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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Things to do in Istanbul
Batard Bomonti
French Bistro in Istanbul
Batard offers a diverse menu showcasing international and Turkish flavors prepared with a modern twist. Their dishes are defined as "Eclectic Cuisine".
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
The Museum of Innocence
Beauty of Storytelling
This is a place where creativity and storytelling meet. As the writer Orhan Pamuk says, ‘I will build a museum, and its catalogue will be a novel’.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
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
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
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
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
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
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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!
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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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