Exploring Besiktas, Istanbul: Things to Do, See – Our Best Tips

Besiktas is one of the most dynamic and lively neighborhoods in Istanbul, offering a mix of history, culture, waterfront views, and a buzzing local scene. Whether you’re looking for historic landmarks, great food, or a vibrant nightlife, Besiktas has something for everyone.

As someone who loves exploring Istanbul’s hidden gems, I always recommend Besiktas to visitors who want to experience the city like a local. It’s a fantastic place to stroll along the Bosphorus, enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine, and discover both modern and historic attractions.

Here’s everything you need to know about Besiktas, from the best things to do to the top places to eat and drink.

Why Visit Besiktas?

Besiktas is a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike, and here’s why:

✔️ Waterfront Views – Enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus and Maiden’s Tower.
✔️ Historical Landmarks – Visit Dolmabahçe Palace, Yıldız Park, and Ortaköy Mosque.
✔️ Lively Local Culture – Experience local markets, cafes, and vibrant street life.
✔️ Great Food Scene – Some of Istanbul’s best breakfast spots and seafood restaurants are here.
✔️ Easy Access – Well-connected by ferries, buses, and metro to other parts of the city.

If you want a neighborhood full of life, history, and amazing food, Besiktas is a must-visit!

Besiktas For a Day: Our Best Itinerary

Make the most of your time in Besiktas with this perfect day plan:

🌅 Morning: Start with Breakfast by the Bosphorus

• Head to Ortaköy for a traditional Turkish breakfast with a view.
• Try The House Cafe or Mangerie for a cozy and scenic start to the day.
• Take a walk along the Ortaköy waterfront and snap a photo with the Ortaköy Mosque.

🏰 Mid-Morning: Explore Historic Palaces & Museums

• Visit Dolmabahçe Palace, one of Istanbul’s most stunning Ottoman landmarks.
• Stop by the National Palaces Painting Museum next door to see Ottoman-era artworks.
• If you have extra time, explore Yıldız Palace or Çırağan Palace.

🍽️ Lunch: Eat Like a Local in Besiktas Çarşı

• Head to Besiktas Çarşı for a lively lunch scene.
• Try Karadeniz Döner, one of the best döner kebab spots in Istanbul.
• Explore the small cafés and bakeries for some Turkish tea and fresh pastries.

🌳 Afternoon: Relax in a Park or Go Shopping

• Walk through Yıldız Park, a beautiful green space with panoramic Bosphorus views.
• For shopping, visit Zorlu Center for luxury brands or Besiktas Çarşı for local finds.

🌅 Sunset: Drinks with a View

• Find a Bosphorus-side café or rooftop bar for a drink at sunset.
• Bebek and Kuruçeşme have great spots with stunning sea views.

🍷 Evening: Dinner & Nightlife

• For a romantic dinner, try Sunset Grill & Bar in Ulus or Aqua at the Four Seasons.
• If you’re in the mood for a fun night out, head to Sortie or Ruby in Kuruçeşme.
• For something more laid-back, enjoy a Turkish meyhane experience in Arnavutköy.

💡 Tip: Besiktas is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy its bustling streets, historic spots, and lively cafés! 🚶‍♂️✨

Best Things to Do & See in Besiktas

There’s plenty to explore in Besiktas, but here are the top attractions and experiences you shouldn’t miss.

Explore Besiktas Çarşı (Market)

Besiktas Çarşı is the heart of the district, packed with local shops, street food, and lively cafés. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, taste authentic Turkish food, and experience daily life in Istanbul.

💡 What to Do:

• Try a traditional Turkish breakfast at one of the famous kahvaltı spots.
• Browse through boutique shops, bookstores, and street vendors.
• Enjoy the energetic local vibe, especially on game days when Besiktas football fans gather.

📍 Location: Besiktas Center

Relax at Besiktas Meydanı & Waterfront

The Besiktas waterfront is the perfect place to enjoy the Bosphorus breeze and watch ferries crossing between Europe and Asia.

💡 What to Do:

• Stroll along the promenade for stunning views of the Bosphorus.
• Visit the Besiktas İskele (Ferry Terminal) and watch the lively ferry traffic.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

📍 Location: Besiktas Square & Coastal Area

Visit the Istanbul Naval Museum

One of the most fascinating museums in the city, the Istanbul Naval Museum showcases Ottoman-era ships, historical artifacts, and maritime history.

💡 Don’t Miss:

• The imperial sultan’s boats, beautifully decorated with gold and intricate designs.
• A collection of naval weapons, uniforms, and ship models.
• Interactive exhibits detailing Turkey’s maritime past.

