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Istanbul Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern Sanat Muzusi)Meclis-i Mebusan Caddesi, KarakoyTel. +90 (212) 334.7300www.istanbulmodern.orgThis is Istanbul's newest museum. In a city of 16th & 17th century mosques it is interesting how this modern museum captures another side of the city on two continents.Modern and contemporary art as well as a Library of Modern Art, consisting of materials on Modern Turkish Art along with reference materials on the main issues, movements and trends in Modern International Art and eminent works of art.Topkapi PalaceSultanahmetTel. +90 (212) 512 0480www.topkapisarayi.gov.trFrance has Versailles. Turkey has Topkapi. Sultans lived life to the fullest and here, as you walk through opulent vaulted chambers, you can almost here the hushed laughter of the wives, eunuchs and dwarf entertainers. Make sure to see the royal treasury which are filled with bejeweled spoils from the Ottoman conquests.Istiklal Caddesi/Taksim Beyoglu New Orleans’ French Quarter and New York’s East Village may be apt comparisons for this bustling 24-hour district of bars, restaurants, souvenir shops and clubs. Istiklal's side streets offer cozy nargile (waterpipe) cafés and kebab houses that will become treasured finds.
Hagia Sofia Aya Sofya Meydan (Sultanahmet) Built as an Eastern Orthodox church in the 4th century, converted to a mosque in 1453, then turned into a museum by the modern Turkish state, the Hagia Sofia truly embodies the conversion of civilizations in one sprawling space. The light in the Hagia Sofia refracts mystically in the nave, and beautiful Islamic calligraphy sits directly on top of ancient Byzantine mosaics. Sultanahmet Cami (Blue Mosque) Sultanahmet Meydan While it is not the oldest mosque in the world, its six minarets still display a great example of Ottoman architecture during the early part of the 17th century, the golden age of Ottoman Empire architecture. Stop for tea and a game of tavla (backgammon) at one of the garden cafes nearby. Basilica Cistern Yerebatan Caddesi (Sultanahmet) Tel. +90 (212) 522.1259 or +90 (212) 522.1570 In Sultanahmet Square, take a break from hot or cold weather and head underground to the largest of Istanbul’s cisterns. Built in the 6th century, it features more that 300 Corinthian columns and an upside down statue of Medusa. Suleymaniye Cami (Suleyman Mosque) Suleymaniye Caddesi (North of Istanbul University) This is one mosque which truly cannot be missed on a tour of Istanbul. Its 16th century grandeur is evidenced by its many small domes and tranquil courtyard where neighborhood children come to play.
Archeological Museum (Arkeoloji Muzesi)Osman Hamdi Bey Yokusu, Gulhane-EminonuTel.+ 90 (212) 52 7742The Museum of the Ancient Orient displays artificats from the Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian and Hittite civilizations.
Beylerbeyi PalaceAbdullahaga Caddesi, Beylerbeyi-UskudarTel.+90 (216) 321 9320-21The magnificent Summer Palace of Ottoman Sultans which combines eastern and Turkish motifs with Western adornment elements throughout its decoration, including 26 rooms, six halls, harem and men;s greeting rooms.
Dolmabahce PalaceDocmabache Meydani, BesiktasTel.+ 90 (212) 236 9000A superb palace displaying the richness and power that the Sultans had, notably where Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, died on November 10th, 1938.
Military MuseumValikonagi Caddesi Harbiye-SisliTel+ 90 (212) 233 2720The highlight of this museum is definitely the Mehter Band, that is the Ottoman military band, which originated in 1289 and became an institution that is symbolizing the power and independence of the Ottoman Empire. But quite apart from their benefit on the battlefield, they came to create new musical styles in Europe even influencing Mozart and Beethoven.Rahmi Koç Museum (Rahmi Koç Müzesi)(Rahmi M. Koç Museum, Hasköy Caddesi No. 7, Hasköy / Ph: (0212) 369 6600)The Rahmi Koç Industry Museum, in the suburb of Hasköy on the coast of the Golden Horn, was an Ottoman-period building, formerly called Lengerhane, for iron and steel works. Today this privately owned museum houses exhibits on industrial development.
