If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Istanbul, our first piece of advice is to shift gears and narrow your focus — Istanbul is an entire world unto itself, so to begin your journey into this colorful city, we’re here with your guide to Karaköy.
Karaköy is more than a neighborhood — it’s a journey through time and a testament to the vibrant spirit of Istanbul.
Karaköy is more than a neighborhood — it’s a journey through time and a testament to the vibrant spirit of Istanbul. Nestled before Istanbul’s old town, the Karaköy district offers a captivating blend of history and tradition, while still being touched by modernity. Just a short walk from the iconic Galata Bridge overlooking the renowned Galata Tower, Karaköy spans from the banks of the Golden Horn to the majestic Bosphorus, making it a prime location to select as your home base when exploring this bridge between Europe and Asia.
Whether you’re interested in history, gastronomy, art, or simply soaking in the local flair, a stay here promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this remarkable city. We’ve partnered with our friends at The Peninsula Istanbul in the heart of Karaköy to delve into the unique charms of this walkable neighborhood.
First Thing’s First: A History Lesson (Cliffnotes Version)
Karaköy’s historical roots run deep, tracing back to the Byzantine Empire. This place stands as a testament to the city’s rich past and is regarded as one of Istanbul’s most historically significant areas. Walking through its streets is like stepping back in time, with remnants of the past adorning the cityscape.
What to do in Istanbul: For the History Lover
- The Galata Tower: Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Karaköy, the Galata Tower has proudly stood above the city since the medieval period back when the city was known as Constantinople. This ancient structure offers panoramic views of Istanbul and is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking breathtaking vistas.
- Topkapı Palace: As the ruling center from which the Ottoman Empire operated, this sprawling mass of historical buildings once functioned as the home of more than 50,000 people. Today, visitors can wander through this antique collection of clothing, armor, and jewelry that act as relics of this time. At more than 1,600 years old, the intricate frescoes adorning the ceiling are a sight to behold; the galleries of the upper level offer some of the best views.
- Hagia Sophia: As a former church, mosque, and now museum, this site represents the crossover between Byzantine rule and Ottoman grandeur.
- The Blue Mosque: Sitting across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is one of the most historic places in Istanbul and is celebrated for its ability to give visitors a glimpse into the life of secular Muslims in Turkey as it still operates daily for multiple calls to prayer. The mosque’s 260 windows and six minarets make for a striking visual and one you’ll certainly want to see when in Istanbul.
- Basilica Cistern: If you’ve seen “From Russia with Love,” then you’re likely to recognize this site where the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns lie beneath the city, though, today it is kept with little water to allow public access into the space.
- Istanbul Archaeological Museum: Separated into three unique buildings, this museum houses some of the world’s most valuable ancient artifacts. Here, you’ll find the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great, treasures from Babylon, and 17th-century Ottoman ceramics, amongst many other priceless gems.
What to do in Istanbul: Places to Explore, Karakoy and Beyond
Some of the below spots go beyond Karaköy but are worth noting as they are “must do” spots in the city!
- Grand Bazaar: With more than 4,000 open-air shops, no trip to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the oldest and largest covered market in the world that dates back to the 15th century. The Grand Bazaar is your place to hunt for treasures including Turkish silver art, souvenirs, pashmina scarves, quality ceramics, bath products, leather goods, and copper items — there are 4,000 shops to choose from.
- Spice Market: The historical Egyptian Spice Bazaar is a colorful and mystical covered spice market lined with spice stalls near the Yeni Mosque in the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul. Spices, dried fruits, cheeses, sausages, jams, nuts and seeds, Turkish delight, and other edibles fill most of the shops. You’ll be able to find nearly every kind of herbs and spices at this market as well as Turkish delight and Turkish coffee.
- Bosphorus by Boat: A cruise on this narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents will weave you through the lifeblood of Istanbul. Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus, you’ll view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses, and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite. When booking a private Bosphorus cruise with your SmartFlyer advisor, you’ll have the chance to enjoy beverages aboard your yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12th century as “the city of the world’s desire.”
- Süleymaniye Mosque: One of the best-known sights of Istanbul, Süleymaniye Mosque is located on the Third Hill commanding an extensive view of the city around the Golden Horn. It is considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and one of Mimar Sinan’s greatest works. It is the largest Ottoman-era mosque in the city.
- Şerefiye Cistern: History meets art and technology using a 360° mapping system for the first time in Turkey at the Şerefiye Cistern. Situated in the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul as one of the earliest examples of the water structures of the city with a history of 1600 years, the Şerefiye Cistern is believed to have been built during the rule of Theodosius II (408-450) based on its striking architectural characteristics.
Best Places to Dine in Karaköy
Karaköy is a place where the old seamlessly blends with the new. Its streets are lined with traditional Turkish cafes and shops that offer a glimpse into the local way of life. Food lovers will find themselves in a culinary paradise in Karaköy. The district is renowned for its diverse dining options, ranging from traditional Turkish eateries serving mouthwatering kebabs and baklava to fusion restaurants that creatively blend flavors from around the world.
- Gallada & Topside Bar: If you’re looking to dine right on property, head straight up to The Peninsula Istanbul’s rooftop for a Turk-Asian dining experience.
- Karakoy Lokantası: Your perfect spot for Turkish mezze at lunchtime, you can’t go wrong here.
- Mürver Restaurant: Positioned on a buzzy rooftop, this trendy spot is your go-to for a fun dinner with friends or before transitioning to go out for the evening.
- Frankie Restaurant: A place where Mediterranean culinary spirit and fresh ingredients meet Asian cooking techniques and spices, Frankie offers guests more than a culinary experience every day of the week at Galataport Istanbul, looking over the most mesmerizing coastline of the Bosphorus.
