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GAY ISTANBUL
Discover this City with our Quick and Practical Guide to Visit the Best Attractions, Savor Typical Dishes and Have Fun in the Best Gay Bars. All this through the Rainbow Eyes of the World Mappers
What to See, Best Places to Sleep, Where to Eat and to Have Fun in ISTANBUL?
Find it out with the World Mappers !
LGBT FRIENDLY ISTANBUL
Istanbul is a fascinating and vibrant city, where traditional culture is intertwined with a growing openness towards the LGBTQ+ community. Taksim and Beyoğlu are the central districts of the city's gay scene, with numerous gay-friendly bars, clubs and venues livening up the nightlife. Despite some challenges, Istanbul remains one of the most inclusive cities
WHAT TO SEE in ISTANBUL?
10 THINGS TO SEE in ISTANBUL
Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofia)
The Hagia Sophia, once a Christian church, then a mosque and now a museum, enchants with its imposing dome, Byzantine mosaics and elegant architecture that fuses two great religious traditions.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
The Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, is known for its blue domes and lighthouses, with interiors adorned with ceramic tiles and a majestic prayer hall.
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Saray)
This palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for centuries. It undoubtedly fascinates thanks to its lush gardens, sumptuous rooms and precious collections of jewels, manuscripts and sacred relics.
Grand Bazar (Kapalı Çarşı)
The Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of streets and stalls, is a shopping paradise with a wide range of products, from carpets and jewelery to spices and textiles, offering a unique oriental market experience.
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower, thanks to its panorama, offers spectacular views of Istanbul, with the Bosphorus stretching to the horizon and the minarets standing out against the sky, testifying to the city's thousand-year history.
Suleymaniye Mosque
The Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Istanbul and captivates with its magnificent architecture, sumptuous interior decoration and splendid views of the Golden Horn.
Bosphorus & Maiden Tower (Kız Kulesi)
Sailing along the Bosphorus offers breathtaking views of both sides of Istanbul, while the Maiden Tower, once a prison and lighthouse, adds a touch of charm to the urban scene.
Balat Neighborhood
Balat is a charming neighborhood of the city rich in history and famous for its narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses and historic synagogues. This area is also known for its vibrant Jewish community. As you explore Balat, you immerse yourself in a fascinating labyrinth of historic buildings, artisan workshops and cozy cafés, offering an authentic experience of daily life in Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
Descending into the depths of the Basilica Cistern, you enter an underground world of marble columns and soft lights, creating a mysterious and evocative atmosphere that enchants visitors.
Ortaköy Mosque
Located on the banks of the Bosphorus, the Ortaköy Mosque is truly spectacular thanks to its baroque architecture and spectacular views, while the surrounding neighborhood offers a lively and cosmopolitan environment.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this city at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
Day 1 - Istanbul Completa - Google Maps
Extra - Istanbul (Balat & Fener) - Google Maps
Extra - Istanbul (Dolmabahçe & Ortaköy) - Google Maps
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
5 BEST EXCURSIONS from ISTANBUL
We advise you to book the best excursions here: Viator - Musement - Get Your Guide
Ephesus
Bosphorus Cruise
Princes' Islands
Gallipoli
Cappadocia
Click'n'Go - Click on Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Clubs
to find them on the Map or visit their Website
WHERE TO SLEEP in ISTANBUL?
10 BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS in ISTANBUL
Elan Hotel Istanbul Pera *** ® Tested by World Mappers
WHERE TO EAT in ISTANBUL?
10 BEST RESTAURANTS in ISTANBUL Quality / Price
€€€€ - Mikla Restaurant
€€€€ - Tuğra Restaurant
€€€ - Rainbow fish & meat restaurant ® Tested by World Mappers
€€€ - Namlı Gurme ® Tested by World Mappers
€€€ - Çiya Sofrası
€€ - Avlu Ocakbaşı
€€ - Otantik Restaurant
€ - Dürümzade
GAY NIGHTLIFE in BORDEAUX
BEST GAY PLACES, BARS, CLUBS & SAUNAS in ISTANBUL
Super Fabric (Gay Bar) ® Tested by World Mappers
Tekyön Club (Gay Bar & Club)
Love Dance Point (Gay Club)
XLarge Club İstanbul (Gay Club)
Firuzağa Bath (Gay Sauna)
TRAVEL TIPS about ISTANBUL by World Mappers
Don't miss Rumeli Fortress (Rumelihisarı): it is a testament to Ottoman military mastery, with its imposing walls and watchtowers offering breathtaking views of the city and river.
Furthermore, don't miss the Istanbul Modern Art Museum (İstanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi), inaugurated in 2004, which has revolutionized the cultural landscape of Istanbul, with innovative educational and social programs and active involvement of civil society. Located in a port warehouse, it hosts works of contemporary Turkish art in an 8000 square meter exhibition space, becoming a fundamental stop for tourists and a cultural reference point for the city and Turkey.
Watch out for tourist traps! In Istanbul, the choice of restaurants requires attention to avoid culinary disappointments and financial rip-offs. Consulting online reviews and asking hotel staff for recommendations can be useful in ensuring a satisfying gastronomic experience.
Watch out for pickpockets: in crowded areas like Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar, you need to be careful. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, bring lots of cash!
Respecting the dress code and local traditions is essential. Before visiting mosques and sacred places, it is important to dress appropriately, avoiding revealing clothing. Furthermore, avoiding public displays of affection and gestures that can be interpreted as inappropriate is essential to respect the cultural and religious norms of the city.