Sadberk Hanım Museum (Sadberk Hanım Müzesi)(Piyasa Caddesi No. 27-29, Büyükdere - Sarıyer Tel.+90 (212) 242 3813-14A private museum which originally displayed only Turkish decorative arts, was recently expanded to include a new collection of archeological exhibits. This is the oldest section, and includes sixth Millenium BC mother goddesses. In the ethnography section, there are maternity and circumcision beds, clothing and jewelry.
Sakıp Sabancı Museum (Sakıp Sabancı Müzesi)Sakıp Sabancı Caddesi No. 22, EmirganTel.+90 (212) 277 2200Hacı Ömer Sabancı began creating the collection of decorative works of art consisting of figurines, metalwork, porcelain, objects of art and furniture in the Sabancı Collection in 1940; this has continuously expanded since 1970 thanks to Sakıp Sabancı's dedication and love of art. The collection includes 18th and 19th century Chinese Famille Noire and Famille Verte porcelain, polychrome vases and decorated plates. An impressive collection of 19th century French porcelain, including large numbers of Sèvres vases, and German porcelain produced in Berlin and Vienna are among the most valuable items in the collection.
St. Chora Museum (Kariye Müzesi)Edirnekapı, FatihTel.+90 (212) 631 9241Church of St. Saviour (known today as the Kariye Museum) is an important work that represents the Late Byzantine Period. Constantinople was positioned as the art center of the empire.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Türk ve İslam Eserleri Müzesi)İbrahim Paşa Sarayı, At Meydanı, Sultanahmet-EminönüTel.+ 90 (212) 518 1805Built in 1524 by İbrahim Pasa, the Grand Vizier to Suleyman the Magnificent, this was originally a palace; the grandest of private residences in the Ottoman Empire – and one the few which have survived. Some of it, however, was destroyed and rebuilt in stone to the original designs in 1843.
Underground Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)Yerebatan Caddesi No. 13, SultanahmetTel.+ 90 (212) 522 1259Nearby Haghia Sophia is the 6th century Byzantine underground Basilica cistern, with 335 massive Corinthian columns supporting the immense chamber’s fine brick vaulting. It fell into disuse and was then restored in 1987 with the mud and water removed; narrow, raised pathways now provide easy access for visitors. It is the largest covered cistern in the city, measuring 140 by 70 meters.
Eminonu TerminalIskele 2 (Eminonu)Tel. +90 (212) 455.6900www.ido.com.trCrossing the Bosphorus by ferry is something you must do. Try it at dusk when the views of the illuminated minarets, domes, mosques and palaces are breathtaking. After the 15 minute crossing you will have traveled from Europe to Asia, arriving in Kadikoy.
All Time Trendy Yet Classic Restaurants
MiklaThe Marmara Pera Hotel, Tepebaşı Tel.+ 90 (212) 293 5656Famous chef and owner Mehmet Gürs’ adventure seems to have taken the city’s high life by storm offering a perfect opportunity to those who want to experience the contemporary Istanbul lifestyle in the heart of the old city. Designed after a visionary multidimensional outdoor living space concept, Mikla, located on the roof of the Marmara Pera Hotel overlooks the entire city with a small Scandinavian touch coming from Gürs’ Swedish mother.360 IstanbulIstiklal Caddesi No. 311, BeyoğluTel.+ 90 (212) 251 1042www.360istanbul.comThe name of the restaurant originates from its spectacular view which covers 360 degree wide angle look at the marvelous city of Istanbul. The same understanding lies within the tastes that are offerred in the restaurant’s menu. A journey of 360 degree to the world’s famous cuisines includes many stops of flavours and tastes. Located on the terrace floor of one of the landmarks of Istanbul, the historical Mısır (Egypt) building has been built by the architect Hovsep Aznavur for Abbas Halim Pasha of Egypt as his winter residence in 1910, and later was converted into an apartment by his heirs. The Catholic St. Antoine Church, another landmark of the city is located next to Mısır Apartment and its bell tower is in the closest view of the 360 terrace.Old Town RestaurantsSeasons Four Seasons Hotel, Sultanahmet Te.+ (212) 638 8200Seasons features a glass-enclosed courtyard and an outdoor terrace. The elegant, refined décor combines Turkish artwork and a more contemporary style. The restaurant also has a beautifully landscaped garden that creates a peaceful oasis in the middle of Istanbul. Chef Mehmet Gök and his team have crafted a menu that features international cuisine as well as local specialties. A special children's menu offers choices that include Uncle Donald's crispy chicken fingers, Goofy's mini hamburger, Little Mermaid's spaghetti and drinks such as hot chocolate, milkshakes and fresh fruit juices. Recently, Seasons received the honour of being named the best hotel restaurant in Turkey. Balıkçı SabahattinSeyt Hasan Kuyu Sokak, No.1, Sultanahmet Tel.+ 90 (212) 458 2302Open since 1927, one of Istanbul's top fish restaurants, Balıkçı Sabahattin is located in a beautifully restored old Ottoman house in the historical district of Sultanahmet. It is most famous for its best selection of seafood and its amazing fish böreks. Not one member of the staff speaks English (or French, German or Italian) which is a minor inconvenience which in fact makes up for part of the charm of the place...
