by noon.

Van Kahvaltı Evi: A table-filling Turkish breakfast from the eastern city of Van. Think fresh white cheese, honeycomb, olives, and sizzling menemen.

Asrin Tursucusu: This is a colorful pickle shop in which you can taste and buy various pickles and drink pickle juice! It may sound weird, but it is something local to try!

Bars and Nightlife

Cafe 21: Looks like a tavern, feels like a living room. Order a rakı or a house cocktail and watch actors drop in after rehearsals. Finding a seat after 9 PM is a small miracle.

Geyik: Cihangir’s street-corner cocktail lab. Drinks come in recycled jam jars, and half the crowd stands outside chatting with strangers.

MiniMuzikhol: Basement club for underground house and disco. Arrive before midnight to avoid the line and bring dancing shoes.

Kaktüs: Bar, café, late-night sanctuary. Open until 4 AM on weekends. Expect relaxed beats and the occasional celeb sighting.

Roxy: It is one of the most classic clubs of the city. Roxy hosts various concerts and parties. It is an LGBT+-friendly place and hosts various Pride parties.

Restaurants and Meyhanes

Babel: A very authentic place to enjoy a coffee, an artisan beer, or delicious Middle Eastern foods! Especially the second floor is a must see!

Symrna: A local favorite that serves delicious Aegean cuisine with amazing platters and quality wine. It is also a meeting point for local celebs.

Demeti: Classic meyhane with a balcony that hovers over the Bosphorus. Order cold meze, grilled sea bass, and a chilled carafe of rakı. Book the balcony days ahead.

Hayat: Bright lights, fast service, and meze that keeps refilling. Ideal for big groups who want to graze for hours.

Çukurcuma 49: Wood-fired pizzas topped with Turkish buffalo mozzarella. House red wine is smooth and comes in sturdy tumblers.

Kasabım: Kasap means 'Butcher'. In this small eatery steakhouse meets casual diner. Try their take on İskender kebab: thick slices of beef over buttery pide, topped with tomato sauce and yogurt.

Sweet Treats and Late-Night Bites

Yaşar Usta’s Ice Cream: Yaşar Usta is one of the most famous ice cream makers in Istanbul. Shabby shopfront, heavenly black mulberry sorbet. Summer nights often see a queue but it moves fast.

Cross Fingers: Greasy burgers, hand-cut fries, and tacos til 2 AM. Exactly what you crave after a night at Geyik.

Parks and Viewpoints

Cihangir Park: A pocket park facing the Old City. Bring coffee at sunset and watch the skyline glow pink. There is a huge parking space under the park if you need one!

Top of Sıraselviler Hill: Pause on the first bend for a hidden photo spot. The Golden Horn, Galata Tower, and half the city line up in one frame.

Vintage and Antiques

A La Turca: Ottoman textiles and silk kaftans you can actually buy. Prices are high but the pieces are museum-quality.

Aslı Günşiray Antik: Stacks of copper coffee sets, vinyl records, and Bakelite phones. Even if you leave empty-handed, the browsing is half the fun.

Local Tips
- Keep a few coins in your pocket for street musicians and ignore shoe-shine tricks where a brush “drops” near your feet.
- Wear flat shoes
Istanbul Tourist Pass®: Your Shortcut to Cihangir’s Neighbors

Cihangir charms you with cafés and cats, yet many must-see sights sit only a short walk downhill. The Istanbul Tourist Pass® puts them all on one digital ticket, ready on your phone.

Why love it?

One pass, choose one to five days.

100+ top attractions and local services.

Flexible credit system so you pick what matters for you.

Instant QR tickets pop up when you stand near each landmark.

Skip the long and exhausting ticket lines with online digital tickets!

No printed cards, no fixed tour times, only freedom.

Easy wins within ten minutes

Galata Tower Skip the ticket booth, ride the lift, and watch ships glide up the Golden Horn with the audio guide in your ear.

