One of the main highlights—and reasons—I traveled to Istanbul was to meet its famous street cats. Known as the City of Cats, Istanbul is home to thousands of free-roaming felines that have become an iconic part of its culture and charm. During my trip, I encountered cats lounging on ancient ruins, dozing in mosque courtyards, and curiously inspecting my lunch at local cafés. In this blog post, I’ll share some of my favorite cat encounters and give practical tips on where to find cats in Istanbul. 

Just steps away from the iconic Sultan Ahmed Mosque and the majestic Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square is not only rich in history, but also alive with cats. Area behind the mosque, where narrow lanes lead to small cafés, cozy restaurants, and affordable hotels, you’ll also find a quiet charm—and plenty of feline company. These streets are home to some of the friendliest cats in the city, often seen lounging under trees or sunbathing on stone walls. If you carry a small bag of dry food and give it a gentle shake (or maybe a rather violent one) —or mimic the sound with something else—it won’t be long before curious cats emerge from the shadows, ready for a snack and perhaps a bit of affection.

Around the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Market (Mısır Çarşısı), the streets are packed with shops, voices, and the scent of spices. While it’s not as full of cats as other parts of Istanbul, you can still spot one or two while browsing—resting near a shop entrance or slipping quietly between market stalls. Some vendors leave out food or water, and a few cats seem to know exactly where to go.

In Balat, one of Istanbul’s most colorful and photogenic neighborhoods, it’s easy to spot cats lounging in the sun or watching from windowsills. Streets like Kiremit Caddesi and Ayvansaray Caddesi are lined with brightly painted wooden houses—perfect backdrops for a slow walk and a few cat encounters. You’ll often see them resting on doorsteps or calmly crossing the narrow roads. Along Vodina Caddesi, the main street through the neighborhood, you’ll find plenty of cafés and food options, many with outdoor seating where cats sometimes wander between tables. Balat offers a quieter, more relaxed way to meet Istanbul’s feline residents.

Taksim is one of Istanbul’s most dynamic districts, centered around Taksim Square and the lively İstiklal Street. Known for its shops, nightlife, and constant flow of people, it’s not the first place you'd expect to find cats—but they’re there. You might see one resting near a quiet side alley, sitting by the steps of a mosque, or weaving through the crowd with calm familiarity. Even in the middle of the city’s energy, the presence of a few cats adds a small but familiar touch of Istanbul’s everyday rhythm.

Kuzguncuk is a charming neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul, known for its colorful wooden houses, peaceful atmosphere, and streets where mosques, churches, and synagogues stand close together. Along İcadiye Caddesi, you’ll find a mix of local shops, cozy cafés, and small restaurants that give the area its warm, village-like feel. As you explore, it’s easy to spot cats lounging on windowsills, resting near garden fences, or quietly observing from staircases. They move freely through the neighborhood, calmly weaving between tables or curling up near storefronts. In Kuzguncuk, the cats are simply part of the everyday scene—relaxed, familiar, and at home.

Often referred to as the "Kedili Park" (Cat Park), is situated north of Taksim Square in the Şişli district. The surrounding area is lively and upscale—nestled between fashionable Nişantaşı boutiques, Harbiye’s concert venues, and leafy urban streets lined with cafés and restaurants.

Inside the park, the vibe shifts to a serene and green haven favored by dozens of city cats. You'll find sturdy wooden cat houses and shelters thoughtfully placed behind benches and under trees—designed by volunteers and supported by the municipality for feeding and shelter. These structures, often seen in photos and videos, provide cozy spots for the felines to nap or socialize. Today, the park remains one of Istanbul’s best-loved green spaces where people come to jog, relax, or simply sit among the cats enjoying their comfy houses.

For a different kind of cat encounter in Istanbul, Cihangir is worth exploring. This trendy, artsy neighborhood just southwest of Taksim is quieter than the main tourist hubs—yet it’s home to a special figure in the city’s feline story: Ali Tural. Now in his 70s, Ali has been caring for Cihangir’s neighborhood cats for decades. He runs a well-known open‑air shelter there, drawing respect and occasional visitors from across Istanbul and beyond. His dedication reflects a broader culture of the city—an everyday caring for animals woven into urban life.

While I didn’t have the chance to visit his shelter personally, it remains one of those authentic, grassroots spots that speaks volumes about Istanbul’s relationship with its stray cats. From public parks and historic squares to cozy neighborhoods, these feline residents are often supported by individuals like Ali, whose daily care has become as essential as the city’s ancient walls and modern streets.