Istanbul Queens

Istanbul Queens New Web Site...

2010-09-21T10:30:00.001-07:00

Istanbul Queens Gay & Lesbian Travel Guide is proud of announcing its new web site... www.istanbulqueens.com

Istanbul Queens Team is looking forward to meet its visitors with more detailed, enjoyable and professional web site combined with friendly service...

www.istanbulqueens.com istanbulqueens@gmail.com info@istanbulqueens.com

Welcome to Istanbul Queens

2009-05-31T03:48:00.001-07:00

IQ welcomes Gay & Lesbian visitors with elegant recommendations and nice guiding for a memorable Istanbul experience.

Invites Gay&Lesbian and Gay&Lesbian Friendly People to share all updated information and recent experiences about the places, culture, people...

Let's enjoy Istanbul, The magnificent city of Dreams, Cultures, Sultans, History, Bosphorus and Queens...Istanbul Queens!

PS. Please be sure that your contacts will definitely be confidential and Istanbul Queens is very sensetive about your privacy. Please feel free to ask our assistance on your visits.

Tips from Other Cities...

2009-05-31T03:47:00.007-07:00

Nude Beach on South Coast of Turkey

Patara beach is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches near the ancient city of Patara in Turkey. you need to walk from the village to the beach about 1,5 km and you will pass through the ancient city of Likya. (Theatre, tombs etc.)

At 18 kilometres, Patara beach is the longest in its region and sometimes reaches a width of 200-300 metres. The beach has soft sand and shallow sea. It is the one of the places that sea turtle leave their eggs. Because of this, the beach is under protection. At its Eastern-most point there is a rocky outcrop looking over a spectacular rocky cove.

If you are looking for a nice place with adventure, fun and tranquility to spend your vacation, then the Patara Beach is the perfect place to go. It's a place where you can find serenity and stunning views, the white sandy beach is only an added bonus to this lovely place. Patara is very close to Kalkan and Kaputaş Beach those places are must to see, you will never forget that blue match sea and sky...Patara beach is a sanctuary to different types of birds and a breeding ground for the Loggerhead turtle, which was believed to be an endangered specie.

Patara beach has been voted as one of the best beaches in the world and it is the widest beach of Northern Mediterranean. With no buildings visible except for the small café, you can truly enjoy the white sand and water view. Patara beach is also well known for its very clean and complete facilities.

Rent Aparts in Istanbul

2009-05-31T03:47:00.005-07:00

Enjoy the city with your private apartment...
Feel free, Feel home, Feel privacy, Feel comfort...
70€ per night

Services & Equipments

40 and 50 square meter aparts
A/C , Adsl, Security Alarm System, DVD, Flat TV, Natural Gas Heating System.
The gas and the electricity fee is included Microwave, Kettle, Panini Press, Toaster, Hair Dryer, Iron & Ironing Board, Kitchen Utensils for 4pax , Linens, Towels.
The metro station is right across the street Minimum 4 nights stay required
Please contact istanbulqueens@gmail.com for your reservations

Private Shopping Guide

2009-05-31T03:47:00.003-07:00

As your local shopping friend I will design your Istanbul Shopping Tour with you to create shopping itineraries that meet your unique specifications.

Our private shopping tours are tailored to your wishes. Whether you have very little time available or you are planning an extended shopping trip in Istanbul, I will be more than happy to arrange your private shopping tour in Istanbul accompanying you where you will save time and money...

First of all we assign your likes and dislikes for shopping and we create a list of shopping options from the whole list like,

Nisantasi (a very trendy street of Istanbul, Gucci, Armani, Louis Vuitton... and some nice cafes and restaurants...)

Kanyon and Istinye Park Shopping malls, Kanyon is a new design mall half open air with nice brands...

Grand Bazaar and around (Carpet store and its history, Turkish tiles store and its details with history, Leather shops, jewellery stores...etc)
Walk along Istiklal str. with local stores... finishes the tour with a coffee offer and a gift souvenier from Istanbul Queens.

