Istanbul's Oldest District with Colorful Streets

Balat is the oldest district in Istanbul, an unforgettable place that should not be missed when you are in this amazing city.

It is located on the coast of the Sea of Marmara in the Golden Horn Bay, in the Fatih Municipality of Istanbul. 5 km from Galata Bridge.

The entire district is famous for its charming cafes, but also for its colorful streets that hide unique boutiques and unusual details. Thus, you will come across an interesting mural quite by chance, while you are climbing the very hill on which Balat is located.

In almost every alley you will come across a sight that will make you smile and that will show that this neighborhood is different from others. Laundry drying on a clothesline drawn between houses depicts a scene of Istanbul that cannot be seen everywhere. This is one of the few Istanbul neighborhoods that has preserved the charm of the past.