The neighborhoods of Sisli mix old and new with style

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.