OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in some of your favourite holiday hotspots – as well as some lesserknown gems.
This week we shine a light on a Turkish delight: Istanbul’s Karaköy neighbourhood, set on Istanbul’s European side and once a centre of trade, culture and maritime activity.
Today its heritage architecture sits alongside contemporary galleries, independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants.
With the Bosphorus waterfront on its doorstep, it’s an ideal base for discovering the city’s many layers.
Known as Istanbul’s coolest neighbourhood, The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, who visited, said it felt like a “trendy pocket of an otherwise busy, but beautiful city”.
For trainspotters, it’s also home to Karaköy station which features the historic Tünel – the second-oldest underground railway in the world.
Here are some of our other top tips.
MUST SEE / DO
Start at Galataport, Karaköy’s transformed waterfront district stretching along the Bosphorus.
Once part of Istanbul’s historic working port, the promenade is now home to restaurants, shops and cultural spaces, including Istanbul Modern, with views across the water towards the historic peninsula.
From here, wander into Karaköy’s backstreets before climbing towards neighbouring Galata, where cobbled lanes and historic buildings lead to the landmark Galata Tower.
HIDDEN GEM
Tucked between Karaköy and Galata, the Kamondo Stairs are one of the neighbourhood’s most distinctive architectural details.
Built by the influential Kamondo banking family in the 19th century, the sweeping stone staircase curves elegantly between the old banking streets, creating one of Istanbul’s most photogenic corners.
Their unusual design makes them easy to miss among the surrounding historic buildings, but they’re well worth seeking out while exploring the area on foot.
BEST VIEW
For one of Istanbul’s most popular panoramas, head up to Galata Tower.
From its elevated position above Karaköy, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views across the Golden Horn, Bosphorus and historic peninsula, taking in the domes and minarets of the Old City and ferries crossing between the European and Asian sides.
Time a visit for late afternoon to watch the city begin to glow below.
RATED RESTAURANT
For street food heaven, head to Mumhane Street.
Mehmet Usta’s fish wraps are a local favourite – mackerel grilled over open coals spiced with pomegrante molasses, sumac and herbs and rolled tightly in thin flatbread.
For a sit-down delight, head to Karakoy Lokantasi for Turkish home-style dishes and traditional mezes including slow-cooked lamb.
BEST BAR
Unter on Mumhane street was one of the original venues that helped transform the Karakoy district.
By day, it’s a buzzing cafe, by night it transforms into a vibrant neighbourhood bar for craft cocktails and wine.
For more rooftop views, head to The Bank Hotel’s Roof Bar on Bankalar Street for sunset drinks.
HOTEL PICK
Hovagimyan Hotel & Suites is a boutique bolthole in the heart of Karaköy, housed within a landmark building.
Meticulously restored, each of the 20 suites is individually furnished with Art Nouveau and Art Deco antiques.
Each also comes with a fully-equipped kitchen.
Moments from the Bosphorus waterfront and Galata Tower, head to The Penthouse, the top-floor bar for the best panoramic views.
Rooms from £213per night in September. See hovagimyan.com.