Wherever you go in the world, soaking in the local flavors of a city makes any trip memorable. Why not add Istanbul amongst the unforgettable destinations by exploring Istanbul like a local. 

Istanbul is home to fifteen million people in Turkey, and there is no doubt that all of its residents have their unique way of enjoying the city they live in. From Europe to Asia, Istanbul has various touristic sites or cultural programs organized for its visitors. However, this time, we invite you to Istanbul's streets to the local way of enjoying this majestic city. 

So, what are the best ways to explore Istanbul like a local?

7 Best Ways to Explore Istanbul Like a Local
--------------------------------------------

### 1\. Join a Sunday Breakfast Ritual

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840913/turkish_breakfast_on_table_large_ad7aec6ac7.jpg)

You must have already heard about Turkish breakfast as it is more like a ritual than just another meal for Turkish people. So it is inevitable to follow Istanbulites' footsteps to experience it truly in Istanbul.

It is usually quite rare in Turkish households to have quick toast or a bowl of cereal before leaving for work or school. You at least have to have a few olives, a piece of white cheese, some tomatoes and cucumbers with your bread, and even an egg of your preference sometimes. This is to say breakfast is considered to be the most important meal of the day. However, Turkish breakfast takes utterly another shape during weekends, particularly on Sundays.

Sunday breakfast is the king of all breakfasts, the one to enjoy with friends, starts just before lunchtime and keeps you around the table until it is almost time for dinner. Turkish people enjoy going out for their Sunday breakfast, and depending on which side of Istanbul you are on; there are plenty of options. 

If you are on the European side, you might want to check out [Beşiktaş Breakfast Street](https://goo.gl/maps/5RkiK4qinNQPEaU56) \- yes, this is how it is called - or breakfast spots in Rumeli Hisari by the Bosphorus. Alternatively, you can check out [Moda](/posts/coolest-istanbul-neighborhoods) for your Sunday breakfast ıf you are on the Asian side. 

### 2\. Forget Grand Bazaar, Shop at Galata Instead

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840914/street_in_galata_neighborhood_large_4e75445303.jpg)

Grand Bazaar is cool for a stroll, but can you imagine Turkish people going there for shopping? Needless to say, but Grand Bazaar is a bit too 'touristy' for locals' taste, and you know what tourist prices mean, right?

So where are you going to buy some souvenirs or some delicacies to remind you of your amazing Istanbul trip? Here is the answer, follow the gentle slope down from Tünel Square, which is right next to the world's second-oldest subway system, Tünel's Beyoğlu station. While you slowly descend towards Galata Tower, you'll see various shops selling handmade Turkish products from towels to evil eye accessories. 

Take your time to check the stores, maybe stop at one of the Turkish delights shops and make sure that you have a little tasting session before picking the flavors for your Turkish delight box. Sooner than later, the gorgeous Galata Tower will salute you from a distance; you can enjoy the rest of your walk down with freshly squeezed pomegranate juice or extend your walk to wander the connecting streets. 

### 3\. Discover the Love of Yogurt

Do you know that Turkish people eat everything with yogurt? Yes, yogurt is not something for breakfast in Turkey; funnily enough, breakfast is the only meal that Turkish people don't eat yogurt. Moreover, there is a specific place in Istanbul famous for its thick textured yogurt served with pudra şeker (powdered sugar). So don't be surprised if you get invited to a little trek to Kanlıca just for eating yogurt.

Depending on where you are situated in Istanbul, there are various ways to reach Kanlıca. You can either take a ferry or a bus. And you'll know you are at the right place once you see almost the same looking various cafes with 'Tarihi Kanlıca Yoğurdu' written on their windows. You can pick any of them to enjoy this famous yogurt.

What makes Kanlıca Yoğurdu famous is that the creamy texture comes from the cow and sheep milk combo used in the making process. And, of course, the heaping amount of pudra şekeri that it is served with. If you want, you can opt for honey or jam instead.

