Explore Besiktas, Istanbul: Things to Do, See

Besiktas is one of the most dynamic and lively neighborhoods in Istanbul, offering a mix of history, culture, waterfront views, and a buzzing local scene. Whether you’re looking for historic landmarks, great food, or a vibrant nightlife, Besiktas has something for everyone.

As someone who loves exploring Istanbul’s hidden gems, I always recommend Besiktas to visitors who want to experience the city like a local. It’s a fantastic place to stroll along the Bosphorus, enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine, and discover both modern and historic attractions.

Here’s everything you need to know about Besiktas, from the best things to do to the top places to eat and drink.

Table of Contents

Besiktas at a Glance

Besiktas is a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike, and here’s why:

✔️ Waterfront Views – Enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus and Maiden’s Tower.
✔️ Historical Landmarks – Visit Dolmabahçe Palace, Yıldız Park, and Ortaköy Mosque.
✔️ Lively Local Culture – Experience local markets, cafes, and vibrant street life.
✔️ Great Food Scene – Some of Istanbul’s best breakfast spots and seafood restaurants are here.
✔️ Easy Access – Well-connected by ferries, buses, and metro to other parts of the city.

Besiktas is located on the European side of Istanbul and famous for its vibrant and colorful neighborhood life, bazaar, fish market, student population, culture and art activities, nightlife, shopping centers, historical buildings, football club, seaside recreation and eating places and ferry piers.

It is one of the most popular and valuable districts located at the entrance of the Bosphorus.

Besiktas is the capital of culture, art and education of Istanbul, but it is also the most valuable region of the Bosphorus with its Ortakoy, Arnavutkoy, Kurucesme and Bebek neighborhoods.

Besiktas is a great area where you can observe the living Istanbul in the best way, as well as one of the most important transportation hub. It also hosts the historical heritage of the Ottomans, culture and art with its Dolmabahce, Ciragan and Yildiz Palace.

Besiktas For a Day: Our Best Itinerary

No Regrets Booking Advice

Make the most of your time in Besiktas with this perfect day plan:

Morning: Start with Breakfast by the Bosphorus

Head to Ortaköy for a traditional Turkish breakfast with a view.
Try The House Cafe or Mangerie for a cozy and scenic start to the day.
Take a walk along the Ortaköy waterfront and snap a photo with the Ortaköy Mosque.

Mid-Morning: Explore Historic Palaces & Museums

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace, one of Istanbul’s most stunning Ottoman landmarks.
Stop by the National Palaces Painting Museum next door to see Ottoman-era artworks.
If you have extra time, explore Yıldız Palace or Çırağan Palace.

Lunch: Eat Like a Local in Besiktas Çarşı

Head to Besiktas Çarşı for a lively lunch scene.
Try Karadeniz Döner, one of the best döner kebab spots in Istanbul.
Explore the small cafés and bakeries for some Turkish tea and fresh pastries.

Afternoon: Relax in a Park or Go Shopping

Walk through Yıldız Park, a beautiful green space with panoramic Bosphorus views.
For shopping, visit Zorlu Center for luxury brands or Besiktas Çarşı for local finds.

Sunset: Drinks with a View

Find a Bosphorus-side café or rooftop bar for a drink at sunset.
Bebek and Kuruçeşme have great spots with stunning sea views.

Evening: Dinner & Nightlife

For a romantic dinner, try Sunset Grill & Bar in Ulus or Aqua at the Four Seasons.
If you’re in the mood for a fun night out, head to Sortie or Ruby in Kuruçeşme.
For something more laid-back, enjoy a Turkish meyhane experience in Arnavutköy.

Tip: Besiktas is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy its bustling streets, historic spots, and lively cafés!

Top Things to Do, Places to See

Strolling around the Besiktas Square, watching the crowd, having a rest and drinking tea or coffee at the various cafes nearby the sea in the company of Bosphorus is one of the best things to do in Besiktas. Besiktas Square and Besiktas Market Zone is the heart of the Besiktas. All are full of variety of great cafes and restaurants with beautiful Bosphorus views.

Strolling through the Kabatas area from Besiktas, you may see and visit and see the Grand National Assembly of Turkey National Palaces Museum of Palace Collections and Istanbul Painting and Sculpture Museum and after, the famous Dolmabahce Palace. And through the Ortakoy area, you may see and visit the Ciragan Palace.

Other historical and famous places to visit and see include the Yildiz Palace and Yildiz Park, located at the upper parts of Barbaros Boulevard.

