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Istanbul Place

Ramadan 2021 in Istanbul​ – is it a good time to visit?

January 2021 by Julia

21 Jan

 

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan, known as Ramazan in Turkish, will run from April 13th to May 12th in 2021. It’s a month of fasting, prayer, empathy and celebration across Turkey. Ramadan time in Istanbul has a different atmosphere to the rest of the year.

 

Is it a good time to visit?

You might be trying to decide whether it’s a good idea to visit Istanbul during Ramadan and if so, wondering what you’ll find. Will restaurants be open during the fasting hours? Will it be antisocial to have an alcoholic drink? Should more conservative clothes be worn?

In fact, Istanbul is even more special than usual during Ramadan

Istanbul-style Ramadan is more liberal than elsewhere. During the day there’s anticipation in the air and after sunset you’ll find a festival atmosphere. Trees are draped with fairy lights and mosques display sparkling celebratory messages between their minarets. Families and friends come out together to promenade and in some areas, temporary stalls sell religious items, traditional snacks or treats for children.

Across the city and in our neighbourhood, spirits are up

Restaurants, bars and clubs are generally open as usual, other than in the very conservative districts. Non-Muslims are welcomed and local people are as kind and generous as ever, or more so. Dress codes aren’t affected, so you can feel free to wear whatever you normally would in your own country.

Restaurants are quieter during the day, but become very busy approaching the time for fast to be broken. This happens at sunset and is called iftar in Turkish. Many restaurants offer a special banquet-like menu with unusual dishes out on display, so it can be a great opportunity to taste something new.

 

View this post on Instagram

Iftar time with-a-view and Tarkan being brave for our first ever video post, eek! There’s still a bit of #latedeal availability during Ramadan for one of these fabulous-view Petraki apartments, but you do need to be quick #myistanbulplace

A post shared by Istanbul Place 👑 Apartments (@istanbulplace) on Jun 14, 2016 at 9:55am PDT

 

Istiklal street iftar

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Istiklal iftar in 2013 | photograph TRT Haber Foto Galeri

 

Seasonal food

Special foods as well as atmosphere are available at this time of year, so don’t miss the chance to try them if you can. These include:

Ramadan pide – a freshly baked round flatbread, very large for sharing widely

Güllaç – a milky pudding with pomegranate seeds and ground pistachio nuts

 

Ramadan drummers

Some neighbourhoods – though not usually Galata, our apartments’ area – preserve this tradition. An hour or so before dawn a drummer, likely plus entourage, walks the streets while beating rhythm, perhaps below your bedroom window! The purpose is to wake everyone in time for sahur, the morning meal that’s eaten before sunrise. It happens for only a couple of minutes and is an interesting cultural experience as a visitor. Once you’ve got the idea of it, earplugs and a little patience are recommended, unless you’re joining in.

 

So our advice would be to definitely come and enjoy Istanbul during Ramadan: the city and its people will be even more interesting than usual!

 

Ramadan dates for the future

2021: 13 April – 12 May
2022: 2 April – 1 May

Bayram dates for the future

2021: 13-15 May
2022: 1-3 May

 

Traffic and transport implications

Road traffic will be heavier every day just before iftar, with taxis harder to find. If it’s been a long hot day, light-headed drivers may be even more erratic than usual. On the last day of Ramadan in Istanbul, public transport will be very busy as everyone tries to reach extended family for the 3 day Şeker Bayram holiday beginning at sunset.

 

Museums and cultural attractions

These should be operating but may have special opening hours, particularly on the day just before Şeker Bayram, when they may be closed. It’s certainly best to check before heading out to them.

 

Do you have questions about Ramadan in Istanbul?

Feel free to comment or ask us any questions you may have, below. We’d love to hear from you.

 

« 7 tips for an Istanbul city break in October
#BookDirect Day 2021 »

Comments

  1. Omer Manzoor Malik says

    April 2021 at 12:27 pm

    Hi. We are planning to visit Istanbul furing eid holidays i.e., 13 May to 17 May. We heard of a lockdown. Can you guide us if it is a good time to visit and will tourist attractions be open?

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2021 at 6:39 pm

      Hello Omer,
      This is so difficult for us to know but we have seen this article, in English, which gives some information:
      https://www.dailysabah.com/turkey/expat-corner/turkeys-17-day-total-lockdown-everything-you-need-to-know
      I hope it’s helpful to you.

      Reply
  2. Deepthi says

    July 2019 at 3:54 pm

    Hi. Would istiklal street and other shopping malls be open on Tuesday, 13 August? That is the only day i have planned shopping in istanbul and i really hope things are not closed.

    Reply
    • Julia says

      July 2019 at 5:09 pm

      Hello Deepthi,

      We think shops/restaurants etc on Istiklal and in shopping malls should be open as normal on August 13th. Enjoy your trip :))

      Reply
  3. Sara says

    May 2019 at 10:13 pm

    Hi! Are restaurants busy during iftar time? Do I need to reserve early at a restaurant or is it easy to find a place to eat?
    Any recommendations for good iftar in sultanahmet? 🙂

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 8:33 pm

      Hi Sara,

      Yes, restaurants get extremely busy during iftar time, so we’d recommend you to book if you plan to eat during iftar. However, some of the restaurants such as meyhanes which are typical for raki and meze in Turkey, could be less busy than usual.

