Top Places to Visit in Besiktas

Located on the European side of Istanbul, Beşiktaş is one of the most characteristic neighbourhoods of the city with its historical buildings, lively streets, cultural spots and Bosphorus views. From Dolmabahçe Palace to the Naval Museum, Beşiktaş Bazaar to its lush green parks, Beşiktaş is a must-see destination for both local and foreign tourists travelling to Istanbul. If you are looking for “Where to visit in Beşiktaş?” or “Must-see districts in Istanbul”, here is a comprehensive guide for you to discover the historical, cultural and natural beauties of Beşiktaş.Beşiktaş is one of the easily accessible districts of Istanbul from both the European and Anatolian sides.Buses: There are regular bus services to Beşiktaş from many points such as Zincirlikuyu, Levent, Eminönü, Taksim and Mecidiyeköy.Metro: You can get off the M2 Metro line at Şişli-Mecidiyeköy station and take the bus, or take a 15-20 minute walk to Beşiktaş. Beşiktaş Metro Station can also provide convenience in this regard.Ferry: There are regular ferry services from Kadıköy, Üsküdar and Bostancı to Beşiktaş. Especially in the summer months, transportation by sea is quite enjoyable.Dolmus / Minibus: Kadıköy-Besiktas minibuses from the Anatolian Side provide easy transportation.On foot: It is possible to reach Beşiktaş on foot from the surrounding neighbourhoods such as Kabataş, Ortaköy, and Nişantaşı. You can experience the street life of Istanbul along the way.Built during the late Ottoman period and influenced by Western architecture, Dolmabahçe Palace was commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid in 1856. Combining Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles with traditional Ottoman architecture, this palace serves as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's modernization period.Covering a vast area with 285 rooms and 46 halls, the palace enchants visitors with its crystal staircases, gold-leaf ceiling decorations, and massive chandeliers. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk spent the final days of his life here, passing away in this palace on November 10, 1938. Upon entering the room, one can observe that the clock is stopped at 09:05.Visiting Hours: Every day except Monday.Admission Fee: Entry is charged, and the Museum Card is not valid.Situated between Beşiktaş and Nişantaşı, surrounded by greenery, Ihlamur Palace is an elegant building constructed by Sultan Abdülmecid in the 19th century. The palace comprises two main sections: the Ceremony Pavilion and the Entourage Pavilion. The rococo-style decorations, ceiling frescoes, and original furnishings in the interior are particularly noteworthy.Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens surrounding the palace and enjoy nature accompanied by the sounds of birds.Yıldız Park, also known as Yıldız Forest, is one of the largest green areas in the centre of Istanbul. It features historical structures such as the Tent Pavilion and the Malta Pavilion. The park offers walking paths, ponds, diverse bird species, and a variety of vegetation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature.Yıldız Palace, located within the park, served as a palace during the reign of Abdulhamid II. The palace complex also includes buildings used for government affairs, a carpentry workshop, a theatre hall, and government offices.The tomb of Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha, one of the most significant figures in Ottoman maritime history, is situated next to the Beşiktaş Pier. This simple yet impressive tomb, constructed by Mimar Sinan, is visited annually by the Navy for commemorative ceremonies. The Barbaros Monument in front of it and the surrounding square are symbols of Beşiktaş.The heart of the neighbourhood, Beşiktaş Bazaar, is bustling with restaurants, street food, boutique shops, bookstores, and cafes. Especially crowded with students and young people in the evenings, this bazaar is ideal for experiencing local life.Kahvaltıcılar Street is located within Beşiktaş Market, where, in the morning hours, you can find Istanbul's most famous breakfast spots.Founded in 1897, the Istanbul Maritime Museum is Turkey's largest and most comprehensive museum dedicated to maritime themes. Its collection includes numerous artefacts such as Ottoman royal boats, maps, compasses, ship models, military uniforms, and war memorabilia. The 32 royal boats from the Ottoman period are particularly impressive.Visiting Hours: Every day except Monday Admission Fee: The Museum Card is valid.Built in 1555 by Mimar Sinan in honour of Sinan Pasha, one of the viziers of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, this mosque is an elegant example of classical Ottoman architecture. Its single dome, interior decorations, and simple architecture reflect the historical texture of the neighbourhood. It is easily accessible as it is very close to the Beşiktaş Pier.Founded in 1937 on the instructions of Atatürk, the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture has served for many years as part of the Istanbul State Academy of Fine Arts. It reopened its doors in 2022 after moving to its newly renovated modern building. The museum houses works by prominent figures in Turkish painting, such as Osman Hamdi Bey, İbrahim Çallı, and Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu. It is a must-see destination, particularly for those interested in modern and contemporary Turkish art. Visiting Hours: Every day except Monday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Admission Fee: 250 TL (Museum Card is not valid.)Abbasağa Park is one of the most characteristic neighbourhood parks in Beşiktaş. With its tea garden, walking paths, basketball court, and open-air theatre, it is the heart of neighbourhood culture. Various open-air cinemas, yoga events, and workshops are organised during the summer months. It is ideal for those who wish to take a walk in a peaceful atmosphere, especially in the morning. Furthermore, it offers a natural environment where you can interact with local people.Zorlu PSM is one of Istanbul's largest cultural and artistic complexes. It hosts Broadway musicals, theatre plays, concerts, dance performances, and alternative performances. With two main stages, Turkcell Stage and Touché, it accommodates both large-scale productions and intimate jazz concerts. The venue is also open during the day for exhibitions and talks, making it a unique destination for those seeking a day immersed in art. Event Calendar: zorlupsm.comBeşiktaş offers small treasures for book lovers. Simurg Sahaf, located in the Köyiçi area, is known for its old magazines, history books, and second-hand literature. Minoa Bookstore & Cafe is renowned not only for its books but also for its quality coffee and desserts. A modern and boutique bookstore, Minoa boasts a rich archive of art, design, and architecture books. They are excellent stops for those who wish to spend time among books. Address Suggestion: Minoa Beşiktaş - Vişnezade Mah. Süleyman Seba Cad. No:52/ASource: Müdavim

What to See in Besiktas, Istanbul: Best Attractions and Local Favourites

How to get to Beşiktaş?

1. Dolmabahçe Palace

2. Ihlamur Palace

3. Yıldız Park and Yıldız Palace

4. Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha Tomb and Monument

5. Beşiktaş Bazaar

6. Istanbul Maritime Museum

7. Sinan Pasha Mosque

8. Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture

9. Abbasağa Park

10. Zorlu PSM (Performing Arts Centre)

11. Beşiktaş's Sahafs and Independent Bookstores

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