Mark Wiens in İstanbul and İzmir: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Istanbul

Must-try foods in Istanbul

• Fenerbahçe Döneri
  Fenerbahçe DöneriA high-quality version of the classic beef and lamb döner, often served in 'tombik' (puffy) bread. In the Fenerbahçe neighborhood, it is distinguished by premium cuts of meat and a lack of heavy spices, allowing the natural flavor of the charcoal-grilled meat to shine.
• Çiya-Style Regional Mezes
  Çiya-Style Regional MezesInspired by the world-famous Çiya Sofrası in nearby Kadıköy, local eateries in Fenerbahçe serve rare Anatolian appetizers. These include 'muhammara' (walnut and pepper dip) and 'zahter salatası' (wild thyme salad), reflecting the deep culinary heritage of the region.
• Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels)
  Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels)A quintessential Bosphorus street food, these mussels are stuffed with aromatic rice, pine nuts, and currants. Locals often enjoy them by the dozen at the seaside, squeezing fresh lemon over each shell before using the top shell as a spoon.
• Tandır Ekmeği with Kaymak
  Tandır Ekmeği with KaymakA staple of the traditional Turkish breakfast spreads found in the upscale cafes along the Fenerbahçe waterfront. The warm, tandoor-baked bread is paired with 'kaymak' (clotted water buffalo cream) and local honey for a decadent morning start.
• Balık Dürüm (Fish Wrap)
  Balık Dürüm (Fish Wrap)While the European side has fish sandwiches, the Asian side—and specifically the area around Fenerbahçe and Moda—is known for fish wraps. Freshly grilled mackerel is wrapped in thin lavaş with pomegranate molasses, caramelized onions, and a signature spice blend.
• Kızarmış İçli Köfte
  Kızarmış İçli KöfteDeep-fried bulgur shells stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, walnuts, and spices. In Fenerbahçe’s traditional restaurants, these are served piping hot as a 'warm meze' and are prized for their thin, crispy exterior.

Trip guide

• About Istanbul
  About IstanbulDiscover the beauty and culture of Istanbul. Enjoy the local cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Fenerbahçe is from May to June or September to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for strolling along the marina and waterfront parks. Summer (July and August) can be hot and humid with heavy tourist crowds, while winter is often chilly, rainy, and less suitable for outdoor seaside activities. For a more peaceful experience with lower prices and manageable crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn.
• Getting around
  Getting around Istanbul

  • Marmaray Commuter Rail Take the Marmaray train to Feneryolu station, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from the heart of the Fenerbahçe neighborhood. This line provides a direct underwater connection between the European and Asian.
  • Public Ferry and Bus/Taxi Take a scenic ferry from European piers like Eminönü, Karaköy, or Beşiktaş to Kadıköy. From the Kadıköy pier, you can reach Fenerbahçe by taking a short taxi ride or local buses such as the FB1 or FB2.
  • Local Minibus (Dolmuş) Yellow shared taxis (Dolmuş) run frequently between Kadıköy and Bostancı, passing through the Fenerbahçe area. These are a fast.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use an Istanbulkart for all public transport, including the scenic ferries that connect the Fenerbahçe area to the European side.
  • Avoid wearing rival football team colors, such as yellow-red or black-white, especially on match days near the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium.
  • Accept offers of Turkish tea from shopkeepers as a gesture of hospitality, even if you only stay for a few minutes.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Istanbul

  • Fenerbahçe Football Academy: The opening of a massive new 431,000 sq. ft. modern campus and retail complex designed for fan engagement and youth training.
  • Ülker Stadium Renovation: A major project to modernize the iconic home ground, featuring a new facade, increased capacity, and a state-of-the-art roof design.
• Visit Gaziantep↗
  Visit GaziantepThe official tourism portal for Gaziantep, providing comprehensive guides on the city's rich gastronomy, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage.