Timeline
07:57
Arrive at Maçka Park and find a spot along the avenue facing west. The park occupies the sides of a valley, and the gondola lift line overhead offers a striking silhouette against the brightening sky. Wait in silence as the sun begins to crest.
08:27
Watch the sunrise. On 15 January, the sun sets toward the WSW, but the early morning light illuminates the valley and the avenue. The golden light starts about 17:17, but the sunrise itself at 08:27 provides a crisp, clear start to the day.
08:57
Walk to Bolulu Hasan Usta for breakfast and coffee. Open from 08:00, this spot serves dondurma (Turkish ice cream), kahvaltı (breakfast), hamur işi (pastry), and various sweets and coffees. It is a perfect place to warm up and enjoy local flavors after the cold morning air.
09:27
Return to Maçka Park to stroll through the valley. The park is a shortcut between Beşiktaş and the surrounding hills. Enjoy the morning atmosphere as the city begins to stir.
Local tip
The sunrise on 15 January is at 08:27. Arrive 30 minutes before to secure a good view. Bolulu Hasan Usta opens at 08:00, so you can grab breakfast immediately after or before, depending on your pace.
Check before you go
- Maçka Park is accessible at any time, but arriving before sunrise ensures you catch the full event.
- Bolulu Hasan Usta opens at 08:00. If you arrive before sunrise, you can have breakfast first, then walk to the park for the sunrise.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Istanbul (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).