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?

69 Hidden Gems

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!

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Art & culture

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

May 4, 2025

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.

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Art & culture

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

May 4, 2025

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...

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Art & culture

by

Zekeriya

S. Sen

May 4, 2025

Nail Kitabevi & Cafe

Bookstore around the corner

"Nail Kitabevi & Cafe" in Istanbul is in a historical baroque, rococo-style building. I come here for peace of mind and a nice cup of coffee with my book!

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Art & culture
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Coffee & tea
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Shopping

by

Vildan

Ay

Apr 29, 2025

Maezae

Local design store

"Maezae" is my must-visit place whenever I am in Istanbul's Karakoy. I can just spend hours and hours in this lovely, inspiring local design store...

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Art & culture
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Shopping

by

Seyda

Vardar

Apr 29, 2025

Yeldeğirmeni Neighborhood

Street art tour

"Yeldeğirmeni Neighborhood" in Istanbul is an up-and-coming neighborhood on the Asian side. It has a very old history and nowadays it's an alt hotspot!

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Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Yucel

Babadag

Apr 29, 2025

Heading to Art & culture?

69 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

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