      We’d recommend you to try iftar places in Beyoglu rather than Sultanahmet.

      Wish you a great time!

      Reply
  4. Jean says

    May 2019 at 12:10 pm

    Will the Grand Bazaar be open this week? We want to go on May 28 and 30. Also can I buy salep powder there to take back to the US to make ice cream.

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 8:36 pm

      Hi Jean,

      Yes Grand Bazaar will be open for your dates. Spice Bazaar which is very close to Grand Bazaar would be the best place to buy salep powder.

      Wish you a fantastic time!

      Reply
  5. Omar says

    May 2019 at 6:27 am

    Hello ! Im planning to visit istanbul on 3rd of June till 5th of June , so i want to ask if all the dresses shops will be open on that dates .
    Best regards

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 6:37 pm

      Hello Omar,

      Yes, they will be open, wish you a great time!

      Reply
  6. Mahdieh says

    May 2019 at 9:08 pm

    Hello ,I want to go to Istanbul from 2-6 of june and i want to know whether malls are open in eid al fitr or not?And which mall is suitable for kitchen and home accessories?

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 6:39 pm

      Hello Mahdieh,

      All of the malls are open and they’re all suitable for kitchen and home accessories. Wish you a lovely time.

      Reply
  7. sheena says

    May 2019 at 3:36 pm

    Hello, i will be arriving on the 6th June until 9th June in Istanbul and want to know if the Grand and Spice bazaar will be open on the Thursday 6th or Friday 7th?

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 5:41 pm

      Hello Sheena,

      Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar close down only on the first day of the religious holidays, so they’ll be open on the 6th of June 2019 and 7th of June 2019. Wish you a great time!

      Reply
  8. Wafa Sharif says

    May 2019 at 11:18 pm

    Hello

    I would like to visit next week for 5 days in Ramadan to shop for wedding dress? Where is best place to stay close to shopping. And any recommendations where I can find wedding dress

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 8:44 am

      Hello Wafa,

      Nişantaşı would be the best area for wedding dress shopping. Actually, Nişantaşı is only 2 metro stops away from our apartments.

      Wish you a great time.

      Reply
  9. Issam BouHamdan says

    May 2019 at 8:57 pm

    Hi Julia,
    One thing I enjoy in Istanbul is shopping. Do you know if retail shops at Istinye Park Mall offer discounts during Ramadan?
    Thanks,
    Issam

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 8:20 am

      Hi Issam,

      Retails shops at malls offer discounts from time to time but we’re not aware of anything specific for Ramadan.

      Wish you a lovely time.

      Reply
  10. Anwen Edwards says

    May 2019 at 12:53 pm

    Hello!
    I am in planning trip to Istanbul with friends. We will want to eat out and drink wine in the evenings. Is it only the hotels which serve alcohol during this time?
    Thank you for confirming
    Anwen

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      May 2019 at 8:18 am

      Hi Anwen,

      All of the bars and restaurants who serve alcohol will continue as usual in Ramadan. So you’ll be fine 🙂

      Have a great time!

      Reply
  11. Moe says

    April 2019 at 2:52 pm

    Very interesting chat.. I would need to know, would be any public Iftar as the one you had published a picture for (Istiklal iftar in 2013) and how you join? I shoudl be in Istanbul on Tues. May 7th only

    please advise

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2019 at 10:46 am

      Hello Moe,

      We’re not aware of an Istiklal picnic iftar this year, unfortunately. There should be tents and public iftars provided by the local authorities in other parts of the city though. Hope you find something!

      Reply
  12. Vaseem Nawaz says

    April 2019 at 4:04 am

    Is there any whole night open market or flee market during Ramadan in Istanbul? Have flights thru Turkey and want to have some time out during transit. Thanks for help.

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:35 pm

      Dear Vaseem,

      As far as we know there is not a market that is open for the whole night. Stay for longer! We wish you a lovely time.

      Reply
  13. Shahad R says

    April 2019 at 10:59 am

    Hi Julia,

    Thank you for this page, it’s really helpful.

    We’re planing to visit istanbul at the first week of Ramadan, is the working hours for shopping malls and streets shops & restaurants are affected or changed? Or will be as other months usually from 10 am – 10 pm?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:37 pm

      Dear Shahad,

      Working hours for shopping malls and streets shops & restaurants are not effected. They’re usually open from 8 AM to 10 PM depending on the location.

      Wish you a great time in Istanbul.

      Reply
  14. Tom says

    April 2019 at 7:27 am

    Hiiii
    I have a plan to visit during Ramadan time this year.
    At what time shopping mall closed during this time ??
    I Thank you

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:38 pm

      Hi Tom,

      Usually shopping malls are open until 10 PM. We wish you a great time.

