• Walk through Istiklal Avenue, from Taksim Square to the Tunnel

• Try fried and stuffed mussels and drink a beer in the Fish Market.

• Rest by the window in a cafe facing Istiklal Avenue and watch the surrounding area.

• Have a feast of Rakı (Turkish traditional alcoholic drink) and Meze (a selection of small dishes in order to accompany Raki) in the Meyhanes (traditional restaurant or bar) of Çiçek Arcade, Nevizade, Asmalımescit or under the Galata Bridge.

• Try the rich variety of street food around Istiklal Street; fried mussels, kokorec, stuffed mussels, filled meatballs, and many others. 

• Enjoy Rakı, Mezes, and a nice, deep chat in Historical Cumhuriyet Meyhanesi, Yakup, or Refik.

• Taste profiterole at Inci Patisserie.

• Tour the arcades – the symbols of Beyoğlu – and buy souvenirs, alternative clothes, incense, posters, or tiles.

• Join a Fasıl while having a glass of Rakı. Fasıl actually is the name of the pieces of Ottoman classical music, but now used as both the music you can find in Meyhane’s and also the act of having fun with this kind of music.

• See the hundred-year-old street lamps of Cezayir Street.

• Go to the St. Antoine Church, light a candle, and become a part of the quiet and tranquil atmosphere.

• Try the unique sweets in the Markiz and Lebon Patisserie, particularly their pastries.

• Buy very cheap jeans and clothes in the Beyoğlu Trade Center or Terkos Arcade.

• Take a seat in one of the bars in Nevizade to drink beer and eat iced almonds.

• Go to a bar with a terrace and enjoy your drink while watching the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

• Watch the Mevlevi Sema Ceremony in the Galata Dervish Lodge.

• Go inside the music shops in Tünel to examine the various Turkish instruments.

• Take a break in the cafes and restaurants inside the Geçit Inn across Tünel Square.

• Tour the narrow streets in Asmalımescit and see the restored historical buildings.

• Visit the famous nightclubs, “Indigo” and “Babylon”.

• Sit up all night in one of the bars of Istiklal Avenue, Sıraselviler or Tepebaşı.

• Have lunch in Hacı Abdullah and taste traditional Turkish cuisine.

• Buy creamy Turkish delight, Turkish delight with rose or double roasted from Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir.

• Taste Burma Kadayıf with walnut in Beyoğlu Saray Muhallebicisi, located on Istiklal Avenue.

• Eat Kokoreç or Zümküfül in the kokoreç houses inside the Fish Market.

• Go shopping in the Atlas Arcade for incense, candles, and posters.

Turkish Coffee

• Drink Turkish coffee in Manda Batmaz, which is on a small street on the right just before the Odakule.

• See one of the international collections exhibited in the art galleries on Istiklal Avenue.

• Buy various kinds of spices in the Fish Market.

• Watch Istanbul from 360 degrees on the Galata Tower.

• Go shopping in the bazaars set on Sundays in Çukurcuma and in the antique shops of that neighborhood.

• Visit the Istanbul Modern Arts Museum. After the museum, go to the nargile cafes in the Tophane district, drink apple tea and play backgammon.

• Eat something in the restaurants that cook home-style meals in Asmalımescit.

• Buy one of the unique hand-made oil lamps from a shop in Aznavur Passage.

• Eat the famous sauced hamburgers of Kızılkayalar in the Square buffets and drink churned Ayran.

• Go fishing and take pictures on the Galata Bridge.

• Watch and enjoy the “Mehter Show” performed daily at Harbiye Military Museum. Mehter is the Ottoman Military Band

• Get on the underground tram in Tünel to go Karaköy.

• Take a trip with the nostalgic tram from Taksim Square to Tünel.

• Taste the famous Baklava of the Karaköy Güllüoğlu.

• Take a tour on the underground shopping center in Karaköy.

• Drink Rakı on the Galata Bridge facing the Bosphorus and the sunset.

• By doing these things, you will maximize your Beyoğlu experience!

Without these, you can not enjoy Beyoğlu!

