The Top 7 Things To Do and See in Tünel, Istanbul
![](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/56-3941756-14413022172cb99646860a4d8c931a41515827e2fc.webp)
This artistic district of Istanbul has endless adventure waiting for those waiting to explore it. From its artistic stores to its museums and cultural scene, almost every interest and character in your groups will find an aspect of Tunel that captures their heart!
![The Tunel Funicular](https://cdn.theculturetrip.com/images/56-3941743-14413021834816b7ba2148425bbd73456a95522945.jpg?s=10x)
Shopping
Tunel is popular amongst tourists for retaining a uniquely bohemian ambiance. The shopping experiences on offer therefore are unique and you will return home at the end of each day, delighted with the unique, hand-craft or one-of-a-kind purchases that you have made! There are also bookshops, clothing shops, restaurants and delis specializing in Turkish sweets so don’t delay in visiting to add artisan finesse to your time in Istanbul.
![Market finds](https://cdn.theculturetrip.com/images/56-3941745-1441302188fea4350336ab4d558c6d25e20d1e1be6.jpg?s=10x)
1. Galata Tower
Building
![ISTANBUL TURKEY THE GALATA TOWER IN KARAKOY DISTRICT PEOPLE ON THE VIEWING PLATFORM AT THE TOP OF THE TOWER](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2a6bc2a.webp)
Asmalimescit
This region of Tunel has gained notoriety for being an essential destination for dining. For an authentic taste of Turkey, you have a choice of dozens of restaurants serving all types of Turkish food. From meat to seafood to sweet treats to meze, every palate and dietary requirement will be catered for exquisitely. Whilst in the area, why not pay a visit to the oldest and most well known restaurant in Tunel called ‘Refik’. It has been in business for over 50 years!
![Asmalimescit](https://cdn.theculturetrip.com/images/56-3941752-1441302205a9dcc2a80f444a4d828cb46375a39524.jpg?s=10x)
Street Art
It seems like a peculiar thing to highlight, but in an age where graffiti is being considered as a raw form or urban art and not petty crime, the political complexities of Turkey are stunningly presented in large murals on walls across the city. Additionally, around Tunel, there are portraits of famous figures, pop culture icons and messages of peace and love in bold declamatory colors. Keep a note of the pieces that you see as an interesting side project!
![Graffiti presumably by Viking mercenaries in Hagia Sophia](https://cdn.theculturetrip.com/images/56-3941754-1441302209753a10596fbe493cb4c8648bab3b3d81.jpg?s=10x)