      Reply
  15. Preeti says

    April 2019 at 5:10 pm

    Hi Julia!! My husband and me are planning Istanbul and Antalya from May 30-June 8 2019. Have a fair idea on what to do in Istanbul but not very sure about Antalya. Any suggestion would be of great help.
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:39 pm

      Hello Preeti and thank you for your question. Unfortunately we don’t know much about Antalya – our neighbourhood is Galata in Istanbul. Sorry not to be able to help you.

      Reply
  16. Deborah Frati says

    April 2019 at 8:59 am

    We will be in Istanbul May 16-20. Will major sites and Grand Bazaar be open?

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:40 pm

      Hi Deborah,

      Yes, they’ll be open. Have a great time!

      Reply
  17. Annabella says

    April 2019 at 4:09 pm

    Hi. This will be our third trip to Istanbul arriving may 5 th for a week. We wanted to go and visit Erdine and also hang out in Kadikoy asian side. How will ramadan affect those places also we were thinking about the islands. We would be super grateful for your advice

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:41 pm

      Hi Annabella,

      There shouldn’t be any Ramadan effect at these places. Enjoy your visit!

      Reply
  18. vishal says

    April 2019 at 2:44 am

    hiii julia
    i am from india and coimg to turkey on 26 may to 6 june. in istambul i an for 3 days 4,5,6 june.
    is all market place like spice bazar, grand bazar and other shopping place are closed?

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:41 pm

      Hi Vishal,

      They’ll all be open! We wish you a lovely time.

      Reply
  19. Tommy says

    April 2019 at 12:39 pm

    hii Julia
    i have a plan to visit istanbul during MAY 7 TO MAY 12 Ramadan time, I am non muslim .
    its a good time for me to visit istanbul ?
    shopes open during after ifter ?
    thank u

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:43 pm

      Hello Tommy,

      You won’t experience Ramadan in a negative way in Istanbul. At iftar time (breaking the fast) restaurants will be very busy. Many of the shops will be open after iftar time.

      Enjoy your trip.

      Reply
  20. Kitty says

    April 2019 at 1:36 am

    I am planning to visit Turkey for the first time during 6 – 13 May 2019 as a tourist of which I have not known before that Ramadan is waiting me , Hope everything will be fine and impressive during my visit.

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      April 2019 at 2:44 pm

      Hi Kitty,

      There’ll be no negative influence of Ramadan on your stay. Just the opposite, you’ll have a great cultural experience!

      Have a great time.

      Reply
      • Taran says

        March 2021 at 9:35 am

        Hi!! I am planning to visit Istanbul between 22 apr to 4 may. Just wondering like drinking water, juice or any other soft drink in public during day time is ok or its not allowed like some other gulf countries?
        Thks

        Reply
        • Julia says

          March 2021 at 5:05 pm

          Hello Taran, yes that will be absolutely fine. Istanbul is much more relaxed than the Gulf Countries. Have a great trip!

          Reply
  21. Hadeel says

    April 2019 at 10:27 am

    Hi Julia, thank you for this page as it was a relief for me as I’m planning to traveling for the first time to Istanbul and Cappadocia with my family from 31 May till 7June. I know it will be the last 10 days of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr. I plan to visit majority of the attractions from museums to bazaars, palaces to mosques, cruises and trips. Will Ramadan have an effect? Please let me know if there are special events also happening near by during my stay. I appreciate all the info and help I can get and thank you in advance.

    Reply
    • Julia says

      April 2019 at 11:24 am

      Hello Hadeel and thanks for your appreciative comment,

      I can really only advise about Istanbul (Cappadocia is stunning though! You’ll have a fascinating time there) and as mentioned in the blog, you should be fine for a choice of cultural attractions in Istanbul during your stay. Bayram/Eid is slightly different though and the last day of Ramadan and first day of the 3 day holiday is a bit of an unknown each year for museums and bazaars – do check your specific location online before heading out during those days. You don’t mention which neighbourhood you’ll be staying in – is it Galata in one of our apartments? If so you’ll get plenty of help about local events from our Manager Taskin, during your stay. Enjoy your trip!

      Reply
  22. Zu Hal says

    March 2019 at 3:21 am

    Hello Julia,

    My parents and I will be in Istanbul during Ramadan this year (18-22nd May). Would there be any ramadan bazaar or cultural activities? Is it worth to take day trip to Bursa?

    Reply
    • Julia says

      March 2019 at 4:09 pm

      Hello Zu Hal,

      How lovely that you’ll be in Istanbul soon! Yes there will be cultural activities for Ramadan at the district level, such as iftar tents and evening markets – exactly what/where will depend on which neighbourhood you’re staying in. I once did a day-trip to Bursa and really enjoyed it (the mosque and special kebab restaurant), but you won’t have a lot of time so I suggest it really depends on your priorities. We wish you a lovely time.