What to Do around Abdi Ipekci Street

As previously said, Abdi Ipekci Street serves as a gathering place for a variety of well-known and upscale companies. Prada, Tod's, Rolex, and other brands are some of them. The first choice seems to be shopping. You'll be mesmerized by the enticing and sparkling storefronts. Spend the day shopping, picking up lovely gifts for your loved ones and souvenirs from your vacation to Istanbul. Park Macka is fantastic if you want to spend the day relaxing and taking in nature. There are groups that are dancing, playing sports, drinking, or doing physical activity. It's a fantastic getaway from the city to unwind and re-energize.

Or you could check out Kucukciftlik Park, a fantastic venue for concerts and festivals if you want something louder and more lively. Additionally, it is extremely close to a roadway. You might find an intriguing event if you keep an eye on its website for upcoming ones. Taking the cable car between Macka and Taskisla is a fun activity as well. You will be able to see Nisantasi and Macka from above, and you will even pass over the previously mentioned Kucukciftlik Park. On Abdi Ipekci Street, there is a gallery for art enthusiasts called Kare Art Gallery. You should glance at the modern creations of many Turkish artists.

Having Fun on Abdi Ipekci Street

The city of Istanbul never sleeps. For a fun night out, there are various nightclubs, bars, and traditional taverns called "meyhane." One place that is constantly active in Nisantasi. Let's move on to the bars on Abdi Ipekci Street. Let's start by outlining one traditional Turkish way to enjoy a night out. Abdi Ipekci Street is 20 minutes on foot from Kiva Meyhane. The following one is Sess Nisantasi, currently one of Istanbul's most popular nightclubs. Since the majority of the songs on their playlist are Turkish pop songs from the 2000s, Sess Nisantasi is a must-visit place if you want to understand what music was popular back then.

The interior is filled with artwork by Turkish artists, and the ambiance is centered on earlier Turkish pop culture. Although it is open at 2:00, it is best to arrive around 23:00. The dress code should be observed, and reservations should be made in advance. The Rhythm of the Dance Show at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center can be of interest to those looking to experience the Turkish traditional entertainment mindset. For fans of performance art, this is an ideal chance to experience the distinctive and dynamic dance performances by professional dancers, including belly dancing, Ottoman harem dances, and more contemporary, contemporary acts.

Cocktails by Atiye, which is open until 1:00 a.m. and hosts DJ performances on a number of nights, is also a good spot to enjoy a variety of cocktails. On the other side, Biber Bar is located on the street and offers delectable cocktails if you're looking for a more relaxed drinking occasion. Compared to the preceding two, the mood in Biber Bar is more relaxed

Istanbul offers something for everyone’s taste and budget. Shopping in Istanbul is one of the best things to do in Istanbul, with everything from popular outdoor markets, bazaars like the Grand Bazaar, carpet and kilim workshops, copper working shops, antique and handicraft shops, to designer shops, traditional shops, modern department stores, wedding dress boutiques, and very large shopping centers in Istanbul. 

What Are The Best Places To Shop In Istanbul?

From Ottoman-era historical bazaars to contemporary retail complexes, Istanbul offers a diverse range of shopping options. Turkish silk, wool, and cotton carpets, rugs (kilim), fine jewelry, genuine glassware, classic evil eye souvenirs, leather and textile goods, and haute couture, contemporary, and innovative products. All may be found in the city’s many retail districts, which represent the characteristics of each period. Furthermore, nearly every neighborhood has its own local street market where you may buy fresh veggies, clothes, and other items… 

Istanbul’s Antique Bazaars

The Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi) is without a doubt Istanbul’s most popular shopping destination. The Grand Bazaar is a shopping experience not to be missed. Over 4,000 vendors offer their goods and products throughout a network of covered streets. Spices, dried fruits, basketry, draperies, haberdashery, boots and slippers, as well as gold and silver jewelry, may all be found here. The Egyptian Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) is then close, where you may discover a variety of spices. 

Iznik Tiles

As you walk around Istanbul’s old city, taking in the sights, you’ll notice a plethora of bright, patterned tiles. Iznik tiles are unique and appealing tiles that trace back to the Ottoman Empire. For a little price, you can buy reproductions from souvenir booths, but it’s better to visit galleries and workshops if you want a real, handcrafted item to take home. Traditional, genuine, handcrafted Iznik tiles may fetch hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. 

