Off the beaten-track routes of Istanbul
The majority of travelers come to Istanbul every year with similar places to visit on their minds. Of course, visiting the Old-city, Sultanahmet, is a must and a visit without a cruise on the Bosphorus is not complete. But is that all? After doing these, does it mean you saw everything in Istanbul? Let's look a little at the routes that most travelers generally miss in Istanbul.
Fener and Balat areas
Fener and Balat are colorful neighborhoods in Istanbul. They are close to the Old-city and the main touristic areas.
These areas are special because of their religious diversity. Fener was a Greek neighborhood in the past. Balat was a Jewish neighborhood. You can see houses, churches, and synagogues next to each other.
Today, there are many new cafés and restaurants in these neighborhoods. Visitors can sit there and watch local life in two of the most authentic areas of the city.
If you visit, you should see the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the Church of St. Mary of the Spring, the Ahrida Synagogue, and the Church of St. Stephen of the Bulgars, also known as the Metal Church.
Istanbul E-pass provides an audio-guide for the rich history of the Balat-Fener district.
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City Walls
Istanbul has one of the most powerful defense systems in history. Theodosian city walls these walls are surrounding the city for about 22 kilometers. There is a big need for renovation in some places, but it still offers a lot for travelers to understand how the city got protected some 1500 years ago. There are two segments of the walls that are better for travelers to visit.
The first section is the section where the land walls and the Sea of Marmara meet. If you see this section of the walls, you may start with the Yedikule Dungeons. Once, this was the ceremonial entrance for the Roman Emperors to enter the city after victories in the battles. In the Ottoman Era, the function of this section was a dungeon that was mainly used for political purposes. After seeing the dungeons, you may walk following the walls to the Balikli Ayazma. Balikli Ayazma is one of the holiest springs for the Greek Orthodox community in Istanbul. There are several holy springs like this and the followers believe the water in these springs is curing most diseases.
The second section worth seeing is where the walls meet the Golden Horn. If you visit this section, don't miss the Chora Museum, Tekfur Palace, and Blehernia Fountains.
Fatih Area
Fatih Area is one of the most exciting areas of the city of Istanbul. The Fatih district, neighbor to ancient Greek and Jewish settlements, is a beautiful example of religious unity and diversity. One of Istanbul's most conservative Muslim districts, it has embraced other religions and beliefs for centuries. The district features bridal shops, stores selling traditional sweets like Turkish delight, and restaurants catering to both Turkish and international tastes. If you visit this area, the Fatih Mosque, Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque, Fethiye Mosque, and the Hirka-i Serif Mosque with its exciting architecture are must-see attractions.
Discover the Bosphorus and Take a Ferry
Breathing Bosphorus air and seeing the highlights of Istanbul are the most famous and attractive activities. Take a boat along the Bosphorus or join a boat tour from certain places. Taking pictures in the Bosphorus can give you a new hobby. Enjoying the view between two continents can explore more of Istanbul. With an Istanbul E-pass, you can witness the beauty of the Bosphorus. Istanbul E-pass provides different kinds of Bosphorus tours.
Visit the Ortakoy
That place will make you love Istanbul more. If you’re in Istanbul do not miss to see there. Under the first bridge between Europe and Asia grab tea or coffee and take a look Asian side. Also, Ortakoy is famous for kumpir (baked potato). Try this street food in Istanbul. You can go to Ortakoy by walking from Kabatas tram station. By walking, you can see Dolmabahce Palace, Besiktas Stadium, Besiktas Square, Kempinski hotel, and Ciragan Palace.
Kanlica
Kanlica is located on the Asian side connected to the Beykoz district. Kanlica is very famous for its cobblestone streets, silence, well-kept mansions, and yogurt. You can spend a day in Kanlica, away from the crowd of the city. You can enjoy your day by looking from the Asian continent to the European continent. Do not miss to taste of Kanlica yogurt!
Kadikoy
Kadikoy is one of the centers of the Asian side of Istanbul. There is a lot to do in this neighborhood but best to start with the fish market. Like in every seashore area of Istanbul, Kadikoy also has its fish market. The fish market here is one of the biggest in Istanbul, including several streets with lots of bars and fish restaurants. The expression here is "you can find anything in this market." After having a look at the famous fish market, you can continue to the famous Bahariye Street. Being the main street of the Kadikoy region, this street is called by the locals as the Istiklal Street of the Asian side. Over this street, you can see many Turkish-branded shops, several churches, and cinema centers. If you continue towards Moda Street, you can also see the famous ice cream shop Dondurmaci Ali Usta. Finally, if you end up in Moda Area, don't miss the Baris Manco Museum, a house museum dedicated to the famous Turkish pop singer Baris Manco.
The Final Word
We must recommend you get off the beaten path in Istanbul. You will find it adventurous and full of mysteries. Don't forget to use Istanbul E-pass for your convenient travel in Istanbul.