      Reply
  23. Jean says

    February 2019 at 8:17 am

    Hello Julia,

    I am traveling this year to Istanbul for the 2nd time as I love this city so much. However, I booked from May 8 till May 12 which is during Ramadan Fasting. Will this affect my stay? Will the shops in Istiklal and taksim open normally during the day? Will hotels serve breakfast or food? Can we visit the mosque, Hagia Sophia and the grand bazar? etc.? Appreciate your help.

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      February 2019 at 6:49 pm

      Hello Jean,

      Ramadan will have no negative impact on your stay at all. Shops in Istiklal and Taksim will be open as usual and hotels and restaurants will serve breakfast, food and alcohol too. You can visit all of the tourist attractions in the normal way. Actually, you’re lucky to come to Istanbul during Ramadan, so that you’ll experience additional cultural aspects! Have a great time…

      Reply
  24. Niv says

    February 2019 at 7:01 pm

    We are planning on stopping in Istanbul for 4 days on our way to Switzerland I may around 22 to 25th. Would that be a good time to visit the blue mosque and grand bazaar? Should I be advised on any tourist attractions being closed during those days?

    Reply
    • Tarkan says

      February 2019 at 6:44 pm

      Hello Niv,

      Visiting Istanbul during Ramadan is always interesting and good. The normal life goes on but on top of that, you’ve got the possibility to experience some additional cultural aspects of Istanbul during Ramadan. All of the tourist attractions will be open as usual. Wish you a lovely time!

      Reply
  25. Agnes says

    May 2018 at 11:13 am

    Hi Julia. I will be at Istanbul from 14 June-18June . With 18th leaving the city. May i know if places like grand bazaar is closed ? And tourist places ?? Thank you very much

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2018 at 4:53 pm

      Hello Agnes, most shops will be closed for the first day of Bayram, June 15th. On the second and third days, many are usually open but it depends on their family situations as the owners will balance the importance of family time with work time and income. Many in touristic areas should be open after the first day. I hope this helps.

      Reply
  26. ilahi says

    May 2018 at 9:04 am

    Hi,

    We are visiting Istanbul this weekend and we want to know if it is possible to have iftar at sultanahmet cami square and do you need to make reservations if you want to sit at one of the long tables?

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2018 at 4:36 pm

      Hello Ilahi, you don’t need to make a reservation for iftar at Sultanahmet Square, but you should arrive at least 30 minutes before iftar time to find a place to sit as it gets very busy. Have a lovely weekend!

      Reply
  27. Aziza Shaikh says

    May 2018 at 10:32 am

    Ramadan is the month of blessing, togetherness, and celebrations, I would love to spend time in Turkey in the holy month of Ramadan.

    Ramadan Mubarak!

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2018 at 4:27 pm

      We really hope that some day you can Aziza, we’d love to welcome you here. Ramadan Mubarak!

      Reply
  28. Fátima Martínez Valencia says

    May 2018 at 9:44 pm

    Hi! I am going to Istanbul for the sixth time on June. We are going from the 10th to the 17th. I would like to visit street markets, and I want to know if Fatih Wednesday market will be working normally on the 13th of June. Also If you could tell me any street market similar to Fatih on Mondays, to go on the 11th of June.
    This information is really important for me because has been impossible to find it on internet. We want to buy clothes and things of the like and those markets are amazing, I know them from the other times I’ve visited Istanbul and I love it. But this time, because of Ramadan, I have these doubts that I am asking for.
    Many thanks in advance!!

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2018 at 4:24 pm

      Hello Fátima, how great that you love Istanbul so much!

      Our manager Taskin has asked around for you.
      We believe that on June 11th Rami bazaar can be visited, very similar to Fatih bazaar.
      On June 13th Fatih bazaar should be as normal: you’re in luck :))

      The website http://www.istanbulpazarcilarodasi.com/istanbulda-pazartesi-gunu-kurulan-pazarlar/1 might also be useful for you. Ramadan Mubarak! Have a great trip!

      Reply
  29. Vanessa says

    May 2018 at 1:51 pm

    Hello we are spending fitr holiday in istanbul but we are planning to do shopping and visit touristics places. Are the shops closed ? And where do you advise us to go in istanbul

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2018 at 2:45 pm

      Hello Vanessa, most shops will be closed for the first day of Fitr (Bayram in Turkish). On the second and third days, most are usually open but it depends on their family situations as the owners will balance the importance of family time with work time and income. Many in touristic areas should be open after the first day. As for where to go, it will really depend on your interests: Istanbul is huge! Perhaps you should start in Sultanahmet (though not for the first day of Bayram when museums will be closed) to see something of the famous tourist sights and take it from there. We would advise you to buy a good guidebook before you go and research according to your interests.

      Reply
  30. Safeyah says

    May 2018 at 7:47 am

    What about shops! When does it usually open /close in ramadan!

    Reply
    • Julia says

      May 2018 at 2:36 pm

      Hello Safeyah, most shops should be open as usual over Ramadan.

