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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 πŸ‘‘ 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

GΓΌllaΓ§ – 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? πŸ™‚

    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 πŸ™‚

      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. FΓ‘tima MartΓ­nez 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 FΓ‘tima, 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. BΓΌyΓΌk Camii in KasΔ±mpaşa 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 KasΔ±mpaşa and the main mosque there is BΓΌyΓΌk 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 KasΔ±mpaşa, 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've been glowingly reported in CondΓ© Nast magazine and The Independent and Telegraph newspapers

The top 3 Istanbul apartments on Tripadvisor are ours along with hundreds of great reviews

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

June is birthday month behind the scenes at Istanb June is birthday month behind the scenes at Istanbul Place Apartments and this year Tarkan and I ( Julia πŸ‘‹πŸ») managed to be in the same place at the same time as Eren, our son, to celebrate πŸ™ŒπŸ»

It’s Tarkan’s birthday today, so we’re wishing him a wonderful year ahead, with thanks for everything along the way over the last 12 months too. 

Iyi ki doğdun Tarkan, it’s good that you were born! ✨
Are you on our email list? We keep our precious g Are you on our email list?

We keep our precious guests’ addresses very securely (Tarkan was an IT security consultant in his previous life) and hardly ever send out emails πŸ™ˆ but have the best of intentions to do a little more!

When we have special offers or news it’s good to know that you’re there ✨

>> just clink our link in bio to add yourself πŸ‘†πŸ»

#myistanbulplace

πŸ“·: @_ginger_diaries_
We love it when guests take selfies while staying We love it when guests take selfies while staying in our apartments. Here’s a gorgeous one by @shahrai_marina from her stay at Pera Place ✨
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*That* ceiling is why we started the business over 14 years ago - it was just too good to keep to ourselves πŸ’«
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Save this post if you’d like to wake up to it as your own private ceiling!
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>> link in bio for more about Pera Place Apartment, including floor plan, reviews and to book your stay πŸ‘†πŸ»
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#myistanbulplace
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πŸ“·: @shahrai_marina
Do you sometimes need a bit of help researching yo Do you sometimes need a bit of help researching your trip, from people who know the location well?

It can be so daunting to visit a previously unknown city - with the added pressure of having only a short time there ✨

If we can assist with your plans we always will, answering any concerns you might have and recommending experiences and places that we love ourselves. 

Thanks Trek, we’re so glad to have enriched your stay πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»

>> link in bio to our website, where you can read this TripAdvisor review in full, plus many others to inform your choice πŸ‘†πŸ»

#myistanbulplace
Are you ready to look through new doors and into o Are you ready to look through new doors and into other worlds again? ✨
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Lots of amazing doors can be found in Istanbul, from palaces to tea gardens, mosques to cocktail bars. 
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We have some wonderful ones ready to take you into your apartment rental home-from-home too πŸ’«
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>> link in bio to see more of our apartments for your stay, including availability, pricing, floor plan, reviews and direct booking πŸ‘†πŸ»β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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#myistanbulplace​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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πŸ“· : @linamalvina 
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We didn’t realise this Pocket Rough Guide was li We didn’t realise this Pocket Rough Guide was listing Pasha Place Apartment until recently coming across it in a book shop in London. So that was a lovely surprise! πŸ™ŒπŸ»

Please tell us if you ever see us listed in guide books. We used to be in all of them but have lost track a bit over the last couple of years. 

Page 140 β€œLooking south across the Golden Horn, the sitting room and main bedrooms of this beautifully restored nineteenth-century apartment have great old city skyline views. There are three good-sized bedrooms, a stylish kitchen and a separate shower room. Perfect combination of period features and contemporary decor and furnishings"

Thanks @roughguides πŸ™πŸ» 

>> link in bio for more about Pasha Place Apartment and other press and guide book coverageπŸ‘†πŸ»
Have you visited Topkapi Palace recently? It’s Have you visited Topkapi Palace recently?

It’s been undergoing restorations over the past couple of years and several sections are newly opened to visitors, following the work.

