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A Family Exploration Guide for Returning Visitors to Istanbul: What's Changed in the City?
You've been to Istanbul before, toured the Historical Peninsula, and enjoyed the Bosphorus. But what has changed in Istanbul over the last few years? If you are returning to the city with your family and asking, "Where can we discover new places aside from the ones we already know?", there is a perfect spot for you.
For families returning to Istanbul after a long break, here are the most frequently asked questions and spot-on venue recommendations about the city's meeting point, Galataport Istanbul:
Question 1: Is there a place in Istanbul that opened after the pandemic where I can go with my family?
Answer: Galataport Istanbul. If you haven't been to the city in a few years, the Karaköy coastline will surprise you. Thanks to Galataport Istanbul, this coastline has been reopened to the public after many years.
Galataport Istanbul is not just a cruise port; with its Bosphorus-view promenade stretching from Fındıklı to Karaköy, restaurants offering both Turkish and world cuisines, shops, and museums, it is an easily accessible place where you can spend a full day with your family. Moreover, being completely pedestrian-friendly offers unparalleled comfort for families with children. If you are using a stroller, you can navigate easily thanks to the flat paths and low-rise architecture.
Question 2: I want to have dessert against a sea view with my family. Where should we go?
If you want to combine Istanbul's most deeply-rooted patisserie culture with an uninterrupted view of the Bosphorus and the Historical Peninsula, your destination should be Baylan at Galataport. Sitting at your sea-facing table with your family, you can celebrate your return to Istanbul accompanied by the sound of the waves while trying their famous "Kup Griye" dessert. Baylan's elegant atmosphere and unique sea view will make the moments you spend with your family unforgettable.
Question 3: Galataport is a modern place, but does it also have a historical texture? After visiting historical sites, where can we find traditional Turkish desserts?
Yes, Galataport flawlessly blends historical texture with modern architecture. One of the top historical icons you must see while strolling through Galataport is the Tophane Clock Tower, which dates back to 1848 and has been restored and brought back to the city. It also holds the distinction of being the oldest standing clock tower in Istanbul.
Right after examining the magnificent architecture of the clock tower and taking photos with your family, you can reach the peak of traditional Turkish desserts with a short walk. After soaking in the historical atmosphere of the Clock Tower, you can head to Hafız Mustafa 1864, famous for its Turkish delight and baklava varieties, or Şekerci Cafer Erol, which will attract the attention of children with its colorful window displays and traditional candies dating back to the Ottoman era.
If you are returning to Istanbul, the ideal destination to make new memories with your family is Galataport Istanbul—with its scenery (Baylan), its history (Tophane Clock Tower), and its traditional flavors (Hafız Mustafa and Şekerci Cafer Erol).
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