Handmade Turkish Rugs

Look no farther than the amazing selection of handmade Turkish carpets and rugs if you’re searching for an eye-catching feature for your living room or a spectacular, one-of-a-kind present for a loved one. Turkish carpets have long been associated with quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal, and they continue to be a favorite option among tourists shopping in Istanbul. Rugs are available in a variety of sizes and colors, with many featuring the classic Turkish Holbein design, which was created by Turks in Anatolia. 

Antique Evil Eye

It won’t take long if you’re on vacation in Istanbul to come across street booths and shops selling evil eyes. The evil eye, also known as the Nazar Boncugu, is a sign of good luck that may be seen in businesses and houses across Turkey. The blue eye is said to guard against misfortune and is one of Istanbul’s most popular souvenirs. Hanging pendants, earrings, and magnets, to mention a few, are available with the evil eye imprinted on them. This is a wonderful place to go if you’re searching for cheap traditional Turkish souvenirs.

Istiklal Street is one of Istanbul’s most famous avenues among visitors and Turks alike, and it serves as a hub for many tourism and entertainment events in the city. This renowned boulevard also includes numerous historical monuments going back to the Ottoman and Middle Ages eras, as well as many historical landmarks dating back to the nineteenth and eighteenth centuries.

Istiklal Street begins from Taksim Square in the north and runs all the way down to Tunel Square in the south, ultimately leading to GalipDede with its ancient gate and, a little distance beyond, the Dervish Lodge at Galata Mevlevihanesi. If you continue downhill, you will reach Galata Tower, which is situated on the opposite side of Galipdede Street. In the middle of the path, there is a divide in Galatasaray Square. This street runs for one and a half kilometers through the renowned Beyoglu neighborhood, and it is lined with luxury and antique stores, restaurants, cafés, and many pubs. Furthermore, the nighttime on this street is indescribable in terms of its energy, attractiveness, and bustle!

The Holy Trinity Church

This Greek church’s history dates back to 1880, and it is renowned for its dome and twin towers. It is situated at the entrance of Istiklal Street.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

If you like wax museums, you will undoubtedly fall in love with Madame Tussauds. This museum, situated on Istiklal Street in the Grand Pera building, features life-size wax replicas of famous worldwide and Turkish superstars. There are also wax sculptures of renowned individuals, contemporary athletes, and world-famous politicians on display. A day spent at this museum with your family and children will undoubtedly be enjoyable.

Galatasaray Hamam

In this well-known Turkish Hamam, you may immerse yourself in a bathing experience. On Flower Passage, you’ll find the Galatasaray Hamam. The history of this Hamam goes back to 1481, when it was constructed by Sultan Bayezid II, and it is still in use today, with hundreds of visitors visiting every day to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience. This bathroom exudes charm and elegance, with many lovely traditional Ottoman souvenirs.

Church Of St. Antoine Of Padua

This church is designated as a modern historical monument and is known by many titles, the most well-known of which are the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua and the Cathedral of Saint Antoine. Giulio Mongeri, an Italian architect, designed this church between 1906 and 1911. This church is one of the biggest churches in Istanbul, and it also houses a Catholic community.

Pera Museum

The renowned Pera Museum, which opened in 2005, is a privately owned museum situated in the Tepebasi district near the right end of Istiklal Street. This museum is housed inside a historic structure that was formerly known as the Bristol Hotel, and it is among the best of Istanbul’s museums. This museum features Orientalist palettes, Anatolian weights and measures, Kutahya Tiles, and Ceramics, as well as many exhibits, publications, audio-visual events, and educational activities.

Exploring Serdar-I Ekrem Street

 We should begin by one of the most famous apartment buildings of Istanbul, Dogan Apartment. Even when you take your first step on the street the gigantic, yellow colored building will catch your attention from the other end of the street immediately. It was built by a banker family towards the end of 1800s. It is able to beautify the street all by its own with the harmony of the yellow walls and green blinds. There are rumors about the building that is has hosted many film productions and has been home to actors and TV personalities for years. It is said that the building also was the first building to have an elevator. Unfortunately entering this building complex is very challenging, however you will be aesthetically satisfied even from the outside. If you are an art enthusiast, you will be pleased to know that there are a few good art galleries on this street. First one is called Collective Istanbul. The gallery aims to provide affordable art therefore the prices are lower compared to the market. Every collection has been determined by the artist before and all the art works are formed in a harmony and are categorized according to themes. Next one is called 7 Art Gallery. This gallery is another trending one on Serdar-I Ekrem Street. It is decorated in a plain but elegant way and draws attention with its unique lighting. As you already realized this street is full of art and history.
 