Private Gay Guide

2009-05-31T03:46:00.003-07:00

Feel the city, Live the city, Experience memorable moments at the city with a professional gay guide... We are sure you will love the city with the details...

Half Day Tour - Full Day Tour - Night Tour

Please contact us for your private guide request... istanbulqueens@gmail.com

Gay Accomodation

2009-05-31T03:45:00.001-07:00

Couchsurfing (Istanbul Gay & Lesbian Group)
http://www.couchsurfing.com/

CouchSurfing is a worldwide network for making connections between travelers and the local communities they visit and a non-profit organization. First of all You need to become a member of CouchSurfing.com create a profile and fill it out as much as possible, including photos. Then you can start to search for any information, new friends, recommendations and places to stay on the way of your trip to any cities... It will be really helpful to check Istanbul Gay & Lesbian group on www.couchsurfing.com

Galateia Residence (Gay & Lesbian friendly)

www.galateisresidence.com

Luxury apartments combined with a deluxe personal service by the friendly staff. It is located in the heart of the city at Beyoglu-Taksim-Galata district, in two adjacent, renovated old Pera buildings, with 13 apartments awaiting its guests to offer the privilege of luxury, comfort, privacy, exclusivity, intimacy and security.

Some services by Galateia;

·Daily Housekeeping service
-Daily Touch up service
-Cleanning service twice a week for long stay guests
·Complimentary parking service

·Complimentary tea & cofee amenities Set
·Complimentary food & beverage amenities Set
·Complimentary daily newspaper & monthly magazine
·Complimentary high speed wireless Internet Access
·24/7 Concierge Services
·24/7 Security
·Business Services

·Fitness Room

Eklektik Galata (Gay Hotel )

http://www.eklektikgalata.com/

... is a boutique Guest House serving travelers from all around the world in the magical settings of ancient Istanbul. Conveniently located in the old Pera (Beyoglu) district in a hidden street at walking distance from the main touristic, cultural, shopping and entertainment sites. What a nice feeling to ring the bell and find a smiling, welcoming person at the door...Eklektik Guest House as understood from it's name, is a stylish and intimate complex with a very friendly staff at a cosy atmosphere. Sundeck terrace with it's stunning view over Bosphorus and Genovese Tower is at service of its guests during summer period.

The House Aparts(Gay & Lesbian friendly)

http://www.thehouseapart.com/

Special amenities for the reservations over Istanbul Queens

Daily Housekeeping Service

ADSL wireless internet DVD,TV Aircondition

Complimentary Breakfast at The House Cafe's

15% discount on Food & Beverage at The House Cafe's

W Hotel, Istanbul (Gay & Lesbian friendly) http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3028

The Sofa Hotel (Gay & Lesbian friendly)

Special Discounts for the reservations over Istanbul Queens

http://www.thesofahotel.com/

Park Hyatt, Istanbul (Gay & Lesbian friendly)

Special Discounts for the reservations over Istanbul Queens http://istanbul.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp

Private Parties, Shows, Events, Birthdays...

2009-05-31T03:44:00.000-07:00

Your Party Planner!

You are the one to have fun!

Don't miss any moment at your private party! Let your party planner to give you all options to enjoy the night with your friends!

DRAGQUEEN, GO-GO DANCE, FETISH SHOWS, ORIENTAL SHOWS, CABARE, PLAYBACK SHOWS

Make your party more exciting, more surprising, more charming!..

Please contact istanbulqueens@gmail.com

Shows not to miss

2009-05-31T03:07:00.000-07:00

Whirling Derviches
Known to the west as Whirling Dervishes, the Mevlevi Order was founded by Mevlana Rumi in the 13th century. The Order wrote of tolerance, forgiveness, and enlightenment. They survive today as a cultural brotherhood. They are not theatrical spectacles but sacred rituals.The ritual of the Mevlevi sect, known as the sema, is a serious religious ritual performed by Muslim priests in a prayer trance to Allah.Mevlevi believed that during the sema the soul was released from earthly ties, and able to freely and jubilantly commune with the divine. Dervish literally means "doorway" and is thought to be an entrance from this material world to the spiritual, heavenly world.The Whirling Dervishes played an important part in the evolution of Ottoman high culture.

