Art & Culture in Istanbul
Explore the rich art and culture scene of Istanbul. From museums and hidden galleries to beautiful architecture and street art, our Spotters have discovered the perfect places for every art and culture enthusiast. Check out the vibrant Yeldeğirmeni Neighborhood, known for its stunning street art or visit the historic Theodosius Cistern, a hidden gem of Byzantine architecture. Discover these and many more cultural gems in Istanbul.
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
City guides by those who know their city best!
Why not just trust our Locals?
The Pera Museum
An alternative art museum for all
The "Pera Museum" is for you if you're into art from the life of Istanbul and the Ottoman world between the 17th and early 20th century...
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
The Shoe-shine boys
A unique experience
"The Shoe-shine boys" is a very typical Istanbul sight. Having your shoes painted and polished is a nice experience, just be careful who does it for you!
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Fenerbahçe Steamboat
Now in the past
The "Fenerbahçe Steamboat" has carried passengers across Istanbul's Bosphorus over 55 years. Now you can see this historical ship in Rahmi Koc Museum.
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Holy Fragrance sellers
Various perfumes
"Holy Fragrance" sellers sit just outside mosques and provide refreshing perfumes. I would recommend the ones in Istanbul's Beyazit and Yeni mosques.
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
The Tortoise Trainer
Painting by Osman Hamdi Bey
The "Tortoise Trainer" is one of my favorite paintings to be found in Istanbul. You can see it in the contemporary/orientalist Istanbul Pera museum.
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Kontraplak
The best place for 2nd hand vinyl
"Kontraplak" is a 'clean' Istanbul record shop, especially for its selection of second-hand vinyl. The owner, Okan, is very open-minded and will help you...
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Heading to Art & culture?
70 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Going to Art & culture?
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
