The City Between Two Stations
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The two historic stations at either end of the city were built in the same period to face one another, one the end of the European line and the other the start of the Asian. This route links them by ferry. Five stops, half a day.
Route Stops
Sirkeci Station.
It was the last stop of the Orient Express and the building was designed to match that claim, with the clock tower and coloured brickwork on its facade an example of the orientalist style. Go through to the platform side, where wooden benches and old signs remain. The small railway museum inside is free and takes half an hour, displaying carriage models and period tickets. The restaurant inside serves in the historic hall. The Marmaray passes beneath the same building, so you see both layers together.
Eminönü Fish Sandwich Boats.
Walk down from the station to the shore, five minutes. The boats are moored at the quay and the fish is cooked on board; the queue usually moves quickly. The fish sandwich comes with onion and lemon, with chilli sauce optional. Lean on the quayside railings and eat looking at the bridge and the opposite shore, as seating is limited. There are stalls selling pickle juice alongside, which is worth trying. It is crowded at midday; on weekdays before eleven or after three is easier.
The Neighborhood That Combines History and Modernity: Karaköy
Cross the bridge on foot, which takes ten minutes and gives the best view on this route. On the Karakoy side there are cafes and shops along the quay, while in the back streets the hardware sellers and workshops serving the shipyards are still there, the district's two faces. Step into the courtyards of the hans around Persembe Pazari. Walking towards Tophane brings you out at the Galataport quay. The Kadikoy ferry leaves from here, with the pier on the quayside.
One of the oldest trade centers of Istanbul, Karaköy has become one of the special neighborhoods that integrates its historical texture with modern city life. For centuries, this area, which was the heart of port trade, now has a dynamic and energetic atmosphere with art galleries, boutique cafes, and the city's most popular dining spots.
While walking through the narrow streets of Karaköy, it is possible to encounter historical inns, passages, and structures from the Ottoman period that carry the traces of the past. Bankalar Caddesi keeps the spirit of trade alive from the Ottoman era to the present, while different architectural structures like the Karaköy Underground Mosque showcase the rich cultural heritage of the neighborhood. Additionally, the slopes leading to Galata are among the pleasant routes that open up to the most beautiful views of Istanbul.
In recent years, Karaköy has become one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Istanbul with its art galleries, third-wave coffee shops, and design boutiques. Sitting in cafes along the coast to enjoy the Bosphorus view, eating fish sandwiches, or watching the enchanting atmosphere of the Galata Bridge at sunset are some of the most enjoyable activities to do here.
With its historical texture, dynamic spirit that adapts to modern city life, and unique energy, Karaköy continues to be one of the most special neighborhoods in Istanbul worth exploring.
Haydarpaşa Train Station.
As you cross by ferry, look back at the station from the deck; the building stands right on the water and from the sea you see the angle it was designed for. It was built by German architects and rests on piles driven into the water. It was closed for a long time and restoration and excavation continue, so access inside varies while seeing it from outside is usually possible. Sit on its steps and take in the face that looks to the Marmara; the quay on the pier side is open to the public.
Moda Coast.
Walk south along the shore from the station, about half an hour, with the sea on your left the whole way. The tea garden on Moda point is one of the city's known places to sit, at sea level with the tables close to the water. The shore path continues unbroken to Kalamis. The apartment buildings in the district's inner streets date from the early twentieth century and most are preserved. At sunset, looking west from the point, the historic peninsula turns into a silhouette; close the route here.