We haven’t been able to get there ourselves yet and are really hoping it’s all been sensitively done and the spirit of the spaces remains. Please reassure us if you can 🀞🏻🀞🏻

πŸ“·: @_ginger_diaries_
*6 months plus rental available* Have you met Gal *6 months plus rental available* 
Have you met Galip Place Apartment? ✨

It’s our most recent gentle restoration, with truly fabulous cityscape views across the Bosphorus/Golden Horn from a spacious private balcony. The second and third bedrooms look out - from another balcony - over Galata Tower. Open plan living/dining room, 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. 

Usually our historic apartments are only available for short stays, but we’re looking for longer term guests for this one. 

It’s a treasure πŸ‘ŒπŸ»

Do forward this post to anyone you know who might be looking for a longer stay in Istanbul, thanks!

>> link in bio to website for more of this apartment and to contact us for the monthly rate πŸ‘†πŸ»

#myistanbulplace
Happy Sunday! Are you having some travel dreams al Happy Sunday! Are you having some travel dreams along with your coffee today? πŸ’«
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Istanbul is always here for you, with our historic Istanbul Place Apartments in Galata - plus many characterful cafΓ©s like this one in the neighbourhood. 
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Let’s enjoy some dreaming and scheming…
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>> link in bio to see availability and pricing, plus for more of the apartments, including floor plans and reviews πŸ‘†πŸ»
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#myistanbulplace
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πŸ“·: @tanya_felice #repost πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»
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Have you ever jumped on a ferry in Istanbul? If so Have you ever jumped on a ferry in Istanbul? If so where did it take you? We’d love to hear! ✨

The city’s an exciting hub for water transport with ferries, leisure craft and cruise liners heading in every direction, near and far. 

As a way to get across town and/or the Bosphorus the city ferries are affordable, fun, practical and give a different perspective on local life. Stay with us and jump on a few if you haven’t ever done it yet! πŸ’«

πŸ“·: @kristinaibili πŸ“OrtakΓΆy
What on earth is this then? Do you know?! It was What on earth is this then? Do you know?!

It was a gift from our lovely guest and author @edentravels who journeys these parts to research and write about such things. Swipe πŸ‘ˆπŸ» to see what’s inside.

We’ve been waiting for the right time to open it and can report that as soon as the deed was done the jar was half empty: delicious and dangerous! Thanks so much Caroline. It’s a timely reminder that there is still sweetness in this world πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»
Spring is here but it’s still a bit chilly in Is Spring is here but it’s still a bit chilly in Istanbul’s ancient buildings!​​​​​​​​
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Outside the parks are doing their tulip flower thing, with sunny cafe tables to sit at between wanders πŸ˜ŽπŸ˜Žβ€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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When are you coming?!​​​​​​​​

β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹πŸ“· : @kathija_k πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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Are you ready to citybreak with friends again? We Are you ready to citybreak with friends again? We specialise in big, spacious apartments that will welcome you all ✨

Most have 2 or 3 large double bedrooms, all with high ceilings and classical proportions. They work very well for groups of friends, with enough personal space to be very comfortable and different options to share spaces too πŸ₯‚

After the last Covid years we’re all out of practice with this sort of getaway, but do you feel ready again?

Thanks so much Marcia, we’re delighted that you and your friends had such a great trip πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»

>> link in bio to our website, where you can read this TripAdvisor review in full, plus many others to inform your choice πŸ‘†πŸ»

#myistanbulplace
Though we specialise in short stays, our apartment Though we specialise in short stays, our apartments can sometimes be booked as photography and film locations too ✨

Pasha Place Apartment recently held these magical moments, as photographed by talented @elenayilmazist - to be treasured for years and generations to come πŸ’«

Swipe to see behind-the-scenes and more from the session πŸ‘ˆπŸ»

 #myistanbulplace
It’s the weekend, an excuse to go extra-gently a It’s the weekend, an excuse to go extra-gently and treat ourselves just a little! πŸ’«

This is how to do it in springtime at @galatasirinfirin cafe, just around the corner from the apartments - recommended!

How will you be treating yourself this weekend? If you plan to observe Ramazan from next weekend will it feel all the more more special?

