Welt Entdecken in Türkiye: 3 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Istanbul

Must-try foods in Istanbul

• Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftesi
  Tarihi Sultanahmet KöftesiAn essential classic in Alemdar, these grilled meatballs (köfte) follow a recipe unchanged since 1920. Served simply with a side of spicy pepper sauce (piyaz) and crusty bread, they are a rite of passage for anyone visiting the historic district.
• Hünkar Beğendi
  Hünkar BeğendiTranslating to 'The Sultan Liked It,' this regal Ottoman dish consists of tender, slow-cooked lamb served over a smoky, creamy roasted eggplant purée enriched with cheese. It remains a signature highlight at Alemdar’s refined Ottoman-style restaurants in late 2026.
• Balık Dürüm
  Balık DürümA trendy evolution of the classic fish sandwich, this involves grilled mackerel seasoned with sumac, onions, and herbs, tightly wrapped in a thin lavaş. It has become the go-to street food for locals in the nearby Eminönü and Sirkeci corridors this September.
• Cağ Kebabı
  Cağ KebabıHailing from Erzurum but peaking in popularity across central Istanbul right now, this horizontal rotisserie kebab features marinated lamb sliced into small steaks and served on individual skewers. It's prized for its high fat content and intense wood-fired flavor.
• Midye Dolma
  Midye DolmaStuffed mussels are the ultimate Istanbul street snack. These are filled with aromatic rice, pine nuts, and currants, then finished with a heavy squeeze of fresh lemon. Vendors near the Alemdar tram stops are a common sight for a quick, savory bite.
• İskender Kebab
  İskender KebabA heavyweight of Turkish cuisine, this dish features thinly sliced döner lamb laid over pieces of pita bread, generously smothered in hot tomato sauce and melted sheep's butter, with a side of thick yogurt to cut the richness.

Trip guide

• About Istanbul
  About IstanbulAlemdar is a neighborhood located within the Fatih district of Istanbul, situated on the historic peninsula. As of September 2026, it remains a central component of the UNESCO World Heritage area, characterized by a concentration of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural structures.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Alemdar is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October, when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the district's historic landmarks on foot. Summer (July–August) marks the peak tourist season with hot, humid temperatures and large crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around Istanbul

  • T1 Tram Line (Sultanahmet/Gülhane) The T1 tram is the primary way to reach Alemdar, with the Sultanahmet or Gülhane stops being the closest. It connects the neighborhood directly to major hubs like Eminönü (ferries) and Kabataş (funicular to Taksim).
  • Havaist Airport Shuttle (HVİST-12) From Istanbul Airport (IST), take the HVİST-12 shuttle bus to the Sultanahmet or Aksaray stops. From there, Alemdar is either a short walk or a quick tram ride away.
  • Walking & Local Transit (Istanbulkart) Alemdar is highly walkable and located in the heart of the historic peninsula near the Hagia Sophia. Use an Istanbulkart for seamless transfers between the T1 tram, Marmaray train (Sirkeci station).
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase an Istanbulkart at major transit hubs to easily navigate the neighborhood via the T1 tram line.
  • Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees when exploring the area's historic sites to show local respect.
  • Always check menu prices upfront and verify bill breakdowns in local restaurants to avoid common tourist surcharges.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Istanbul

  • Alemdar Restaurant & Cafe: A newly opened gastronomy spot in the heart of the district, featuring column-free architecture and a menu focused on master-crafted Anatolian fusion.
  • Legends of Istanbul: A trending immersive live performance running through September 30, 2026.
• Antalya Promotion Foundation↗
  Antalya Promotion FoundationThe official city guide of Antalya, managed by the Antalya Promotion Foundation (ATAV) to promote the region's historical, cultural, and touristic potential.