Besiktas Market Zone (Carsi)

Besiktas market zone is the bustling heart of the neighborhood, and it’s also the central hub for the famous Besiktas supporter group called Carsi. With its narrow streets, shops that capture the old Istanbul atmosphere, and delicious foods, the bazaar is always lively and vibrant.

The market offers a wide range of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices and local delicacies. Every corner presents a new discovery, making it a paradise for shopping enthusiasts.

What to Do:

Try a traditional Turkish breakfast at one of the famous kahvaltı spots.
Browse through boutique shops, bookstores, and street vendors.
Enjoy the energetic local vibe, especially on game days when Besiktas football fans gather.

Besiktas Square and Coast

Also known as Barbaros Square, Besiktas Square is one of the busiest and liveliest places in Beşiktaş, featuring the Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha Tomb and Statue, Beşiktaş Pier, coastal cafes and restaurants, and the nearby Naval Museum, making it a popular meeting point.

Located in the heart of Beşiktaş, the square is bustling and crowded at all times of the day, attracting both locals and tourists. Many cafes, restaurants, and shops surround it.

At the center of the square is the Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha Monument, which stands out for its historical and cultural significance. The monument was erected in honor of the famous Ottoman naval commander Barbaros Hayrettin Pasha.

Additionally, you can sit by the sea, enjoy the unique view of the Bosphorus, and feel the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Istanbul.

What to Do:

Stroll along the promenade for stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Visit the Besiktas İskele (Ferry Terminal) and watch the lively ferry traffic.
Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Historic Besiktas Pier

Just beyond Beşiktaş Square, on the Beşiktaş coast, lies the historic Beşiktaş Pier, where city line ferries operate between Beşiktaş and Üsküdar. The pier’s architectural design is worth seeing, and the tiles on its facade, made by Architect Ali Talat Bey (1869-1922), are striking and impressive. The pier serves for Uskudar and Kadikoy public ferries.

Naval Museum

Located near the Besiktas coast, the Naval Museum is Turkey’s largest maritime museum and one of the world’s notable museums in terms of the diversity of its collections. Established in 1897, the museum houses an extensive collection spanning from the Ottoman Empire to the Republican era. It sheds light on maritime history with its various artifacts, including historical boats, maritime objects, maps, and naval uniforms.

Don’t Miss:

The imperial sultan’s boats, beautifully decorated with gold and intricate designs.
A collection of naval weapons, uniforms, and ship models.
Interactive exhibits detailing Turkey’s maritime past.

Location: Besiktas Coast

Dolmabahce Palace Museum

Located between Kabatas and Besiktas, Dolmabahçe Palace is most visited sights in Istanbul, with its magnificent European Baroque architecture, oriental touches, and exhibition halls. The palace served as the residence of the last six Ottoman sultans and the founder of the Turkish Republic, Atatürk.

Highlights:

The Ceremonial Hall, featuring the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier.
The Harem section, where the sultans and their families lived.
Beautifully landscaped palace gardens with Bosphorus views.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

Skip-the-line Tickets

Guided tours with Fast Track Tickets

Combo Tours & Tickets

See Dolmabahce Palace Museum

Palace Collections Museum

The Palace Collections Museum, located next to Dolmabahçe Palace, displays valuable items from various palaces. The museum houses numerous precious items from the Ottoman Empire period, including furniture, artworks, porcelains, and other luxurious objects.

Visitors to the Palace Collections Museum can see the elegant and ornate items from the Ottoman era up close and learn about their historical and cultural significance. The museum offers a unique insight into the detailed lifestyle of the Ottoman palaces.

National Palaces Painting Museum

The National Palaces Painting Museum, located next to Dolmabahçe Palace, houses artworks from the Ottoman period. The museum’s extensive collection spans from the late Ottoman Empire to the early years of the Republic. It features works by renowned Turkish artists and important foreign artists of the period.

The museum is of great artistic and historical importance. Its collection includes portraits of Ottoman sultans, depictions of palace life, and views of Istanbul.

Inonu Stadium (Vodafone Park)

Located in the heart of Besiktas, Inonu Stadium, Vodefone Park, is the legendary home of the Besiktas Gymnastics Club. With its stunning view overlooking the Bosphorus, it is considered one of the most beautifully situated stadiums in the world.

Today, the renovated stadium is equipped with modern and technological facilities. Inside the stadium, you can visit the Besiktas Museum to learn about the club’s history and achievements and see memorabilia from past matches. Inonu Stadium is not just a sports complex but also an important part of Istanbul’s sporting and cultural heritage.