📍 Location: Besiktas Coast

Explore Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace is one of the most magnificent landmarks in Istanbul, once serving as the main residence of Ottoman sultans. Its lavish interior, crystal chandeliers, grand halls, and stunning gardens make it a must-visit.

💡 Highlights:

• The Ceremonial Hall, featuring the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier.
• The Harem section, where the sultans and their families lived.
• Beautifully landscaped palace gardens with Bosphorus views.

📍 Location: Dolmabahçe

Discover the Saray Collections & National Palaces Painting Museum

If you’re visiting Dolmabahçe, don’t miss the Saray Koleksiyonları Müzesi (Palace Collections Museum) and the Millî Saraylar Resim Müzesi (National Palaces Painting Museum), both showcasing priceless Ottoman artifacts and artworks.

💡 What to See:

• Historic palace furniture, jewelry, and decorative pieces.
• A vast collection of paintings from Ottoman and European artists.
• Rare objects used by Ottoman sultans in daily life.

📍 Location: Dolmabahçe Palace Complex

Visit Vodafone Park (İnönü Stadium)

Football fans will love a visit to Vodafone Park, home to the Besiktas football club. Whether you catch a match or take a stadium tour, it’s a great way to experience Istanbul’s passionate sports culture.

💡 What to Do:

• Watch a Besiktas match and feel the energy of the fans.
• Visit the Besiktas JK Museum inside the stadium.
• Take a guided tour of the locker rooms, field, and VIP areas.

📍 Location: Dolmabahçe

Take a Walk Through Maçka Demokrasi Park

This peaceful green park in Besiktas is great for a morning jog, a relaxing stroll, or just escaping the city’s hustle and bustle.

💡 Why Visit:

• Scenic walking trails with great city views.
• Playgrounds and picnic spots for families.
• A cable car ride offering panoramic views over the park.

📍 Location: Maçka, near Nişantaşı

Explore Yıldız Palace & Yıldız Park

Once a private Ottoman palace, Yıldız Sarayı and its surrounding Yıldız Parkı are hidden gems in Besiktas. The park is a tranquil escape with beautiful trees, Ottoman pavilions, and great views of the Bosphorus.

💡 What to See:

• The palace’s historic rooms and exhibits.
• Malta Köşkü & Çadır Köşkü, two elegant Ottoman mansions now serving as cafés.
• Lush gardens and walking trails.

📍 Location: Yıldız

Admire the Luxury of Çırağan Palace

Now a luxury five-star hotel, Çırağan Palace was once an Ottoman royal residence. Even if you’re not staying here, you can visit for a high-end dining experience or a stunning view of the Bosphorus.

💡 What to Do:

• Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at the hotel’s lounge.
• Book a table at the fine-dining restaurant with Bosphorus views.
• Admire the exquisite Ottoman architecture.

📍 Location: Besiktas Coast

Visit Ihlamur Pavilion

Ihlamur Pavilion is a beautiful historic pavilion built as a summer retreat for Ottoman sultans. Its ornate Baroque-style architecture and serene garden setting make it a peaceful escape from the city crowds.

💡 Why Visit:

• Explore the lavish interiors featuring intricate Ottoman décor.
• Relax in the picturesque gardens.
• Learn about the history of Ottoman leisure residences.

📍 Location: Ihlamur, Besiktas

Best Places to Eat & Drink in Besiktas

Besiktas has an amazing food scene, from traditional Turkish breakfasts to seafood restaurants and coffee spots.

🍽️ Best Restaurants in Besiktas

✔️ Tarihi Karadeniz Döner – Famous for Istanbul’s best döner kebab.
✔️ Vogue Restaurant – A stylish rooftop dining spot with Bosphorus views.
✔️ Sinop Mantı – One of the best places for traditional Turkish mantı (dumplings).

🥙 Best Local Eateries

✔️ Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu – A must-visit for traditional Turkish breakfast.
✔️ Karaköy Lokantası – Authentic mezes and Ottoman cuisine.
✔️ Balkan Lokantası – A budget-friendly place for home-style Turkish food.

☕ Best Cafés & Dessert Shops

✔️ Bebek Kahve – A charming café with great Turkish coffee and Bosphorus views.
✔️ Mendel’s Coffee & Chocolatier – Famous for delicious hot chocolate.
✔️ Hafız Mustafa 1864 – The perfect place for baklava and Turkish desserts.