When you are done feeding your soul with art, the next thing to do is to shop like crazy. The next stop is called Cicek İsleri (Flower Works). It is a beautiful shop containing special designed objects and home decorations. There are tons of options for souvenirs and gifts. If you taste the sweet taste of shopping and are asking for more the next stop should be Lunapark Shop. This shop is filled with designed objects like the previous one and presents the works of young and fresh designers of the industry. The ones who are into pop culture and collectible figures, should stop by our next suggestion which is called Pop Culture Toys & Collectibles. Heroes of comic books, TV series and video games all came together in this shop. From Marvel to Harry Potter there are tons of comics, action figures, magazines, collectibles and many more. Next stop is for vintage lovers and is called Atolye Do Bora. The interesting thing about this place is that it has hair stylists among the vintage items and old records. You might begin again by styling your hair after you are done with shopping or even for a small talk about Istanbul you may stop here.
 

Deeper in Serdar-I Ekrem Street and Galata

You have seen art, bought beautiful pieces that will remind you of your trip to Istanbul and now want to rest while enjoying a good meal. You might be wondering what to eat in Serdar-I Ekrem Street since you don’t want to go out of the street because now it enchanted you. These next few are some Serdar-I Ekrem restaurants and the ones around Serdar-I Ekrem for you to enjoy. Leb-I Derya is a fish restaurant that has been serving for fifteen years. It is the perfect choice for fish lovers. Galata Tower has a restaurant that provides with the greatest view of Istanbul and delicious food so you might as well try that. Next, Galata Meyhanesi brings you a classic Beyoglu night since 1993 along with traditional Turkish alcoholic drink accompanied by good appetizers. Our final recommendation for you to stop by to eat is Karakoy Galata Simitcisi which is serving fresh out the oven traditional bagel. If you spend your whole day at Serdar-I Ekrem Street, best way to conclude your day might be stopping by one of the Serdar-I Ekrem Street bars or the bars around it. Snog Roof Bar is one of them which has the view of Galata Tower.
 
While you are there, exploring further around the street should be nice. Here are a few suggestions on what to do near Serdar-I Ekrem Street. Since it is a very central location and so close to Galata Tower, there are lots of things to do around the street. When the visitor is done their journey on Serdar-I Ekrem Street, they should definitely continue towards Galata Tower. You might want to attend a Galata Genoese Walk Tour because it would be useful to know where to go for enjoying your Galata visit to the fullest. When you are walking on Galata it would be a shame to leave without seeing Istiklal Street. So you may attend a tour that includes both Istiklal Street and Galata walk.

1) Madam Mare Vintage

Madam Mare is at the famous Kadirler Descent that is extremely easy to find since historical Galatasaray Highschool is right at the beginning of the descent. When you search among the tiny and fun stores of Kadirler Descent, Madam Mare is quite easy to notice. This lovely store offers clothing and accessories from many eras with great prices. Where else can you find shirts and skirts for 20 TRY, coats and jackets for 90-120 TRY and pullovers for 30-80 TRY? It is shopping time!

Address: Firuzağa Mahallesi, Kadirler Yokuşu, No 67/A Cihangir/Beyoğlu, Istanbul

2) Pied De Poule, Çukurcuma

Pied de Poule is one of the little known vintage stores of Çukurcuma even though it was mentioned in Wallpaper, New York Times, Financial Times and many other reputable newspapers, as well as various fashion programs on tv! The owner of Pied de Poule, Şelale Gültekin, had started this ‘old-fashioned’ business with her grandmother’s clothes and now the result is Pied de Poule! Keep in mind to see her hat collection of 300 pieces and the special lingerie and corsets of the store!