- Liman Lokantası: Designed by one of the most important architects of the period, design here comes with a view embodying all the elements that complement the character of the Bosphorus. This spot has become an important establishment of Karaköy with its history, delicious menu, flawless service, elegant presentation, and the strong bond its team builds with guests.
- Neo Lokal: At Nepo Lokal, the team humbly shares its passion for the culinary arts by redefining the borders of taste. Here, they believe that even with the need to adapt to modern times, it is our responsibility to maintain and pass on our heritage to the next generation, a belief that shines through in their creative menu.
- Nicole Restaurant: Nicole invites you to a tasteful journey with a special selection of contemporary cuisine along with a magnificent view of the Old Town.
- Roka Restaurant at Galataport: From its prime location at Galataport, Roka invites you to savor an uninterrupted view of the Bosphorus Strait with views over Galataport to serve diners at Roka a stunning backdrop to their contemporary Japanese robatayaki experience. This is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset with shochu-based cocktails and sharing plates brought to you from the centrally located, open robata grill.
- Muutto Anatolian Tapas Bar: Wherever food has migrated, there has been wealth, abundance, and culture; by focusing on migration cuisine, Muutto bring fa different human and migration story to our menu, which lies in every meal we eat.
- Il Cortile Italian Restaurant: Il Cortile Ristorante has been family-owned and operated since 1975. A “Little Italy” neighborhood staple for over 40 years, the Esposito family continues the tradition of sparing nothing to provide the highest quality ingredients in all of Il Cortile’s dishes.
- Cuma at Cukurcuma: This cozy establishment with a fabulous terrace out front, you can enjoy both a Mediterranean-inspired lunch or dinner. Seasonal produce is shown off with tapas like sea bass ceviche, garnished pizzettas, and tasty pasta dishes. Everyone is sure to find something here!
What to do in Istanbul: for the Art Lover
One of the most captivating aspects of Karaköy is its vibrant local life. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll encounter friendly locals going about their daily routines. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Turkish people. Istanbul has especially embraced modernity with contemporary art galleries and chic boutiques perfect for the art lover.
Contemporary Art: Art enthusiasts will be delighted to explore the biggest contemporary art museum in the area, offering a showcase of Turkey’s thriving art scene. It’s a place where creativity knows no bounds, and visitors can engage with cutting-edge works by talented artists.
Istanbul Modern Art Museum: Istanbul Modern Cinema continues to open a space for contemporary productions from Turkish and international cinema with different programs every month while screening films from the history of cinema.
Where to Stay in Karaköy: The Peninsula Istanbul
Set along the banks of the stunning Bosphorus, The Peninsula Istanbul showcases the best of Turkish culture and the flawless hospitality that The Peninsula Hotels are known to provide around the world. Located in Karaköy district, the hotel anchors Galataport, a new waterfront revitalization project that will include a promenade, museums, art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and a cruise-ship port.
Occupying four adjacent buildings along the Bosphorus, The Peninsula Istanbul offers guests a diverse array of accommodation choices. Its 177 rooms and suites provide sweeping views over the water from floor-to-ceiling windows, balconies, and private terraces; others include direct access to the magnificent gardens, expansive swimming pool, private boat dock, and stylish restaurants and bars. All accommodations have been decorated with bespoke furnishings, modern interpretations of Turkish design elements like wood-and-mother-of-pearl inlay and kilim-style carpets, and sumptuous baths clad in Marmara marble. Each guest room features state-of-the-art in-room technology, including bedside touchscreen controls for lighting, temperature, and window treatments; and around-the-clock access to PenChat, The Peninsula Hotels’ dedicated e-concierge service.
The Peninsula Istanbul offers two distinctive dining venues; the first is the elegant, airy space with double-height ceilings and dazzling Bosphorus views from both main and mezzanine levels, The Lobby offers all-day Mediterranean-influenced fare, lavish Sunday brunch, and signature Peninsula Afternoon Tea. The restaurant regularly showcases live music performers and offers a sweeping outdoor terrace, surrounded by landscaped gardens and overlooking the hotel’s private boat dock.
The hotel’s featured rooftop restaurant, Gallada will offer sophisticated Turk-Asian cuisine and libations in memorable dining areas – including an expansive rooftop terrace with unparalleled views over the Bosphorus and hotel gardens. A haven of tranquility and comfort, The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre includes eight private treatment rooms – two of them for couples – as well as separate saunas, relaxation rooms, and lavish hammams – traditional Turkish steam rooms – for men and women.
Best Places to Shop in Karaköy
Shopping by the Bosphorus: Karaköy’s allure extends to the Galataport project, which houses a new cruise terminal. Here, you can enjoy a unique shopping experience right by the Bosphorus, with a wide range of boutiques and markets to explore. The sea breeze and stunning views of passing ships add an extra layer of magic to your shopping excursion.
- Paket Postanesi: Here, local designers’ shops are located next to The Peninsula Istanbul.
- Galataport: Walking distance from the Peninsula, there is a variety of shops and restaurants in Galataport.
- Grand Bazaar: Europe’s biggest market contains more than 4,000 authentic shops for jewelry, carpets, leather goods, and more.
- Spice Market: Less than a fifteen-minute walk from The Peninsula, here you’ll find spices, dried nuts, and more to bring back to your kitchen.
- Baklava Shops at Karakoy: For the best and oldest Baklava shops, look no further.
- The Peninsula Istanbul Shopping Arcade: For one of the finest Turkish jewelry and leather options, there are ample shops here.
