Like A Local Guide

Istanbul

Bosphorus ferries, bazaar mornings & meyhane nights

Browse Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Bomonti Flea Market, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Food lovers should not miss Ciya Sofrasi and Karakoy Lokantasi. Below you will find 43 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Istanbul at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Bomonti Flea Market and Hagia Sophia
  • Where to stay: Kadikoy and Sisli
  • Local picks: 43 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Istanbul

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Beyoglu

Asmali Cavit

A beloved old-school meyhane in Asmalimescit where Istanbullus settle in for a long night of raki and meze, cold starters, grilled fish and warm conviviality. Tables are tight and the atmosphere is everything; reserve.
★ 4.6
$$
View guide →

Balat

Balat Sahil

A cheerful seafood meyhane on the Golden Horn in Balat, where you can while away an evening over raki, cold meze and the day’s fish with the water lapping alongside. Relaxed, local and lovely at sunset.
★ 4.5
$$
View guide →

Kadikoy

Ciya Sofrasi

A world-renowned Kadikoy restaurant reviving forgotten regional Anatolian recipes, its counter groaning with a daily-changing spread of stews, stuffed vegetables and unusual kebabs. Point at what you fancy; it is one of the most rewarding meals in the city.
★ 4.7
$$
View guide →

Karakoy

Karakoy Gulluoglu

The most famous baklava counter in Istanbul, run by the Gulluoglu family since 1949, its trays of glistening pistachio and walnut baklava cut fresh to order. Grab a portion and a tea and eat it on the spot; it is that good.
★ 4.6
$
View guide →

Karakoy

Karakoy Lokantasi

A handsome turquoise-tiled institution in Karakoy, a casual lokanta of ready-made Turkish dishes by day that turns into a buzzing meyhane of meze and raki by night. Dependable, warm and always full; book for dinner.
★ 4.6
$$
View guide →

Fatih

Safa Meyhanesi

A gloriously atmospheric meyhane going back to 1895, its walls lined with old Kulup Raki bottles and antique chandeliers. Come for chilled raki, classic meze and a proper old-Istanbul evening away from the tourist trail.
★ 4.6
$$
View guide →

Cihangir

Van Kahvalti Evi

A Cihangir favourite for the full Turkish breakfast experience, a table groaning with cheeses, honey with clotted cream, olives, eggs, jams and fresh bread in the eastern Van style. Go hungry and go with friends.
★ 4.6
$
View guide →

Kadikoy

Yanyali Fehmi

A Kadikoy market fixture serving some of the best Ottoman and Turkish home cooking in the city since the early 1900s, hearty stews, stuffed vegetables and slow-cooked classics. Old-fashioned, generous and thoroughly local.
★ 4.5
$$
View guide →

Before you go

Things we recommend sorting before any trip. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel medical insuranceSafetyWing's Nomad Insurance works like a subscription: pay by the month, cover in most countries worldwide, and you can sign up even after your trip has started.Check prices on SafetyWing
Data the moment you landAn Airalo eSIM gets your phone online in 200+ destinations before you even leave the airport - no SIM swap, no surprise roaming bill. Use code UNLIMITED4YOU for 15% off your first Unlimited eSIM (through Sept 30, 2026).Get an eSIM on Airalo

Book your trip to Istanbul

Find the best hotels and book tours and experiences, all in one place.

Find hotels in IstanbulBook tours and experiences

Istanbul travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Istanbul?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Istanbul at a relaxed pace. See our Istanbul itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Istanbul?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Istanbul guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Istanbul?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Istanbul is worth visiting year-round.

Scroll to Top