After enjoying the infamous yogurt, you can jump to one of the little boats parked in front of the yogurt cafes to cross the Bosphorus towards Emirgan. A journey with these small boats is fun and a unique way to travel on the water, you might not see this on the top ten lists, but locals enjoy this trip immensely. 

### 4\. Explore the Art Spaces With a View

Either you are an art lover or not, it is guaranteed that you'll especially love some of the art galleries and museums in Istanbul. University students and young professionals mostly occupy the art scene in Istanbul. And there are various venues that host countless performances, exhibitions, and activities. 

However, Salt Galata does not only fascinate you with the exhibitions and events that it offers but also with the views it is surrounded by.

Salt Galata is located on "Bankalar Caddesi" (Banks Street near Eminonu and not far from Karaköy station of Tünel). Its space is restored from the Ottoman Empire Central Bank building and home to a library, cafe, bookshop, and a restaurant. It is more like a cultural space than an art gallery or a museum and offers great city views of Istanbul on its top floors. 

### 5\. Go to the Other Side for a Drink

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840915/street_at_night_in_istanbul_large_5cf8aa7edc.jpg)

It is well known that Istanbul has land on two different continents, Asia and Europe. But it is not known that Istanbulites can be easily divided over their love of the continent as they say 'side.' Yes, Turkish people don't use the continent's name but refer to them as sides. Depending on which side you are on, you call the other side the other, and this might get a bit confusing from time to time.  

Despite the sides' preference to live on, Istanbulties love going to the other side to have a drink or meet up with some friends and discover together. So don't forget to take a trip to the other side during your Istanbul visit. 

If you are crossing from Asia to Europe, you can make a quick stop in Beşiktas and make your way towards Arnavutköy, where you can join youngsters for a drink or two on the cobbled streets. If you are traveling the other way around, make sure you check Kadıköy Balıkçılar Çarşısı and Kadıköy Barlar Sokağı to feel the pulse of the area.

### 6\. Join a Rakı Table

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840916/raki_and_fried_fish_large_42b14dff61.jpg)

Rakı is known as the national [alcoholic drink of Turkey](/posts/drinking-alcohol-in-turkey). It has a similar taste to Ouzo and a bit saltier version of Pastis, so if you like one of those, you'll most likely enjoy rakı too. But what makes rakı unique is not its taste, but how you have it.

Here is another ritual in Turkish eating culture. There are some specific cold and hot appetizers that Turkish people enjoy with rakı followed by fish or kebab. 

There are various dishes to enjoy rakı with but bear in mind the most typical thing for these restaurants is their spoken menus. That means your waiter will tell you what they have for the day or bring you a sample tray where you can point to what you want. Don't be intimidated, though; they'll get you a written menu if you ask. 

### 7\. Order a Teapot of Tea at Gülhane Parkı

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840917/view_at_gulhane_park_large_c4e648855c.jpg)

Despite its location near Sultanahmet at the heart of tourist attractions in Istanbul. Gülhane Parkı can be easily overlooked by visitors. But it is trendy amongst locals. It is the oldest city park in Istanbul where you can enjoy the view of Bosphorus on top of its small hill. 

When you reach the top, you'll see Istanbulities enjoying their pot of tea around a small table while watching the view. Don't hesitate to join them and order yourself a teapot. It is always best to grab a simit, aka Turkish bagel, on your way here as the locals do. 

Final Thoughts 
---------------

Istanbul is ready for surprising travelers on every corner, on every step, sometimes with its beauty, sometimes with its awkwardness. Still, always with the splendid culture, it carries through the centuries. 

However, these days, it is easy to be caught by the ease of doing stuff and complete a trip even without leaving your comfort zone. It feels like now is the time to put more effort to get a glimpse of a local life wherever you go, and Istanbul is no exception to this. On the contrary, it is the perfect place to dive into the local culture.

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Discover the 7 best ways to explore Istanbul like a local and immerse yourself in the local culture. From Sunday breakfast rituals to shopping at Galata, experience the true essence of Istanbul.

