Discover our locals' 236 hidden gems in Istanbul
Hadi! Explore Istanbul like a local with Spotted by Locals! From hidden tea gardens in Sultanahmet to vibrant bazaars off the tourist path, our Spotters guide you through the city’s rich mosaic of cultures.
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Check out our latest hidden gems in Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Yeniköy
A peaceful escape
"Yeniköy" is one of my favourite neighbourhoods on the European side of Istanbul. It has a distinct beauty with its tree-lined road and lovely streets...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Rafine Espresso Bar
Fabulous creamy cheesecake
You should definitely go to "Rafine Espresso Bar" in Istanbul for their delicious 'Basque Cheesecake', or San Sebastian Cheesecake - thank me later...
by
Cemre
Sandal
MUÀ Gelatieri d'italia
Fresh Italian gelato
"MUÀ Gelatieri d'italia" in Yeniköy in Istanbul is an amazing ice cream shop! You should definitely try their pistacchio sortbet...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Şekerci Cafer Erol
Turkish coffee ritual
"Şekerci Cafer Erol" in Istanbul serves Turkish coffee with Turkish delights, marzipan & small glasses of water. Not many places do it like that anymore...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Yapı Kredi Bomontiada
Art, music and food space
"Bomontiada" in Istanbul was transformed into an art, music & food space when an old beer factory was renovated. Come if you're a party animal or foodie!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Beykoz Kundura
Magical experience for audience
"Beykoz Kundura" in Istanbul used to be a shoe factory - now it's an art and culture venue that preserves its historical heritage & nostalgia...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Yell Coffee and Atelier
Cozy ambiance
"Yell Coffee and Atelier" in Istanbul has a relaxing vibe with its cozy, lovely ambiance. I love its smooth Ice Americano and tahini cookies!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Taksim Tünel Tramvay
Nostalgic Red Tram Ride
My suggestion is to take the route from Taksim Square to Tünel and continue exploring nice neighborhoods like Çukurcuma, Asmalı Mescit, or Galata.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Nørre Coffee Shop
Nordic Style in Istanbul
This Scandivanian-style, two-floor café has a simple yet tastefully decorated interior. And the small open kitchen adds a touch of warmth and authenticity.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Mediterranean
Monumental sculpture of a woman
"Mediterranean" or Akdeniz is a beautiful sculpture in Istanbul, in the Yapı Kredi Culture Art building. I fell in love with it on first sight...
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
A Bit of Eggo
Because breakfast matters
"A Bit of Eggo" is my final destination for a high protein, organic egg breakfast on my favorite walking route in Istanbul. I love the cute outdoor area!
by
Arzu
Damli
Categories
What to do in Istanbul?
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236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
Go off the Beaten Path Gems
We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
Responsible Travel
Hi! Nice to meet you.
We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.
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