The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Şişli, Istanbul
While Şişli is often regarded as one of the upscale districts in Istanbul, there’s a lot more to it than just 5 star hotels and shopping malls. For a taste of Turkish culture, you can find impressive museums, churches and mosques all around this opulent district. Going to Şişli really is an experience of contemporary Turkish life. Read the following list of 10 things to do and see in Şişli to kick start your Şişli adventure.
1. Istanbul Cevahir
Istanbul Cevahir
Istanbul Cevahir, opened in 2005, is the largest shopping mall in Europe and the second largest in the world. Istanbul Cevahir houses over 300 shops and several restaurants over an impressive six floors. From international brands to local brands, from fast food stalls to casual dining restaurants, you never feel bored of this mall. Take a look at the second largest clock in the world at the rooftop or choose one out of 12 cinemas in the mall to watch a show. You are always spoilt for choice at Istanbul Cevahir.
Address: Cevahir Avm Büyükdere Cad. No: 22 Mağaza No: 136 Şişli, 34100, Turkey +90 212 368 6900
2. Atatürk Museum (Atatürk Müzesi)
Museum
3. Ihlamur Palace (Ihlamur Kasrı)
Cafe
Ihlamur Palace (Ihlamur Kasrı)
Surrounded by Linden trees, Ihlamur Palace is a former imperial Ottoman palace and now open as a public museum. There are two mansions – Merasim Köşkü and Maiyet Köşk. The interior design of the mansions is influenced by Western styles, yet retains the 19th century Turkish architectural characteristics. While Ihlamur Palace gives you a perfect introduction to the history and architectures during the period of Sultan Abdülmecid I, relaxing yourself and enjoying the greenery in the cafe and garden is a good treat too.
Address: Ihlamurdere Cd., Turkey +90 212-259-5086
4. Teşvikiye Mosque
Mosque
5. Istanbul Military Museum (Askerî Müze)
Cathedral, Museum
Istanbul Military Museum (Askerî Müze)
As one of the most renowned military museums in the world, Istanbul Military Museum is located in the Harbiye district where the Ottoman imperial military academy was once situated. With a collection of weapons, guns, cannons, and other military tools, the Museum records one thousand years of Turkish military history. More than nine thousand exhibits from the Ottoman era to World War One are housed in the Museum. In the afternoon, try to catch the live music show of the oldest military band in the world and learn about the role musicians played in making military campaigns successful during the Ottoman period.
Address: Valikonagi Caddesi, Harbiye, 34298 Istanbul, Turkey +90 212-233-2720
6. St. Esprit Cathedral (Cathedral of the Holy Spirit)
Cathedral, Church
St. Esprit Cathedral (Cathedral of the Holy Spirit)
Built in 1846 in Şişli, St. Esprit Cathedral is the second largest Roman Catholic church in Istanbul. The church, built in exquisite Baroque-style, attracts many tourists and is one of the most visited church by Popes. Masses at weekend are in French and English. Light a candle inside and listen to the sermon delivered by the priest. It is certainly a peaceful and tranquil place for meditation and reflection, or to just admire the spectacular art and architecture of the period.
Address: Harbiye, Cumhuriyet Cad. 127/A, Şişli/İstanbul – Avrupa, Turkey +90 212-248-0910
7. Maçka Modern Art Gallery
Art Gallery, Building, Park
Maçka Modern Art Gallery
With the principle of bringing an innovative approach to art work collection, Maçka Modern Art Gallery welcomes diverse disciplines of art and exhibits modern and contemporary art work of famous Turkish artists. The gallery makes sure these featured artists are not only locally known but it helps them to gain international recognition through regular exhibition and various promotional channels. With a popular restaurant inside, the gallery is located in a 19th century building in Tesyikiye, close to Maçka Park.
Address: Tesvikiye Mah. Macka Cad. No:24 D:1 Tesvikiye, Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey +90 212-259-4513
8. Maçka Park
Park, Shopping Mall
Maçka Park
If you are planning a trip to Şişli, you have to go to Maçka Park and take the Maçka Gondola (Maçka-Taşkışla Teleferiği). It is a aerial cable car in Şişli, connecting Maçka and Taksim Square. Maçka Gondola does not only act as your transportation tool, but it also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque scenery of the green valley Maçka Park. If you are overwhelmed by the modern and wealthy neighborhoods of Teşvikiye and Nişantaşı, Maçka Park is definitely your ultimate green break.
Address: Harbiye, Kadırgalar Cad., 34367 Şişli/İstanbul
9. Kanyon Shopping Mall (Kanyon Alışveriş Merkezi)
Park, Shopping Mall
10. Park Hyatt Hotel and Spa
Hotel
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