Take a Walk Through Maçka Demokrasi Park

This peaceful green park in Besiktas is great for a morning jog, a relaxing stroll, or just escaping the city’s hustle and bustle.

Scenic walking trails with great city views.
Playgrounds and picnic spots for families.
A cable car ride offering panoramic views over the park.

Yildiz Palace

Situated on the hills of Besiktas overlooking the Bosphorus, Yildiz Palace is a must-see with its 19th-century pavilions, mansions, unique structure, and stunning gardens. The palace was built by Sultan Selim III’s mother, Mihrişah Sultan, and later served as the main building of the Ottoman Empire during Sultan Abdulhamid’s reign. It is also the last palace of the Ottomans.

One of the most intriguing and impressive structures in the palace complex is the Şale Mansion, named after the French word for a mountain house. The Büyük Mabeyn Pavilion, Malta Pavilion, and Tent Pavilion within the palace are also worth visiting. Additionally, the Yıldız Palace Clock Tower and Imperial Porcelain Manufacturing House are located on the palace grounds. The expansive gardens and parks are ideal for peaceful walks.

Yıldız Palace offers visitors a unique atmosphere of the late Ottoman period and is a must-visit for those wanting to explore Istanbul’s history.

Yildiz Park Grove

Located below Yildiz Palace and overlooking the Bosphorus, Yildiz Park Grove is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful groves and a favorite among the city’s most impressive and peaceful parks. Once the palace garden during the Ottoman period, Yıldız Park now serves as a place for the public to relax and enjoy.

The park offers breakfast and dining options at the Malta and Tent Pavilions. It features beautiful ponds, waterfalls, and gardens, making it one of Istanbul’s most picturesque parks.

Ciragan Palace

Ciragan Palace is a magnificent palace on the shores of the Bosphorus that was used as a residence for sultans during the Ottoman Empire. Built in the 19th century by Sultan Abdulaziz, the palace is notable for its marble cladding, elegant carvings, and stunning sea views.

Today, the palace operates as the Çırağan Palace Kempinski Hotel, offering luxurious accommodation by the Bosphorus. It also features high-end cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy breakfast, brunch, or dinner, though prices are high.

Ihlamur Pavilion

Located at the end of Ihlamurdere Street, between Beşiktaş, Yıldız, and Nişantaşı, Ihlamur Pavilion is one of Istanbul’s beautiful pavilions. Surrounded by the linden trees that give it its name, the pavilion’s extensive garden offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The pavilion is an excellent example of Neoclassical and Ottoman architecture, with rich interior decorations.

The Merasim Pavilion and Maiyet Pavilion inside the structure are adorned with details reflecting the opulence and elegance of the period. Ihlamur Pavilion, with its architectural beauty and tranquil garden, is a perfect escape for those looking to spend a peaceful time away from Istanbul’s hustle and bustle.

The Most Beautiful Neighborhoods of Besiktas

The most beautiful and popular neighborhoods in the Besiktas district include Akaretler, Akatlar, Arnavutkoy, Bebek, Etiler, Gayrettepe, Levazim, Levent, and Ortakoy.

Akaretler

Akaretler is one of Besiktas’s modern and prestigious neighborhoods. Known for the historic Akaretler Row Houses, the area stands out with its architectural structures from the Ottoman Empire period. The row houses have been restored and transformed into modern offices, luxurious restaurants, and art galleries. In this historic atmosphere, you can trace the marks of the past while enjoying modern life.

Ortakoy

Ortakoy is one of Istanbul’s most cosmopolitan and lively neighborhoods. Located on the shores of the Bosphorus, right next to the Bosphorus Bridge, the neighborhood is renowned for its historical and cultural richness. The Ortakoy Mosque, with its magnificent architecture and seaside location, stands out prominently.

Explore Ortakoy

Kurucesme

Kurucesme is one of the most peaceful and tranquil neighborhoods of Beşiktaş. Situated along the Bosphorus, it is known for its lush parks and luxurious residences. Kurucesme Park is a perfect spot for a seaside walk, picnicking, or simply enjoying the stunning Bosphorus view. Additionally, concerts and events held at Kuruçeşme Arena enrich the cultural life of the neighborhood.

Arnavutkoy

Arnavutkoy is one of Istanbul’s most charming neighborhoods, maintaining its historical fabric to this day. With its narrow and cobbled streets, wooden houses, and breathtaking Bosphorus views, it captivates its visitors. The fish restaurants along the coast offer delicious seafood and create a perfect atmosphere for an evening walk along the Bosphorus.

