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.
Firuzan Hanım Çiftliği in serves farm-to-table breakfasts with homemade jams, olives, and olive oil. Enjoy this warm, wholesome spot full of love!
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The café, nestled among the bookshelves, serves as a cosy refuge where one can savour their coffee while getting lost in the pages of a newfound gem.
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From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
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Suna'nin Yeri's commitment to sourcing only the finest seafood is evident in every bite. Everything that is served here is fresh and sourced daily.
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"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
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"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
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The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!
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With it large garden and lovely ambience, "Primitif Birahane" in Istanbul resembles 'biergartens' in Germany, though here you will find plenty of cats...
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Lil Bake is a small, lovely spot in the heart of Moda, Istanbul. My favorite used to be the pistachio Paris breast, until I tasted their croissants...
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"Forno Balat" in Istanbul has amazing breakfast -- the best scrambled eggs and open-buffet and homemade jams I've tasted in Turkey.
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"Banyan" is my bar/restaurant of choice in Istanbul's Ortaköy for a drink or dinner after work. In their terrace you'll feel as if you're on a ship's deck.
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"Vogue Restaurant Bar" is one of Istanbul's higher end spots. The food is great, but I would recommend the signature (molecular) cocktails. How about...
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239 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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!
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.
By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?
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.