Address: Faik Paşa Yokuşu, No: 19/1, Çukurcuma, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Tel: (0212) 245 8116

3) Evvel Zaman İçinde (Eleni Vintage Galata), Beyoğlu

Madame Eleni’s vintage temple! If you’d like to time travel to France of 1920’s, head to Serdar’ı Ekrem Street of Galata where you will find Evvel Zaman İçinde. From antiques to gloves, shoes, wedding gowns and lingerie; you can find great pieces from 20’s & 50’s in this shop. We’re sure you’ll love it!

Address: Kuloğlu Mah., Adile Naşit Sok. No:3, Beyoğlu/ Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 532 506 5019

4) My Pera 1960, Cihangir

A trendy store in a trendy district! My Pera is a lovely shop, located at the heart of Cihangir where you can find the fashion of 40’s and 80’s. This second hand retro shop is full of special pieces, as well as the designs of Türkan Rodoplu who is the owner of the store. Moreover, My Pera is one of the few places where you’d find retro products of reputable brands such as Gucci, Armani, Versace and Dolce Gabbana.

Address: Altıpatlar Sokak, No: 2A Cihangir, Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 212 292 5187

5) Closet Circuit, Çukurcuma

Closet Circuit is different! As a second hand shop, Closet Circuit takes the clothes you’re not using, that you just couldn’t give away and occupy tons of space in your wardrobe and helps them find new owners who’d wear them every day! All for a sustainable lifestyle!

Owner of this store used to be a shopaholic who decided to get rid of all of her unnecessary clothes one day. She then noticed that it is not just her, but many people have the same wish. Inspired by Permaculture principles, she opened Closet Circuit and created a closet circuit! The prices vary between 20 TRY and 250 TRY. Plus, there is a vegetarian cafe in its backyard!

Address: Firuzağa Mahallesi, Bostanbaşı Caddesi No:23, Çukurcuma Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 536 060 3296

6) Mozk Vintage Shop, Cihangir

Another hidden beauty in Cihangir district! Mozk’s attraction starts with its tempting display case and imprisons you with its special pieces. Mozk differs among other vintage shops with its truly antique pieces that are quite hard to find so it is a bit more pricey. Enjoy the fantabulous hats and glasses. Each piece is specially picked by the owners of the store Selda Bola & Berk Özkanlı who are big fans of British style!

Address: Kuloğlu Mah. Ağa Hamamı Sok. No:13/B Cihangir, Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 212 252 3499

7) Bin Bavul Vintage, Galata

What comes up to your mind when we say retro? Whatever that is, you can find it in a stylish store named Bin Bavul (A Thousand Luggages). While going down to Galata Tower, you’ll notice a stone path. That path will lead you to a time travel machine called Bin Bavul ????

Address: Galipdede Cad. No: 66, Galata/Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 212 243 7218

8) Atölye Mariposa, Cihangir

Atölye Mariposa was founded in 2007, right out of the dreams of 2 sisters called Didem Arayıcı & Banu Öneş. The moment you step in the store, elegance of vintage and fascinating modern designs surround you and leaves you lost in awe! Romantic collection prepared by the founder designer of Mariposa, Banu Öneş, shows the beauty in ‘old-fashioned’ tailoring of great taste! What else you’ll find there? Beautiful dresses of young foreign designers, chandeliers of Marie-Therese style, porcelain tea sets and lovely accessories for your house!

Address: Şimşirci Sokak No:11/A Cihangir Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 212 249 0483

Bonus: Giyilmeyen Gecelik Costume Atelier, Pangalti

A store full of history in one of the oldest districts of Istanbul! Huge variety of vintage & second hand clothing is dazzling! Every piece will take you to a beautiful era from ancient Greeks to 1900’s. The owner of this lovely place is as lovely as the place itself and she is super helpful! This store definitely deserves visit.

Address: Ergenekon Cd. Türkbeyi Sk. Pangaltı – Istanbul

Tel: (+90) 212 234 04 96

www.donemkostumleri.com

Istiklal Street (Istiklal Avenue), it is a must for all travellers in Istanbul. Istiklal Street is a 1,4 km. long colorful , famous and the livest pedestrian street of Istanbul .Istiklal street includes all kind of shops, restaurants, cafes, street shows and it is located by the Taksim Square. Not only famous shops , restaurants ,cafes but also the nostalgic tram is an attractive point for travellers which runs through the length of the Istiklal Street. Located in the Taksim neighborhood of the Beyoglu district.