Where to Go Shopping in Besiktas

Besiktas offers a mix of local markets, boutique stores, and high-end shopping malls, catering to every budget and style. Here are the best spots to shop:

• Besiktas Market: A lively open-air market in the heart of Besiktas, filled with clothing stores, accessory shops, bookstores, and second-hand finds.
• Zorlu Center: One of Istanbul’s most luxurious malls, featuring high-end fashion brands, designer boutiques, and a great selection of restaurants and cafés. Ideal for a high-end shopping experience.
• Etiler and Levent Boutiques: For luxury shopping, the Etiler and Levent districts are home to designer stores, jewelry shops, and stylish boutiques. Perfect for those who love exclusive and high-end fashion.
• Local Antique & Vintage Shops: Besiktas also has several hidden gem vintage and antique stores, where you can find old books, unique furniture, and nostalgic memorabilia. A great place for treasure hunters!

💡 Tip: If you want a mix of affordable shopping and luxury brands, explore both Besiktas Çarşı and Zorlu Center during your visit!

Besiktas by Night

Besiktas is one of the liveliest districts in Istanbul after dark, offering everything from trendy rooftop bars to traditional meyhanes and vibrant nightclubs. Here’s where to go:

• Ortaköy’s Waterfront Bars & Cafés: For a relaxed night out, head to Ortaköy’s waterfront and enjoy a drink with stunning Bosphorus views. Many bars offer shisha, live music, and cozy atmospheres.
• Vibrant Pubs in Besiktas Çarşı: The streets around Besiktas Çarşı are packed with student-friendly bars and pubs, serving affordable drinks, craft beer, and casual vibes. Ideal for a laid-back night with friends.
• Meyhanes & Traditional Turkish Taverns: For an authentic Istanbul experience, try a meyhane (Turkish tavern) in Kuruçeşme or Arnavutköy. Enjoy mezze, rakı, and live Turkish music in a lively setting.
• Luxury Nightclubs in Kuruçeşme & Bebek: If you’re looking for upscale nightlife, check out the exclusive nightclubs in Bebek and Kuruçeşme. These venues attract celebrities, DJs, and a stylish crowd.
• Live Music & Jazz Venues: Besiktas is also home to some of the best live music venues in Istanbul, featuring everything from jazz to Turkish rock.

Best Neighborhoods of Besiktas

Besiktas is home to some of Istanbul’s most charming and lively neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. Here are the top areas to explore:

• Akaretler: A stylish and historical area known for its beautiful rowhouses, art galleries, and trendy cafés. Perfect for those who love architecture and a vibrant social scene.
• Ortaköy: One of the most picturesque spots in Istanbul, famous for its Bosphorus views, Ortaköy Mosque, and lively street markets. A must-visit for street food lovers—especially for a fresh kumpir (stuffed baked potato)!
• Kuruçeşme: A high-end district on the Bosphorus, home to luxury restaurants, nightclubs, and waterfront mansions. Ideal for a classy night out or a romantic dinner by the sea.
• Arnavutköy: Known for its colorful Ottoman-era wooden houses and seafood restaurants, Arnavutköy is a great place for a scenic stroll and a fresh fish meal.
• Bebek: A trendy, upscale neighborhood with a beautiful seafront promenade, stylish cafés, and luxury boutiques. A perfect spot for a weekend breakfast or a morning jog by the Bosphorus.
• Akatlar: A quiet and residential area known for its parks, cafés, and local eateries. Great for families and those looking for a peaceful retreat in the city.
• Etiler: One of Istanbul’s most elite districts, famous for its luxury shopping, fine dining, and rooftop bars. A top spot for those seeking a high-end experience.
• Gayrettepe: A business and residential hub with a mix of office buildings, shopping centers, and restaurants. A practical area to stay if you’re looking for modern city life with easy access to key areas.
• Levazım: A modern and quiet residential area close to Zorlu Center, one of Istanbul’s top luxury malls. Ideal for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to shopping and entertainment.
• Levent: A major business district filled with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and corporate offices. Great for business travelers or those who enjoy a modern city vibe with world-class shopping.

Best Tips for Visiting Besiktas

✔️ Go early for breakfast – The best Turkish breakfast places fill up fast!
✔️ Take a ferry ride – The Bosphorus views are incredible.
✔️ Try street food – Don’t miss the famous döner and kumpir.
✔️ Visit in the evening – The bars and nightlife scene in Besiktas is great.
✔️ Explore side streets – Some of the best cafés and boutique shops are hidden away.

How to Get to Besiktas

🚌 By Bus: Many buses connect Besiktas with Taksim, Sultanahmet, and Kadıköy.

⛴️ By Ferry: One of the best ways to reach Besiktas is by ferry from Üsküdar or Kadıköy.

Is Besiktas Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Besiktas is one of Istanbul’s most exciting neighborhoods, full of history, culture, and local charm. Whether you’re looking for historical sights, delicious food, or a lively atmosphere, Besiktas has something for everyone.

📍 Have you visited Besiktas? Let me know your favorite spots in the comments!