Contemporary Istanbul
The truest sense of a city reveals itself not when you’re searching for answers, but when you simply surrender to its rhythm. Jiu, a local content creator connecting Korea and Türkiye, takes us beyond Istanbul’s grand mosques, ancient palaces and intricate tilework to explore the real Istanbul of today, found not in its monumental sights but in the gentle, everyday cadence of the city.
- Jiu With 220,000 subscribers on YouTube, 150,000 on Instagram, and 70,000 on TikTok, Jiu is a leading content creator connecting Korea and Türkiye. She also works for a Korean-Turkish business agency, where she helps to bridge the two countries through business consulting, exposition management, and trade facilitation.
Maçka Park
⚑ Harbiye, Mim Kemal Öke Cd., 34365 Maçka-Şişli/Şişli
Located on the edge of Nişantaşı, one of Istanbul’s most upscale neighborhoods near Osmanbey Station, this beloved park is the perfect place for a quiet stroll. It’s also famous as a spot where local volunteers, residents and the city all work together to care for the city’s stray cats; it’s said to be home to hundreds of them. This is a place where you can feel the warmth of Turkey, a country that truly loves its animals.
- TIP There’s a small café in the park with outdoor seating where you can enjoy tea or coffee, making it a wonderful place to relax and watch the cats.
Cihangir
⚑ 34433 Beyoğlu
Just south of the bustling hub of Taksim, an area around Taksim Square described as the heart of modern Istanbul, you’ll find the charming neighborhood of Cihangir. Its winding alleyways are filled with cozy little cafés, and its picturesque streets are home to all sorts of lovely hidden shops. Even though it’s right next to a major thoroughfare, it has a surprisingly relaxed vibe. If you’re looking to take a short break from the more hectic tourist spots, tuck into one of the neighborhood’s cafés for a relaxing cup of coffee.
- TIP Try cinnamon rolls at Nørre İstanbul or a cup of coffee from L’oba Coffee House.
Nakkaştepe National Garden
⚑ Kuzguncuk, Gümüşyolu Çk Sk No:4, 34674 Üsküdar
Cross the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side of the city, and you’ll find this beautiful national park with a sweeping, panoramic view of the Bosphorus Strait and the bridge (officially named the July 15 Martyrs Bridge). The park is beautifully landscaped and offers plenty of spots for a picnic, as well as walking trails and exercise equipment, making it a popular destination for families.
- TIP Visitors can take advantage of one of the many scenic terraces dotted throughout the park, each offering a stunning view of the Bosphorus Strait and the bridge.
Bagdat Avenue
⚑ Gümüşsuyu, Bağdat Cad. No:4, 34740 Beyoğlu
This is where you’ll find the trendiest side of Istanbul all in one place. Located on the city’s Asian side, this polished, sophisticated shopping avenue has recently become very popular with the younger generation, and many of the hip boutiques and cafés that were once concentrated on the European side have now opened up here.
- TIP Many shops have relocated here from the more tourist-heavy İstiklal Avenue, but for those looking for a more historic, traditional ambiance, the beautiful İstiklal Avenue is definitely worth a visit.
Bomontiada
⚑ Tarihi Bomonti Bira Fabrikası, Merkez Mah Silahşör Cad, Birahane Sk. No:1, 34384 Şişli
In the city’s Şişli district, a former factory for the local beer brand Bomonti has been reborn as Bomontiada, one of Istanbul’s hottest cultural hubs. This dynamic complex is a perfect blend of art, music and food, with modern cafés, pubs, restaurants, galleries and live performance venues that make it a great place to hang out any time of day.
- TIP Be sure to check their schedule, as they host free outdoor concerts, film screenings and festivals.
Bova Jazz Club
⚑ Şehit Muhtar, Mis Sk. No:17, 34435 Beyoğlu
Opened in 2017, this cozy live jazz club near Taksim Station has become a go-to spot to hear some of Turkey’s finest jazz musicians. It’s a place with a wonderfully relaxed, easygoing vibe, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Istanbul where you can just sit back and enjoy the music. For locals, it feels like a beloved hideaway.
- TIP Your ticket includes a cocktail and some light snacks, making it a great way to enjoy an evening of both good music and good food.
- Korean Air operates direct flights between Incheon and Istanbul 3 times a week.