http://www.rumimevlevi.com/ENG/index.php
For reservation contact at galatamevlevi@gmail.com ( Mr.Atilla Baran Demirtas)

Janissary Music Performance (Ottoman Military Band)
Ottoman military bands are thought to be the oldest variety of military marching band in the world. The sound of the Ottoman military band is characterized by an often shrill sound combining bass drums, horns (boru), bells, the triangle and cymbals (zil), among others. It is still played at state, military and tourist functions in modern Turkey by the Mehter Band and the troops that accompany. The sound associated with the mehterân also exercised an influence on European classical music, with composers such as Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven all writing compositions inspired by or designed to imitate the music of the mehters.

You can see the show at Harbiye Military Museum at 3pm everyday except mondays & tuesdays.

Istanbul Gay Pride 2009

2009-05-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

Istanbul LGBT Pride Week 2009

It was really good and exciting! with the banners written;
"I am bisexuel"
"I am gay"
"I am lesbian"
"I am transexual"
"I am everywhere, get used to it!"
and the slogans;
Ali can love Mehmet, Ayse can love Fatma.
We are in schools, We are in hospitals, We are in streets,
We are in parliament... We are everywhere...

Gay Shopping in Istanbul

2009-05-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

Zara
Akmerkez Shopping Mall
Metrocity Shopping Mall
Istinye Park Shopping Mall
Nişantaşı - Teşvikiye Str.

Damat & Tween
An accessible designer brand from Istanbul offers a dynamic proposition, bridging the gap between the mainstream market and luxury retail to fill a niche in menswear market. has 50% discount for Dad's day recently.

-Valikonağı C. 63, Nişantaşı , Şişli 212 343 85 50
-Istinye Park

TopMan
Nişantaşı - Valikonagi Str.
Beyoglu - Istiklal Str

Pull & Bear
Nişantaşı - Rumeli Str.
Cevahir Shopping Mall

Intimissimi Underwear
Nişantaşı - Teşvikiye Str
Istinye Park Shopping Mall

Golden Point Underwear
Nişantaşı - Rumeli Str
Beyoğlu - Istiklal Str

Calzedonia
Nişantaşı - Rumeli Str
Nice and great selections of underwear & swimwear
An italian brand

Oysho
Nişantaşı - Rumeli Str
Istinye Park Mall
Cevahir Mall
Underwear & Homewear
Accessories & Shoes

Beyoğlu İş Merkezi
Beyoğlu - Istiklal Str

It is like an outlet shopping center with many small shops located on 4 floors, you can find H&M or Zara clothes with very cheap prices. on -1 floor, on the left next to the stairs, they sell underwears at 2-4 Turkish Lira. I have seen some of them in H&M store at 10€.

Gay & Lesbian Cafe & Restaurants

2009-05-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Sugar Club Cafe (Gay Cafe)
www.sugar-cafe.com
İstiklal Caddesi Sakasalim Çıkmazı 3A Beyoglu
0212 245 00 96
Sugar is the unique option for those who are looking a gay bar and not a gay dance club. During summertime it becomes the one and only open air gay venue of Istanbul. During day time it is a cafe and a restaurant (Open every day from 1 pm to 2 am.) It is a meeting point for gay locals as well as visitors. A pretty good food menu is served. It is at the heart of the city night life center: Istiklal Street, Taksim, Beyoglu. A big gay pride flag will welcome you at the door of Sugar.It is on a small street (Saka Salim Street) at the opposite of Saint Antoine Church, Istiklal Street. There is a gloria jeans cafe at the corner (be caferull there a couple of Glorias on Istiklal Street)

Rocinante Lesbian Cafe (11:00 - 02:00) Sakız Ağacı Caddesi,Öğüt Sokak No:6/2 Beyoglu,Istanbul http://www.rocinantebar.com/

5th Floor Restaurant (Gay & Straight)
www.5kat.com
Sirselviler Cad. Soganci Sk. No: 7Istanbul
0212 293 3774
Very nice cosy restaurant, very friendly staff and nice selections of food & beverage. You will enjoy the beautiful bosphorus view on the terrace in summer.

