Ortaköy a neighbourhood, formerly a small village, within the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, Turkey, located in the middle of the European bank of the Bosphorus.
Ortaköy was a cosmopolitan area during the Ottoman era and the first decades of the Turkish Republic, with communities of Turks, Greeks, Armenians and Jews. Today the neighbourhood still hosts many different religious (Muslim, Jewish, Orthodox, and other Christian) structures. It is also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its art galleries, night clubs, cafés, bars, and restaurants.
The Neo-Baroque style Ortaköy Mosque is a beautifully ornate structure, right on the jetty of Ortaköy, bordering the waters of the Bosphorus, and thus highly visible from the passing boats.
Ortaköy was the site of George W. Bush’s speech during the NATO Summit of 2004, which he delivered at Galatasaray University.
Ortakoy district used to be a romantic fishing village. Today it is an affluent waterfront neighborhood located in the middle of Bosphorus’ European bank.
Ortaköy with many art galleries, night clubs, cafés, bars, and restaurants the district is hugely popular on weekends both among locals and tourists, one of the oldest buildings of Ortaköy is the nearly 500-year old Turkish bath. It was built by Ottoman star architect Mimar Sinan in 1556.
The Ortaköy Mosque is a beautifully ornamented Neo-Baroque style mosque. It was built in the 18th c, but only received its current ornate look in the middle of 19th c. Çırağan Palace was built in 1871 by Sultan Abdülaziz as his residence. Until a fire severely damaged the building in 1910 the palace served as the Ottoman Parliament. Today it is one of Istanbul’s most luxurious hotels.
Ortaköy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge.
Ortaköy is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its art galleries, night clubs, cafés, bars, and restaurants and at night, the lights on the mighty Bosphorus Bridge change color, graceful without being kitsch.
Ortakoy, Istanbul,
The best time is a Sunday morning when there is a craft/art market. Quite atmospheric on the waterfron with fishermen and views across to the Asian side.
Ortakoy Mosque closed for renovation.
You'll know you've reached Ortakoy as your eyes are drawn to lights gracefully casting down on the Bosphorus. This vibrant area, bustling with activity and people, offers a plethora of dining choices running the gamut from casual to fancy. It feels like a happy place where locals are kicking back, taking in a breath of fresh air, and enjoying their…
This area is small but wonderful a few alleys with cafes, the white mosque looks very special , great architecture. Local delicacy is Kumpir, an oven cooked whole potato , which is then opened mixed with butter and cheese, then you add all thee fillings, from mushrooms, to pickles, from Suasage to corn be creative and enjoy. I recommend a…
Wonderful little village scene, right on the Bosphrous. From this area you can easily do:Galata Tower, have lunch at the Pera Palace Hotel,Pera Museum, Military Museum,Dolmabahce Palace,Sabanci Museum, go to Kadakoy (Asian side) and so much more
it have a very beautiful view under the bridge between Europe and Asia with many restaurant and places to sit.
Great vantage point to view the Bosphorus! Old town feel with unique quaint shops and restaurants. Nice!
So much to do here, and it stays open till the weeeee hours! Have fun and enjoy anything from food to bars to nargileh (hookah). It is a great spot to be at nite- to me it seemed to have a great vibe and be really well lit. Plus you have nice views of the Bosphorus.
Lots of hip and…
Next to Bosphorus bridge on bosphorus, you feel the time in Istanbul. Amazing view. Also their famous baked potato and waffle are really delicious. Do not miss Ortakoy when you visit Istanbul.
It a good place to walk especially near Ortakoy mosque and the Bosphorus bridge
A Dolmuş to Ortaköy, a meal at the Cheese Cake restaurant (!), upstairs, overlooking the plazaz below and the waterfront provided a late start to an evening that had begun in Beyoğlu! A few beers while listening to some live music in a bar just behind the restaurant and then exiting through the back door onto a side street with…