Fish RestaurantsKörfez Körfez Caddesi No.78, KanlıcaTel.+ 90 (216) 413 4314www.korfez.comA chic seafood restaurant with a romantic seaside setting, where the restaurant’s private boat travels you from the Rumeli fortress to this hidden bay located on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus.Kıyı Kefeliköy Caddesi No. 126, Tarabya Tel.+90 (212) 262 0002One of the best seafood restaurants in Istanbul, the restaurant is decorated with original artworks by famous Turkish painters and photograpraphers such as Bedri Baykam and Ara Güler .Iskele European side: Yahya Kemal Caddesi No.1, RumelihisarıTel.+90 (212) 263 2997Asian side: Wharf.10, Çengelköy Tel.+90 (216) 321 5506With its restaurants located by the shores of the Bosphorus on the European and Asian sides respectively, both of them are known for their variety of fish and their seafood specialties. Kebab RestaurantsSamatya Develi (Gümüşyüzük Sokak)No. 7, SamatyaTel.+90 (212) 632 7982Established in 1912, Develi is one of the oldest and most reputable Turkish kebap housesin Istanbul, specializing in the Southeastern Anatolian cuisine.Köşebaşı Camlık Sokak No. 15, 3. Levent Tel.+90 (212) 270 2433A restaurant chain that is true to the traditional recipes of South Anatolia, Köşebaşı captures the traditional taste of this area . It was voted as one of the "World's 50 Best Restaurants” by Conde Nast and was awarded with International Tourism, Hotel and Catering Industries Prize as “the best representative of the traditional Turkish cuisine.” While also being cited as “the best kebab restaurant in Istanbul” by Time magazine. TikeHaci Adil Caddesi No. 1, Levent Tel.+ 90 (212) 281 8871Founded by four cousins from Adana in 1998, Tike is known for its traditional "charcoal grilled" ethnic barbequed lamb and chicken kebabs, authentic appetizers and fresh salads.Ottoman RestaurantsTuğra Çırağan Palace Hotel Kempinski, Ortaköy Tel.+90 (212) 326 4646Famous for its refined classical Turkish and Ottoman Cuisine, the award winning Tuğra Restaurant delivers a truly unique dining experince with its superb setting, excellent service, exceptional wine cellar and menu which includes the recipes and eating habits of the Sultans who once lived at the Ciragan Palace. Feriye Çırağan Caddesi No. 124, OrtaköyTel.+90 (212) 227 2216 www.feriye.comLocated in a historical building with outdoor dining directly at the shores of the Bosphorus, Feriye is home to the most original Ottoman recipes in town thanks to its Manager and Executive Chef Vedat Başaran who is known to be one of the biggest connaisseurs of the Ottoman cuisine in Turkey.
Traditional Shopping
Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) (Beyazıt, Nurosmaniye)One of the world’s oldest and largest covered bazaars with over 4,000 little shops and a labyrinth of approximately 60 streets.
Spice Bazaar alias the Egyptian Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) (Eminönü)The second covered bazaar of Istanbul, constructed by Sultan the IVth Mehmet's mother, Hatice Turhan Sultan as a foundation to Yeni Mosque including six gates, three of which are pavilions.