Supper Club (Gay & Straight)
Restaurant & Club
http://www.supperclub.com/
Muallim Naci Str.No:65(near Crystal, opposite Reina)Ortaköy
0212 261 19 88

Gay & Lesbian Bars & Clubs "updated 11.09.2010"

2009-05-24T01:34:00.000-07:00

Otherside Istanbul

http://www.othersideistanbul.com/ 212 235 79 14

İstiklal Str Zambak Str No:2 5th Floor Taksim (Next to French Consulate)

It is one of the largest clubs in the city with the terrace smoking free.

Otherside is open for years as cafe & bar and serving as a club for years. Its customers are loyal, you can see some of them every weekend there. Otherside has GoGo Boys &. DragQueen show. It is a good choice for Friday and Saturday nights, for clubbing and getting ready for fun and having drinks. If you plan to go a few clubs in one night. Start the night with Otherside! They sometimes have theme nights like, Turkish Night, Chinese Night and Club night on Friday & Saturday. Also open every wednesday.

Love Dance Point
Cumhuriyet Caddesi 349/1, Harbiye
www.lovedancepoint.com 212 296 33 57

Love is a small but quite fun place. It is not located in the heart of all clubs at Taksim, located close to taksim opposite the Military Museum in Harbiye after Hilton Hotel. The aircondation really works well. Waiters are very kind and cute. They have different party style with the dress of the waiters and shows. Highly recommended!

PS. Entrance is free on Fridays, 20TL on Saturdays for gays and 25TL for ladies. Entrance fee is including one local drink.

XLarge
Meşrutiyet Caddesi Kallavi Sokak No.12 Beyoğlu
www.xlargeclub.com
Fridays & Saturdays between 23.00-05.00

XLarge is a gay club in town opened in a very known old building. It is called Elhamra where The French Theatre had taken place in 1830s. After a big fire and renovation, it was used for Turkish theatre and cinema. They started to show erotic films after 1976. It has reconstructed after the second fire in 1999 and started to serve as a Club. After a few failed management tries by some Clubs, Xlarge Club has a long bar lies in front of the scene that makes everyone to buy drinks easily without waiting on turn or crowd. I recommend you to buy bottle drinks since you might not like little vodka amount in drinks. The customer profile is nice. You can see a mixed profile of gays and straight couples also.The club is busy between 1.00am and 2.00 with nice Shows, dargqueens and GoGo boys.

Cheeky Club & Red(Dark) Room

HÜSEYİN AĞA MAH. KÜÇÜK BAYAM SK. NO:1/A BEYOĞLU
Beyoglu, Turkey, 34000

A brand new club offers its red room which has first and only one dark room atmosphere in Turkey. Cheeky is not a large club, however it makes the area crowded even with 50 people which makes the atmosphere warm. Then it makes you ready to have a look to Red Room :) Even you think you are not into these kinds of actions. Club is open between 23.30 and 05.30. I will recommend you to go there after 1.30 - 2.00 when Red Romm gets warmer and warmer :)

Staff and management are very friendly and welcoming.

Tek Yön

Beyoğlu - Sıraselviler Str

Tek Yön means One Way!

Tek Yön is really a surprising place with its customer profile; locals, tourists, famous turkish actors or singers, famous fashion designers, bears, really smart guys or old fat men not in modern or suitable clothes (when you see them at the street in day, i am sure you bet they are not gay). You surprisingly and suddenly can be harrassed by anyone passing or dancing next to you. Actually this chaos calls them to have fun in this place. I think, people dont care Who you are and all feels themselves on the same level by leaving their money, career or fame when they get in. They generally come to have fun and find someone to enjoy the rest of the night. They moved the place and I went to new place to make some comments for you, even i dont like to have fun with guys who loves to touch that much during the night. Place is really nice and big, great option with its nice terrace. 2 bars are located on two sides and scene in the middle by the wall. No enterance fee! However it's been really disturbing for the last one month that, the waiters come and insist to have your order once you step the place. I can reccomend you to finish the night with Tek Yön and go on having fun with a guy you like there :) Be carefull!