Museum of Illusions Step off Istiklal Street into rooms that bend light and flip gravity. Great on a rainy afternoon.

Pera Museum Scan your QR at the door and stroll past Ottoman tiles and modern art in a grand old hotel building.

Taksim & Istiklal Audio Guide Plug in your earphones and let the app tell you why this place is the beating heart of Istanbul!

Extras that fit the vibe

Free meze platter under Galata Bridge pairs well with sunset views.

Discounted set dinner with amazing music and shows at Nomads Istanbul!

Unlimited public transportation card with a discount makes the steep hills feel flatter

Live WhatsApp support answers, “How can I go to Galata Tower?” in seconds during business hours.

A quick sample day

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi in Cihangir.

Walk to Galata Tower for morning light over the rooftops.

Head back up Istiklal, duck into the Museum of Illusions.

Coffee in Pera, then the Pera Museum for cool air and bold canvases.

Finish with a cold drink on the Cihangir Steps while your pass figures out tomorrow.

The pass saves more than fifty percent compared with buying each ticket on the spot. Buy it once, explore at your own pace, and keep that extra cash for another round of Turkish coffee. Buy now!
May 9, 2025
Moda Istanbul Guide: A Local Seaside Escape in Kadikoy

Istanbul spreads across two continents like a living mosaic. Palaces and buzzing bazaars fill the European side, yet a quick ferry ride lands you in Kadikoy on the Asian shore where life slows down. Street markets spill onto wide sidewalks, musicians play on corners, and sunset turns the Bosphorus a soft shade of gold. This district shows the city’s everyday rhythm and invites visitors to join in.

Walk a few more minutes and you reach Moda, a small headland that feels both historic and effortlessly cool. It is the 'Brooklyn' of Istanbul with hipsters, local artists, and beloved musicians living there. A restored 1917 pier now serves ferries, a book café, and a bright public library. Vintage tramcars circle quiet streets lined with pastel mansions and art-house cinemas, following a 2.6-kilometer loop first opened in 2003.

Cats nap on cafe chairs, students chat outside record shops, and church bells mix with the call to prayer. It is the place to trade crowds for real neighborhood life, taste homemade ice cream by the sea, and feel like you have found Istanbul’s hidden backyard.

General Info About Moda Neighborhood

Moda sits at the tip of Kadikoy on Istanbul’s Asian shore. A short ferry ride from the historic peninsula brings you to its small headland, framed by the Marmara Sea on three sides. The district grew in the late nineteenth century when wealthy Armenian, Greek, and Levantine families built elegant wooden mansions along quiet lanes.

Today the same streets shelter bookshops, boutique cafés, and art-house cinemas. A heritage tram circles the neighborhood on a 2.6-kilometer loop that began service in 2003, linking Kadikoy Square with Bahariye Street and Moda Street.

Locals like to call Moda the “Brooklyn of Istanbul.” Young designers, indie musicians, and street artists rent flats beside retired sea captains and old-school bakers. The newly restored 1917 Moda Pier now serves ferries, a small book cafe, and a public library that overlooks the water.

Evenings start with live guitar on the grass, drift into craft-beer bars on Kadife Sokak, and often end with a late simit at the seaside. The pace is slower than in Taksim, yet the energy is fresh. Visitors come for the view, stay for the vibe, and leave feeling like temporary locals in Istanbul’s most creative corner.

What to Discover in Moda in 2025

Moda rewards slow wandering. Each corner hides something different, from cobbled lanes full of murals to wooden mansions shaded by fig trees. Step in with curious eyes and you will meet history, faith, and music all sharing the same seaside breeze.

Streets to Stroll

Start on pedestrian-only Bahariye Street. Boutiques, vinyl shops, and old patisseries fill the lane while the heritage tram rings past. Slip into Kadife Sokak, called Bars Street, for live DJ sets and craft beer after dark. Detour down Tellalzade and Muvakithane Streets to see pastel houses, antique stores, and spontaneous street-art murals that paint the walls with color. End at the Bull Statue on Altıyol Square, a local meeting point since the 1980s.

