Sundowner at the Galata Bridge
We were lucky enough to arrive right before sunset time, so after checking in (hotel tip: Soho House), we immediately walked to the Galata Bridge. Hundreds of fishermen (literally!) come here by the end of the day to find their catch of the day. With views on several mosques and the dramatic Bosphorus, it’s a beautiful place to be. Just walk from one side to another and take in the atmosphere.
Enter the Yeni Camii mosque
Once you crossed the Galata Bridge, you can easily enter the Yeni Camii mosque to get a first glimpse of the architecture here. Feels like real-life Alladin! Takes just a few minutes, yet with the prayer-sounds in the background, it made an impression on me.
Get lost in the Egyptian Bazaar
From the mosque, go and explore the Egyptian Bazaar and the little streets surrounding it. It’s home to many shops and street food stalls. Nice to go on a souvenir hunt!
Must-try streetfood
Reveal secret tip
Dinner at a trendy wine bar
For dinner, head to Beyoglu Saraphanesi. It’s located in a very vibrant street filled with restaurants and cafes, in the Galata area of the city. Whilst you can’t compare it (yet) to wine bars in Western European cities, you can eat well here (mostly Italian), and enjoy a good glass of wine in a beautiful setting.
