The Most Luxurious Districts in İstanbul
İstanbul hosts Türkiye’s most famous luxury districts and welcomes millions of tourists yearly. There are countless attractive spots on İstanbul’s map! Sometimes spectacular Bosphorus views add value to a district, and other times streets that are lined with high-end boutiques. Whatever the reason, İstanbul is full of famous attractions and sites worth visiting! Deciding where to head among so many options is the hardest part, but we have you covered! We’ve listed İstanbul’s exclusive districts that are the perfect destination for some quality time. Let's take a look together!
Nişantaşı
The district of Nişantaşı on İstanbul’s European side is a shopping heaven! Nişantaşı is a residential area that attracts İstanbul’s fashionable and artistic crowd with its many boutiques where famous international and local brands are sold and luxury clothing stores with magnificent window displays. This is a great place to enjoy shopping outdoors, and the perfect destination for charming cafés and fancy restaurants. Head to Abdi İpekçi Street for the hippest eating establishments that serve both Turkish and world cuisine. Don’t be surprised if you spot many celebrities here! Nişantaşı is also famous for its entertainment venues such as nightclubs and bars, as well as its art galleries where international and Turkish artists exhibit their work.
Levent
The district of Levent is perhaps İstanbul’s most modern face! The gigantic plazas here will put you under their spell! Levent is located on the European side of İstanbul and is famous for its shopping centers where you can find world-renowned, high-end brands and stores. İstanbul’s elite chooses to live and shop here. Apart from exclusive stores, there are many luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants, and distinguished entertainment venues in Levent.
Bebek
Bebek, a coastal district on the European shore of the Bosphorus, charms visitors with its upscale and charming atmosphere. It is the perfect destination to walk along the waterfront and watch the boats cruise along the Bosphorus. Bebek is also very green - take a short break in Bebek Park to enjoy the sea air and nature. You can also rent a bike and take in the shoreline on two wheels!
The side streets in Bebek are full of quaint coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. For an unforgettable dinner, make sure to choose a sea restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus!
Arnavutköy
Arnavutköy is located between Kuruçeşme and Bebek on the European shore of the Bosphorus. It is famous for its historical wooden mansions overlooking the water.
If you enjoy seafood, this is the place for you! There are plenty of fish restaurants along the coast of Arnavutköy. Enjoy fresh seafood while breathing in the aroma of the sea and relaxing in the warm breeze of the Bosphorus!
Sarıyer
Sarıyer is located on İstanbul’s European side, in the northernmost region of the Bosphorus, where the strait meets the Black Sea. It is the locals’ preferred destination for traditional Turkish breakfast and weekend getaways! Sarıyer promises relaxing sea views and endless greenery. At Atatürk Arboretum, you can admire many tree species. It is a great choice for walking, running, and photography. There are also several museums in the district for those looking for a cultural experience.
Another must-see site here is Rumelihisarı, Rumeli Castle, which dates back to the Ottoman period. The view of the city from the fortress’s massive walls is breathtaking! Sarıyer hosts some of İstanbul’s most famous fish restaurants – if you love seafood, make sure to stop by one and enjoy an unforgettable meal!
Beykoz
Another pearl of the Bosphorus is Beykoz! Contrary to the metropole’s fast-paced lifestyle, this district offers a peaceful and quieter environment. Beykoz is also famous for its many historical pavilions such as Küçüksu Pavilion and Hidiv Pavilion. These beautiful structures will enchant you with their intricate architecture and the vast green areas that surround them.
Anadolu Hisarı, or Anatolian Castle, is destination here that should not be missed! This gorgeous castle is located exactly opposite Rumelihisarı (Rumeli Castle) and is the ultimate spot to catch the city's most beautiful view! There are many restaurants nearby with outdoor seating where you can enjoy refreshments and take in the panorama.
Beylerbeyi
Beylerbeyi is situated exactly below the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus Bridge. Looking at it from the sea, you’ll be struck by the beautiful seaside mansions and the people fishing along the Bosporus shore. However, don’t limit yourself to admiring it from a distance! A visit to Beylerbeyi Palace is a must! The palace is a glorious monument of the 19th century – the white marble of the exterior is as fascinating at the interior tiles!
Sip a cup of tea relaxing in one of the old-style cafés overlooking the palace and the Bosphorus. Or perhaps, you’d like to head to one of the renowned seafood restaurants in the area for a delicious meal.
Bağdat Avenue (Bağdat Caddesi)
When talking about exclusive, luxury areas in İstanbul, there is one that cannot be overlooked - Bağdat Avenue! It is one of the longest streets in İstanbul with a total length of exactly 14 kilometers! It is a clean and orderly street which traverses many luxury districts of the Anatolian side. Along it, you will come across many luxury shops, stylish cafés, and famous restaurants. It is a pleasure not to be missed!