For many, finding a place to call home in a vast city like Istanbul can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The daily hustle and bustle often keeps us from exploring every hidden gem within this sprawling metropolis. Yet, the allure of Kanyon, the most vibrant lifestyle hub in the Levent neighborhood, and arguably the entire Beşiktaş district, is impossible to resist.

 

To understand the history of Kanyon, we must journey back to the early 2000s. At that time, visionary developers sought to create a unique blend of retail, residential, and office spaces in the heart of Istanbul. The result was Kanyon, an architectural marvel that seamlessly integrates nature with urban living. Opened in 2006, Kanyon quickly became a landmark, offering a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as premium living and working spaces. Today, Kanyon stands as a testament to innovative urban design, providing a social, cultural, and gastronomic haven in the midst of the city.

Cultural offers

Bomontiada offers a wide array of cultural experiences, catering to various tastes with both permanent and temporary exhibits. The most notable attraction is the museum dedicated to Turkish photojournalist Ara Güler, famously known as 'the eye of Istanbul' and 'the photographer of Istanbul'. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, this museum showcases a vast collection of photographs taken by Güler throughout his career. While the museum itself remains a constant, the exhibitions are updated every six months to provide fresh perspectives.

 

Besides the museum, Bomontiada also features open-air concerts, live talks, and readings. This cultural center, which blends open spaces with industrial-style buildings, is an excellent choice year-round. However, it's especially recommended during the warmer months when the patio comes alive with people, creating a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere.

Gastronomic offers

Wondering what to do this Saturday? If you head to Bomontiada to explore its cultural offerings, don't forget to indulge in some of its culinary delights. Among the most renowned eateries in the area are The Populist and Kilimanjaro. The Populist is known for its diverse menu of street food, ranging from burgers to fish and chips, while Kilimanjaro offers more refined dishes like ragu 'parpadelle' and grilled seabass, among others.

 

And of course, you can't leave without trying the famous Bomonti beer. Although the brewery is no longer on site, The Populist still serves this iconic drink originally brewed by the Bomonti brothers.

 

More things to see in Feriköy

Bomonti is at the heart of Sisli, but this neighborhood offers much more than that. A beloved option for many residents here is visiting the Feriköy Antiques Market on Sundays. This market is a treasure trove of antiques: postcards, mugs, stamps, pins, photographs, and more.

 

If you have more time to spare, you can also visit the Atatürk Museum, open from Tuesday to Sunday. This museum, once the residence of Turkey's first president, showcases paintings, medals, and personal objects from his life. After your visit, if you're in the mood for coffee, we recommend stopping by But First Coffee, one of the most popular coffee shops in the area