The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Istanbul

Karaköy, the historic district at the foot of Galata Tower, is home to the remnants of one of Europe's oldest and richest Jewish communities - Neve Shalom Synagogue, the largest in Turkey, and the city's only active Ashkenazi synagogue. A local Chabad community led by Rabbi Mendy Chitrik continues to serve the community and Jewish travelers. Here's a short guide to planning your visit.

Neve Shalom and the Ashkenazi Synagogue — two synagogues, one street

Neve Shalom Synagogue, the traditional center of the roughly 25,000-strong Sephardic community, and the Ashkenazi Synagogue, founded in 1900 - both in Karaköy, within walking distance of each other. Practical tip: visiting the synagogues requires advance security coordination - contact the Istanbul Jewish community or the local Chabad, led by Rabbi Mendy Chitrik, a few days before arriving.

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Galata Tower — best at sunset

Galata Tower, a 14th-century Genoese tower overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, is a short walk from the two historic synagogues. Practical tip: book a timed-entry ticket in advance to skip the line, and arrive close to sunset for the best view.

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Hagia Sophia — a short tram ride from Karaköy

Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century Byzantine cathedral that became a mosque, then a museum, then a mosque again, is reachable via the Tünel funicular and light rail from Karaköy. Practical tip: entry to the historic building is free, but modest dress and removing shoes are required.

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Between Neve Shalom and the Ashkenazi Synagogue, the local Chabad, Galata Tower, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul offers a rare encounter with one of Europe's richest Jewish histories, at the heart of one of the world's most multicultural and impressive cities.