At the end of November and the beginning of December, I visited Istanbul for a long weekend. It was my second time in the city, and this time, I discovered some very interesting and lesser-known places that I had never seen before.
Cicek Passage: A Hidden Gem on Istiklal Street
One of the most fascinating and overlooked spots in Istanbul is Cicek Passage. Located on Istiklal Street, this charming passage is filled with restaurants and shops, yet very few people notice it as they pass by. Its small size and tucked-away location make it easy to miss. My dad introduced me to this hidden treasure, and I couldn’t resist taking photos of its beauty. It’s a unique, picturesque spot that I highly recommend visiting if you’re strolling along Istiklal Street in Istanbul.
Marcian Column & Fatih Mosque: Unveiling Istanbul’s Hidden History
The Marcian Column and the Fatih Mosque, located in the Fatih district, are two lesser-known historical gems. The Marcian Column is a Roman monument that remains relatively unknown compared to other major historical sites in Istanbul. Nearby, the Fatih Mosque is a stunning and often overlooked landmark. Fatih itself is a more conservative, religious area, and it’s less frequented by tourists, offering a more authentic glimpse into the local life.
Fener Neighbourhood: Istanbul’s Quiet, Historic Heart
Fener is another area of Istanbul that remains off the beaten path, even more so than Fatih. This neighborhood is one of the most conservative and religious in the city, with very few tourists. As we walked through the streets of Fener, we visited the Church of St. Mary of the Mongols, one of the only churches in Istanbul that wasn’t converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. The church is small but historically significant, and it remains largely unnoticed by most visitors. Nearby, we also came across the Old Greek College of Fener, another lesser-known spot with deep historical roots. The Fener area once housed a large Greek community, and it’s filled with rich stories and fascinating history. I was so glad to explore it for the first time!
Balat: A Colourful and Relaxed Neighbourhood
Adjacent to Fener is the Balat district, known for its vibrant, colorful houses, charming coffee shops, and cozy restaurants. The area is peaceful and offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other parts of Istanbul. We also visited the Saint Stephen’s Orthodox Church, which sits near the Golden Horn. In Balat, we stumbled upon the famous “Colorful Stairs” adorned with umbrellas—an iconic photo spot. Nearby, we found the Dimitrie Cantemir Museum, but unfortunately, it was closed during our visit. Despite that, Balat remains a beautiful and relaxing place to wander, with plenty to see and do.
Basilica Cistern: A Must-See in Sultanahmet
Though the Basilica Cistern is located in Sultanahmet—one of Istanbul’s most well-known and tourist-heavy areas—it’s still a breathtaking sight. The cistern is a grand underground structure filled with rows of columns, creating a stunning interplay of light and shadow. Its history dates back to the Byzantine Empire, and it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Istanbul. While it’s more touristy than some of the other hidden gems I’ve mentioned, it’s still an absolute must-see. For me, the Basilica Cistern was the most beautiful place I visited in Istanbul.
Final Thoughts
Returning to Istanbul for the second time was an amazing experience. I love this city for its incredible attractions, fascinating history, and, of course, its delicious food. Istanbul is without a doubt one of my favorite cities in the world, and it holds a special place in my heart, coming in as the second most beautiful city I’ve visited, after New York!
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