When we think of Istanbul in Turkiye, popular landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Galata Tower are probably the first things that come to mind.
But over the years, the city’s free-roaming feline residents have played a role in turning Istanbul into a destination for cat-loving travellers.
You have probably seen them on social media, too. A cat lounging on the pavement, sitting outside a cafe or simply wandering around the streets, going about its day without a care in the world.
The city is truly safe for cats (and dogs) without official owners.
Visitors can spot them almost anywhere, from famous landmarks to neighbourhoods and municipalities like Beyoglu, Balat and Kadikoy.
The Internet has also helped put Istanbul’s cats in the spotlight, with photos and videos of them regularly appearing on social media. In fact, you can find the community group page “Cats of Istanbul” on both Facebook and Instagram, although there hasn’t been any update since 2022.
If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul in the future, make sure to document your holiday with many pictures of its most famous four-legged residents, the stray cats.
Other top cat cities
Besides Istanbul, there are other “cat” destinations, too.
For example, Houtong in New Taipei City, a mountainous village in Taiwan, is known as a “cat village”, where cats roam freely around the former mining community.
In Japan’s Ehime Prefecture, the island of Aoshima has gained international recognition for its large cat population – apparently, there are more felines than humans there.
Meanwhile, Kotor in Montenegro is known for its many cats wandering through its medieval Old Town. It is said that cats were brought in by sailors who used them to control the population of rats, mice and other pests.
Italy’s Rome also has its own special feline residents, particularly around ancient sites such as Largo di Torre Argentina.
Of course, we can’t forget our own Kuching in Sarawak. There aren’t many stray cats roaming the city, but you can find a few landmarks like statues and murals around.
