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Caferaga Medresesi, Istanbul

4.5
#21 of 141 in Historic Sites in Istanbul
Religious Site Tourist Spot
Right in the city center, Caferaga Medresesi features exhibits of art and music and offers handicraft workshops. Completed in 1559, the building was designed by Mimar Sinan, one of the most prominent architects of the Ottoman Empire, and originally served as a religious school. Today the site hosts 15 halls decorated with works of students and Turkish artists. Here you'll be able to learn the basics of old calligraphic techniques or make traditional ceramic objects and simple jewelry. Sip on some tea or have a Turkish meal at the site, or purchase some colorful souvenirs. The gardens here make an excellent resting spot. To visit Caferaga Medresesi on your trip to Istanbul, use our Istanbul vacation builder.
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Reviews
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
290 reviews
Google
4.4
TripAdvisor
  • We visited this art school as part of a stop woth our tour guide and the next day we went back for an art class with Josh. I got to learn Ebru Art, and can I just say it is one of my best memories of ...  more »
  • While the handicrafts on sales are interesting, it was the tiny restaurant that kept bringing us back. The food was simply superb and ridiculously cheap. Add the very atmospheric surroundings and you ...  more »
  • Other reviewers have greatly described this place. It's a must have experience in Istanbul and I wish I knew it in the past. My wife, 8 years old daughter and I took an Ebru marbling lesson given by t...  more »
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Google
  • An old Ottoman school converted into handicraft center and a nice cafe. Good place to have a break for a reason, coffee or lemonade.
  • We had the pleasure of learning more about Caferaga Medresesi while recently in Istanbul. The staff was extremely friendly. A special demonstration was organized for us to see how one of the artists creates his marbling technique. Learning about all the various classes offered here made us commit to taking a class the next time we are in Istanbul. Swing by this lovely art oasis for a lovely experience when you are visiting Istanbul!
  • A great place to take a calm break
  • Nice
  • Old Medrese
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The bustling downtown core of old Istanbul is the popular choice among tourists wanting a short walking distance to the city's biggest attractions. Here you'll find hostel-style accommodations and reasonably priced and traditionally decorated hotels, as well as bed and breakfasts and inns with views overlooking the sea. Though often the most affordable, accommodations in the old city can be very overrun with tourists and street solicitors. If you seek a more relaxed stay, consider lodging near Taksim Square. This new, trendy neighborhood is a short 15-20 minute ride from the old city, but puts you closer to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Though the newer area of the city is a bit more upscale, you'll also find moderately priced hotels and some hostels. Look for luxury hotels in the western suburbs close to the airport, overlooking the banks of Bosphorus.
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