The Coolest Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

A visit to Istanbul isn’t complete without a visit to Sultanahmet Old City, once the social and political centre of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. This neighbourhood takes you through Istanbul’s rich history and some of its most stunning architecture is within walking distance of the main square. The 6th-century Hagia Sophia dominates the skyline and is easily recognisable from its vast dome, colourful marble columns, Islamic art and glittering Christian mosaics. Other must-sees include the Ottoman-era Topkapi Palace, the 15th-century Sultans’ residence transformed into a museum in 1924; the Blue Mosque, renowned for its tiles and minarets – and the 6th-century Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul.

Part of the larger Beyoğlu district, Galata is most clearly identified by its tower, overlooking the neighbourhood’s cobblestoned streets and neoclassical buildings. The streets around Galata Tower are full of tiny, interesting shops and cafes, great for browsing. After admiring the view of the city, explore the Mevlevi Museum – the Whirling Dervish hall – and the Museum of Turkish Jews. For something nice to take home, stop by the Home Spa shop on Galip Dede Street with its range of bath and body products including locally-sourced soaps and oils. Venture down Serdar-i Ekrem Street for boutiques, galleries and gift shops. After a fascinating day of sightseeing, enjoy a cocktail from the rooftop bar of the Georges Hotel with gorgeous views over Galata.

Formerly a crucial city port, Karaköy was allowed to deteriorate until it started to become a hotspot around 2012. Today, its maze-like streets offer a glimpse of the city’s history with churches and synagogues blending seamlessly into its newer parts. Home to the financial district in the 19th century, the SALT Galata building was formerly the Ottoman Bank headquarters, and is now a well-established art space. Venture down Mumhane Street and check out Pi and the Mixer Art Gallery. Along this street (and those running parallel to it) you’ll find plenty of fresh places to eat and drink, such as Karaköy Lokantasi serving traditional Ottoman food like Hünkar beğendi (pureed eggplant topped with lamb).

Formerly the Greek Orthodox and Armenian neighbourhood of Istanbul, Balat is full of colourful old houses and churches. Take a trip to the main market, full of vintage stores and craft workshops. There’s plenty to see here, particularly in terms of religious architecture, and this includes the prefabricated St Stephen Bulgarian Church, made of cast iron in Vienna and assembled on-site. Further up the hill, stop by the Byzantine-era Chora Church for splendid examples of 14th-century mosaics and frescoes, and then visit the Ahrida Synagogue, one of the oldest in the city. You’ll find a lot of young businesses setting up shop, including micro coffee roasters, ceramic ateliers, art galleries and vintage shops.

The heart of Istanbul’s nightlife, Arnavutköy is an upscale neighbourhood by the Bosphorus known for its Ottoman waterfront mansions and fish restaurants. Nowadays, you’ll find a frenzy of cocktail and gastro bars have taken over the neighbourhood, and during the evenings they get so full that punters spill out onto Bebek Arnavutköy Street, drinks in hand. During the day it’s great to wander round the picturesque neighbourhood, ogling the many beautiful houses that punctuate the banks of the glittering water.