Istanbul 2026

A collection of 7 places curated by Niels

Places in this collection

  1. Saint Stephen’s Bulgarian Orthodox Church

    attraction

    Balat, Mürselpaşa Cd., 34087 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

    An architectural treasure on the Golden Horn, also known as the Demir Kilise (Iron Church). Made entirely of cast iron, a unique engineering marvel. Gold-plated icons, stained glass windows, and elegant carvings. Open to visitors after restoration.

    Saint Stephen’s Bulgarian Orthodox ChurchView on Google Maps
  2. Vefa Bozacisi

    cafe

    Molla Hüsrev, Vefa Cd. No:66, 34134 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

    Historic cafe serving boza since 1876, visited by Ataturk, Ataturk's boza glass is on display

    Vefa BozacisiView on Google Maps
  3. Grand Bazaar

    shop

    Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

    One of the world's largest bazaars with 66 streets and nearly 4,000 shops. Free tours of the roof are available through the Fatih Municipality's Suriçi application. Tours are every other Thursday and registration opens at the beginning of the week. The tour includes historical inns in and around the Grand Bazaar. James Bond: Skyfall filmed motorcycle scenes here.

    Grand BazaarView on Google Maps
  4. Tablacı Bekir Usta

    restaurant

    Küçükbakkalköy, Işıklar Cd. no:30, 34636 Ataşehir/İstanbul, Türkiye

    Turkish restaurant with roots dating back to 1951 and street food expert Ahmet Usta, uses traditional methods and grills straight on charcoal to give everything an extra crunch and smoky flavor. Known for liver shish kebab and wraps, homemade pickles, fresh salads, and lavash bread.

    Tablacı Bekir UstaView on Google Maps
  5. Eirene Tower Sanat Galerisi

    attraction

    Sağır Han, Mercan, Paşa Camii Sok. No:19, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

    1200-Year-old historical building used as a church, watchtower, treasury, and dungeon. Now a free art gallery with Islamic calligraphy, marbling, and Kufic art. Open 10:00-19:00 except Sundays.

    Eirene Tower Sanat GalerisiView on Google Maps
  6. Basilica Cistern

    attraction

    Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

    Underground water reservoir from the Byzantine period.

    Basilica CisternView on Google Maps
  7. Feriköy Antika Pazarı

    shop

    Cumhuriyet, Semt Pazarı No:8, 34380 Şişli/İstanbul, Türkiye

    Mentioned multiple times.

    Feriköy Antika PazarıView on Google Maps