Not to be missed is undoubtedly the Bosphorus Cruise to discover Istanbul from a new perspective, especially at sunset!
Savor the culinary authenticity of Istanbul with a food tour to taste typical local dishes, an experience that will bring you closer to the local culture through the genuine flavors of Turkish tradition.
One of the most surprising places in Istanbul is the area around Taksim Square, located in the heart of Istanbul, a lively cultural and social center. The square is famous for its public events, shops and restaurants that surround it. Dominating the square, the modern Taksim Mosque offers a quiet and impressive place of worship. Together, they represent a perfect blend of the vibrant urban life and spirituality of Istanbul.
"SECRET ISTANBUL"
Unusual and Particular Places to See in Istanbul
Outside of the classic attractions to visit, there is a "Secret Istanbul" that simply bewitched us. These are some places that in our opinion are worth seeing if you have already seen everything that is most "famous" the city offers or simply if you want to get away from the typically tourist areas. Here are the 5 Things and Places to See in Secret Istanbul:
Tünel - Climb up a steep hill in 90 seconds on the second oldest urban subway in the world.You can access the Tünel from Karakoy and Beyoğlu stations. Karakoy station is close to the Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden Horn.
Vedat Tek Evi - as you stroll through the streets of the city, you will hardly miss this stunning home. Its strange but pleasant mix of different styles gives the establishment a look you won't find elsewhere on the block.
Kedi Tombili Heykeli - a famous neighborhood cat: photos of him went around the world. It was difficult to see him running and jumping, he preferred to spend his days lying down or sitting. So, when he died, the inhabitants decided to honor him. In his place, now, there is a bronze statue that portrays him in his typical relaxed position.
Camondo Staircase - is a splendid Gaudí style staircase built in the city of Istanbul by a prominent Jewish family.
Vlora Hanı - it is an Art Nouveau gem that hides beneath the layers of city grime that obscure this once magnificent building.It is an architectural beauty thanks to its intricate stone roses blooming around the bay windows and fanciful wrought iron balconies.
INSTAGRAMABLE ISTANBUL
Instagrammable Places to See in Istanbul
Don't miss the best Instagrammable places in Istanbul, here are our favourites:
Rainbow Stairs Case colorate di Balat Seven Hills Hotel (to admire the incredible skyline)
GAY TOURS in ISTANBUL
Do you want to discover the city and enjoy one of Best Gay Tours in Istanbul? We recommend the following local operator(s):
MyGayTour.com - Tour Operator offering tours and excursions dedicated to the LGBT+ community Worldwide. Special Tours and Gay & Lesbian Friendly Guides ready to make you discover the beauties of this destination.
5% Discount Code for MyGayTour Following The World Mappers "WORLD5"
Info & Booking: info@MyGayTour.com - Check all Prices here: www.MyGayTour.com
Istanbul • Historic Tour
Meet our LGBT Friendly Tour Guide and be ready to visit Istanbul. Embark on a journey through Istanbul's captivating history with our new tour, featuring the iconic Hagia Sophia. Step back in time as you explore the magnificent architecture and rich heritage of this ancient landmark. Marvel at the exterior beauty of nearby landmarks such as the majestic Blue Mosque and the historic Hippodrome, while our expert guides unveil the secrets of the city's vibrant past. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul's bustling streets, where every corner reveals a new chapter in the city's remarkable story. Join us for an unforgettable experience blending cultural discovery with the allure of Istanbul's timeless charm.
Included:
* Gay or Lesbian Friendly Tour Guide for City Tour (3 hours)
* Entrance Fee - Hagia Sophia
Istanbul • Gay Friendly Tour & Taksim's Secrets
Meet our LGBT Friendly Tour Guide and be ready to discover the unknown Gay friendly side of Istanbul. Enjoy the walking tour hrough Istanbul's vibrant Galata district. Explore the enchanting streets surrounding the iconic Galata Tower, where history and modernity converge in perfect harmony. As part of the experience, enjoy exclusive access to the Galata Tower, offering panoramic views of the cityscape below. Marvel at the architectural wonders of the nearby historic Galata Bridge and the bustling Galata Bridge Fish Market, immersing yourself in the authentic sights and sounds of Istanbul's daily life. Moreover, discover Istanbul's lesser-known LGBTQ+ friendly side, as our knowledgeable guides shed light on the evolving social landscape of Turkey. Despite societal challenges, Istanbul harbors a thriving LGBTQ+ community, with hidden gems such as LGBTQ+ friendly cafes, bars, and neighborhoods waiting to be explored. Gain insights into the current LGBTQ+ situation in Turkey, navigating the complexities and progressions of LGBTQ+ rights in the country. Join us for an unforgettable journey blending cultural exploration with a celebration of diversity and inclusivity in the heart of Istanbul's Galata district.
Included:
* Gay or Lesbian Friendly Tour Guide for City Tour (3 hours)
* Entrance Fee - Galata Tower
Istanbul by Night • Gay Tour
Enjoy an enlightened Istanbul and an amazing walking tour through Istanbul's gay & lesbian friendly bars and clubs to live on your skin the magic atmosphere and LGBT scene of the city. Enjoy your included drink (also alcohol free drink available) and own the night !
Included:
* Gay or Lesbian Friendly Tour Guide for Night Tour (2h)
* Drink in Gay Friendly Bar (1 Drink)
Discover the Complete Guide
Consult the Practical Information for the trip
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