Ortakoy is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Istanbul, sitting right on the Bosphorus waterfront with a stunning backdrop of the Ortakoy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge.
This lively district is perfect for a relaxed stroll, street food tasting, shopping, and soaking up the city’s unique charm.
Whether you’re here for sightseeing, photography, or simply enjoying a leisurely day, Ortakoy has something to offer for everyone. From trendy cafés and bars to historic sites and art markets, it’s a must-visit neighborhood in Istanbul.
Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Ortakoy!
Why Visit Ortakoy?
✔️ Breathtaking Bosphorus views – The Ortakoy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge create a picture-perfect scene.
✔️ Great street food – Try the famous Ortakoy kumpir (stuffed baked potato) and Turkish waffles.
✔️ Lively art and craft markets – Browse through handmade jewelry, souvenirs, and paintings.
✔️ Trendy cafés & rooftop bars – Enjoy a coffee or cocktail with incredible sea views.
✔️ Easy access by ferry – Reach Ortakoy easily from Beşiktaş, Üsküdar, or Eminönü.
Situated beneath the European leg of the Bosphorus Bridge, Ortakoy is one of the favorite neighborhoods of Istanbul, with its magnificent Ortaköy Mosque, which is a symbol of the district, its beautiful and colorful bazaar located in the triangle of churches, mosques, and synagogues, and its vibrant atmosphere.
The neighborhood stands out with its popular nightlife venues, bars, the lively square facing the sea, where you can find beautiful cafes and restaurants, as well as souvenir shops, handicrafts, and interesting object stores, and baked potato stalls. It has become one of the most popular meeting points for Istanbulites.
Throughout history, Ortaköy has been shaped by the interaction of different cultures, which has resulted in the neighborhood having a rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Looking back at the history of Ortaköy, formerly known as Arkheion in ancient times and Klidon during the Byzantine period, we see that the region was inhabited by Jewish, Greek, and Muslim communities, and the area was also famous for its taverns in ancient times.
While wandering through the narrow streets of the neighborhood, you may encounter churches dating back to the Ottoman period and witness the traces of the past while experiencing the modern texture of present-day Istanbul.
No Regrets Booking Advice
The historic structures, colorful markets, and breathtaking views of Ortaköy enchant its visitors and turn it into a place where everyone would want to come back again and again. Today, there are also popular entertainment venues along the Ortaköy coastline.
And Ortakoy Mosque is without a doubt, one of the popular photo taking spots and symbols of Istanbul.
Ortakoy for an Half-Day: Our Best Itinerary
If you only have a few hours in Ortakoy, here’s how to make the most of your time:
Morning or Afternoon Stroll
- Start at Ortakoy Square – Soak in the lively atmosphere and street performers.
- Visit Ortakoy Mosque – One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with stunning Bosphorus views.
- Explore the Artisans’ Market – Browse handmade jewelry, souvenirs, and local crafts.
Grab a Bite to Eat
- Try a Famous Kumpir – These loaded baked potatoes are a must-try!
- Enjoy a Turkish Coffee by the Bosphorus – Visit a waterfront café like House Café for a relaxing break.
Scenic Walk Along the Bosphorus
- Walk towards Kuruçeşme – Admire the elegant Bosphorus mansions and lively promenade.
- Capture Photos at the Bosphorus Bridge – The view is spectacular, especially at sunset.
Quick Shopping Stop
- Pick Up Souvenirs at Local Stalls – Find unique gifts, handmade accessories, and artwork.
Top Things to Do, Places to See
Strolling around the Ortakoy Sqaure, watching the crowd, having a rest and drinking tea or coffee at the various cafes and restaurants nearby the sea in the company of Bosphorus is one of the best things to do in Ortakoy.
You can also take the boats for a Bosphorus cruise, from the Ortakoy coast, near the Ortakoy Mosque.
Ortakoy Square and Ortakoy Mosque is the heart of Ortakoy. The street markets are also vert popular in Ortakoy. They are held in every weekend. Visitors may enjoy and buy variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, second hand books, various great items and more.
Summer nights are very lively here as Ortakoy is a popular entertainment and nightlife spot of Istanbul with its variety of night clubs, pubs and bars.
Stroll Along the Square, Bosphorus coast & Enjoy the View
Walking along the Ortakoy waterfront is one of the best experiences in the area. You’ll see:
✔️ Panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Ortakoy Mosque.
✔️ Fishermen casting their lines along the pier.
✔️ Luxury yachts and small boats passing by.
✔️ Street musicians performing live.
Tip: Sunset is the best time to visit for a golden glow over the water.
Visit the Iconic Ortakoy Mosque
The Ortakoy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Camii) is one of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul, sitting right on the Bosphorus waterfront.