      Reply
  31. LH says

    April 2018 at 2:02 pm

    Hiya Julia,
    Can you advise what museums/ attraction are closed during Şeker Bayram? I know the Grand Bazaar will be closed, but is everything else open as normal, or shut on the first day (Thursday)?
    Thanks!!!

    Reply
    • Julia says

      April 2018 at 4:01 pm

      I wish we could give you good advice on this, but to find reliable information isn’t easy! The official website of Hagia Sophia only says “Hagia Sophia Museum is not available for visiting in the first days of Ramadan and Sacrifice Festivals for half time.” *Sigh*.

      Pera Museum website is clearer and says it’ll only be closed on the first day of Şeker Bayram. Last year Topkapi Palace was closed for the first half day of Bayram, then fully open for the rest.

      So our advice for the least disappointment would be to not plan a visit to the big attractions that first day, Friday 15th June, but to enjoy local neighbourhood life, where cafes etc. should be open and the atmosphere celebratory. Hopefully you’ll be OK for most museums the next day, the Saturday, and then Sunday afternoon.

      If anyone else has better information, please do chip in. Hope you enjoy whatever you find!

      Reply
  32. Khizra says

    June 2017 at 1:36 am

    Julia can you please mention any specific sufi night show during ramadan we are here near sultan ahmet till eid. I really want to see such things

    Reply
    • Julia says

      June 2017 at 9:30 am

      Hello Khizra, wishing you “iyi Bayramlar”!
      The place we know well is very authentic and close to our apartments in Galata neighbourhood (just across the Golden Horn from Sultanahmet): http://www.galatamevlevihanesimuzesi.gov.tr/en/contact.html We’d recommend that you call in personally to get tickets as arrangements aren’t clear for this bayram holiday time. There may be others nearer to Sultanahmet (eg Sirkeci Train Station) but again it would be advisable to call in personally to find out times. This might help: http://wizardistanbul.com/things-to-do-in-istanbul/top-3-places-to-watch-whirling-dervishes-in-istanbul/ I really hope you can find one.

      Reply
  33. Fay says

    June 2017 at 2:47 pm

    This is such an eye-opener. I had no idea that Ramadan is such a special time in Istanbul. I love the sound of the iftar picnic!

    Reply
    • Julia Bayne says

      June 2017 at 7:01 am

      Thanks so much Fay, I’m so glad that the specialness comes across in the post. We’d love to see you in Istanbul any time you like.

      Reply
  34. Mariam says

    May 2017 at 1:46 am

    Hello.

    My husband and I would like to enjoy iftar at one of iftar tent. We are Muslim from other country and would like to find any iftar tent in Istanbul. Could you give us more detail ? Adress ? Is it free ? Thanks

    Reply
    • Julia says

      June 2017 at 4:23 pm

      Hello Miriam, it would be a great experience for you and your husband to have iftar in an Istanbul iftar tent! They’re usually set up close to a mosque and there are so many of these in Istanbul, you wouldn’t have to look very far. Büyük Camii in Kasımpaşa would be a good one to try if you’re staying in Galata where our apartments are. The tents are usually big and noticeable so you’d see them elsewhere too. As sunset approaches people queue up. No reservation is needed and the food is given for free.

      Reply
  35. shirin Mayet says

    May 2017 at 1:19 pm

    We want to spend last 5 days of Ramadan in Istanbul. And the next ten days touring .
    Can u advise how is eid morning celebrated in Istanbul. Do woman go to a mosque and how long is the eid celebrations Holiday. Is there a eid festival shopping spree.
    Thank u

    Reply
    • Julia says

      June 2017 at 7:10 pm

      Hello again Shirin, that sounds like a really good travel plan. Eid is called Şeker Bayram in Turkish and lasts for 3 days. It’s a time for visiting family and particularly, if you’re a child, for receiving gifts of sweets. The visits can lead to congested traffic in busy Istanbul, so be prepared for that. People may also visit family graveyards. Women can certainly go to mosque, you’d just have to ask at the door which part of it. We’re not aware of a particular shopping spree event but the shopping opportunities in Istanbul are great anyway. Enjoy your trip!

      Reply
  36. shirin Mayet says

    May 2017 at 1:13 pm

    Please advise. We are a muslim couple who want to spent the last days of Ramadan in Istanbul. We are from S Africa. We want to celebrate Ramadan and Eid in a area of Istanbul which is local and original. I have stayed in Sultanahmed area which was too touristy, no locals around. Can u suggest other suburbs where we can experience Ottoman Ramadan.
    Do u think I should book into a local holiday house so I can be with the locals?

    Reply
    • Julia says

      June 2017 at 8:43 pm

      Hello Shirin. We agree with you that much of Sultanahmet is over-touristy and commercialised these days, not only for Eid/Bayram but all year round. Our own neighbourhood of Galata is much less touristy than Sultanahmet, but it’s also less conservative than other areas, so it doesn’t have traditional iftar tents and may not be what you want either. The very authentic neighbourhood to our north west (25 mins walk) is called Kasımpaşa and the main mosque there is Büyük Camii – this would be a good place for you to go. Although in Galata we offer holiday apartments, they’re for your private use so you wouldn’t be sharing the interior space with locals. You could however stay in one of our apartments and explore a different neighbourhood, perhaps starting with Kasımpaşa, every evening!

