The 5 coolest neighborhoods in Istanbul

With so many districts, finding the best neighborhoods in Istanbul can be tricky. The central Sultanahmet district is home to some of the city’s top attractions, from the Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque. Across the river, take in panoramic views of the city from the Galata Tower in the heart of the Beyoğlu district. On the Asian side of the city, Kadıköy is home to some of the city’s best street food. Balat is a haven for photographers, with its narrow streets lined with colorful houses. While the bustling Eminönü is home to some of the most famous markets in the city. Whether you’re seeking art, history, or culture, discover the top Istanbul neighborhoods in this guide.

1. Sultanahmet

Best for: First-timers, historical attractions, famous landmarks.
Best way to get to Sultanahmet: Take the Taksim Square funicular to Kabatas and transfer to the T1 tram, exit at Sultanahmet station, hop in a taxi, or make a short walk from nearby attractions. Ferry connections to Eminönü are also convenient, as Sultanahmet is a short walk away.
Top things to do in Sultanahmet: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern.

Start your trip in the beating heart of Old Istanbul in Sultanahmet, a rich historic district. Built around an open-air Hippodrome, once the site of Roman chariot races, and lined with Egyptian obelisks, Sultanahmet Square is home to stunning Ottoman and Byzantine monuments and some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Visit the Hagia Sophia and see its 6th-century dome and rare Christian mosaics before wandering through the Blue Mosque with its magnificent blue tiles and towering minarets. Explore the beautiful Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, admiring decorated courtyards, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts, and curated collections of imperial artifacts. Opt to delve deep underground at the Basilica Cistern, an ancient water reservoir with towering columns and the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns beneath the city. With a wealth of popular attractions, Sultanahmet is one of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul for first-timers wishing to learn more about the city’s rich cultural heritage.

2. Beyoğlu

Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, art galleries, and shopping.
Best way to get to Beyoğlu: Take the Taksim Funicular from Kabataş station to the top of Istiklal Street, walk from Taksim Square, hop on a tram, take a bus, or take a ferry to Karaköy and walk in less than 10 minutes.
Top things to do in Beyoğlu: Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, Pera Museum, bars, and clubs.

Beyoğlu is a modern Istanbul neighborhood with a lively vibe. Soak up the atmosphere as you stroll down Istiklal Avenue, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and theaters. Or see the city from a new perspective and scale the 66-foot-tall Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city. Beyoğlu is also home to some of the best art in Istanbul, with galleries and studios showcasing Turkish and international artists. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Pera Museum, which is home to beautiful collections of Orientalism in 19th-century art. End the day with a drink at one of the best bars in the city, from rooftop bars to cocktail lounges, before a night on the town at top-quality clubs and music venues.

3. Kadıköy

Best for: Food lovers, authentic cuisine, local markets.
Best way to get to Kadıköy: Take the ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy, the Marmaray (subway), which connects the European and Asian sides of the city, or a taxi.
Top things to do in Kadıköy: Kadıköy Market, eat local street food.

Nestled on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy is a vibrant neighborhood known for its lively market, authentic street food, and traditional culture. Visit the Kadıköy Market and shop for unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and Turkish delicacies. The heart of the district, Kadıköy Square, is a bustling hub of cafés, shops, and restaurants. Sample the best food in Istanbul, from fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants to traditional Turkish street foods like döner, lahmacun, and simit. Food lovers shouldn’t miss Kadıköy fish market, where visitors can try Istanbul’s famous grilled fish sandwiches or fresh oysters. With fewer tourists than other Istanbul neighborhoods, Kadıköy is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul to immerse in local culture and taste authentic cuisine.

4. Balat

Best for: Photographers, views of the Golden Horn, Jewish history.
Best way to get to Balat: Take the T1 tram from the Sultanahmet to Eminönü station and then take a bus or taxi. Alternatively, take the T5 tram to the Fener station, which is close to Balat's main attractions.
Top things to do in Balat: Photograph colorful houses, stroll along the Golden Horn, and explore the Jewish Quarter.

Located on the western shore of the Golden Horn, Balat is one of Istanbul’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Wander the narrow streets lined with colorful houses and vintage shops — the perfect subject for urban photography. Or stroll along the Golden Horn and enjoy scenic views of the river and surrounding hills. Balat also showcases Istanbul’s Jewish heritage with ancient synagogues, historical sites, and a local community that has lived here for centuries. Stop by the Chora Church, which features stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, considered some of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine art. Balat is one of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul for those looking to explore the quieter, more authentic side of the city on a weekend in Istanbul.

5. Eminönü

Best for: River views and authentic bazaars.
Best way to get to Eminönü: Take the T1 tram from the Kabataş, hop on a bus, or book a taxi ride. Fatih is also a short walk from Sultanahmet. The Marmaray subway line connects Fatih with the Asian side of Istanbul.
Top things to do in Eminönü: Bosphorus cruise, Spice Bazaar, Grand Bazaar.

Nestled within the larger municipality of Fatih, Eminönü is a bustling waterfront area and the best place to take an Istanbul cruise. Sail down the Bosphorus, spotting famous landmarks like Galata Bridge and Dolmabahçe Palace. On land, Eminönü is home to some of the city’s most famous markets. Strolling through the Spice Bazaar is a multi-sensory experience with stalls full of fruit, teas, and local spices. Meanwhile, the busy halls of the Grand Bazaar — one of the largest covered markets in the world — are home to a colorful jumble of carpets, fabrics, lamps, and jewelry. With countless stalls offering handcrafted, rare, and antique items, Eminönü’s markets are perfect for treasure hunters looking for unique souvenirs.

FAQs

What is the most walkable neighborhood in Istanbul?

Most of the city’s neighborhoods are easily walkable, and getting around Istanbul on foot is easy, although the distances between districts can vary greatly. Sultanahmet is easy to explore on foot with its pedestrian-friendly square and tightly-knit cultural attractions.

Which Istanbul neighborhoods are closest to major attractions?

Sultanahmet is the closest to many of Istanbul’s key attractions, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. Beyoğlu is also conveniently located near Galata Tower, Taksim Square, and Istiklal Avenue.

What is the best neighborhood for first-time visitors to Istanbul?

If it’s your first time in Istanbul, Sultanahmet is great for historical attractions that give you a good overview of the city’s rich cultural heritage. For Istanbul’s best markets, Eminönü is near the famous Spice Bazaar and unmissable Grand Bazaar.

What are the coolest neighborhoods in Istanbul?

Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy offers a laid-back atmosphere with a mix of local cafes, markets, and authentic Istanbul foods. While Balat is known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and vintage shops. With a vibrant arts scene, it’s one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city.

Which Istanbul neighborhood is best for nightlife?

Kadıköy, especially around the Moda area, is known for its vibrant nightlife, which offers plenty of bars and live music venues.