Discover our locals' 241 hidden gems in Istanbul
City Guide made by Locals from 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.
Our Spotters from Istanbul:
Know your way in Istanbul like a local.
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✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks
✓ Our locals share their personal favorite spots in Istanbul
Check out our latest hidden gems in Istanbul
Our latest Spots in Istanbul
Zürafa No203
Excellent choice of cocktails
One of the highlights was the delicious pistachio cocktail. If you want to stay on the safe side and prefer a fruity taste, you can try Berry Bees.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Zula
Burger Heaven
The chefs of Zula know how to cook tasty burgers for sure, I go for the basic one: 100gr meat, cheddar, caramelized onion, pickle relish & truffle mayo.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Hide Arnavutköy
Hidden Garden
Cafe Hide is a perfect spot to enjoy your day and unwind as it feels like you are out of the city. If you are looking for an escape, look no further!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Fethipaşa Korusu
Panoramic Views of Bosphorus
"Fethipaşa Korusu" (or 'grove') in Istanbul offers plenty of spots from which to enjoy breathtaking views over the Bosphorus & much more... Come at sunset!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Bias Koşuyolu
Tasty and unique cocktails
Bias Koşuyolu bar and kitchen is definitely worth a visit, as they serve delicious food and drinks. Try their elegant signature cocktail Bias...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Asuman
For chocolate lovers
"Asuman" in Istanbul serves... asuman! They have lots of other delicious desserts too, but I always come back for their namesake...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Minoa Pera
A Literary Haven
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.
by
Cemre
Sandal
CRR Concert Hall
Istanbul's Cultural Hub
From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kandilli Suna'nin Yeri
Bosphorus's maritime gem
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.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Homemade Aromaterapi
Natural and vegan products
"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kuzguncuk
A neighborhood with unique beauty
"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Chandeliers in Hagia Sophia Mosque
Enlightenment
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!
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
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What to do in Istanbul?
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241 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!
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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