✔️ Incredible architecture – A mix of Baroque and Ottoman styles.
✔️ Amazing photo spot – One of the most photographed landmarks in Istanbul.
✔️ Peaceful interior – Stunning marble walls, intricate calligraphy, and chandeliers.
📍 Location: Ortakoy Square
Try Famous Kumpir (Stuffed Baked Potato)
No visit to Ortakoy is complete without trying its signature street food – kumpir!
What is Kumpir?
✔️ A giant baked potato mixed with butter and cheese, then loaded with toppings like:
✔️ Olives, corn, pickles, sausage, couscous, and Russian salad.
✔️ Customizable – You can pick whatever toppings you like!
Where to Try It? The best kumpir stalls are right in Ortakoy Square, and you’ll see many locals eating them by the waterfront.
Explore the Art & Handicraft Market
Ortakoy has a vibrant street market where local artists sell:
✔️ Handmade jewelry & accessories
✔️ Turkish ceramics & souvenirs
✔️ Hand-painted artwork & decorative pieces
Tip: Great place to buy unique souvenirs that you won’t find in the Grand Bazaar.
Take a Bosphorus Boat Tour from Ortakoy Pier
Ortakoy is a great starting point for a Bosphorus cruise. You can:
✔️ Take a short 1-hour Bosphorus tour.
✔️ Book a private yacht tour for sunset views.
✔️ Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise with live music.
Where to Buy Tickets? Boats leave directly from the Pier throughout the day.
Esma Sultan Mansion
The Esma Sultan Mansion, which dazzles with its magnificence right next to Ortakoy Mosque, is a vert attractive building that was built for Esma Sultan, the daughter of Sultan Abdulaziz, as a wedding gift after her marriage to Cerkez Mehmet Pasha.
After the death of Esma Sultan in 1848, the mansion was given to the daughters of Sultan Abdulhamid II in various periods. Finally the mansion was purchased by The Marmara Collection in the 90s, and has been restored and is now used as a wedding, meeting and event venue.
Churches and Synagogues
A Byzantine Greek Orthodox Church named Ayios Fokas dating back to 1856, the Surp Krikor Lusavoric Armenian Catholic Church (located in Dereboyu street and was built in 1839) and Etz Ahayim (Tree of Life) dating back to the 14th century are the best known churches and synagogues in Ortakoy.
Historic Ortakoy Hammam
It is the first artifact that was built after the settlement of the Turks in Ortakoy. It was built as hammam (Turkish Bath) by famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in 1570s with the request of Hüsrev Kethüda, the housekeeper of Sokullu Mehmet Pasha. After the restoration of the Turkish bath, it now serves as an authentic restaurant.
From Kuruçeşme to Bebek
As you journey from Kuruçeşme to Bebek, you embark on a delightful journey accompanied by the magnificent view of the Bosphorus.
Your first stop along this journey could be Aşşk Kahve, where you can indulge in the serene atmosphere of the neighborhood while enjoying a delicious coffee amidst the tranquil backdrop of the Bosphorus. It offers the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.
If you’re looking to take a historical and cultural break along the way, you can turn your route towards Aya Dimitritos Church. This historic church, dating back to the Byzantine era, dazzles with its architecture. With its majestic dome and meticulously crafted details, it offers visitors a chance to journey into the past.
The final destination of your journey could be Köfteci Ali Baba. This establishment is one of the famous culinary stops in Arnavutkoy, renowned for its exquisite meatballs. Here, as you savor the delicious meatballs, you can also relish the pleasant atmosphere and warm hospitality of the neighborhood.
Dining Options in Ortaköy
Ortaköy also offers a rich selection of dining options. The restaurants along the neighborhood’s coastline are famous for their fresh seafood and local delicacies. Especially, enjoying dinner with the unique backdrop of the Bosphorus offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, you can sample local flavors and enjoy a pleasant coffee break at the cafes and pastry shops scattered throughout the neighborhood’s streets.
Ortakoy is also famous for its coastal tea gardens, cafes and bakers overlooking Bosphorus. Many locals prefer to buy baked potatoes from numerous cafes and eat it by the beautiful views of the Bosphorus.
Best Restaurants
✔️ The House Café – A stylish café with sea views and international cuisine.
✔️ Feriye Lokantası – A fine-dining spot with Ottoman and Turkish flavors.
✔️ Anjelique – A high-end restaurant and nightclub right by the Bosphorus.
See the best restaurants in Besiktas
Best Cafés
✔️ Café Georgette – Cozy café with amazing waffles and Turkish coffee.
✔️ Mado – A classic place for Turkish desserts and ice cream.
