Discover our locals' 237 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
Taksim Tünel Tramvay
Nostalgic Red Tram Ride
My suggestion is to take the route from Taksim Square to Tünel and continue exploring nice neighborhoods like Çukurcuma, Asmalı Mescit, or Galata.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Nørre Coffee Shop
Nordic Style in Istanbul
This Scandivanian-style, two-floor café has a simple yet tastefully decorated interior. And the small open kitchen adds a touch of warmth and authenticity.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Karaköy Lokantası
Wow experience
"Karaköy Lokantası" in Istanbul is a beautiful, modern spin on the traditional Turkish restaurant. I like their hummus with pastrami -- it's a must taste!
by
Arzu
Damli
Mediterranean
Monumental sculpture of a woman
"Mediterranean" or Akdeniz is a beautiful sculpture in Istanbul, in the Yapı Kredi Culture Art building. I fell in love with it on first sight...
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
A Bit of Eggo
Because breakfast matters
"A Bit of Eggo" is my final destination for a high protein, organic egg breakfast on my favorite walking route in Istanbul. I love the cute outdoor area!
by
Arzu
Damli
Yirmibir Ocakbaşı
House o' flames
"Yirmibir Ocakbaşı" is a meeting point for me & my circle in Istanbul. It's a grill restaurant with an open fire pit in the middle. Great for kebab & raki
by
Arzu
Damli
Ortaköy Kahvaltı Evi
Lovely breakfast
"Ortaköy Kahvaltı Evi" is my favorite place in this neighborhood of Istanbul. Like the name suggests, this restaurant is famous for its breakfast...
by
Emre
Kamar
Kubbe-i Aşk
Coffee break in old town
"Kubbe-i Aşk" in Istanbul means 'Dome of Love', and it's in Suleymaniye. I like going there in wintertime to see Istanbul under a white snowy cover...
by
Yucel
Babadag
Gabfoods
Healthy & delicious
"Gabfoods" is the first Paleo healthy restaurant in Istanbul. Located on the Bosphorus waterfront, these guys have put the taste back into healthy eating.
by
Arzu
Damli
Sütiş
Breakfast by the sea
"Sütiş" Istanbul is a restaurant in the narrow streets Arnavutköy. Its breakfast and desserts gather locals from far and wid. I recommend the milk ones...
by
Emre
Kamar
Harbi Ocakbaşı
Real kebab experience
"Harbi Ocakbaşı" Istanbul is a restaurant obsessed with making the real Adana kebab the way the locals like it. I do think it's the best kebab in the city.
by
Emre
Kamar
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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.
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