Shop in Istiklal Street is not less attractive than travelling around the Istiklal Street because Istıklal Street is hosting to so many famous brand range from most expensive brands to local sellers.Jewelleries ,old books ,individual shops , musical instruments line the street. One of the advantages of shopping in Istiklal Street , you can both enjoy your time visiting the historic part of Istiklal while doing your shopping.

Bagdat Street:

Are you in shopping in Bagdat Street ? Bagdat street is one of the best places to shop in Istanbul , it is located in the Anatolian side of Istanbul stretching for 14 km . Bagdat Street includes so many brands range from luxury and expensive brands like Vakko , Tommy Hilfiger , Michael Kors to local brands such as boutiques and passages which includes so many local sellers.

Nisantasi:

Let’s do shopping in Nisantası ! When we start to talk about luxury , fashion , culture and food Nısantası is one and the most famous attraction point for its visitors in Istanbul. The meaning of Nisantasi is “marking stone” which directly associated with filled target Stones ,erected to mark to record the mark of the Ottoman Sultans and archers. Today ,the visitors are going to notice directly that the street is a line with several famous label stores range from Prada , Louis Vuitton , Gucci , Zara and H&M etc. Do not worry not only labeled brands but also Nisantasi offers its unique shopping experience to all kind of budget. Every visitor of Nisantasi can find what they are looking for without feeling isolated. Moreover , there are also Turkish owned shops are available in Nisantasi like Beymen .

Abdi Ipekci Street:

Abdi Ipekci street is neighbourhood of Nisantasi street and also one of the most popular destiantion for visitors who are looking for luxury shopping in Istanbul. Abdi İpekci street is one of the most stylish areas of Istanbul that is why people always compare this street with the streets of Paris.Exclusive designer boutiques can be found in this street such as Louis Vuitton and Cartier , not only foreign brands but also Turkish premier department stores are located in this street such as Beymen is included the list of must visit.

Nuruosmaniye Street:

This street is for the ones who loves investing fine carpets , jewellery and antiques mostly rather than clothes , shoes and other kinds of outfit. The pedestrian street is one of the main streets which allows its visitors to the Grand Bazaar and wonderful shops.Nuruosmaniye Street is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul .

Serdar-I Ekrem Street:

Serdar-ı Ekrem Street is one of the most famous street in Istanbul and it is great attraction point for tourists and other visitors who wants to make shopping from very special designs designed by famous Turkish designers .Visitors will not see big labeled brands in the street because this street is famous for its little and cool boutiques owned by designers. Serdar-ı Ekrem Street is located in Beyoğlu , Istanbul .It is around 50 meters away from Galata Tower. Street has full of energy but you can experience calmness of Istanbul there.

While taking a tour at Soğukçeşme Street, you may experience a longing to live here yourself. And, indeed, you have the chance to do it, even if only for a short time. The houses received extensive renovations in the 1980s, are now open as hostels. Moreover, the Roman Cistern has been converted into a tavern. The houses are an excellent example of traditional Turkish architecture, and they are decorated in the classic style of the 19th century. Among the first details that catch one’s eye is the velvet curtains, the wardrobes, and the large mirrors.

Istanbul Library

Istanbul Library is yet another important location on Soğukçeşme Street. The library was founded by Çelik Gülersoy, a famous lover of Istanbul who spearheaded many important, worthy projects for both the street and the area, and whom we sadly lost a few years ago. More than 10,000 rare books on Istanbul are housed in the library, which was opened to visitors in 1990.

Revival of Akaretler

The first restoration work started in the region after Net Holding rented the area for 49 years, using the model “build-operate-transfer” in 1987. In 2003, the restoration process stopped for a short time after it was transferred to Garanti Bank, but then in 2006, the revival process started again with the leadership of Serdar Bilgili. Even though it is time-consuming and exhausting to modernize the area while protecting its history and characteristics, it has importance in terms of bringing Istanbul an international environment. Akaretler Sıraevler, Istanbul’s greatest restoration project, covers 55 thousand square meters. Including the world’s most famous brands it has 34 stores, cafes, and car parks, and with the world-famous W Hotel’s W Istanbul branch office it is Beşiktaş’s wonderland.