      Reply
  37. Sarah Elder says

    June 2016 at 11:21 pm

    That sounds really amazing! What an experience it must be to have everyone together. I would love to experience that.

    Reply
    • Julia says

      July 2016 at 3:20 pm

      Do come and try it Sarah. We’d love to host you here, during Ramadan or any other time of year.

      Reply
  38. Donna says

    June 2016 at 12:43 pm

    Ramadan sounds magical! Thanks for the dates ahead of time. That will make it easier to plan for a future trip.

    Reply
    • Julia says

      June 2016 at 1:56 pm

      Hello Donna. Magical is a good word for it, inspiring too. There are parallels with Lent on the Christian calendar, but the community comes together for iftar in a way that’s unique and very accessible to visitors. I really hope you can book that future trip!

      Reply

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We're the global winners of i-escape's Guest Award for 'Best City Apartment' two years running

Icing on the cake

personal welcome personal welcome


local recommendations local recommendations


free wifi speedy wifi


5 star linens and towels 5* linens and towels


Special-grade cleaning special-grade cleaning

istanbulplace

Pasha Place Apartment has a new sofa, antique chai Pasha Place Apartment has a new sofa, antique chairs and designer side tables so photography updates are needed this week ✨
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We’ve decided our interior style might be ‘hipstoric’ 🤔 A new word, fashionable in 2023. Have you heard of it? Do you like the concept? 

Is it ‘us’ ?!​​​​​​​​
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#myistanbulplace ​​​​​​​​
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>> link in bio to see the apartment and the pictures updating on in sometime in the next couple of days 🤞🏻🤞🏻​​​​​​​​
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Invaluable help by @tsknkykc and @songulhdrr Hipstoric conundrum thanks to @mad_about_the_house and @sophierobinsoninteriors Photography by @gokhan_sariyaz_foto 🙏🏻​​​​​​​​
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Pasha Penthouse Apartment is ready! 🙌🏻​​ Pasha Penthouse Apartment is ready! 🙌🏻​​​​​​​​
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Our most recent Istanbul Place project is now finished and photographed, so a few minutes’ feet up with a cuppa feels very necessary. Do you like the carpet? It’s a vintage one we were delighted to find, as the colours and subtle pattern really compliment the interior decor and incredible views from this spot 👌🏻​​​​​​​​
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We’re calling it Pasha Penthouse as its private roof terrace is very ‘million dollar’ with 180 degree cityscape all the way from the Bosphorus bridge around the Golden Horn to Galata Tower. ​​​​​​​​
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✨ 2 double bedrooms​​​​​​​​
✨ beautifully fitted out and furnished​​​​​​​​
✨ Galata’s most high-end street​​​​​​​​
✨ quiet and private​​​​​​​​
✨ 5th floor walk-up and so worth it!​​​​​​​​
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When are you coming to try it out?​​​​​​​​
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#myistanbulplace​​​​​​​​
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>> link in bio to see it newly on the website, for more details and to book your stay 👆🏻​​​​​​​​
Farewell 2022 and welcome to 2023! 🥂 It’s no Farewell 2022 and welcome to 2023! 🥂

It’s not been the easiest of years but along the way we’ve so loved being in touch with you online and hosting all our wonderful guests. Thanks for your part in it 🥰

Were you able to stay with us?

The Sema ceremony pictured is from Galata Mevlevihanesi just up the hill and reminds us of Rumi’s words:

“Travel brings power and love back into your life.” 

If this resonates with you and you’re tempted in an Istanbul direction, we’d be delighted to see you in 2023 ✨

#myistanbulplace

>> link in bio to see the apartments we offer, including availability, pricing, floor plan, reviews and direct booking 👆🏻​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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>>UPDATE: now booked<< Still wondering what to do >>UPDATE: now booked<<

Still wondering what to do for New Year? We can now offer Pasha Penthouse Apartment between Dec 30th and January 5th - including New Years’ Eve! Just finished getting it ready in time 😅

This very special apartment has a private roof terrace with sweeping views across the Bosphorus and Golden Horn - a dream for the fireworks at midnight - an unforgettable way to welcome in 2023 🥂

It’s also perfectly placed to explore the famous sights on the peninsula yet feel a sense of belonging in your own historic home. Swipe for more images of the property and streets around <<

✨ 2 nights minimum stay
✨ Romantic for 2, fun for 4
✨ The best street in Galata at your doorstep
✨ Great cafes and restaurants in the neighbourhood 

#myistanbulplace

>> link in bio to #bookdirect for the best rates 👆🏻

📷: @gokhan_sariyaz_foto @hotelfotografcisi 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Pasha Penthouse is ready! 🙌🏻 Our latest pro Pasha Penthouse is ready! 🙌🏻

Our latest project is now finished and photographed, so it might be time to test it out a little 🤪

See in stories why we’re calling it Pasha Penthouse (private terrace!! floor to ceiling glass doors!! million dollar view!!) 