Antiques Market (Antikacılar Çarşısı) (Mecidiyeköy, Kuştepe)This immense building in the heart of Mecidiyeköy is packed with refined antique shops that sell old and new decorative accessories and furniture.
Shopping Malls
Akmerkez(Nispetiye caddesi, Ulus - Etiler / Ph: (0212) 282 0170)www.akmerkez.com.trThe Akmerkez complex covers an area of 180,000 m² and is comprised of a four-storey shopping area, with two towers offering 14 and 17 stories of office space, and a third tower with 24 stories of residential areas. The shopping area, offering visitors close to 250 stores, is spread over a triangular area connected to the surrounding main roads through three atria with 41 escalators, two panoramic elevators and 30 elevators.
Istinye Park(Istinye Bayırı Caddesi, Istinye / Ph: (0212) 345 5555)www.istinyepark.comOne of the newest and trendiest shopping malls of Istanbul, the Istinye Park is a unique urban lifestyle environment situated on a natural topographical “amphitheater” of residential neighborhoods. Above, a grand circular arrival plaza sits between an open-air lifestyle center and a glass-roofed indoor retail area.
Kanyon(Büyükdere Cad. No.185, Levent / Ph: (0212) 281 0800)www.kanyon.com.trKanyon is a multi-purpose complex in the Levent financial district of Istanbul, Turkey, which consists of a shopping mall, a 30-floor office tower and a 22-floor residential block. It unites 179 residential apartments, an office tower and a 160 store retail space to undulate around a dramatic architectural “canyon” since its debut in June 2006. The shopping mall includes 160 stores, nine theater halls with a capacity of 1,600 spectators and a parking facility for 2,300 vehicles.
City’s Nişantaşı (Teşvikiye Caddesi No.162, Nişantaşı / Ph: (0212) 373 3300) www.citysnisantasi.comLocated in one of the most prestigious fashion districts in the city, its world-wide trademarks, catering units/cafes, restaurants and entertainment elements appeal to the top purchasing power making it different than other local shopping centers in Istanbul
Department Stores
Beymen(Akmerkez - Nispetiye Caddesi, Etiler / Ph: (0212) 282 0380)(İstinye Park – Istinye Bayırı Caddesi, No. 477, Istinye / Ph: (0212) 335 6700)(Nişantaşı – Abdi İpekçi Caddesi No. 23/1, Nişantaşı / Ph: (0212) 343 0404)www.beymen.com.trBeymen is the upscale fashion retailer of the Boyner Group which is one of Turkey's foremost industrial groups comprising 12 companies. With its first store opened in 1971, today Beymen operates 37 stores throughout Turkey and having paved the way for the ready-to-wear revolution in Turkey. What started as a men's wear store has grown into-an empire spanning fashion for the whole family, beauty and home decoration. Some of the 234 international names are carried in Beymen Megastores.
Vakko(Akmerkez - Nispetiye Caddesi, Etiler / Ph: (0212) 282 0695)(İstinye Park – Istinye Bayırı Caddesi No. 477 / Ph: (0212) 345 5832)(Kanyon – Kanyon AVM Mecidiyeköy Mahallesi, Büyükdere Caddesi No.138-139-140 Levent / Ph: (0212) 353 10 80)(Suadiye – Bağdat Caddesi No. 422 / Ph: (0216) 416 4204)www.vakko.com.trThe quintessential fashion house of Turkey, Vakko established itself as the preeminent name in clothing and accessories. Its products are at par with some of the best names in Europe. The quality is superb and the designs are unique. They are most known for their famous Vakko scarves for ladies and Vakko ties for gentlemen.
Harvey Nichols(Büyükdere Caddesi No.185, Levent / Ph: (0212) 319 1155)www.harveynichols.com.trThe UK based Harvey Nichols fashion store made its debut in Istanbul's much -awaited Kanyon Shopping Mall constructed by Eczacibasi Group.Spread out over 8,000 sqm, the Harvey Nichols store represents a diverse portfolio of exclusive brands in fashion, fragrance, beauty and home, including a gourmet food market and fine dining restaurants, bar and cafe. With the acquisition of the exclusive licence for the Harvey Nichols brand, şt offers a high-end lifestyle portfolio that includes some of the world's leading names in fashion, jewellery, beauty and fragrances. The Harvey Nichols store at Kanyon Levent is the fifth extension outside the UK, after the exclusive stores in Riyadh, Hong Kong, Dublin and Dubai.