Akaretler Heart of Shopping and Fashion!

If you’re bored with shopping in Nişantaşı you should come down to Akaretler and have a look at the display windows of these popular and attractive stores. To change an ordinary day into a beautiful one, Akaretler presents you with all manner of opportunities.

If you want to browse the shopping streets of Akaretler and make purchases from stores located in Turkey, In addition to the big brands you are familiar with, limited edition designer shoes, bags, clothes, and handmade jewelry are also sold here. Catherine Malandrino, Sevan Bıçakçı, Berluti, Nuxx, Sergio Rossi, Jimmy Choo, Marc Jacobs, Marni, 1930 Antika, and Cornelliani are some of the brands that are located on this street.

To have a cheerful lunch during the day or to have a special dinner Pastorito and Spice Market are appropriate choices. On the other hand, to cool down you can have an irresistible Iced Latte at Cafe Nero.

Newly opened Joke Perestroyka, run by İzzet Çapa, tries to create a new fashion stream with Saturday brunches. Perestroika calls to mind “revolution and reconstruction” in Russian.

Istanbul which has been carrying the title of tourism center for years already become the attraction center of the business world too of its congress centers, international financial institutions, and headquarters of all companies that are located in certain districts. Akaretler is one of them. The creative ideas of the advertising agency Alametifarika are designed here. Prof. Osman Müftüoğlu’s clinic called “Yaşasın Hayat!” is designed for people who want a high-quality and fit lifestyle.

Akaretler brings a breath of fresh air to the daily life of Istanbul with its extraordinary style and atmosphere, which reminds us of Europe’s upper-class areas. We are sure that you will spend your day with pleasure in Akaretler.

Istanbul has been the capital of different empires throughout history. In addition, it has been used as a common living area for people from different cultures. Therefore, it is possible to encounter various historical ruins and aesthetic monuments in each district of the city. One of the districts of the city that has a history as a small but quite old district is Beşiktaş. This area, which is famous for Besiktas Bazaar, became a district in 1930 during the republican period and has been one of the most visited points of Istanbul since then. The various historical sites, shopping streets, and passages located in Besiktas Bazaar are some of the reasons why locals and tourists visit this place the most.

The Akaretler district, located in Besiktas Bazaar, is one of Istanbul’s well-known and famous places. Akaretler is located between the districts of Beşiktaş and Maçka. It takes its name from the Akaretler Row Houses. 

Things to Do in Akaretler

Akaretler Row Houses

It will be effortless for you to be fascinated by the historical atmosphere of the Akaretler, where these historical row houses are located. The Akaretler district, located next to the Besiktas Bazaar, is named after the 133 housing units established in the district, namely the row houses. The history of row houses dates back to 1875 and the period of the Ottoman Empire. It is not surprising that the Akaretler district, which befits the historical atmosphere of Istanbul, is also influenced by these historical periods.

The architecture of the houses located in Akaretler is quite beautiful and very different from the modern architecture in the city. You can have a pleasant time in the cozy cafes on the lower floors of the houses located here, and you can follow the fashion of Istanbul on the shopping streets.

One of the points of interest of Besiktas Bazaar, Akaretler Row Houses, was built in the nineteenth century by the Ottoman Emperor Sultan Abdulaziz to accommodate the important elders of Dolmabahce Palace. These buildings in Akaretler were built on the land formed from the point where the Poet Nedim and Suleyman Seba streets in Istanbul merge to form a fork. The word Akaretler is a word used in old Turkish and means lodgings.

The architecture of the Akaretler was designed by the famous architect Sarkis Balyan, and some of the row houses were intended to be inhabited by palace guards or essential figures of the palace. But some of these buildings were also built as rented houses, and it was envisaged that the Aziziye Mosque would be built with profits. Akaretler, one of the places representing the historical identity of Istanbul, has been restored true to its original until the present day. Akaretler row houses were included in the scope of the renovation project in 1996. New shopping streets, cafes, museums, shops, parking lots, and hotels were built in the district within this project’s scope.