✔️ Bebek Kahvesi – Just outside Ortakoy, but famous for Turkish tea and breakfast.
Best Bars & Rooftops
✔️ Ruby – A high-end bar with Bosphorus views and great cocktails.
✔️ Sortie – A popular nightlife venue with a sea-facing terrace.
✔️ Banyan – An Asian-fusion rooftop with a relaxed atmosphere.
Shopping in Ortakoy – What to Buy?
Ortakoy is popular not only for its historical and cultural richness but also for its vibrant shopping opportunities. Along the streets that stretch along the coast, you can find a wide variety of products, from handmade jewelry to antique items.
Particularly, the Ortakoy Market is a major attraction where local artisans showcase their handcrafted products. Here, you can find unique pieces such as handmade jewelry, decorative items, and custom-designed clothing.
Additionally, there are plenty of options for those looking for souvenirs in Ortakoy. You can find beautiful mementos like tea sets with Bosphorus views, Ottoman-themed miniatures, and magnets adorned with the symbols of Istanbul to take home to your loved ones.
In the small boutique shops scattered around the streets of the district, you will also come across rare finds like vintage clothing and antique objects.
Ortakoy by Night
Ortakoy transforms into a vibrant hotspot at night, offering stunning Bosphorus views, lively bars, and a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner by the water, a casual café with hookah, or a lively night out with music, this neighborhood has it all.
Top Nighttime Experiences in Ortakoy:
- Enjoy Dinner with a View – Many restaurants along the Bosphorus serve fresh seafood, Turkish mezes, and grilled dishes with spectacular scenery.
- Sip Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar – Venues like Ruby offer great drinks and a sophisticated ambiance.
- Try Hookah (Nargile) – Relax at a cozy café like Fesleğen and enjoy a traditional Turkish nargile experience.
- Walk Along the Pier – Take in the nighttime skyline, with the Ortakoy Mosque beautifully lit against the Bosphorus Bridge.
- Dance at Exclusive Clubs – Nearby spots like Sortie and Reina (seasonal) are known for their high-end nightlife and DJs.
Where to Stay?
Accommodation options in Ortakoy are quite varied. There are numerous alternatives that cater to different budgets and tastes, from luxury hotels with Bosphorus views to boutique hotels. Hotels located close to the Ortakoy shoreline are preferred due to their walking distance to both historical sites and popular dining venues.
For those seeking a quieter and more intimate atmosphere, the small boutique hotels and guesthouses situated in the side streets of the district can be a wonderful choice.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re exploring Ortaköy, there are plenty of great places nearby to visit:
Within Walking Distance
- Kuruçeşme Park – A scenic Bosphorus-side park ideal for a relaxing walk.
- Esma Sultan Mansion – A historic Ottoman mansion turned event venue with a stunning architectural mix of old and modern.
- Çırağan Palace – A luxurious former Ottoman palace, now a 5-star hotel with an elegant waterfront setting.
A Short Drive Away
- Dolmabahce Palace (10 min) – The most lavish Ottoman palace, home to stunning chandeliers, historic halls, and beautiful gardens.
- Bebek (10 min) – A stylish neighborhood along the Bosphorus with trendy cafes, seafood restaurants, and a scenic coastal walkway.
- Arnavutköy (10 min) – Famous for its wooden Ottoman houses and popular seafood restaurants.
- Yıldız Park & Yıldız Palace (10 min) – A peaceful green space with Ottoman-era pavilions and panoramic views over the city.
How to Get to Ortakoy?
Getting to Ortakoy is very easy. For intercity transportation to Ortakoy, you may find many transportation options. It is possible to access Ortakoy;
- From Kadikoy and Uskudar; by public ferries or boats (only from Uskudar) to Besiktas,
- From Taksim, via yellow shared taxis (dolmus) or public bus to Besiktas,
- From Besiktas; within 20 mins. walking or public buses following the coastal line, (Note: Besiktas is also on the route of Big Bus Istanbul Hop on Hop Off Tourist Bus)
- From Sultanahmet and Eminonu, by Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line) to Kabatas (last stop) and than from Kabatas by public buses following the coastal line.
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.
Best Tips for Visiting Ortakoy
✔️ Visit on a weekday – Weekends can get very crowded.
✔️ Go for sunset – The skyline views are magical in the evening.
✔️ Bring cash – Many small vendors don’t accept credit cards.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes – The area is best explored on foot.
✔️ Try local street food – Kumpir and waffles are must-tries in Ortakoy.
Is Ortakoy Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Ortakoy is one of the best spots in Istanbul for a relaxing day by the Bosphorus. Whether you want to see the stunning Ortakoy Mosque, enjoy delicious street food, or take a boat tour, this neighborhood offers a mix of history, culture, and fun.