Explore Arnavutkoy

Bebek

Bebek is a prestigious neighborhood located along the shores of the Bosphorus. Stretching along the coastline, Bebek stands out with its natural beauty, historical structures, and luxurious lifestyle. Bebek Park is ideal for seaside walks, cycling, or simply enjoying the Bosphorus view. Always vibrant, this neighborhood beautifully reflects Istanbul’s cosmopolitan nature.

Explore Bebek

Akatlar

Akatlar is a quiet and elegant neighborhood offering all the amenities of modern living. Known for its tranquil streets, vast green areas, and luxurious residences, it also hosts the Akatlar Cultural Center, which attracts art lovers with various cultural events.

Akatlar is also rich in shopping and dining options. The boutique shops and stylish cafes in the central area of the neighborhood are ideal for those looking to spend pleasant moments. Especially the restaurants and cafes lined up on Zeytinoğlu Street are popular among both locals and visitors.

Etiler

Etiler is one of Istanbul’s most prestigious and luxurious neighborhoods. Known for its wide streets, luxurious shopping centers, and exclusive restaurants, Etiler stands out. Akmerkez Shopping Center is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Etiler is also prominent for its educational institutions and sports centers.

One of the neighborhood’s most famous streets, Nispetiye Street, is filled with luxury stores, chic cafes, and restaurants. Many restaurants in Etiler offer flavors from world cuisines, providing a unique experience for food enthusiasts.

Gayrettepe

Gayrettepe is a dynamic neighborhood in Beşiktaş, known as a business and residential center. Particularly dense with business centers, this neighborhood stands out as one of Istanbul’s important business and financial districts. The large plazas and office buildings in the area host the headquarters of many national and international companies.

Gayrettepe also offers rich shopping and dining options. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and stores can be found along the main streets of the neighborhood. Astoria Shopping Center is one of the popular shopping destinations in the area.

Levazim

Levazim is one of the peaceful and tranquil neighborhoods of Besiktas. Known for its green areas and modern residences, it offers an ideal living space for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. In Levazim, there is a lifestyle intertwined with nature, especially with its extensive parks and walking paths.

The residential projects and residences in the neighborhood provide a modern and comfortable living space. Levazim also stands out with its educational institutions and sports facilities. The serene and tranquil atmosphere of the neighborhood makes it an attractive choice for families and those seeking a life close to nature.

Levent

Levent is one of Besiktas’s most modern and developed neighborhoods. As one of Istanbul’s major business and financial centers, Levent is known for its high-rise plazas and modern office buildings. Büyükdere Street, one of the neighborhood’s most famous streets, hosts the headquarters of many banks and financial institutions.

Levent is also rich in shopping and dining options. Major shopping centers like Kanyon, Metrocity, and ÖzdilekPark offer a wide range of shopping and entertainment opportunities with numerous stores, restaurants, and cafes.

Eating Out – A Culinary Tour through Besiktas

The neighborhood of Besiktas is like a gastronomic tour through Istanbul’s vibrant food culture, thanks to its mix of traditional Turkish taverns, modern fusion eateries, and trendy coffee shops. The district perfectly blends the flavors of Istanbul’s diverse culinary history with innovative techniques, creating an enticing feast for the senses.

Besiktas is live for 24 hrs. and offers wide range of dining opportunities from luxury restaurants to very famous quality restaurants and cafes where both tourists and locals go. You are able to find every kind of food & beverage, Turkish & world cuisine for your taste in Besiktas.

Best Restaurants in Besiktas

✔️ Tarihi Karadeniz Döner – Famous for Istanbul’s best döner kebab.
✔️ Vogue Restaurant – A stylish rooftop dining spot with Bosphorus views.
✔️ Sinop Mantı – One of the best places for traditional Turkish mantı (dumplings).

See Our Picks of the Best Restaurants in Besiktas

Best Local Eateries

✔️ Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu – A must-visit for traditional Turkish breakfast.
✔️ Karaköy Lokantası – Authentic mezes and Ottoman cuisine.
✔️ Balkan Lokantası – A budget-friendly place for home-style Turkish food.

Best Cafés & Dessert Shops

✔️ Bebek Kahve – A charming café with great Turkish coffee and Bosphorus views.
✔️ Mendel’s Coffee & Chocolatier – Famous for delicious hot chocolate.
✔️ Hafız Mustafa 1864 – The perfect place for baklava and Turkish desserts.

