Besides the Obvious

Besiktas is a unique neighborhood on the European side of Istanbul. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic buildings, and bustling streets. Besiktas is also a popular destination for tourists due to its proximity to popular attractions such as the Bosphorus Strait and Dolmabahce Palace. The neighborhood is home to a mix of locals and expats, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore. Overall, it’s a great place to experience the vibrant culture and history of Istanbul. In this Besiktas more than football, we will show you the potencial of the neighborhood for a visit and encourage you to go there and take a look.

Besiktas is more than a football club

Besiktas J.K. is a football club that has a strong presence in the Besiktas neighborhood of Istanbul. The team’s passionate supporters and the club’s history have made it an integral part of the community. Besiktas J.K. unites the community since it brings people together from all walks of life. Fans from different backgrounds, ages and genders come together to support their team. This creates a sense of solidarity and unity among the members of the community.

The presence of the football club Improves the local economy by bringing business to the area. On match days, fans flood the neighborhood, boosting sales for local shops, bars, and restaurants. Many tourists arrive to Istanbul on a Champions League, Europe League or Conference League competition versus Besiktas J.K. 

The football club provides an affordable form of entertainment for the community. Fans can attend matches, watch them on TV or follow them online, fostering a sense of excitement and pride in the neighborhood. In addition, Besiktas football club gives the neighborhood a sense of identity and belonging. The team’s colors, logos, and chants are part of the local culture and help create a shared identity among its fans.

A bit of history of Besiktas

The history of Besiktas dates back to the Byzantine era when it was a fishing village. Later on, during the Ottoman era, it became an important transportation hub connecting Asia and Europe. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Besiktas underwent rapid development and expansion as a result of modernization and urbanization efforts.

During this time, many magnificent buildings, palaces, and mansions were built, which can still be seen today in Besiktas. In addition to its rich architectural history, Besiktas also played an important role in the political and social movements of Turkey. During the Ottoman period, it was a center of liberal and progressive thought, and during the early 20th century, it was a hotbed for political activism and revolutionary movements.

What to do in Besiktas

Today, Besiktas continues to be a vibrant and bustling neighborhood, with its beautiful waterfront views, numerous restaurants and cafes, and lively nightlife. It is home to many universities, hospitals, and commercial centers, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. 

Many tourists only come to Besiktas for visiting Dolmabahce Palace but Besiktas is real and big and therefore it has many things to offer to visitors. Here, you will be able to find a list with the best places to visit in Besiktas. 

Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace, one of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul, is located in Besiktas. The palace was built in the 19th century by Sultan Abdulmecid and served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for several years.

Besiktas Stadium

Besiktas stadium, also known as Vodafone Park, is a new football stadium (2016). It has a seating capacity of 42,000, making it one of the largest stadiums in Turkey. The stadium is home to the Besiktas football club and has also hosted several international matches and concerts. It is famous for its unique design, featuring a retractable roof and a striking asymmetrical architecture.

Visitors can take guided tours of the stadium, which include a visit to the players’ dressing rooms, the press conference hall, and the VIP lounge. The stadium also has several restaurants and cafes, as well as a museum dedicated to Besiktas football club.

Bosphorus Bridge

Bosphorus Bridge connects Europe and Asia, spanning the Bosphorus Strait. It’s one of the most famous spots in Istanbul, offering spectacular views of the city and the sparkling water below.

Besiktas Square

Besiktas Square is the central square in the district, surrounded by numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. The square is also home to Besiktas Stadium, one of the most famous sports venues in Turkey.

Yildiz Park

This park covers more than 130 acres and boasts beautiful gardens, pavilions, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. It used to be a hunting ground for the Ottoman sultans. The park features gardens, streams, ponds, and walking paths, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy nature. The park also includes several historical buildings, such as the Yildiz Palace, Ciragan Palace, and Malta Pavilion, which are open to visitors. Overall, Yildiz Park is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul’s busy streets.

Ortakoy Mosque

It’s a beautiful mosque located near the Bosphorus Bridge, famous for its unique architecture and intricate interior designs. It dates back to 1854 during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid I and designed by architect Nikoğos Balyan. The mosque’s architecture is a mix of Ottoman and Baroque styles. Its main dome is 17.5 meters in diameter and sits atop four smaller domes. The mosque is situated on the Bosphorus Strait and is a popular tourist attraction for its scenic location and stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge. Today it serves as a place of worship for Turkish Muslims.

Enjoy our discounts in Istanbul

Dear Traveller! Thank you for reading the latest article from Besides the Obvious. Please do not hesitate to subscribe to our newsletter, if you don’t want to miss our next travel story.