Where to see street cats in Istanbul (best neighborhoods)?

Istanbul ranks #1 in the world as a 'cat city' — a unique culture of coexistence has developed here, locals call the street cats 'İstanbul kedileri' and many have regular caretakers among residents.

On the Asian side, the best districts to meet cats are Kadıköy (waterfront and markets) and Çengelköy.

On the European side, walk through Beşiktaş and the historic Balat district — cats live right in courtyards, shops and cafés, with locals setting up shelters and feeding stations for them.

Consider a ferry trip to the Princes' Islands (Adalar) from Kabataş or Bostancı piers — plenty of street cats roam among the historic mansions there too.

Watch the 2016 documentary 'Kedi' about Istanbul's street cats for context — many travelers seek out filming locations afterward.