Bigudi Lesbian Cafe & Club (Women Only)

Balo Sokak No:20 4th & 5th floors Beyoğlu Istanbul

www.bigudiproject.com

Backbahce Lesbian Club(23:00 - 05:00)
Sıraselviler Caddesi, Soğancı Sokak, No:7/1, Cihangir Beyoglu Istanbul

Karantina Lesbian Club(23:00 - 04:00)
Istiklal Caddesi, Imam Adnan Sokak No: 11, Beyoğlu Istanbul http://clubkarantina.tr.gg/

Sightseeing Recommendations

2009-05-23T02:43:00.000-07:00

The Basilica Cistern

Also known as the Sunken Palace, it was used as the water reservoir for the Byzantine Great Palace during the reign of Justinian in 532. Inside the huge building, there is a few feet of water but wooden walkways have been built for visitors. There are 336 columns supporting a cathedral ceiling and some of them were taken from torn-down temples. The interior of the building has special dim lighting and classical music is played to create an eerie atmosphere. It is used as a gallery during the International Istanbul Arts Biennial held September-October.

Open daily between 09:00-18:00
Entrance Fee: 10,00 YTL (€ 5,00)
Note: Humidity rate is very high inside the cistern.
The Blue Mosque

The mosque was built for Sultan Ahmet Iby the architect Mehmet Aga, in 1616 and he finished the work in 7 years. The sixth minarets is said to signify Sultan Ahmet’s position as the sixth Ottoman ruler of Istanbul and their sixteen balconies; his position for 16th in line from Osman, the founder of dynasty. It is world famous for the interior wall decorations with blue Iznik tiles from the 17th century and great look of the building; a mountainous cascade of leaded domes rippling ground wards while six minarets pierce the sky. It is an active mosque like all the other 2.000 mosque in Istanbul.

Open daily between 08:30-17:00
Entrance Fee: No fee required
Note: Donations are accepted at the exit of the mosque.
Çemberlitaş Turkish Bath (Hamam)

The Çemberlitas Bath is located on Çemberlitas Square on Divanyolu Street situated in the midst of some of Istanbul’s greatest monuments. It is next to the Vezirhan monument erected by Constantine I (324 - 327). The Köprülü Mahmud Pasa complex with its mosque, school and tombs are directly opposite the bath and at its sides are the Vezir Han and the old university building. Also in the near vicinity of the bath are the tomb of Sultan Mahmut II and its treasury, the Köprülü Library, the Atik Pasa Mosque and school and the tomb of Ali Baba.

Adres: Vezirhan Cad. No: 8,34440 Çemberlitaş /Tel: 212-522 79 74

Hagia Sophia

This huge,brick-colored building standing at the southern size of the square was built in the 6th century. It was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans after the Conquest and is now a museum. In its heyday, the church was regarded as a sublime architectural achievement. The building stands on the sire of two previous churches, one that had been destroyed by earthquake and fire The third and present structure was built at the orders of Emporer Justinian I by Anthemius a mathematician, and Isidore, an architect, geometrician and city planner. The two collaborators obeyed the emperor’s orders splendidly producing a building that inspired awe and wonder. At its dedication in 537 amazement and pride “Soloman, I have surpassed thee”-a reference to the great temple that soloman had built in Jerusalem. In the nearly millennium and a half since its construction, only three churches have been built on scale of Hagia Sophia: St Pauls in London, St Peter’s in Rome, and the Duomo in Milan. Even today, Ayasofya has the power to spellbind even the most hardened skyscraper-blase city-dweller with its grand dimensions. Ever since it was originally constructed in the 6th century, Ayasofya has astounded visitors with the grandeur of its proportions, Justinian is said to have murdered in.

