Türkiye
Day 4: Balat & Kadiköy
We saved the two most creative neighborhoods, Balat and Kadıköy, for our final day in Istanbul. Start your day in nostalgic Balat, where you can wander past colorful houses, antique shops, and historic synagogues. In the afternoon, take the ferry across the Bosporus to Kadıköy. Here, you can stroll through the markets, sample local street food, and soak up the creative energy of street art.
Colorful houses of Balat
Balat was once home to a diverse community of Jews, Muslims, and Christians, and this rich history is still visible in the neighborhood's architecture. Today, Balat attracts creative souls, with a growing number of galleries, (vintage) boutiques, charming coffeehouses, and lunch bars, solidifying its reputation as one of Istanbul's trendiest neighborhoods. One of Balat’s most colorful attractions is the vibrant houses that line its streets. These photogenic facades in lively hues are not only a feast for the eyes but also carry a piece of history: blue houses were often home to Jewish families, green to Greek, and red to Armenian. Despite the rainy weather, the houses instantly lifted our spirits!
Rainbow Steps
Another highlight in Balat is the Rainbow Steps (or in Turkish: Renkli Merdivenler) near the cozy İncir Ağacı Kahvesi. These striking stairs are not only a prominent sight but also a highly photogenic hotspot. Climbing the rainbow-colored steps leads you to the colorful houses on Sancaktar Hill. Walk back down, and you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Balat again. In our opinion, it’s definitely a charming spot worth strolling by!
Phanar Greek Orthodox College
The Phanar Greek Orthodox College, known to locals as kırmızı kale (the Red Castle), rises above the Balat neighborhood like a mysterious fortress. Founded in 1454 and housed in a prestigious building designed by architect Konstantinos Dimadis, this "Hogwarts of Istanbul" is the oldest school in Turkey. With its distinctive red bricks and towering spires, it remains a unique landmark where around 50 students still receive education today.
Çikolata Değirmeni
Çikolata Değirmeni is a cozy chocolate shop and café, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Here, you can indulge in rich, calorie-packed desserts made with premium Belgian Callebaut chocolate. Their San Sebastian cheesecake is also a big favorite. With its charming atmosphere and delectable treats, it’s the perfect stop while exploring Balat!
Ferry to Kadiköy
Street art in Kadiköy
Kadıköy is a melting pot of culture, lively bars, food markets, and unique vintage and tattoo shops. But what truly makes this neighborhood special is the stunning street art that brings every alley to life. From walls and rooftops to even trash bins – almost everything is used as a canvas for creative expressions. The artworks not only showcase the neighborhood's dynamism and diversity but also feature bold political messages. This makes a walk through the streets incredibly captivating!
Moda
Moda is the trendy hotspot in Kadıköy. Don’t expect grand mosques or historical landmarks here, but instead, a relaxed vibe along the coastline. Stroll through charming streets filled with bohemian-style cafés, unique boutiques, and occasional craft markets. The old, green tram that rides through the streets adds a nostalgic touch to the neighborhood. The lush grass along the coast is a perfect spot to unwind, and in the evening, you can enjoy the most beautiful sunsets.
