Discover the Arnavutkoy neighborhood of Istanbul with our local guide. We’ll explore the secrets of this beautiful neighborhood of Besiktas along the Bosphorus European shores, including the best things to do, attractions, historical sites, places to see, eat, drink, stay, restaurants, and give you all the info you need to plan your visit.
Arnavutkoy is a historic and charming neighborhood located on the European side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. The neighborhood stands out with its historical buildings dating back to the Ottoman period, wooden waterfront mansions, and narrow streets. Arnavutkoy is one of Istanbul’s most beloved neighborhoods, thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and lively social life.
Arnavutkoy is one of the rare places that preserves its historical texture while blending it with modern life. In addition to the historical Greek and Ottoman houses, the colorful flowers and the unique view of the Bosphorus that you can see while walking through the streets of the neighborhood offer visitors a journey through time. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of the neighborhood is also an ideal escape for those who want to get away from the stress of big city life.
Brief History
Arnavutkoy is one of Istanbul’s oldest settlements with a deep-rooted history that dates back to ancient times. Known as “Estie” in ancient times and renamed “Anaplous” during the Byzantine period due to its significance as an important worship center, the neighborhood has undergone many name changes throughout its history. Also known as “Mihalion” and “Mega Revma,” Arnavutkoy is like a treasure trove of history with its approximately 1500-year-old past.
Over time, various ethnic groups such as Greeks, Armenians, Jews, and Albanians who settled in Arnavutköy from Megara and Argos, as well as the Albanians brought here after the conquest of Albania by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, enriched the cosmopolitan structure of the neighborhood. According to some sources, the name of the neighborhood also comes from the Albanians who settled here.
During the population exchange, the settlement of those living in Albania resulted in the transformation of the neighborhood, and after Albanians adopted the Greek culture, the former Rum Arnavutkoy became Turkish Arnavutkoy until 1960.
Top Things to Do, Places to See
Famous for its wooden bay-windowed houses, historical waterfront mansions, small churches, and a row of cafes and taverns along the coast, Arnavutkoy offers visitors a unique atmosphere while preserving its historical texture.
One of the must-see places in Arnavutkoy is the Tevfikiye Mosque dating back to the Ottoman period. Built in the 19th century, the mosque is one of the beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture.
The Arnavutkoy Pier, located right next to the mosque, is ideal for those who want to take a refreshing break in the cool waters of the Bosphorus. Moreover, strolling through the narrow and historic streets of Arnavutköy will take you to the fascinating atmosphere of the past.
One of the most important historical artifacts dating back to the present day in Arnavutkoy is the Taksiarhis Church.
For those who want to enjoy the natural beauty, Arnavutkoy Coastal Park is an excellent choice. The park is a place where you can take pleasant walks and find peace while enjoying the magnificent view of the Bosphorus. Additionally, the famous waterfront mansions of Arnavutköy are worth seeing.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Moreover, Istanbul’s popular seafood restaurants can also be found in Arnavutkoy.
Dining Options in Arnavutkoy
Arnavutkoy is also famous for its rich dining options. Seafood restaurants offering delicious meals with a view of the Bosphorus are indispensable places for seafood lovers.
These restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish and appetizers in season, are among the favorite places of both locals and tourists. Famous seafood restaurants like Arnavutkoy Balıkçısı and Adem Baba offer visitors an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
For those who want to take a warm coffee break while wandering the narrow streets of the neighborhood, there are various cafes and tea gardens. Places like Arnavutköy Kahvesi are ideal for those who want to spend a pleasant time enjoying the peaceful view of the Bosphorus.
Moreover, the bakeries located in the streets of the neighborhood offer fresh cookies and desserts worth trying.
See the best restaurants in Besiktas
Getting to Arnavutkoy
Arnavutkoy is one of the most central and easily accessible neighborhoods in Istanbul. Its location on both the European side and the Bosphorus coast makes transportation to the neighborhood quite convenient.
Public Transport: You can reach Arnavutkoy by taking the 40T bus departing from Taksim, which passes through Beşiktaş. Similarly, buses numbered 22, 22RE, and 25E departing from Beşiktaş also pass through Arnavutkoy.
Private Vehicle: You can reach Arnavutkoy by driving from Beşiktaş towards Ortaköy and continuing along the coast. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
We recommend checking IETT public bus routes, METRO, and City Lines ferry schedules from the following links, as the routes mentioned on the page may change over time.
- IETT public bus routes – iett.istanbul
- METRO routes – metro.istanbul
- Public Ferry Lines routes – sehirhatlari.istanbul
