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Istanbul, the jewel of Türkiye, is actively preparing for one of Europe’s most important sporting events — the UEFA Europa League final.
On May 20, Germany’s Freiburg and England’s Aston Villa will face each other at Beşiktaş Park Stadium. For thousands of visiting fans, this is the perfect opportunity to combine a football celebration with a cultural and gastronomic getaway.
Where fans will gather on match day
The main meeting points for football supporters and pre-match activities will be Istiklal Street and the Beşiktaş Market (Çarşı), both located within walking distance of the stadium. Local bars, pubs, and cafés will create a vibrant atmosphere for fans from around the world.
Cultural route: what to see in a couple of days
If you arrive before the match, be sure to visit the Historic Peninsula. It is home to Istanbul’s most famous landmarks: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern. For a more colorful experience, stroll through the streets of the Balat and Fener districts, and enjoy a Bosphorus ferry ride in the pleasant May weather.
Shopping and gastronomy: from street food to MICHELIN dining
Istanbul offers visitors a unique culinary experience:
• Street food: try the legendary fish sandwich (balık ekmek) at the Eminönü waterfront.
• Restaurants: for a refined dinner, choose MICHELIN-starred venues or traditional meyhane taverns serving meze appetizers.
For traditional souvenirs, head to the Grand Bazaar or the Egyptian Bazaar. If you are interested in modern fashion brands, explore the boutiques in the Nişantaşı and Taksim districts.
A trip to the Europa League final is a wonderful opportunity to discover the full magic of this vibrant metropolis.
ORIENT
