Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) – an iconic symbol of Istanbul
Galata Tower is one of the key structures defining Istanbul’s skyline. It is considered one of the world’s oldest towers and also one of Istanbul’s most iconic symbols. Galata Tower was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2013. If you only have a short time in Istanbul, I highly recommend visiting Galata Tower in addition to a Bosphorus cruise.
Viktor Levi Şarap Evi – a historic and green wine restaurant
As you wander through the Kadıköy-Moda area on the Asian side, you can’t help but notice the charm of Viktor Levi Şarap Evi wine restaurant. And for good reason – it beckons you with its beauty, elegance, history, and, of course, its extensive wine selection. Inside, there’s also a special, green surprise awaiting you. In this post, our direction is clear: cheers & şerefe!
Charming and captivating Moda
You will find Moda, a charming neighborhood surrounded by the Sea of Marmara, in Kadıköy district. Moda’s small streets will seduce you with culture, colors, the aromas of delicacies, and authentic Istanbul life. Eventually, you’ll be enchanted by the stunning views and beauty of the Sea of Marmara’s coastal landscapes. What more could you wish for?
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) – a sacred masterpiece of architectural history
Despite my lack of religious faith, Hagia Sophia represents sanctity to me – in addition to its history and beauty. Throughout its eventful history, it has served as a sacred place for over 1500 years for both Christians and Muslims, and for almost 100 years also as a museum. Hagia Sophia is one of the wonders of world architectural history and is considered one of the masterpieces of Byzantine architecture. Since 1985, Hagia Sophia has also been part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Balat – international history and unpretentious splashes of creativity
Balat is different. It’s not just another neighborhood among many. It tells you about life in a way that may confuse and astonish you. Balat wildly exposes the whole crazy spectrum of life. At first, perhaps crudely, but then with such genuine power of art and emotion that it ignites a great flame of love in your soul. Balat justifies these flames of creativity with its perspective. It knows… because it truly exudes world history.
Road trip from Istanbul to the turquoise Aegean coast
What if you combined the grandeur of history with the beauty of seaside landscapes on your journey? We drove from Istanbul along the small coastal roads of Turkey’s western coast towards the south, admiring the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, and I highly recommend this combination – a city and beach vacation all in one.
İstanbul Modern – modern art in many different ways
The modern and contemporary art museum, İstanbul Modern, surprised me pleasantly with its diversity and stunning location. The range of art in this museum is vast and intriguing. Additionally, the museum building itself holds a dazzling architectural surprise.
Food – Part 1: everyday food culture, top restaurants and traditional street food
The delicious flavors of Turkish food culture are renowned worldwide. In this post, I am delighted to guide you to expert-recommended favorites: the best and most popular restaurants in Istanbul in 2023, as well as traditional street food. But first, let me share a bit about the everyday food culture in Istanbul.
Christmas at the St. Anthony Catholic Church (Sent Antuan Katolik Kilisesi)
In Istanbul, it is said that the St. Anthony Catholic Church is so significant and important that it is impossible to imagine the famous İstiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) without this church. I can easily agree, as my steps often lead me to this uplifting place, besides my other favorite, Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), even though I do not represent any specific religion myself. In this post, we take a glimpse into the beautiful Christmas atmosphere of the St. Anthony Catholic Church.
Freedom Park (Özgürlük Parkı) – a diverse and verdant oasis
The megacity of Istanbul is a green, active, sporting, artistic, and even child-friendly city, as long as you venture beyond the traditional historical tourist area. You can find all of this, for example, in Freedom Park (Özgürlük Parkı) located on the Asian side, where you can spend a fantastically diverse day, starting with a rich Turkish buffet breakfast on the terrace of the park’s restaurant.