From its food to its fashion, Istanbul offers a fun fusion of tradition and modernity. As it is a bridge between two continents, the city is a metropolis of cultures, architecture, and more.
The Bosphorus Bridge stands as a symbol of the city’s duality, connecting differing civilisations and lifestyles along with sharing traditions and memories of bygone empires.
In collaboration with The Cult Curators, we explore the city in search of the best places to sip, savour, see and shop. From bucket list sights to hidden treasure troves: your travel list just got uber cool!
Sip and Savour: The Food Edit
Neolokal
Bringing combinations of East and Western flavours to the table, you can expect your taste buds to be tickled by culinary twists at this restaurant.
At Neolokal, heritage is preserved and nurtured through their dedication to pushing the boundaries of Turkish cuisine. Like The Bosphorus, they bridge tradition with innovation. Neolokal’s chefs invite you to explore local dishes, offering a glimpse of what Istanbul has to offer through reimagined delicacies.
Address: SALT Galata, Bankalar Avenue Karaköy 34420, İstanbul Türkiye.
Çok Çok Pera
Çok Çok Pera’s botanical interiors create an immersive dining experience inspired by Agatha Christie and her travels.
Taking us on a journey across the Silk Route, their Thai menu celebrates Asian herbs and spices. Trust us–they have food so delicious that you wouldn’t want to leave the table.
Address: Meşrutiyet Cd. N:54/A, 34430 Beyoğlu, Istanbul.
Sortie
A cocktail with a view is the perfect finish to a night of fine dining. Onlooking the Bosphorous, Sortie is passionate about bringing people together through music and entertainment. Become witness to the spectacle of two worlds uniting at the heart of Istanbul.
Address: Muallim Naci St, No: 54 Kuruçeşme, İstanbul.
Sights To See: The Place Edit
Nevmekan Sahil
If the academia aesthetic is your thing, the Nevmekan Sahil will tick all of your boxes. A perfect ensemble of old and new style, its name literally translates to ‘new place’.
This multifunctional space acts as an art gallery, cafe and the coolest place to study. However, the main event out of all is the breathtaking library.
Otağtepe Park
On the Asian side of the Bosphorus, this botanical garden is a place of serenity. With views like this, we can guarantee you won’t want to put the camera down.
Çamlıca Tower
At a whopping 369 metres, the Çamlıca Tower is one of Istanbul’s newest tourist attractions as the tallest tower in Europe.
Replacing the many television antennas which once plagued the picturesque landscape, it has become a futuristic landmark in its own right.
To truly elevate your experience, visit 360 KULE on the 40th floor to dine as you gaze upon panoramic views of the city.
Address: Küçük Çamlıca Çilehane Yolu Caddesi, Oyma Sokak No:1, 34696 Üsküdar/İstanbul.
Shop Till You Drop
Yasemin Özeri
Designed for everyday life, Yasemin Özeri collections are timeless in style and durability.
Working from an atelier in a historic district of Istanbul, each garment is handmade by their close-knit design team. From concept to final product, every aspect of the process takes place here. This allows them to ensure each piece is of the highest quality.
With a consciousness for sustainability, they source organic fibres to create biodegradable fabrics.
BEBEK STORE
Germencik Sokak 1/A
NİŞANTAŞI SHOWROOM
Maçka Caddesi Yeni Maçka Han 14/2
Appointments only
GALATA STORE
Galip Dede Caddesi 93/B
Begüm Khan
If its jewellery you’re searching for, look no further than Begüm Khan. Her magical pieces of statement jewellery are a combination of historical inspiration and contemporary art.
Every gold plated and gem studded piece is handcrafted by Turkish artisans, staying true to Khan’s heritage.
Address: Mim Kemal Oke 14 Nisantasi Sisli/Istanbul, Turkey
Mehry Mu
Designing “bags with soul”, as founder Güneş Mutlu describes, Mehry Mu was shaped by her love of literature and travel.
The brand collaborates with artisans and craftsmen to handcraft their bags which tell stories of discovery and Orientalism.
Each handbag is locally produced using unique materials, such as walnut wood and Tibetan shearling.
The brand is committed to giving back to the local community. Working with a Turkish charity group, Kırmızı Çocuklar Derneği, together they protect and support children in need.
Address: Kucuk Bebek Cd. Cinar Apt. No: 16 D:4 Bebek, Istanbul, Turkey
Written by Sophie Corbett.
All other images are courtesy of the respective organisation.
Explore more fun places to see and boutiques to shop through our Istanbul city page. For regular updates on current fashion trends, follow us on Instagram!