You can find many places to explore and museums to visit in the historic streets and buildings of Akaretler. The place that will fascinate you with its historical atmosphere is also home to different culinary delights and cultural elements. In these various restaurants and cafes and on the shopping streets, you can find entertainment and calm together.

Mendel’s

Mendel’s is a specially made place for chocolate lovers where you can explore the famous streets of Akarets. Apart from its design and luxurious atmosphere, you can find many types of chocolate together in this place that will make you feel special. You can try brownie and cake types. Mendel’s is one of the most popular places to be regular with its chocolate, presentation, and taste.

Poets Coffee (Şairler Kahvesi) can be one of the most peaceful and quiet places you can find in Akaretler. After a long day of travel, you can find traces of Turkish literature in this place, build memories of Turkish poets, and eat delicious food with beautiful music.

Kalamata Meyhane

Kalamata Meyhane is one of the most accurate places to taste Turkish appetizers and listen to Turkish art music. In this place, one of the most beautiful taverns in Akaretler, you can try alcoholic beverage options and have a nice dinner.

So what is it that makes shopping in Istanbul different? Are there any famous Products to buy?

Some products reflect Turkish Culture and other products that are related to Turkey but the city has everything you would desire and in different quality and prices. This is why it is different to go shopping in Istanbul. Here are some of the things you might be interested in buying from Istanbul:

Lokum

Lokum is a very famous Turkish dessert and it has been produced since the early 1700s and became well known over the world through trade. Lokum desserts are small pieces made of gel starch and have different shapes and flavors such as Limon, Vanilla, Coffee, fruits, and many flavors, lokum pieces are covered with grated pistachios or grated coconut and people in Turkey eat this dessert on a daily basis because it is very delicious, so you can buy two or three packets for you and your friends.

Turkish Coffee

for sure you have heard a lot about Turkish coffee, it is not very different from other coffees as a raw material, but the way it is made gives you a different coffee, it is poured into small cups with small pieces of chocolate or biscuit and it is heavy compared to other types of coffees. The most delicious is at Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi shop in Fatih District you can buy some of it with two coffee cups for you and your partner to drink on a sunny morning.

Jewelry

Turkey is the second country in the world in terms of the jewelry trade business, you can find literally thousands of designs of rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and different carats from 14 to 24 raw gold, silver, or other jewelry in addition to original diamonds. The best place to buy jewelry and the most famous one is the Grand Bazaar, you can find more than 1000 Kilograms of gold and jewelry and varied traditional, and modern collections but the most famous collection is Ottoman rings for men, a beautiful silver ring with a big colored stone on top of it.

Hamam Accessories

As the traditional Turkish bath became very famous around the world some people started to produce its accessories such the thin towels, loofahs, and natural soaps like olive oil soap or milk soap in addition to natural lotions, but such products or only found in the Grand Bazaar or near Galata Tower. And they are not expensive, you can buy a lot of accessories for 100 Dollars.

Handmade Ceramics

Handmade ceramics are spread in every district in Istanbul because it is a part of the Turkish tradition, you can find some of the 8th and 9th-century style or Ottoman-style ceramic bowls, dishes, and other items. You can find such items in kiosks and shops in the Grand Bazaar, Sultan Ahmet Square, and Ortakoy Square. Of course, other shops are available in other districts and streets but these are the most famous places for ceramics.

Spices

Being located directly on the old international Silk Trade Road, Istanbul city gathered spices from many countries around the world like China and India, and even its own spices. You can find all kinds of spices you want or need, some are expensive and some are not, it depends on the spice itself. You can buy spices from the famous Spice Bazaar that is located in Eminonu Square, it has the best spices in the city, and also fun to have a walk in it.

Carpets

Turkey is one of the countries that are famous for producing carpets, especially traditional handmade carpets that cost thousands of dollars and tens of days to make. Modern designs are also available with different qualities low, high, cheap, or expensive.

Carpets and handmade carpets are available in the Grand Bazaar. You can buy one to decorate your home with fancy Turkish style.

Istanbul city has a lot of things to see and buy, things that are rare to find and special, and things that are available anywhere but cheaper. It is really what some call “ a shopping heaven ”