Haydarpaşa is one of the most important and grand symbols of Istanbul. It’s a railway station adjacent to the Kadıköy wharf. This is a unique architectural pleasure representing German Renaissance style. It is a must visit for any tourist and also for locals. The feeling you get in this lovely building is mesmerizing. It takes you from 1908, when it was officially opened, to our time like a time machine.

It is the main station that connects Anatolia to Istanbul. Unfortunately the building is not operational at the moment as it’s undergoing a renovation and is expected to be reopened in two years’ time. There were rumors that it would be converted into a hotel but recently this has been corrected and Haydarpaşa will remain as it is (THANK GOD).

You can visit the building, enjoy the wharfs on the Asian side while staring at Europe. You can take fabulous pictures and spend at least a couple of hours here. Mind you it’s one of the most recognized symbols of the city.