It’s not on the website yet so please make contact directly if you’d like to book a stay.

#myistanbulplace

📷: @gokhan_sariyaz_foto @hotelfotografcisi 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Yesterday is history Tomorrow is a mystery But tod Yesterday is history
Tomorrow is a mystery
But today is a gift 💫

This view is a present to you - any time you like - from us and from Istanbul, when you stay at Pasha Penthouse apartment in Galata ✨

Save to remember!

#myistanbulplace

>> link in bio to our website where you can learn more and book direct 👆🏻

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#takemethere #travellife #doyoutravel #finditliveit #wanderlust #shesnotlost #istanbultrip #bestplacestogo #travelling #doyoutravel #vacationrental #oldhomelove #istanbultrip #galata #istanbullove #citybreak #familytraveltribe #istanbullovers #istanbullife #istanbulturkey #visitingistanbul #citybreak #galata #holidayhome #holidayapartments #familybusiness
Hello and merhaba old friends and welcome to new o Hello and merhaba old friends and welcome to new ones too 👋🏻👋🏻

This family business Istanbul Place Apartments is run by my husband Tarkan and myself @juliabayne together with our wonderful manager Taşkın. It all began 15 years ago when we lived in Singapore, though more recently we’ve been based in England for our son’s education. 

We still dash around a lot and here I am looking a bit weary in the midst of working on our latest addition. When finished it’ll give you a choice of 15 historic apartments with us,  for your next Istanbul trip ✨

One day if we can be in the same place at the same time, hopefully and inşallah we can manage a professional picture all together. But until then it’s another knackered mirror-selfie from me!

Have you stayed with us yet?

Wishing you a lovely Sunday, from us all, wherever you may be. We hope to welcome you to Istanbul very soon ✨⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

>> link in bio to see more of the apartments, including availability, pricing, floor plan, reviews and direct booking 👆🏻​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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#myistanbulplace
The framing of sultans 🤪 They don’t seem to m The framing of sultans 🤪 They don’t seem to mind!

These pretty frames from @coxandcox have glass backs, so the interesting historic info about each Ottoman sultan can still be read. The vintage card-portraits themselves were an antique shop find a few years ago and have been patiently waiting in a dark folder for their Bosphorus views to be reinstated 💫

Will you come to visit and tell them the latest palace gossip?!

>> link in bio to our website for more of the historic apartments we offer, including floor plan, reviews and direct booking 👆🏻

#myistanbulplace
Goodnight and iyi geceler from us 💫 This is a Goodnight and iyi geceler from us 💫

This is a bit of the view from an apartment we’re currently furnishing and preparing for guests - hopefully you! 

It has a magnificent private terrace overlooking the Bosphorus, Golden Horn AND Galata Tower. If you know our Pasha Place Apartment, this one is in the same building at the top. It’s not on the website yet, but will be soon - meanwhile there’s work to be done. 

So we’ll crack on and sleep well tonight with the exhaustion of it all 🤪 Hope you sleep well too.

>> link in bio to website for the other apartments we offer for short stays, including pictures, floor plans and reviews 👆🏻

#myistanbulplace

📷: our lovely manager Taşkın 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Life is so busy - it really helps to be able to ar Life is so busy - it really helps to be able to arrange your travels and apartment stay efficiently ✨​​​​​​​​
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We understand this and try very hard to respond quickly to all enquiries and questions from our guests. ​​​​​​​​
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So do feel free to ask what you need - we’ll be prioritising our responses to you 💫​​​​​​​​
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Thanks Jorge, it was a pleasure to be able to help you promptly 🙏🏻🙏🏻​​​​​​​​
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>> link in bio to our website, where you can read this TripAdvisor review in full, plus many others to inform your choice 👆🏻​​​​​​​​
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#myistanbulplace
Across the Golden Horn, November 2022 ✨ This ci Across the Golden Horn, November 2022 ✨

This city, over millennia, has seen so much - too much in many ways. 

And so today we - the lucky ones - are getting on with life again, enjoying the moments and each other. 

We’re taking deep breaths of the views and also recommending mercimek çorbası - comfort soup! @ozlems_turkish_table has a great recipe - simple and healthy, swipe to be tempted. It helps with everything 💫

#myistanbulplace

This particular bit of skyline is from the shared roof terrace of our Petraki Place Apartments.
Deliveries are happening ✨ Although we use loca Deliveries are happening ✨

Although we use locally sourced items as much as possible to furnish the apartments, there are some things that best arrive in suitcases. With the winter season coming up here are some new cosy textiles and family games for Petraki Place II Apartment. 

Also a repatriated hamam bowl, English breakfast tea bags - for personal use! - and some fancy chocolates for the team 🤪

What would you bring?!

