We asked our own Istanbul bloggers about their favorite independent Istanbul blogs & websites. Here’s a list of their picks in alphabetical order!
Based Istanbul
Available in both English and Turkish, both printed and online, Based Istanbul clearly aims at being diverse. The site wants to be a platform for anything creative happening in the city. Whether it’s design, culture, cinema, architecture… name it and they have it on offer. This means not only tourists but also locals can put it to good use. Their layout is a sight for sore eyes. We don’t know what’s not to love about the initiative.
Culinary Backstreets
If you’re looking for excellent local restaurants, food tents, or carts, check out Culinary Backstreets! Ansel Mullins and Yigal Schleifer first started Culinary Backstreets as a blog about local food places in Istanbul. Nowadays, they offer a wide range of city guides, all focusing on local food. Their Istanbul section is still alive and well though. Not only do they give great tips on where to eat, but you’ll also get a sneak peek of the Turkish (culinary) culture. If you’re not so good at navigating a city, try their app – it might help to find hidden secrets.
Too Istanbul
If you’re looking for a different perspective on the Turkish capital, but still love local input, then Istanbul-based Franco-Turkish blog Too Istanbul is a blog for you! They offer a fresh, new perspective on what goes on within the city. The focus lies on citywide events, Turkish cuisine, lifestyle, and travel. This blog gives readers fun guides on where to go in the metropole, what to eat, and what to see when you’re visiting the city!
Yabangee
What started out in 2012 as a blog for expats based in the Turkish city is nowadays much broader than that. Yabangee offers all kinds of information for when you’re visiting the city. Legal advice, upcoming events, restaurants… Name it and they’ll probably have it. They also write about other places to visit in Turkey, which is great when you’re planning on exploring more than just the metropole.
Did we miss any great Istanbul blogs? Please let us know at istanbul@spottedbylocals.com!