Where to Go Shopping in Besiktas

Besiktas offers a mix of local markets, boutique stores, and high-end shopping malls, catering to every budget and style. Here are the best spots to shop:

Besiktas Market: A lively open-air market in the heart of Besiktas, filled with clothing stores, accessory shops, bookstores, and second-hand finds.
Zorlu Center: One of Istanbul’s most luxurious malls, featuring high-end fashion brands, designer boutiques, and a great selection of restaurants and cafés. Ideal for a high-end shopping experience.
Etiler and Levent Boutiques: For luxury shopping, the Etiler and Levent districts are home to designer stores, jewelry shops, and stylish boutiques. Perfect for those who love exclusive and high-end fashion.
Local Antique & Vintage Shops: Besiktas also has several hidden gem vintage and antique stores, where you can find old books, unique furniture, and nostalgic memorabilia. A great place for treasure hunters!

Tip: If you want a mix of affordable shopping and luxury brands, explore both Besiktas Çarşı and Zorlu Center during your visit!

Nightlife in Besiktas

Besiktas is one of the liveliest districts in Istanbul after dark, offering everything from trendy rooftop bars to traditional meyhanes and vibrant nightclubs. Here’s where to go:

Ortaköy’s Waterfront Bars & Cafés: For a relaxed night out, head to Ortaköy’s waterfront and enjoy a drink with stunning Bosphorus views. Many bars offer shisha, live music, and cozy atmospheres.
Vibrant Pubs in Besiktas Çarşı: The streets around Besiktas Çarşı are packed with student-friendly bars and pubs, serving affordable drinks, craft beer, and casual vibes. Ideal for a laid-back night with friends.
Meyhanes & Traditional Turkish Taverns: For an authentic Istanbul experience, try a meyhane (Turkish tavern) in Kuruçeşme or Arnavutköy. Enjoy mezze, rakı, and live Turkish music in a lively setting.
Luxury Nightclubs in Kuruçeşme & Bebek: If you’re looking for upscale nightlife, check out the exclusive nightclubs in Bebek and Kuruçeşme. These venues attract celebrities, DJs, and a stylish crowd.
Live Music & Jazz Venues: Besiktas is also home to some of the best live music venues in Istanbul, featuring everything from jazz to Turkish rock.

Where to Stay in Besiktas?

Accommodation options in Besiktas are wide-ranging and diverse. From luxury hotels to boutique hotels, there are accommodations to suit every budget. Besiktas hotels with views of the Bosphorus are favorites among visitors due to their proximity to historic sites and the stunning views they offer.

These hotels are ideal for those seeking comfortable and luxurious accommodations. Hotels close to Dolmabahçe Palace and Besiktas Pier are particularly noted for their central locations.

See Our Picks of the Best Hotels in Besiktas

How to Get to Besiktas?

Public Transportation

Getting to Besiktas is very easy as Besiktas is one of the most popular hubs for both tourists and locals in Istanbul. For intercity transportation to Besiktas, you may find many transportation options. It is possible to access Besiktas;

From Kadikoy; by public ferries,
From Uskudar; by public ferries or boats,
From Taksim, via yellow shared taxis (dolmus) or public bus,
From Sultanahmet and Eminonu, by Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line) to Kabatas (last stop) and than from Kabatas within 10 mins. walking.
Besiktas is also on the route of Big Bus Istanbul Hop on Hop Off Tourist Bus.

You may see the public bus routes and timetables as well as make a route/station search from the Istanbul Municipality Public Busses website. Also check the Istanbul Railway Network Map for the Tram stops and Istanbul Ferry Lines Map for ferries.

From Istanbul Airports

please read our How to Get from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Besiktas page.

Best Tips for Visiting Besiktas

✔️ Go early for breakfast – The best Turkish breakfast places fill up fast!
✔️ Take a ferry ride – The Bosphorus views are incredible.
✔️ Try street food – Don’t miss the famous döner and kumpir.
✔️ Visit in the evening – The bars and nightlife scene in Besiktas is great.
✔️ Explore side streets – Some of the best cafés and boutique shops are hidden away.

Is Besiktas Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Besiktas is one of Istanbul’s most exciting neighborhoods, full of history, culture, and local charm. Whether you’re looking for historical sights, delicious food, or a lively atmosphere, Besiktas has something for everyone.

Explore Besiktas, Istanbul: Things to Do, See – Our Best Tips