For years, I have lived in the historical heart of Istanbul, in the Fatih districts, where every street tells a story. A short walk through the old peninsula leads to Balat, a place filled with charm and history. Starting from the center of Yavuz Selim, you will find yourself passing through hidden gems like the Sultan Cistern, walking by 1000-year-old cisterns, grand mosques, and colorful houses with narrow distances between them. The Çarşamba Pazarı, one of the biggest street bazaars, brings the area to life, offering a glimpse into authentic local daily experiences.
Though some buildings at street level block sunlight, a few minutes of walking can take you to the Yavuz Selim Mosque, a 15th century marvel, where a short climb to the balcony rewards you with an unforgettable view of the Golden Horn.
Exploring these hidden corners, I truly appreciated the beauty of my life here, even if at times it was disappointing to not see the sky from my home. This route is a perfect start for any Balat guide, offering an experience that connects the past with the present.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque: A Majestic Ottoman Landmark
The Yavuz Selim Mosque, known in Turkish as Yavuz Selim Camii, stands proudly on a terrace at the crest of one of Istanbul’s seven hills. Built in the 16th century under Ottoman rule, it was commissioned by Sultan Sulayman the Magnificent in memory of his father, Selim I, who is buried here. The mosque offers breathtaking views of the Golden Horn from its northeast side, making it a must-visit spot.
Located near Çukurbostan, a public garden that also serves as a park where families enjoy picnics, this imperial mosque is more basic than others, featuring a single large dome over a square room. Its courtyard at the front, or avlu, is beautiful, with a central fountain surrounded by tall cypress trees. The portico has a stunning floral design on its paved floor, and the columns, made from a variety of marbles and granites, add to its timeless charm.
| Feature | Details |
| Built | 16th century |
| Commissioned by | Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent |
| Significance | Built in memory of Selim I |
| View | Overlooks the Golden Horn |
| Notable Features | Single large dome, stunning courtyard, historical architecture |
“To stand in Balat is to stand in the echoes of emperors, merchants, and storytellers.”
Fener and Balat: Where History and Culture Intertwine
Walking down from the hill near Yavuz Sultan Selim, I enjoy passing by the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, a magnificent school with a unique look that brings a different feeling of the past. This building, near the Church of St. George, stands proudly in the neighborhood of Fener—or Phanar in Greek—and serves as the seat of the Patriarchate.
Locals often refer to it by its nicknames, The Red Castle and The Red School, because of its striking architecture. A short 500m walk from here leads to the famous Kiremit street in Balat, where everyone loves taking photos of the traditional, characteristic, and colorful houses that line the street.
“The streets of Balat do not just show history; they whisper its secrets.”
Savoring Balat’s Culinary Delights
When I was living in Fatih, I would often visit a friend in Balat and, between 2005-2015, I witnessed the change in its look, as new shops and cafes opened in the area. The first thing you see here is the little French-style coffee houses, which may not feel original to the history of the place, but they are perfect for a filtered coffee in a cozy setting if you want to stop for a break.If you’re looking to try something new, you can recreate the delicious flavors of Balat with a Quick and Easy Lahmacun Recipe or try the classic Homemade Turkish Kofta Recipe.”
The only spot I remember from the old days is Evin Pastanesi, a bakery just across the street from where my friend lives. We almost never left without buying galettes to take home, as they bake them in an old-style wooden fire oven, which I highly recommend trying. You should also taste acıbadem kurabiyesi, a kind of almond amaretti cookies, for a true local experience.
| Food to Try | Description |
| Galettes | Traditional pastry baked in a wooden fire oven |
| Acıbadem Kurabiyesi | Almond-flavored cookies, similar to Amaretti |
| Tulumba Tatlısı | Fried, crispy dessert soaked in syrup |
| Köfte (Meatballs) | A must-try at Balat Köftecisi |
| Mezes & Rakı | Served in traditional meyhanes |
Sultan Cistern: An Underground Treasure of Istanbul
Tucked beneath the historic streets of Balat, the Sultan Cistern is one of the city’s lesser-known yet remarkable sites. Built over 1000 years ago, this underground marvel once provided water to the surrounding districts, including Fatih and beyond.
