Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, on the shores of the Bosphorus, Haydarpaşa is a historically and culturally significant quarter of the city. Although less known to tourists, it was once one of the most important transport hubs of the Ottoman Empire. The region’s iconic building, Haydarpaşa Railway Station, was built in 1909 with the help of German architects and for decades served as one of Turkey’s most important railway hubs. The magnificent neo-Renaissance building continues to impress visitors to this day, although it has been under renovation since a fire in 2010.
Things to see in Haydarpasa
Haydarpaşa Railway Station. The interior is still being renovated, but the exterior facade, the towers and the panoramic views of the Bosphorus make it well worth a visit.
Selimiye Kaserna. Parts of the barracks are still used for military purposes, but the Florence Nightingale Museum offers an insight into the history of medicine and nursing.
Kadıköy Market Square. Just next to Haydarpaşa is Kadıköy, one of Istanbul’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. The local markets are full of fresh fish, spices and Turkish specialities, while cats stroll peacefully among the vendors. More modern cafes and street food stalls mix with the traditional Turkish bazaar atmosphere.
Marmaray tunnel and ferry port. This underground line links Europe and Asia under the Bosphorus, offering a unique transport experience. And from the nearby ferry port, you can take a quick boat trip across to the historic peninsula.
Did you know? The port of Haydarpaşa was once the terminus of the Orient Express, Europe’s most exclusive train service between Paris and Istanbul.
Interesting fact: Although few people know it, Haydarpaşa is home to one of Istanbul’s oldest Armenian cemeteries, which preserves a unique cultural and religious heritage.
Istanbul: a fortress between two continents
Istanbul, one of the most exciting and colourful cities in the world, is a perfect blend of history and modernity. The Bosphorus is the bridge that connects two continents, Europe and Asia, and both sides are so rich in cultural heritage that you could spend a lifetime exploring them. Having witnessed many civilisations over its more than 2,500-year history, the city’s past and present are uniquely intertwined in everyday life. Istanbul is more than just a big city.
A mecca of Byzantine temples, colourful bazaars, Ottoman mosques and historic spice markets, Istanbul is a sensory overload of culture and history.
TIP: Turkey’s official currency is the Turkish Lira. Credit cards are used in most places in the city, but cash is fine for small purchases.
History and Attractions
Hagia Sophia:. One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks is the 17th century Blue Mosque, a monument of Ottoman architecture. The building’s interior is adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles, 200 stained glass windows and chandeliers, which make for a stunning sight. The mosque is imposing with its five main domes, eight smaller domes and six minarets, and is visible from several points in the area. As it is still a working religious site, visitors are only allowed access during certain hours. One of Istanbul’s most famous and important landmarks, the Hagia Sophia was originally a church, then a mosque and now a museum. The monumental structure combines Byzantine and Ottoman styles, with stunning mosaics, marble columns and a gilded interior that will leave visitors in awe.
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Topkapi Palace. It is one of the world’s largest and one of the most important palaces of the Ottoman Empire.
Basilica Cisterna. The ancient reservoir hidden underground is a wonderfully mysterious place that was used to store water in the Byzantine era. The pillared, dark and cool environment makes for a truly special experience.
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Galata Tower. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy a fabulous panorama of the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Dolmabahce Palace. The interior is decorated with gold and crystal, while the exterior is surrounded by imposing gates, fountains and columns. The palace is a symbol of the end of the Turkish Empire and the birth of modern Turkey, a real experience that will enchant visitors.
Grand Bazaar: The oldest and largest indoor market in the world, the Grand Bazaar has over 4,000 stalls and 22 entrances. It’s easy to get lost in the maze of the bazaar, but the real experience is wandering between the shops. Be prepared to bargain as each shop offers unique items and opportunities for shoppers. The authentic market atmosphere and the mix of different cultures make for an unforgettable experience.
Istanbul’s Interest and Specialities
The Bosphorus: the Bosphorus is a stunning waterway that separates Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. This strategic strait has played a key role in trade, culture and history for centuries. It is about 30 kilometres long and varies in width, from as little as 700 metres in some places to up to 3 kilometres in others. The city of Istanbul, on the banks of the Bosphorus, is a fascinating sight as it lies between the two banks of the strait, allowing us to admire the city’s rich architectural heritage from both continents. The bridges spanning the Bosphorus, such as the Yavuz Sultan Selim and Fatih Sultan Mehmet bridges, provide a stunning sight as they link the two continents. A cruise on the Bosphorus is a special experience, where visitors can admire the Turkish palaces, fortresses and old villas that line the banks of the strait. The boat trip gives a special atmosphere, especially at sunset, when the sunlight reflects off the water and bathes the landscape in fabulous colours. The Bosphorus is also famous for its fresh seafood, which is available in local restaurants and eateries. Hikes and boat trips along the strait offer plenty of opportunities to explore the city while enjoying the beauty of the scenery and the buzz of life on the waterfront. The Bosphorus is therefore not only a geographical frontier but also a meeting point of cultures, history and everyday life.
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Turkish Coffee. The special brewing method and unique flavours make it a truly Turkish experience. The atmosphere of the cafés is also captivating, especially for those who like to linger for hours over a cup of coffee.
Cats of Istanbul. The locals take pride in looking after them, and you can see the beloved Istanbul cats on every corner.
Gastronomy.
Istanbul’s cuisine combines the best of Turkish gastronomy with influences from around the world. The city is full of delicious street food and restaurants.
Kebabs. The delicious meats are freshly prepared and are an essential part of a real Turkish meal.
Baklava: Sweet, rich morsels made from strudel dough and filled with honey, pistachios or walnuts, these are the pinnacle of Turkish sweets.
Simit: A circular pastry sprinkled with sesame seeds, it is a must-have on the streets of Istanbul, eaten for breakfast or snack.
Meyhane: Istanbul tavernas, which serve a variety of meze (Turkish starters), are also ideal places to sample Turkish wines and raki.
Istanbul is a city where history and the modern world live together in perfect harmony. The city fascinates visitors from both continents, from its palaces and bazaars to its vibrant city life. Istanbul is a paradise not only for lovers of history but also for lovers of culinary delights. The city’s rich cultural heritage can be felt in every corner, making for an unforgettable experience. Haydarpaşa, the lesser known but all the more magical part of Istanbul, is the perfect complement to a trip to Istanbul, with its train station, the Bosphorus waterfront and the local gastronomy offering a unique experience. For a more authentic side to the city, Haydarpaşa and its surroundings are sure to impress.