he cruise ship port of Istanbul is in the Karakoy district, a historically rich area that in 2015, the Lonely Planet called Istanbul’s hippest neighborhood. Those who like exploring independently will come across trendy cafes filled with young urban artists who are slowly transforming the area. Although look closely to find the original establishments of days gone by including Karaköy Güllüoğlu that has a long standing reputation for selling excellent baklava, the country’s favourite desert and sweet that is a must-try.

There are three main tourist attractions in this vicinity.

1: Istanbul has a long history of Jewish communities and neighborhoods of which one of them is Karakoy. Fully functioning synagogues still operate in the city although you need prior permission to enter them. Instead visit the Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews containing artifacts, clothing, and documents that perfectly portray the story of Jews in Turkey.

2: Built in 1348 and with a perfect view over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn, the Genoese Galata Tower is one of the city’s more iconic medieval landmarks reaching nearly 67 meters tall. During the day, visitors mainly use it as a viewing platform, but at night, the restaurant holds Turkish night shows with a sumptuous buffet meal and traditional entertainment.