Curator’s statement
Istanbul is one of those cities that never gets old, no matter how many times you go. I’ve been over 10 times now, and with my husband’s family living right on Istiklal Avenue, I’ve had the chance to really get to know the city like a local. It’s where East meets West, tradition meets modern life, and history is literally around every corner. One minute you’re standing under the domes of Hagia Sophia, the next you’re bargaining for spices in the Grand Bazaar or sipping tea by the Bosphorus. And don’t even get me started on the food. Whether it’s simple street kebabs, simit, or a delicious dinner with Ottoman-style dishes, it’s always a feast. The views, the people, the energy… there’s just nothing like Istanbul.
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Things to do in Istanbul
Grand Bazaar
Hagia Sophia: Step inside this architectural wonder that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and centuries-old mosaics are awe-inspiring.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii): Admire the harmonious blend of Islamic and Byzantine design in one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, still active as a place of worship.
Grand Bazaar: Get wonderfully lost in one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets—perfect for discovering handmade ceramics, textiles, spices, and gold.
Bosphorus cruise: Sail between two continents on a scenic cruise offering views of Istanbul’s palaces, mosques, and waterfront mansions along the Bosphorus Strait.
Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans, complete with lavish courtyards, imperial treasures, and breathtaking views.
Galata Tower: Climb this medieval stone tower for panoramic views over the city’s rooftops, bridges, and mosques—especially magical at sunset.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): Smell your way through stalls piled with saffron, dried fruits, teas, coffee, and Turkish delight in this vibrant and historic market.
A note from Patrycia
I could spend hours wandering through the Grand Bazaar—there’s just something magical about it. It’s not just a market; it’s also a maze of stories, colors, and centuries-old traditions all under one roof. Every corner holds something unexpected, like handwoven rugs, glittering lanterns, antique jewelry, and shopkeepers who have perfected the art of conversation. I love getting lost in the energy of it all, watching the dance of daily life unfold, and stumbling on treasures I didn’t know I was looking for. It’s a place where time slows down, where the scent of spices mixes with the shimmer of gold, and where I always leave with something, whether it’s a keepsake or just a good story.
Places to eat & drink in Istanbul
Karaköy Lokantası (Karaköy): A beautifully designed spot serving elevated Turkish meze and seafood in a refined, Art Deco space. Popular with locals, especially for dinner.
Çiya Sofrası (Kadıköy, Asian side): Beloved by Istanbulites, this restaurant dives deep into regional Anatolian cuisine—think dishes you won't find on a typical tourist menu. Don’t miss their lamb stew or pomegranate molasses salads.
Adana Ocakbaşı (Beyoğlu): A no-frills, local grill where you sit around the open fire and watch masters prepare traditional kebabs. Very few tourists, just smoky, authentic Turkish BBQ vibes.
Viktor Levi Şarap Evi (Moda, Kadıköy): A charming courtyard wine house tucked away in the Moda neighborhood. Great local wines, candlelit tables, and a laid-back, romantic atmosphere.
Dürümzade (Beyoğlu): This late-night dürüm (wrap) joint was featured by Anthony Bourdain but is still mostly frequented by locals. Their grilled meat dürüms are legendary.
Asmalı Cavit (Asmalımescit): A true meyhane (traditional tavern) experience with fantastic meze, raki, and a warm, lively ambiance. Reservations are a must—this is where locals go for celebrations.
Beyaz Fırın (multiple locations, best in Kadıköy): A historic bakery-patisserie offering excellent breakfasts, savory börek, and Turkish sweets. It’s a favorite among locals and perfect for a relaxed brunch.
A note from Patrycia
Breakfast is one of the most important meals in Turkish tradition, and honestly, it’s one of my favorites. I love the mix of savory and sweet from fresh cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, warm bread straight from the oven, homemade jams, honey with clotted cream, and of course, endless cups of strong black tea. It’s not just a meal, it’s a slow, social ritual and the perfect way to start the day.
Need to know
Credit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, but it’s still a good idea to carry some Turkish lira for small purchases like taxis (they get mad when you want to pay by credit card, and some of the taxi drivers will hide the machine so you pay by cash).
When visiting mosques and religious sites, be sure to dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered, and women will need to cover their hair (scarves are usually available at entrances).
One of the most memorable ways to experience the city is by taking the public ferry between the European and Asian sides. It’s stunning and gives you a true sense of Istanbul’s vibe.
In markets like the Grand Bazaar, haggling is part of the fun. Stay friendly and don’t be afraid to negotiate; it’s expected and all part of the local experience.
Sundays tend to be reserved for family outings, so parks and popular spots can get very crowded.
And finally, to really taste the heart of the city, skip the tourist traps and head to neighborhoods like Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, or Cihangir—these local favorites are full of flavor, authenticity, and charm.
Travel Advisor
Patrycia Canatan
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Istanbul page.