Balat, in the old city on the European side, was absolutely my favorite area of Istanbul. Once the city’s Jewish quarter, this is where you’ll roam its winding streets and find the artists, the color, the life of Istanbul. Cozy tea shops nestle between colorful doorways as cats curl around your legs begging for attention. Antique stores beckon you in, and it’s a place you lose all sense of time because there is so much vibrant activity stimulating all of your senses. This is the kind of place I long for when I travel. A place I can wander with no destination in mind. I’m truly present in the moment just looking and being a part of all of the life happening around me. It’s time to toss the guidebook, and let my senses guide the way.

8 Reasons To Visit Balat

1. So Many Flowers

Everywhere you look in Balat, you will see flowers and plants. Every window box has them growing, cafes are full of them. They are absolutely gorgeous, and if you are a plant lover, you will love seeing so many.

2. Oh, The Cats!

Cats are the queens of Balat and are well taken care of. Cats are everywhere in Istanbul, but especially in Balat, so if you’re a fan, you will love seeing them all. Of course, you can’t blaim them if they expect a treat.

3. The Tea Shops And Cafes

Of course, you can get a cup of woodfired tea to drink while you roam the streets, but there are also lots of cute tea shops and cafes to stop in as well. They are adorable, and most have outdoor seating, so you can watch the charm from a seat.

4. Enchanting Doorways

I absolutely love photographing doorways, and I definitely got my fill in Balat. Each one of them was interesting, and I could publish an entire book with all of the photos of doorways in Balat that I took!

5. Vivid Colors Everywhere

Balat is known for many things but especially for its colors. There are vivid colors everywhere. The houses are especially colorful, but even the laundry is colorful here. You can’t help but smile!

6. Getting A Glimpse of Everyday Life

Balat is an area of Istanbul that has more locals than tourists, and I really enjoyed just watching the locals live their every day lives. This captivating slice of old Istanbul offers a contrast of vibrant colorful houses next to weathered, crumbling ones. This area has a complex history and is fascinating to explore.

7. Quirky Antique Shops

One thing I really enjoyed was exploring the boho chic style antique stores of Balat. They had an almost dreamlike quality to them, and I wound up finding some awesome jewelry while visiting them.

8. Incredible Restaurants

The cafe culture is big in this area, and just as much thought is put into the restaurants of Balat. I had my very best meal in all of Instanbul at one restaurant here, Smelt & Co. which was incredible in every way. The views from the rooftop and the food were an absolute dream. Make sure to check out my article on the best restaurants in Istanbul for other suggestions!

As you can see, there are lots of wonderful reasons to visit Balat. I hope you add it to your itinerary. Also, if you’re planning to visit Greece after Istanbul, make sure to check out my articles on many of the Greek islands!