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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Travel Guides by these Istanbul Locals!
Know your way in Istanbul like a local!
Spotted by Locals
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✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks
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Check out our latest hidden gems in Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Kamondo Merdivenleri
Stairs from Constantinople
Despite the passage of time they continue to stand proudly, showing the spirit of Istanbul and its ability to embrace the old while welcoming the new.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Poltory Bookstore
Unique bookstore in Çukurcuma
What's even more impressive is that the Tatar and Ukranian owners of Poltory are writers themselves. You can feel the passion for literature in every nook.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Vertical
Sustainably Chic
Vertical is a food hall that boasts an eclectic array of diverse cuisines, but what truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainability.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Klar Coffee
Great staff and delicious desserts
I am not a fan of cappuccino, but I am glad I've tried at "Klar Coffee" in Istanbul, as it might be the first time I have truly enjoyed it...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar Line
Gorgeous mansions
Who needs a pricy Bosphorus tour when there are local ferry lines? The "Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar Line" is perfect to see the Anatolian side of Istanbul...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Barto’s Burger Place
Love at first burger
"Barto's Burger Place" in Istanbul has already made a name for itself among the city's gourmets and burger lovers. Try their homemade cheese and sauces!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Lil Bake
Lovely spot for a sweet snack
"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...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Haliç Line
Best way to reach Balat
The best way to get to the beautiful neighborhood of Balat in Istanbul is to take a ferry of the "Haliç Line" - just get off at Fener Pier...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Yeşil Mavi Cafe
Come for the view
"Yeşil Mavi Cafe" offers you the best views of Bosphorus in Üsküdar & even across Istanbul, especially during the sunset. Get a cold drink under the trees!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Rumeli Kavağı-Eminönü Line
Unforgettable tour
Take the ferry on the "Rumeli Kavağı-Eminönü Line" in Istanbul which goes by most popular neighborhoods on the European side! Why get stuck in traffic?
by
Cemre
Sandal
Tatar Salim Döner Lokantası
Delicious döner
"Tatar Salim" is one of the best döner restaurants in Istanbul - they only serve döner as the main dish; it's prepared with 100% specially marinated meat!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Dondurmacı Ali Usta
Perfect on a sunny day
"Dondurmacı Ali Usta" in Istanbul has a lot of ice cream flavors, and they even let you combine two flavors in one scoop. Also: very reasonably priced!
by
Cemre
Sandal
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What to do in Istanbul?
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236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
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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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