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Yeldegirmeni, a district in Istanbul's Kadikoy area on the city's Asian side, has been named the city's "coolest neighborhood" by Brooklyn Of, a travel guide that rates districts in 155 cities worldwide.
The guide assesses neighborhoods independently of major chains and sponsored content, drawing on local research and interviews with figures who shape trends in each area.
Brooklyn Of founder Per Stenius said Yeldegirmeni was chosen over other strong contenders in Istanbul, including Moda, Balat and Karakoy.
According to Stenius, Moda stands out for its greener, more established character; Balat for its historical heritage; and Karakoy for its more upscale, higher-budget venues. 'Yeldegirmeni was our pick,' Stenius said.
Street art played a central role in the selection. The guide notes that Yeldegirmeni is home to more than 60 murals, a concentration that has made it one of Türkiye's notable outdoor street art destinations.
The Mural-IST Festival, first held in Kadikoy in 2012, helped shape the district's identity. The event continued in the following years with participation from artists from different countries, adding numerous large-scale murals to the neighborhood.
Beyond street art, Brooklyn has highlighted Yeldegirmeni's third-wave coffee shops, independent restaurants and small businesses.
The coexistence of housing once used by railway workers alongside murals created by international artists was cited as a defining feature of the district's character.
The guide states that Yeldegirmeni's creative culture, independent cafes and restaurants, and design-focused hotels and small businesses distinguish it from other parts of Istanbul.
Brooklyn Of's guide selects one neighborhood per city across 155 cities, focusing on local culture and independent businesses. For Istanbul, the guide highlights Yeldegirmeni for its street art and independent neighborhood culture.
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