By. Justin Mays
Multicultural and steeped in history, the district of Sisli
presents a desirable lifestyle you can experience when buying a home in
Istanbul. Each unique neighbourhood is accessible on foot or through many
transportation options. They all have their unique history and story to tell.
Today’s blog will help you learn about the neighbourhoods of
Sisli and how they mix the old with the new with style.
Sisli’s History & Architecture
One of Istanbul’s significant districts located just north
of Taksim Square, Sisli flourished after the mid-19th century leading to a mix
of architectural styles which complement each other thanks to informed urban
planning.
European influences are evident in the wide boulevards and
classical French building styles of large stone buildings with art nouveau
details while being intertwined with Turkish Republican architecture and
20th-century and contemporary structures.
The architectural fabric of the area was influenced by the
influx of non-Muslim minorities and foreigners like Greeks, Armenians, and
Balkan people in the late 1800s and further developed with the arrival of elite
Ottomans.
Today many old churches, mosques and synagogues still dot
the district alongside specialty stores that sell products of a bygone era
reminding visitors of Sisli’s roots. Later, Sisli became a small business,
entertainment and financial center with more modern shopping centers and high
rises.
Sightseeing in Sisli
Because of its rich past, there is much to see and enjoy in
this affluent area of Istanbul. Here are some of the spectacular locations you
can find in Sisli:
Ataturk Museum
The Ataturk Museum is on Halaskargazi street and stands
out because of its eye-catching pink exterior. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk lived in
this three-story building until 1919.
Today, it is a museum that showcases his belongings and
displays his pictures for the public to see. Visit the Ataturk Museum to
glimpse the life and work of the founder of the Republic of Turkey.
Ihlamur Palace
An extravagant palace from the Ottoman era, the inside of
the Ihlamur Palace exhibits western influences. Sultan Abdulmecit ordered its
construction, and it was used to house his guests.
Visitors can come and spend time in the garden located here.
Tesvikiye Mosque
Built in 1853, during the reign of Sultan Abdulmeccit I, the Tesvikiye Mosque stands out against everything around it because of its neo-baroque architecture.
The massive white columns on the outside are its unique
elements that give it a European feel.
Mack Modern Art Gallery
Situated near Macka Park, the Macka Modern Art Gallery
displays the contemporary art pieces of Turkish artists and helps them achieve
recognition for their work.
There is a cafe nearby for visitors to spend some time.
Shopping Places in Sisli
Sisli is a shoppers’ paradise offering goods from small
local shops to luxury brands. Here’s a list of all the shopping places in Sisli
worth visiting:
Weekend Markets
A popular weekend market spot in the center of Bomonti hosts
an organic market on Saturdays and an antique flea market on Sundays.
Cevahir Mall
Cevahir Mall is one of the largest malls in Europe and is
one of Istanbul’s busiest. With a total of 230 stores spread over ten floors,
20 million people step through its doors annually.
Nisantasi & Tesvikye
The walkable Nisantasi and Tesvikye neighborhoods are hosts
to exquisite high-end shopping options with every luxury brand imaginable
available. At the same time, local designers showcase their unique pieces
throughout the side streets.
Mecidiyekoy Shopping Malls
The Mecidiyekoy area is a major transportation center with
multiple malls like Astoria and Profilo. Many small local shops and offices
add to the bustle of the area.
Entertainment in Sisli
When you tire of shopping, Sisli has some of the best
entertainment options in the city. Some of them are mentioned below:
Restaurants, Cafes & Concert Venues in Sisli
Bomontiada, a former brewery, has excellent restaurants and
one of the best live music venues in the city.
It is also home to the Ara Guler Museum, covering the
photographer’s prolific career, much of which was spent documenting
Istanbul.
Cemil Resit Rey and Lutfi Kirdar concert venues host famed
international and local artists.
Movie theaters, arcades, bowling alleys, cafes with sidewalk
seating and chic bars with views round out some of the fun options you can
easily access in Sisli.
Some of the finest restaurants for international and local
cuisine are found here. You can find whatever you may be craving, from Japanese
sushi to Italian pasta!
Parks in Sisli
There is no shortage of parks and green spaces in Sisli. We’re
mentioning below all the scenic areas for visitors to check out to breathe
fresh air and de-stress.
Macka Park
Macka Park is one of the largest and busiest parks in the
city for a green escape and a wander with friends. It is the perfect place to
go for a jog or take your kids for a fun day in the children’s area.
Visitors can come to breathe some clean air and enjoy the
magnificent views.
Fatih Orman
Located in Maslak, Sisli, Fatih Orman is one of the most
beautiful forests in Istanbul. Many go there with their families for picnics to
enjoy some peace and relaxation away from all the noise and traffic during the
weekend.
It is the ideal location for photography lovers to visit to
take some amazing nature shots.
Schools & Hospitals in Sisli
When it comes to more practical matters, the area has some
of the best schools and hospitals in the city. You can find a plethora of
international schools scattered across Sisli.
American Hospital has foreign language call lines and offers
top medical care. Many leading doctors have offices in Nisantasi and Tesvikye
too.
Given all its excellent qualities and popularity,
surprisingly, clients with any size budget can buy a property in Sisli.
Contact us, and we can help you find luxury penthouses to affordable smaller
flats.
For more information on Sisli, please read our blog on the Business Districts of Istanbul.
