
While there are many districts in Istanbul that are considered quite sought after and desirable, if there is one district amongst them that tops them all, it would be the district of Sariyer.
It is peculiarly situated between the Bosphorus Strait and the Black Sea, at the northern end of the European side and surrounded by other well-known districts such as Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Eyüp. Sariyer, which comes with a lot of historical significance, and is known for its Ottoman-styled houses, nature, and mesmerizing scenery, is considered the most affluent district of Istanbul, which is a preferred destination of Istanbul’s real estate market, high society, and the elite. Its geographical juxtaposition ensures that commuting to other parts of the district, the city center, or the Asian side are made fairly easy, with transportation routes such as the M2 metro line, bus, and shuttle services and sea ferries which are readily available.
The Belgrad Forest back this wealthy part of Istanbul. Sariyer includes some popular residential areas like Emirgan, Istinye, Tarabya, Yenikoy, Buyukdere, and Bahcekoy. Also, Kilyos, a preferred weekend or summer getaway on the Black Sea Coast, is within the boundaries of Sariyer.
Rumeli Hisari and Rumeli Feneri are the must-see places of interest in Sariyer district.
Also called Roumeli Hissar Castle, this fortress built under the regime of Fatih Sultan Mehmed to control the Bosphorus. That's why it is also called Boğazkesen Castle, which can be translated as "Strait-Cutter Castle." Today the castle is a museum and hosts many open-air concerts during the summer months.
Rumeli Feneri is a lighthouse that is at the entrance to the Bosphorus from the Black Sea. It is the tallest lighthouse in Turkey, and it is still in use. The French built it during the Crimean War. It is believed that the area the lighthouse stands on has also been mentioned in Greek Mythology. The lighthouse is open for visitors.