Open daily between 09:30-16:30 except Mondays
Entrance Fee: 5,00 YTL (€ 2,50)
The Grand Bazaar

The world famous Covered Bazaar is owing to its architecture, history, location and sheer variety of merchandise one of Istanbul most significant tourist sites. The bazaar has eight different entrances each of them facing one of the city’s most important historic monuments. In terms of structure, the visitors is confronted by what may at first seem a bewildering a maze of 61 streets. On closer inspection, however it becomes apparent that there is, in fact, a reasonable semblance of order. The streets themselves are arranged on a grid-like, system and traditionally shopkeepers have tended to group themselves. According to the type of goods the sell whether it be jewellery, antique, carpets, cooper or leather goods. Clues as to which area you might be in are often given by the names of the streets of the turban makers for instance, the trades recalled are now mere vestiges of a colorful past. The bazaar can also be known as the center of golden shops.

Open daily between 08:30-19:00
Entrance Fee: No fee required
Note: Bargaining is necessary while purchasing
The Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar is located next to the Flower Market on the banks of the Golden Horn called Makron and Envalos by the Byzantine and Eminönü by the Ottomans. The Spice Bazaar is one of the most characteristic places of Istanbul. Spice Bazaar which is one of the oldest covered bazaars of Istanbul is situated within the complex of Yeni Cami. The Yeni Cami complex which was commissioned by Safiye Sultan to be built and the construction of which started in the year 1591 was completed by Hatice Turhan, Valide Sultan in the year 1633. In the Bazaar which is famous for its herbalists currently dried fruits, delicatessen and various food staff besides conventional products such as natural medicines, spices, flower seeds, scarce plant roots and peels are sold. It is known that the spices sold here are in addition to their consumption as food staff, useful for the treatment of certain diseases. Lately an increase in the number of jewellery shops in the bazaar is being observed. Within the Spice Bazaar there are restaurants with a view over the Golden Horn and Galata Bridge as well. The Bazaar is open from Mondays to Saturdays.

Open daily between 08:30-19:00
Entrance Fee: No fee required
The Maiden Tower

A 12th century stone erected on a rock at the entrance of the Bosphorus by Byzantine Emperor Manuel Komnenos. This tower, which has served as a prison and a light house, became the source of many legends in ancient days. It has recently been opened to the public and hosts concerts and meetings. Story of maiden Tower: according to Turkish Legend a princess was locked up in the tower by her father because of prophecy. The prophecy alerted him saying that his daughter would die by the bite of a snake. The father wanted to protect the princess and put her in a Maiden’s tower. Unfortunately at the end of the story , The princess dies by the snake that was brought to the islet in a basket of grapes.

Open daily between 12:00 -19:00 (Cafe & Restaurant hours)
19:00 - 00:15 (Restaurant hours)
Entrance Fee: No fee required (boat transfer fee only)
Please check boat shuttle timetable.

Shopping Centers and Streets in Istanbul

2009-05-22T11:37:00.001-07:00

CEVAHIR ISTANBUL(Shopping Mall)
Cevahir Shopping Centre has six floors with 343 shops, some of which are the first in Turkey to sell certain international brands; fast food restaurants on the top 2 floors. Under its roof, there is a big stage for shows and other events, cinemas including a private theatre. It has also a cinema for children, several other entertainment facilities, and a bowling hall. A small roller coaster is part of the entertainment area. The building's glass roof carries the biggest clock in the world, with three-meter (10 ft)-high digits.The car park has a large capacity. The shopping centre is situated in the business quarter on the European side of Istanbul between Şişli and Mecidiyeköy and also can be reached easily by Istanbul metro and very close to Taksim area. The shopping centre are connected directly to the metro line.
Open daily between 10:00-22:00

ISTINYE PARK(Shopping Mall)
Istinye Park , the new shopping mall in the city, features 300 shops, the first IMAX Theater, top local and global brands, cafes and exclusive restaurants.The shopping center is a unique urban lifestyle environment. .In addition to many glamorous shops and a hip theater complex, the modern all hosts a variety of restaurants, cafes and even a food market.The new shopping mall offers famous brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Prada, Celine, Fendi, Hugo Boss, Max Mara, Louis Vuitton, Zara, Boyner, Mango, M.A.C., Sephora, Sevil, Vakko.World-famous Rainforest Café has opened its first location in Turkey and is located in Istinye Park at the ground floor. The most luxury and exclusive stores are located out side at the open-air lifestyle center which is accessible from the upper floor. You will feel comfortable and enjoy the sunlight coming from the glass roof. Easy and chic place for shopping! Enjoy having breakfast at Polonez!
Open daily between 10:00-22:00

