Istiklal Street has been Istanbul’s most popular and cosmopolite area since the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, there are a lot of places to visit such as historical passages, centuries-old restaurants and colorful shops in Istiklal Street. There is no doubt that the fancy boutiques and shops under the buildings on Istiklal Street will attract your attention. However, don’t … [Read more...] about Things to Do in ISTIKLAL STREET (Updated → 2024)
THINGS TO DO
Things to Do in Golden Horn, Istanbul (Updated 2024)
Golden Horn was the natural harbor of Istanbul during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Goods brought from the Silk Road and Spice Road were exported to Europe from the port of Galata in Golden Horn. Today, the Golden Horn separates Istanbul's Historical Peninsula from Beyoglu. While there are historical districts such as Sultanahmet and Eminonu in the Historic Peninsula, … [Read more...] about Things to Do in Golden Horn, Istanbul (Updated 2024)
10 Best Hammams in Istanbul (2026 Guide)
In a city where East meets West, few experiences reflect Istanbul’s spirit as clearly as visiting the hammams in Istanbul. These historic bathhouses are not simply places to wash; they are part of the city’s living heritage. Behind their thick stone walls, marble chambers hold centuries of routine, steam softens the sense of time, and the ritual itself encourages visitors to … [Read more...] about 10 Best Hammams in Istanbul (2026 Guide)
25 Best Mosques in Istanbul (2026 Update)
Istanbul is home to some of the most remarkable mosques in the Islamic world. Over the past twenty years of guiding visitors through this city, I have walked through hundreds of mosque courtyards, climbed countless stone steps, and watched travelers pause beneath domes that have shaped Istanbul’s skyline for centuries. What you see in this guide is not only historical … [Read more...] about 25 Best Mosques in Istanbul (2026 Update)
Best Photo Spots in Istanbul (2026 Update)
Istanbul has a very diverse culture with a history dating back thousands of years. There is a lively life in Istanbul, one of the largest metropolises in the world. The best photo spots in Istanbul offer reflections of the city's deep-rooted history and energy. As a local tour guide born and raised in Istanbul, I also enjoy taking pictures in the city. Most of these photos … [Read more...] about Best Photo Spots in Istanbul (2026 Update)
Things to Do in Besiktas, Istanbul (Updated 2024)
Besiktas is the most popular district of Istanbul and also a transportation hub between the European and Asian sides. Besiktas district is famous for its fish market, palaces, luxury hotels and football team. The name of the district of Besiktas comes from a legend dating back to the Byzantine period. According to tradition, parts of the cradle of Jesus were brought from … [Read more...] about Things to Do in Besiktas, Istanbul (Updated 2024)
30 Best Museums in Istanbul (2026 Update)
The best museums in Istanbul are mostly located on the European side of the city, particularly in Sultanahmet (Old City), Beyoğlu (Taksim), and along the Bosphorus. However, important cultural stops can also be found on the Asian side. This list is not a generic compilation. It is shaped by nearly 20 years of on-site experience as a licensed Istanbul tour guide. Each museum … [Read more...] about 30 Best Museums in Istanbul (2026 Update)
8 Things to Do in BEBEK Istanbul (Updated → 2025)
Bebek is among the most popular districts of Istanbul located on the shores of the Bosphorus. Bebek, which means "Baby" in Turkish, is indeed the most special bay of the Bosphorus and is as beautiful as a baby. Bebek is also at the center of one of the most beautiful walking routes of the Bosphorus. A walk starting from Ortakoy, passing through Bebek and ending at Rumeli … [Read more...] about 8 Things to Do in BEBEK Istanbul (Updated → 2025)
8 Things to Do in ORTAKOY Istanbul (Updated → 2025)
Ortakoy is one of the most beautiful districts on the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbulites go to Ortakoy Square on weekends to take pictures and have a good time. Every Istanbulite has the classic Ortakoy photograph with the Ortakoy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge in the background. In my opinion, having a nice breakfast in Ortakoy first and then going for a walk to Bebek … [Read more...] about 8 Things to Do in ORTAKOY Istanbul (Updated → 2025)
12 Places to See on Mesrutiyet Street (Updated 2025)
Mesrutiyet Street is located in Beyoglu district. Mesrutiyet Street was home to the most modern buildings of Istanbul in the 19th century and reflected the European characteristics of Ottoman Istanbul. During the Ottoman period, the Beyoglu district was mostly called "Pera". You can see that this tradition is still kept alive in the name of the hotels and museums on … [Read more...] about 12 Places to See on Mesrutiyet Street (Updated 2025)