Istanbul city guide

Do you like to visit flea markets or vintage shops abroad? If your answer is yes, By Retro is just for you. The name says all, By Retro is the most well known second hand and vintage shop in Istanbul and they say it is the world’s second biggest vintage store. Of course I cannot verify if it’s true but what I do know is that they are the number one source for providing costumes for Turkish tv series and movies.

In addition to clothes, you’ll also find chandeliers, sunglasses, typewriters, gramophones, record players and other time-travelling items that you can imagine. You can come across some special pieces or antiques from the 50’s or 60’s as well.

Although it looks messy at a first glance, you’ll find out that especially costumes are displayed according to the years they belong to. They also rent costumes if you’re planning to join a costume party.

It is located in the basement of Suriye Pasajı (passage) and has two entrances. Both narrow steps down in a shiny, red color will take you back in time.