Updated Date : 27.10.2022
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
Becoming trendy one more time, the Fener and Balat areas of Istanbul are one of the most colorful areas of the city. The location of them is still in the old city and close to the main attraction of Istanbul. What makes them an excellent place to see is the religious persity. Fener is the ancient Greek, and Balat is the old Jewish settlement. There are houses, churches, and synagogues just side by side. Recently, many cafes and restaurants are opened in the area, giving a chance to the visitors to sit and watch the local life in these two of the city's most authentic neighborhoods. If you come and visit these areas, don't miss the Patriarchal Church of St. George, Blehernia Holy Springs, Ahrida Synagogue, and St. Stefan Bulgarian Church, aka Metal Church.
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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 good to see is the section the walls are meeting with the Golden Horn. If you visit this section, don't miss the Chora Museum, Tekfur Palace, and Blehernia Springs.
Fatih Area
Fatih Area is one of the most exciting areas of the city of Istanbul. With the neighboring old Greek and Jewish settlements, the Fatih area is just a beautiful example of religious togetherness and persity. Being one of Istanbul's most conservative Muslim areas, This region welcomed other religions and beliefs for centuries. There are lots of local restaurants with interesting collections for bridal costume shops as well. If you come to this area, the places not to miss are Fatih Mosque, Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque, Fethiye Mosque, and its exciting architecture Hirka-i Serif Mosque.
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 has 3 types; Hop on Hop off Cruise, Dinner Cruise, and Regular Cruise.
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.