Sokullu Mehmet Paşa Mosque Istanbul – Off the beaten path
Imagine a mosque that is not visited that much in a city where all corners are crowded with mosques. Sokullu Mehmet Paşa Mosque is one of a kind with its fabulous entrance as seen in the photograph. This is a very classical shot that is basically used by all agencies as a marketing tool. To see this shot please enter the courtyard from the front gate, where the domes of mosque and ablution fountain are beautifully framed by the arched gateway in unity and in symmetry.
This is another brilliant structure built by the imperial architect Sinan. This masterpiece is below the far end of the Hippodrome and like Rüstempaşa Mosque is famed for its superb Iznik tiles. Of course the tiles are not that popular. The only handicap here is that it's not allowed for people to take photos inside. The perfect harmony of the architecture especially flourishes when it is a rainy day. This is one of my most favourite mosques in the city where I find peace and harmony.
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in Istanbul
Juico – Best juice bar for a detox
"Juico" has brought the whole concept of juice detox to Istanbul. You can try individual blends or try an awesome detox programme! Worth a try...
By
Vildan
Ay
Corner Irish Pub – Good beer, cosy atmosphere
"Corner Irish Pub" is hidden really close to Istiklal St in Istanbul. I usually end up there when I go for photo safaris with my friends...
By
Yucel
Babadag
Pandora Bookshop – The best in town
"Pandora Bookshop" probably has the richest variety of literature and novels in the whole of Istanbul, specialising in English books! It's the best in town.
By
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Archaeology Museum – Stop for all history lovers
The Istanbul "Archaeology Museum" is just huge. As someone who always visits these museums, these ones (there's actually three!) are a must.
By
Zekeriya
S. Sen
3rd Culture Store – Design store in Istanbul
From hand-painted items by women in India to collections that promote a global and inclusive design, they truly showcases the beauty of cultural exchange.
By
Zeynep
Ozortac
Misk – A lovely taste experience in a flower garden
"Misk" is one of my favorite places in Istanbul -- their beautiful flower arrangements and sense of decoration really pushes their moniker 'floral cafe'.
By
Arzu
Damli
Jacqueline Cookies – The best cookies I've ever had
"Jacqueline Cookies" Istanbul: my favorite cookies, period, even though they're much more American than Turkish. Try the Extra Dark Chocolate & Pecan Nut.
By
Vildan
Ay
Yeni Lokanta – A real Turkish delight
"Yeni Lokanta" is a good spot to start exploring the Anatolian cuisine in Istanbul. You just have to try their kisir (bulgur salad) with sour cherries...
By
Arzu
Damli
Groove – A cosy music store
"Groove" is my suggestion for music lovers who're in Istanbul looking for record shops! Sami, "the music doctor", will guide you through this journey...
By
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Cihangir Sosyal Tesisleri – This view made me think
"Cihangir Sosyal Tesisleri", or Social Facilities in Cihangir, Istanbul, is a large budget restaurant inspired by the Ottoman past. It made me think...
By
Vildan
Ay
Kariye Museum – Church of St. Saviour
"Kariye Museum" is, for me, the most interesting Byzantine church in Istanbul after the Hagia Sophia. If you have some time, I definitely recommend a visit.
By
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Sphendone – The curved end of the Hippodrome
The "Sphendone" of the old Istanbul Hippodrome is the only part still visible today. When I first visited it I was mindblown by its grandiose structure...
By
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Download our app now and know your way!
Our Spotters' Local Favorites Only. Skip the Tourist Traps.
Find Nearby Spots and Navigate with Ease
Save Your Favorites and See Them on the Map
Know your way in Art & culture and navigate with ease!
✓ Full access to 0 local favorites. Zero tourist highlights.
✓ Get to know our 0 Spotters and ♥ their recommendations.
✓ Save favorites and show them on the map.