>> link in bio to our website for more of this apartment, including floor plan, reviews and easy direct booking 👆🏻

#myistanbulplace
Meet The Team ✨ Do you know Taşkın? We’re ce Meet The Team ✨ Do you know Taşkın? We’re celebrating 5 years’ of working together with him this November 🙌🏻

Taşkın - pronounced “Tashkuhn” - is our skilled and lovely manager in Galata. When you arrive at your apartment he’ll welcome you with grace, show how things work and help with any questions you might have. From then on he’s only a phone call or WhatsApp message away, should you need any support during your stay 💫

Having worked in Istanbul tourism for many years, his English, patience and positive outlook are great! He has two adult children - Irem and Emir - and lives across the Golden Horn with his wife Sevda. We’re very lucky to have him on our business journey with us 🧿
Do you like this headboard? Honestly! 🤔 For ma Do you like this headboard? Honestly! 🤔

For many years we’ve been designing our own velvet headboards and having them made by talented local upholsterer Izmet. This example is waiting for you in one of Petraki Place III apartment’s 3 bedrooms. 

The dimensions are completely to our own design, so for a twin room like this the length << swipe to see << allows two beds to be moved together or apart. For double beds we’ve always gone for more drama with the height, but kept to velvet upholstery. 

A new apartment will be joining the Istanbul Place collection soon and we’re wondering if it’s time for headboard change. What do you think? ✨

>> link in bio to our website for more of this apartment, including floor plan, reviews and easy direct booking 👆🏻

#myistanbulplace
Who doesn’t appreciate a sparkly clean kitchen i Who doesn’t appreciate a sparkly clean kitchen in their holiday rental? 💫

Our guests can be sure of arriving to one when staying in an Istanbul Place Apartment. There’s no pressure to use it though! Lots of interesting restaurants and cafés are on your doorstep so you can cook at home as little or as much as you choose - and if you do need any help keeping on top of it during your stay we can arrange an extra cleaning service for you.

>> link in bio to our website for more of this apartment, including floor plan, reviews and easy direct booking 👆🏻

#myistanbulplace ⠀⠀⠀⠀
Last of the summer meze ✨ It’s not too late f Last of the summer meze ✨

It’s not too late for summer food, is it?! Make this at home or find similar in neighbourhood restaurants and cafés when you stay in our apartments. 

Summer isn’t quite over in Istanbul yet! Have a lovely weekend wherever you are ✨
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📷: @always_hungry_fats 🙏🏻🙏🏻⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Do you recognise this beautiful building? Share i Do you recognise this beautiful building?  Share its name in the comments if you do ✨

Our son attended a wedding celebration here last week and it’s been lovely to remind him of why we called our first Istanbul Place Apartment ‘Pera Place’. 

They’re of the same period and in the same neighbourhood… clue!

We were tongue-in-cheek all those years ago, though in time it evolved into our current business name so there’s no going back! 

Swipe 👈🏻 to see our Pera Place Apartment and whether you can imagine Agatha Christie staying with us too, after her inspirational journey on the Orient Express 🥂

>> link in bio to see more of Pera Place Apartment, including availability, pricing, floor plan, reviews and direct booking 👆🏻 

#myistanbulplace
What a treat to be included in @insideoutinistanbu What a treat to be included in @insideoutinistanbul’s recent post about the women of Istanbul!

It’s an interesting piece that’ll put you on the trail of some of the women who’ve made a difference historically, as well as some who are trying their best across the city these days ✨

In our case it’s all about the teamwork and @sulekcay has been so helpful recently - many thanks to her too 🙏🏻🙏🏻
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>> link in bio to read @insideoutinistanbul Lisa’s post ‘Discover the Istanbul Women Created’ 👆🏻​​​​​​​​
We’re fortunate to have Istanbul itself, with al We’re fortunate to have Istanbul itself, with all its intriguing complexities, on our marketing team 🤪

Thanks to all our wonderful guests who left great reviews to qualify us for another @tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award in 2022 🙏🏻🙏🏻

>> link in bio to website, where you can read much more about the service we give, guests’ experiences and apartment quality, to inform your choice 👆🏻

#myistanbulplace

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#takemethere #travellerschoice #happycustomers #welltravelled #customerstories #guestbook #fivestarreviews #hospitalityculture #widenyourworld #travellife #doyoutravel #finditliveit #wanderlust #shesnotlost #bestplacestogo #travelling #doyoutravel #vacationrental #customerservice #galata
Recognise this street? Tell us if you know/remembe Recognise this street? Tell us if you know/remember its name! 🤔​​​​​​​​
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There’s a heavy old iron doorway on the left leading up to the four Petraki Place Apartments we offer and their magnificent roof terrace view. Straight ahead you can just see Galata tower in sunshine. Cafés, boutique shops and small restaurants abound. ​​​​​​​​
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When will we see you here?!​​​​​​​​
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>> link in bio to read more about the city and see the apartments we offer, including floor plans and reviews 👆🏻​​​​​​​​
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#myistanbulplace ​​​​​​​​

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