Istanbul Autumn: New Routes for Travelers

Istanbul — one of the most visited and intriguing metropolises of modern times. Each season, it has its own charm, but many travelers believe that it's most enchanting in autumn, offering numerous amazing adventures. So, if you're planning to visit Istanbul in the fall, explore these places.

Colorful Kuzguncuk

Kuzguncuk is known as a picturesque neighborhood located in the Uskudar district on the Asian side of the city. It features historic Ottoman-style wooden houses, large plane trees, and plenty of greenery. It's not the most famous tourist area in the city, which adds to its allure. You'll see Istanbul from a different perspective. Also, consider visiting the Beyoglu district, which preserves traces of a rich ancient history. There, you can find a church, a synagogue, and a mosque almost in a row. There are charming tiny cafes serving authentic Turkish coffee.

Bookstores

During the autumn, many people visit bookstores in Istanbul, such as those in the Caddesbutan area. One of the largest bookstores, Penguen Kitabevi, occupying five floors, offers a wide selection of the best publications in Turkish and English. There is also a broad range of classical literature and an extensive reading area. It's an excellent place to buy wonderful books for reading on long winter evenings.

Beşiktaş — Ortaköy

Istanbul is perfect for leisurely walks, especially in autumn when there are fewer tourists, the summer heat has subsided, and you can enjoy beautiful, picturesque routes. For example, take a stroll from Beşiktaş to Ortaköy along the Bosphorus. The view of the water, numerous historical landmarks, and the famous Bosphorus Bridge is breathtaking. Beşiktaş with its lively atmosphere contrasts beautifully with the serene charm of Ortaköy, known for its magnificent Mecidiye Mosque built in the Neo-Baroque style. There are also charming cafes in Ortaköy that sell waffles, famous throughout Istanbul.

Writer's House

If you're a literature enthusiast, be sure to visit the hill of one of the famous Prince Islands, Heybeliada. This whimsical island in the Sea of Marmara was once the home of the renowned Turkish writer Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar. Now, it's a museum where his personal belongings are exhibited. It's a special place where the writer created his works, and many claim that a stroll through these areas inspires creativity.

Salep

Autumn in Istanbul is the perfect time to enjoy amazing Turkish dishes and drinks. One of them is salep, a hot, delicious creamy beverage made from orchid root flour. It warms not only the body but also the soul. Salep goes perfectly with baklava and Turkish delight. In the Şirkeci district, you can find cafes, pastry shops, and famous Turkish stores that sell sweets.

Cafes in Karaköy

Karaköy, a trendy micro-district on the European side of Istanbul, near Beyoglu, is known as a paradise for coffee lovers and art connoisseurs. Its cobblestone streets are filled with cafes, each with its own unique style, sometimes very original. Karaköy also features art galleries, fish restaurants, pastry shops, and museums. It's a bohemian district that is definitely worth a visit.

Maçka Telpher

To see Istanbul from a height, take a ride on the Maçka telpher cable car, which connects Nişantaşı, a luxurious shopping district, with the bustling Taksim Square. The ride offers a panoramic view of the city, including its lively neighborhoods and the majestic Bosphorus. A walk in the air will leave no one indifferent.

Selfie Museum

For lovers of unusual photos, Istanbul has a special attraction — the selfie museum. It's a trendy place with many themed halls where you can take the coolest and most fun pictures.

Wandering Around

Another fantastic way to explore autumnal Istanbul is to wander wherever your eyes take you. Just stroll through its streets, historical neighborhoods, chat with locals and tourists, and stop by cafes along the way. This way, you'll discover another side of Istanbul that is not in the guidebooks and experience its unique magic.