Bakırköy is one of the oldest suburbs of Istanbul, Turkey. This upscale neighbourhood is located on the European side of the city between the Sea of Marmara and the main highway out of the city. Home to influential buildings, a rich Byzantine heritage and wonderful shopping and recreational zones, this is one area of Istanbul no visitor will want to miss.

Bakırköy is known for its charming, tranquil atmosphere. Relax by the riverside and imagine trader’s ships arriving into the city as local fishermen attempt to hook the “catch of the day”. Bakırköy Botanical Gardens are a wonderful place to visit with family. Huge replica dinosaurs walk through the park, and throughout the year concerts and events take place in the pretty gardens. Children will enjoy the duck pond, adventure playgrounds and pedal boat experiences on offer. Visitors who fancy a flutter will be at home at Veliefendi Racecourse, the only racing venue in Istanbul. Make a day of it, as there are horse exhibitions, play areas for children and picnic zones in which to enjoy a snack while watching the races. Travellers wishing to pick up a bargain should head for one of the three large shopping malls in Bakırköy. Capacity, Galleria and Carousel Malls are home to many retail outlets and suited to all budgets. For famous designer brands, Galleria is the top choice, and for all round entertainment try Capacity Mall. It has 180 stores, restaurants and a cinema. Carousel Mall is true to its name with the fairground ride in the centre of the shopping mall, and a variety of stores and eateries.

Bakırköy is an easy place to reach via the public transportation network. Ferries operate from Bakırköy to Bostanci and Kadıköy on the Asian peninsula of Istanbul. Buses transport visitors to central Istanbul and dolmus buses run between Bakırköy and Taksim. Istanbul airport is just 10 minutes away by taxi.

Bakırköy dates to Byzantine times, and later the area became popular with the ruling classes. The suburb plays host to incredible architecture and historic buildings. Today, the area is a centre of commercial and recreational importance with exceptional shopping malls, Turkey’s oldest racecourse Veliefendi Hippodrome, and many parks and charming riverside locations.