Unlike the grand Basilica Cistern, this one remains quieter and more mysterious, giving visitors a chance to admire its massive stone columns and still waters in peace. Walking past its hidden entrances, you can almost hear the echoes of history whispering through its ancient walls.
Çarşamba Pazarı: The Vibrant Pulse of Local Life
Every Wednesday, the streets of Balat and Fatih burst into life with the Çarşamba Pazarı, one of the biggest and busiest street markets in Istanbul. As you walk through the narrow streets, you’ll see vendors selling everything from fresh produce, colorful spices, handmade textiles, and even antiques.
The market has existed for hundreds of years, making it an essential part of the daily life in the area. If you want to experience authentic Istanbul, this is the place to be—just be ready for the lively crowds and the calls of enthusiastic sellers!
“To experience a city, visit its market. To feel its soul, listen to its people.”
Exploring Balat’s Charming and Colorful Streets
Balat is famous for its narrow streets lined with traditional Ottoman houses, each painted in vibrant colors. While walking here, you’ll pass by centuries-old wooden homes, some leaning slightly as if telling their own stories from the past.You can taste the authentic flavors of Turkish comfort food such as Turkish Meatballs (Köfte): Easy Meal Prep & Freezing Tips as you stroll through these historic streets.”
Many buildings are restored, while others still carry the charm of their original architecture. The best time to explore is in the early morning when the soft sunlight enhances the beauty of the area, making it perfect for photography.
Beyond Cafes: Authentic Flavors of Balat
While the French-style coffee houses attract visitors, Balat’s true food culture lies in its small, historic eateries. One must-visit place is a traditional meyhane (Turkish tavern), where you can enjoy mezes, grilled fish, and rakı, just as the locals have done for generations.
Another must-try is the Balat Köftecisi, serving up some of the best meatballs in the district. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the tulumba tatlısı, a crispy fried dessert soaked in syrup, which pairs perfectly with a cup of strong Turkish tea.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Balat
How do I get to Balat from central Istanbul?
Balat is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and ferries. You can also take a taxi or enjoy a scenic walk from Eminönü along the Golden Horn.
What is the best time of day to explore Balat?
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for exploring Balat, as the soft sunlight enhances the beauty of the colorful streets and provides the best conditions for photography.
What are some must-visit historical sites in Balat?
Key historical sites include the Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque, the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, the Church of St. George, and the Sultan Cistern.
What is Çarşamba Pazarı, and when does it take place?
Çarşamba Pazarı is one of the largest and busiest street markets in Istanbul, held every Wednesday. It offers fresh produce, spices, textiles, antiques, and an authentic local shopping experience.
What are the best local foods to try in Balat?
Visitors should try galettes from Evin Pastanesi, acıbadem kurabiyesi (almond cookies), köfte from Balat Köftecisi, and the famous tulumba tatlısı, a crispy, syrup-soaked dessert.
Is Balat a good place for photography?
Absolutely! Balat’s colorful houses, narrow streets, and historic buildings make it a perfect spot for photographers looking to capture Istanbul’s charm.
How long does it take to explore Balat properly?
A half-day is sufficient to explore Balat’s key attractions, but a full day allows for a more relaxed experience, including time to enjoy local cafes and restaurants.
What is the significance of the Phanar Greek Orthodox College?
The Phanar Greek Orthodox College, also known as “The Red Castle” or “The Red School,” is a historic educational institution that serves as the center of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate.
Is Balat a family-friendly destination?
Yes! Balat’s parks, street markets, and historical sites make it an enjoyable destination for families, with plenty of spots to explore, eat, and relax.
Conclusion
Balat is more than just a neighborhood; it is a living tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant local life. From the grandeur of the Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque to the narrow, colorful streets lined with centuries-old houses, every corner has a story to tell. Whether you’re admiring the stunning views of the Golden Horn, exploring the hidden depths of the Sultan Cistern, or indulging in the flavors of traditional bakeries and meyhanes, Balat offers an experience that blends the past with the present. A walk through this historic district is not just a journey through time but an invitation to immerse yourself in the authentic soul of Istanbul.
Chef Ceren Narin is a passionate food lover and traveler dedicated to sharing authentic Turkish cuisine. As the founder of TurkishYum.com, she explores traditional flavors, recipes, and culinary heritage, bringing the magic of Turkey’s food culture to your kitchen.