Churches and Chapels

Moda’s mix of faiths shows in its small sanctuaries. The 19th-century Ayia Efimia Greek Orthodox Church hides behind the market stalls yet glows with frescoes and flickering candles. A short walk away stand Armenian and Anglican churches that still hold weekly services, reminding visitors of the neighborhood’s layered past.

Historic Mansions

Late-Ottoman elites left a trail of ornate wooden homes. The 1903 Arif Sarıca Mansion rises behind high stone walls on Moda Caddesi and is still owned by the same family . A few blocks south sits Whittall Mansion, now the Barış Manço Museum where gold records line the salon and the singer’s stage outfits hang in glass cases. Peek through garden gates to spot other timber beauties that survived Istanbul’s rapid growth.

Waterfront, Park, and Lighthouse

Follow the seaside path to Moda Park. Locals jog at dawn, families picnic at dusk, and street cats rule the lawns. The 1917 Moda Pier, restored in 2022, hosts a café and small library with open water views. Keep walking to the 19th-century Moda Lighthouse, a simple white tower that still guides ships into the Bosphorus. Waves crash on the rocks below, and the Princes’ Islands shimmer on the horizon.

Art, Books, and Music

Catch an opera or ballet at the 1927 Süreyya Opera House, the first music hall on Istanbul’s Asian side, now fully restored with velvet seats and crystal chandeliers. Dig for second-hand vinyl and Turkish rock magazines in Akmar Passage, a narrow arcade stuffed with stalls. End the day at the Barış Manço Museum for a dose of Anatolian pop history or in an indie cinema showing Turkish shorts. Moda lives and breathes creativity, and every corner offers a new story to join.

Tasty Stops in Moda in 2025

Dondurmacı Ali Usta is the go-to spot for stretchy Maraş-style ice cream and more than fifty rotating flavors.

Asuman draws long lines for layered chocolate desserts served in tiny jars that travel the world on Instagram.

Baylan Pastanesi opened in 1961 and still plates classic Kup Griye sundaes inside a patisserie that feels frozen in time.

Naan Bakeshop fills the street with sourdough scent at breakfast and sells sandwiches on crusty bread baked fresh all day.

Naga Putrika serves one of the city’s most generous Turkish breakfasts in a leafy back-garden that stays cool even in July.

Viktor Levi Wine House hides behind a wooden gate and pairs local wines with meze plates in a vine-covered courtyard.

Walter’s Coffee Roastery turns coffee into a science experiment for Breaking Bad fans, complete with lab coats and beakers.

Moda Aile Çay Bahçesi is the classic seaside tea garden where locals sip tulip-shaped glasses of çay while the sun sinks into the Marmara.

Explore the City with Istanbul Tourist Pass®

The Istanbul Tourist Pass® is a fully digital sightseeing key that pairs perfectly with a day in Moda. Buy a 1- to 5-day pass, download the app, and you get instant QR tickets for 100 + museums, cruises, and family attractions all over the city. Skip the long ticket lines at Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, Basilica Cistern, and more; your phone unlocks the gate the moment you arrive.

The pass also loads a tourist-friendly public-transport card, so your ferry ride to Kadıköy, a hop on the nostalgic Kadıköy–Moda tram, and even a quick metro trip back home cost nothing extra. Topkapı Palace is the only attraction that comes with a hosted guide, leaving the rest of your schedule wide open.

Extra perks sweeten the deal: free airport transfer on arrival, over 50 percent savings compared with buying each ticket on site, weekday WhatsApp support, and tasty add-ons like a discounted Nomads dinner or a free meze platter under Galata Bridge. Tap, scan, and spend your hours hunting murals in Moda instead of queuing for tickets.

May 8, 2025

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