Istanbul Ataturk Airport www.ataturkairport.com/eng Get a nice little introduction to the city (Istanbul Guide) while checking on arrivals and departures. Turkish Daily News www.turkishdailynews.com.tr Scan the headlines, get a glimpse into Turkish news and how the government works.
The Istanbul Lİfewww.istanbullife.com.trA monthly city guide where one can find every piece of information about Istanbul, including updates on new restaurants and a monthly agenda of happenings.
The Gatewww.thegate.com.trArticles about traditional arts, economy, different tastes and famous places written by well known writers can be found in this magazine.
Cornucopiawww.cornucopia.netAn award-winning journal on Turkey, this English language magazine for connaisseurs of Turkey and Turkish culture brings you art, history, literature and sophistication.
Time Outwww.timeoutistanbul.comCity travel guides to hotels, restaurants, shops and events. Highlights monthly events in Istanbul and provides details of accommodation, sightseeing, eating & drinking in Istanbul.
The Guide Istanbulwww.apa.com.trThe Guide Istanbul is published in English and is produced bi-monthly. It offers items of interest to tourists visiting Istanbul, foreigners residing in Istanbul, as well as to Turks who have English as a second language. It is a great help when one wants to know where to find something and how to get there.
TravelstyleAkcam Sokak No 20, LeventTel.+90 (212) 283 6935TravelStyle is a boutique style incoming tour operator based in Istanbul and known for being the ultimate source for luxury travel arrangements in Turkey. Specialized in meeting the various demands of the high end individual travellers, TravelStyle prides itself in the personalized, hands-on service it provides from the minute they get off the plane.
BlackkMuallim Naci Caddesi 71, (Ortakoy)Tel. +90 (212) 236.7256www.blackk.netEverything is black; tables, curtains, floors. Everything but the money which is spent by the international moguls who spend it here. This adult playground requires reservations on weekends.Reina Muallim Naci Caddesi 10 (Ortakoy) Tel. +90 (212) 259.5919 www.reina.com.tr/eng This emporium of clubs and discos is the hottest after-hours nightspot in all of Turkey. The breathtaking Bosphorus views give it an edge over all other clubs at night. The internationalized noveau rich congregate here.
Orient House Tyatro Caddesi 27 (Beyazit) Tel. +90 (212) 517.6163 www.orienthouseistanbul.com Enjoy fine, authentic belly dancing and Turkish folk and classical music. It’s just several blocks south of the Grand Bazaar. Nu Pera Mesrutiyet Caddesi 145-147 (Pera) Tel. +90 (212) 245.5810 Behind the Pera Palace Hotel, the ground floor area is the club-like setting for heavy dancing to house music and people watching. The terrace offers spectacular rooftop views in the summer.
Angelique Salhane Sokak No. 10, Ortaköy Tel.+ 90 (212) 327 28 44Anjelique is the leading candidate for the best and most popular nightlife site of Istanbul in the summer; the right address for fun, chill-out and enjoyment with a fascinating view and decoration.
Club 29A. Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Ulus Park İçi, UlusTel.+90 (212) 358 2929Part of the famous Ulus 29 Restaurant, Club 29 is one of Istanbul’s trendiest night clubs with its music and location as well as its regulars including celebrities and many well-known international names who come by to enjoy the excellent music and superb view.Sortie Muallim Naci Caddesi No. 141, Kuruçeşme Tel.+90 (212) 327 8585Combined with the silhouette of a city extending from Europe to Asia, Sortie represents a place where one would enjoy the most splendid beauties, entertainment ,romanticism and a great combination of restaurants and clubs including the Supper Club.
Nu Teras Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 149/6, Tepebaşı Tel.+90 (212) 245 6070Behind the Pera Palace Hotel, located on the terrace floor of a historical building, Nu Teras offers spectacular rooftop views of the Goldenhorn combined with great music and spectacular cocktails in summer.
