One of the oldest and cosmopolitan districts of Istanbul, Karaköy offers a unique experience to its visitors with its rich historical heritage and the dynamics of modern life. Starting from the history of Karaköy, let’s discover the important places and special places to see together.
Karaköy is one of the most attractive spots in Istanbul with its historical texture, cultural richness and the opportunities offered by modern life. You can visit historical buildings, explore art galleries and enjoy delicious food overlooking the Bosphorus. During your visit to Karaköy, be sure to take a pleasant break at Loi Bosphorus Restaurant and enjoy the fascinating atmosphere of Istanbul!
History of Karakoy
Karaköy was known as Galata in ancient times and became an important trade center during the Byzantine Empire. In the 11th century, the region came under the rule of the Genoese and was enriched with buildings such as the Galata Tower built during this period. After the Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Istanbul, the area gained a multicultural structure with the settlement of different ethnic groups such as Jews, Armenians and Greeks. In the 19th century, it became a financial center with the opening of banks, trade centers and consulates. Today, it is one of the most popular areas of Istanbul with its art galleries, modern cafes and restaurants.
Must-See Places in Karaköy
1. Galata Tower
Galata Tower is one of the most iconic structures in Istanbul and has been used as an observation point and for defense throughout history. It was first built by the Byzantine Emperor Anastasius in 528 as a lighthouse. However, the structure that survives today is the stone tower built by the Genoese in 1348. With a height of 66.9 meters and a diameter of 16.45 meters, the tower has one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Istanbul.
During the Ottoman period, it was used as a fire watchtower and served various purposes such as a prison and an observatory. According to Evliya Çelebi’s famous account, Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi made history in the 17th century by flying on wings from the Galata Tower to Üsküdar.
Today, the tower is a tourist attraction, offering visitors a spectacular view of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn and the historical peninsula. There are restaurants, cafes and exhibition areas inside. It is a must-see for those who want to explore the history and fascinating atmosphere of Istanbul.
2. Galata Bridge
Galata Bridge is one of the symbolic structures of Istanbul, connecting the two sides of the Golden Horn. The fifth bridge built over the Golden Horn in history, the first version of the Galata Bridge was built in 1845 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid. The current bridge was commissioned in 1994 and is now open to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
This bridge brings together the historical and modern face of Istanbul. During the day, fishermen, walkers and cyclists can be seen on the bridge. On the lower level, there are seafood restaurants and cafes. In these places you can enjoy the unique view of the Bosphorus while eating fresh fish bread.
The bridge also has an important place in the artistic and cultural fabric of the city. Galata Bridge, which is included in many literary works and artistic works describing Istanbul, is especially famous for the unique photographs taken at sunset. You can walk across the bridge to Eminönü and easily reach the historic Spice Bazaar and Sultanahmet district.
3. Kamondo Stairs
Kamondo Stairs is known as one of the most photogenic spots in Istanbul. Built in the 19th century by the famous Jewish banker Abraham Salomon Kamondo. These stairs reflect an impressive combination of Baroque and Art Nouveau styles.
The Kamondo family made great contributions to the banking sector during the Ottoman Empire and were known for their support for education. The purpose of the stairs was to allow Kamondo’s grandchildren to reach their school in Galata from Bankalar Street safely and quickly.
This architectural masterpiece attracts many local and foreign tourists thanks to its curved and aesthetic form. It is a place not to be missed, especially for photographers and art lovers. Witnessing the history and cosmopolitan structure of Istanbul, Kamondo Stairs is waiting to be discovered as one of the hidden treasures of the city.
4. Bankalar Street
Bankalar Street is known as the financial center during the Ottoman period. The street, which attracts attention with its neoclassical and Baroque buildings, is still home to financial institutions today. It is also home to cultural attractions such as Salt Galata.
5. Loi Bosphorus Restaurant
Located in the heart of Karaköy, Loi Bosphorus Restaurant offers a unique dining experience accompanied by the Bosphorus view. It is frequented by both local and foreign guests with its rich menu and stylish atmosphere. Especially in the evening, you can experience unforgettable moments with the fascinating view of the Bosphorus.
6. Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art was opened in 2004 as Turkey’s first modern art museum. The museum, which houses the best examples of contemporary art, is a meeting point for art lovers with exhibitions and events.
7. French Gateway
One of the most charming and nostalgic spots in Karaköy, the French Passage was built by French merchants in the 19th century. This passage, which has neo-classical architectural features, was home to the offices and warehouses of French merchants during the period when trade was intense.
Today, this historic passage is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, cafes and restaurants and is a great example of how Istanbul’s old and new cultures are intertwined. Here you can visit art exhibitions, buy handmade design products or have a nice coffee break.
The French Gateway is one of the most special spots in Karaköy, especially for photographers and art lovers. If you want to experience the historical atmosphere with a modern touch, you can take a pleasant walk through this nostalgic passage.
8. Underground Mosque
One of the most mysterious buildings in Karaköy, the Underground Mosque stands out with its unusual history and its different location from other mosques. This mosque, which was built during the Ottoman period by Captain-General Süleyman Pasha, was actually built over a dungeon used by the Genoese.
The Underground Mosque was used as a prison where prisoners were kept throughout history. Converted into a mosque by the Ottomans, today it is a peaceful place for those who want to worship and pray with its quiet and mystical atmosphere.
While its interior is marked by Ottoman architecture, its dim lighting and historical walls offer a mesmerizing atmosphere to visitors. If you want to explore the mysterious and historical mosques of Istanbul, the Underground Mosque should definitely be on your list.
9. Kilic Ali Pasha Bath
One of the most famous historical baths of Istanbul, Kılıç Ali Pasha Bath was built by Mimar Sinan by Kılıç Ali Pasha, one of the most important captains of the Ottoman navy. Completed in 1580, this magnificent structure is one of the most beautiful examples of classical Ottoman bath architecture.
While the large dome of the bath reveals the engineering genius of Mimar Sinan, the decoration of the interior reflects the artistic understanding of the period. The hammam offers a variety of services to local and foreign visitors who want to experience traditional Turkish bath rituals such as heat (hararet), belly stone, scrub-foam massage and relaxation areas.
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam is considered one of the best hammams in Istanbul with its historical atmosphere and luxurious services. If you want to experience a historical hammam and participate in the traditional cleansing rituals of the Ottoman period, you should definitely visit this place.
10. Galataport
Galataport is one of Istanbul’s most important urban regeneration projects and stands out as a huge area that combines the historical and modern face of the city. Located on the shores of the Golden Horn, this project has become one of Istanbul’s tourist and commercial attractions with an international cruise port, shopping centers, art galleries, restaurants and hotels.
The historic Tophane Clock Tower and the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture are among the points of interest for visitors. At the same time, the area offers many activities such as walking by the sea, having a pleasant time in cafes overlooking the Bosphorus and shopping. Galataport, one of Istanbul’s gateways to the world, welcomes international cruise ships especially in the summer months, increasing the touristic activity of the city. If you want to explore modern Istanbul, we suggest you take a break at Galataport and spend some time by the sea.
Accommodation and Transportation in Karakoy
Karaköy offers easy access to many points of Istanbul thanks to its central location. You can easily reach by tram, bus and ferry services. There are also different accommodation options in Karakoy, from boutique hotels to luxury hotels. Popular hotels in the area include The Galata Istanbul Hotel, Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus and 10 Karaköy Hotel.