253 x Istanbul Insider Tips
by real locals.
Nothing sponsored, No AI.
Trust our locals' favourites in Istanbul.
The Istanbul City Guide
made by Locals.
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.
Our Spotters from Istanbul:
Know your way in Istanbul like a local.
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253 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
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Heading to Istanbul?
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Check out our latest hidden gems in Istanbul
Our latest Spots in Istanbul
Lokal Makers Shop
Slow shopping in Istanbul
At the heart of Local Makers Shop's philosophy lies a commitment to slow shopping, a celebration of the artisanal, and an embrace of handmade designs.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
3rd Culture Store
Design store in Istanbul
From hand-painted items by women in India to collections that promote a global and inclusive design, they truly showcases the beauty of cultural exchange.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Perili Köşk
The haunted mansion
Perili Köşk Istanbul houses the Borusan Contemporary Art Museum. Some call it the haunted mansion because it was incomplete for years. I love the views!
by
Yucel
Babadag
Boter Kalamış
Coffee & bake shop
Boter Kalamış in Kadiköy, Istanbul, is a bakeshop in one of my favorite spots. I love getting a buttery pastry & a coffee and sitting in the park nearby
by
Yucel
Babadag
Sour and Sweet Artisan Bakery
Sourdough heaven
Sour and Sweet Artisanal Bakery in Istanbul makes US-style sourdough creations. Great for filling my stomach before hitting the Caddebostan seaside...
by
Yucel
Babadag
Akıntı Balık
Just one foot from the Bosphorus
Akıntı Balık is a fish restaurant in Istanbul. It has a view over the Bosphorus and that makes it really special. They have good Turkish mezes...
by
Yucel
Babadag
Guten Morgen
Berliner in Kadikoy
Guten Morgen in Istanbul is a very quiet, simple place to have a coffee together with a delicious coffee, despite its busy location. Perfect in summer!
by
Yucel
Babadag
Corner Irish Pub
Good beer, cosy atmosphere
Corner Irish Pub is hidden really close to Istiklal St in Istanbul. They have very good beer varieties, burgers and a cosy inner atmosphere.
by
Yucel
Babadag
Istanbul Modern
Art museum
Istanbul Modern Art Museum is the city's first modern art institution opened by a private enterprise. Apart from everything else, don't skip on the cafe.
by
Yucel
Babadag
Sakura Cafe
Japan in Moda
Sakura Cafe in Istanbul's Moda is a small and cozy cafe that's very quiet compared to the rest of the busy neighborhood. They have great coffee and cakes
by
Yucel
Babadag
Brekkie Croissant
Handmade by the racoon
Brekkie Croissant & Cookie is the new breakfast place in Moda, Istanbul. I just love their croissants – they make the dough over 3 days, French style!
by
Yucel
Babadag
Şeyhmuz Kebap
Traditional way
Şeyhmuz Kebap is a good alternative in Istanbul's Old City area. All the meat there is prepared with a special traditional method from the Mardin region.
by
Yucel
Babadag
Categories
What to do in Istanbul?
Heading to Istanbul?
253 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Going to Istanbul?
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
What to expect?
Authentic & Unbiased Content
Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. No AI and 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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