The colorful historic houses of Balat provide authentic Istanbul atmosphere as Bond navigates the city's traditional neighborhoods during his Cold War mission. The pastel wooden houses perched along steep lanes create a labyrinthine setting perfect for clandestine meetings and surveillance operations. The area's centuries of religious and cultural heritage add depth to the espionage narrative.

Tunel Square in Beyoğlu serves as a strategic surveillance point where Bond can observe the crossroads of continental traffic between Europe and Asia. The historic funicular area represents the modern face of Istanbul while maintaining connections to the city's espionage heritage. The square's position provides tactical advantages for monitoring enemy movements through the city.