KANYON(Shopping Mall)
The Kanyon Shopping Centre is a building complex North of Istanbul, which combines shopping, living and working in an unconventional manner. Designed by “Jerde Partnership” architects from Los Angeles, the futuristic shopping centre captivates with its rolling curves which surround the central plaza. What makes the concept of the Kanyon Shopping Centre unique is the fact that it was designed not only as an office building or shopping centre, but as a complete feel-good oasis. There are nice, trendy brands such as, Harvey Nichols, L'occiatne, G-Star, Swarovski, Escada Sport, Villeroy & Boch, Camper... Located in Levent has the connection with metro.
Open daily between 10:00-22:00

ISTIKLAL STREET
Beyoglu and the Istiklal Street are two popular places among people from every age category, from teenagers to elderly people. The Istiklal Street is the meeting place for the lovers and friends. The district starts with the statute of Ataturk in Taksim Square. The Istiklal Street is a pedestrian street which is approximately 3-4 km. long, only a historical tram is running from one end to another. On the street you can find many fashion brands, famous Turkish brands and also small shops for budget shoppers. Many shops on Istiklal street are open till late hours. As the life on the street almost never stops, shops are also becoming a part of it. The cobber stone street reminds one of the old days... It is also known as a cruising area for gays. You can catch eyes looking at you sometimes :) There are cozy cafés, restaurants, shops, bookstores, movie theaters, music stores on this street. When you come to the halfway of the street, the area changes its name to "Galatasaray". When you continue to walk along the Grande Rue de Pera, reaches the beautiful gothic Catholic Church of St. Anthony. It was constructed in 1907. This church resembles Notre Dame de Paris very much but much smaller. It is still active and also concerts and special events take place here. Historically, Pera is the name of the district where foreign people used to reside. The former name of this street was Grande Rue de Pera. There are many consular buildings in Pera, including Russian, Swedish, French, American and British Consulate General. Most of the buildings in Istiklal Street are from mid-19th C to late 19th C and carry a French influence. French Baroque and neo-classical style were two leading styles in these buildings. The area at the end of the street where you will see the stop for old-tram, is called Tunel. Kafe Pi Bistro is highly recommended with its delicious menu and friendly staff. Have your drinks at the terrace!

NISANTASI
Nisantasi, now a byword in urban chic and very friendly gay district,takes its name from a surprisingly rustic incident late in the eighteenth century, when the sultan erected a little obelisk to mark the descent a particularly well-shot arrow. Today high fliers aim for Kenzo or Armani and even topshop. Nisantası where the well-heeled shopper meets the expense-account lunch is also a short stroll from the more overtly residential districts of Tesvikiye or Macka. Though many of the more elegant flats house professional and their practices rather than families, the back streets and arcades with their pastry shops. Sushi joist and decent fishmongers. still cater to a discerning gentility. And along side the international labels that have set-up shop-Gucci, Louis Vuitton, DKNY, Burberry- are the more innovative names in the Turkish fashion and food…Especially on Saturday nights Nişantaşı becomes crowded with people who come to the famous pubs and cafés of this district to spend some time. On Sundays the neighbourhood becomes less crowded and is mostly left to its residents. Nişantaşı is also famous for its many Art Nouveau apartment buildings and is home to several prominent figures of the Turkish jet-set, culture and art. In Nişantaşı you can have a cup of coffee at cafes and shop at the nearby Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Escada, Kenzo, Max Mara or any other famous boutique within walking distance. City's Nişantaşı, opened in 2008, is a Saks Fifth Avenue style shopping mall which aims at the high-end consumer group and is mostly dedicated to the famous fashion brands. The area has population of designers, authors, artists