πŸ“·: @galatasirinfirin πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»

>> link in bio to website to read more about our neighbourhood and to book an apartment stayπŸ‘†πŸ»
If we could choose one apartment for an early summ If we could choose one apartment for an early summer escape with Istanbul’s intrigues at the doorstep and iconic skyline spread out from the roof terrace… πŸ’«β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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It would be elegant Petraki Place IV with its lovely light and airiness, high frescoed ceilings and two unusually fabulous bathrooms. 

Sleeps up to x5 guests in 3 bedrooms. 
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Have you ever stayed here? Save this post if you’d like to one day! βœ¨β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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>> link in bio to see more of this apartment, including availability, pricing, floor plan, reviews and direct booking πŸ‘†πŸ»β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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#myistanbulplace​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Snow again in Istanbul! It’s unusually late in Snow again in Istanbul!

It’s unusually late in the year now, with a few more days of it forecast 😳😳

Keep cosy everyone ✨

>> link in bio to read more about the city in all its seasons and see the apartments we offer - including floor plans and reviews πŸ‘†πŸ»

#myistanbulplace 

πŸ“·: unknown - please tell us if you can. 

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#istanbul #cityscape #istanbulsnow #istanbullife #istanbullovers #istanbulkar #istanbullove #istanbulfood #istanbulprovince #istanbull #istanbulcity #istanbulnights #istanbuldaysam #istanbuld #Istanbulclassics #istanbulmoments #istanbuldahayatvar #istanbultrip
β€œImagine a gender equal world. A world free of b β€œImagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.” 

Cheering on achievements so far, while still acknowledging all that needs work πŸ™…πŸ»β€β™€οΈ

Happy International Women’s Day!

πŸ“·: @ratomirovna 

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#iwd2022 #safetyrespectequity #BreakTheBias #takemethere #travelislife #historicbuildings #IWD2022 #doyoutravel #architexture #mustdotravels #bestplacestogo #travelpassion #borntotravel #istanbultrip #architecturelovers #oldbuildings #timetravel #shesnotlost #girlstravel #wonderful_places #neverstopexploring #theprettycities #architecture_hunter #worldtraveller #historiches #archigram #architecturedaily #architetto
This week we’ve been trying to cope with what’ This week we’ve been trying to cope with what’s going on in the world by focusing on the kindness across cultures that we’re fortunate enough to experience every day ✨

One of the ways it’s seen is when our international guests leave tips about their Istanbul highlights in our β€˜pass it on’ books, for those who follow them.

Are you finding ways to keep positive at the moment? Please tell us your tips! A β€˜pass it on’ of a different sort - we’d really love to hear πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»

>> link in bio to see apartment availability, pricing and direct booking πŸ‘†πŸ»β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹β€‹
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#myistanbulplace​​​​​​​​
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#welltravelled #istanbultrip #takemethere #globetrotter #travellife #darlingescapes #lifeofadventures #neverstopexploring #istanbulmoments #theprettycities #historiches #travelmoments #timetravel #seemyistanbul #travelust #guidebook #turkishtea
We’re fussy about our Istanbul Place Apartments! We’re fussy about our Istanbul Place Apartments!

These high standards apply to everything, from choosing a particular apartment in the first place to accurately replacing the smallest piece of cutlery, if needed, as time goes by. 

Not every apartment has a balcony with a cityscape view, but they do all have special characteristics - you can be sure of a dash of something special whichever one you book ✨

Thanks Jonathan for this, it’s lovely to know that you had such a memorable arrival experience πŸ™πŸ»πŸ™πŸ»

>> link in bio to our website, where you can read this TripAdvisor review in full, plus many others to inform your choice πŸ‘†πŸ»

#myistanbulplace

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#letsgosomewhere #takemethere #happycustomers #welltravelled #customerstories #guestbook #fivestarreviews #hospitalityculture #widenyourworld #alifeofintention #travellife #doyoutravel #finditliveit #wanderlust #shesnotlost #bestplacestogo #travelling #doyoutravel #vacationrental #customerservice #galata
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