7 Best Ways to Explore Istanbul Like a Local

Without a doubt, getting familiar with the locals’ favorite foods and understanding the way of their living on each bite is a mesmerizing experience. Are you ready to take a little journey to the best street food in Istanbul? 

The interest in street food culture is increasing day by day in almost every corner of the world. Kebab may be the first thing that comes to your mind when thinking about Turkish street food. Regardless of how delicious kebabs are in Turkey, there is a whole world of culinary treats beyond kebabs to discover.

So, what are the must-eat street foods in Istanbul?

10 Must-Eat Street Foods in Istanbul
------------------------------------

### 1\. Döner

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840903/chef_slicing_doner_large_63d7f23f4d.jpg)

Let’s start with döner! Unlike common usage in mostly Europe, these thin slices of meat, usually chicken or beef stuffed in bread with salad, are called döner, not kebab. You can opt to have your döner in lavash bread, and this is called dürüm döner. 

The general rule here is, once you wrap something in lavash bread, from that moment on, it is called dürüm. You can use this little knowledge to warm your döner crazy Turkish friends’ hearts. 

Döner usually serves as a quick, cheap meal for Turkish people either for lunch or dinner, as well as a quick bite on their way back from a night out. 

You might come across different variations of döner during your visit, and the most popular one of all those is cheesy toasted dürüm. What can compete against melting Kaşar cheese (Mozzarella like Turkish cheese) from the cracks of warmly toasted lavash bread? If you are not eating meat, don’t worry, you can always go with the veggie option.

### 2\. Balık Ekmek

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840904/balik_ekmek_large_89daf1bc8c.jpg)

Balık Ekmek can easily be described as a fish sandwich. You usually come across wıth balık ekmek sellers in proximity to the sea around the areas like Eminönü or Karaköy. 

Literally translating from Turkish balık refers to fish and ekmek to bread, and it is really what it is. A piece of toasted Turkish bread bun filled with a grilled white fish, usually mackerel, some salad, and raw onion topped with a squeeze of lemon. 

Even if they are impossible to miss, make sure you check out the balık ekmek boats that serve fresh sandwiches. However, if you want a more local like experience, make your way to the restaurants below the Galata Bridge. 

### 3\. Islak Hamburger 

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840905/islak_burgers_large_7a88ea8cb1.jpg)

Islak hamburger translates to wet hamburger; however, they are more like sliders than regular hamburgers. Think of them as sliders steamed with garlicky tomato sauce. Islak Hamburger is the ultimate street food, especially among university students at the end of a long night out, as they are remarkably cheaper than any other warm and filling street food option. 

You’ll see them mostly around the areas that are popular with the nightlife or bar scenery. They might not have a tempting look, but you won’t regret it when you try one. 

### 4\. Simit

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840906/turkish_simit_large_2da1ece446.jpg)

You’ll see a simit seller at every corner of Istanbul during your visit. To be honest, not only in Istanbul all over the country but be careful it might take different names in other cities like gevrek in Izmir. 

The best way to describe simit is as a crunchy bagel dipped in molasses and coated with sesame seeds before baking in a brick oven. You can alternatively find the ones covered with sunflower or poppy seeds.

Wherever in the country, simit is a breakfast for most early risers like office workers and students with salty white cheese, tomato maybe some fresh herbs like parsley and black tea. 

If you are lucky, you might find a little bakery that slices a crunchy simit in half and stuffed it with cheese, tomato, herbs, and toast. Doesn’t it sound like the best breakfast-to-go ever?

### 5\. Tantuni

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840907/tantuni_large_5aed361747.jpg)

Tantuni is a local delicacy of Mersin, which is a city on the southeastern coast of Turkey. However, tantuni has become popular nationwide with its incredibly thin lavash bread and body warming spiciness. You can think of tantuni as a unique variety of dürüm, filled with a stir-fried combination of julienned sliced beef, tomato, green peppers, and a generous sprinkle of spices. 

Tantuni is usually served with pickled chilies, be careful that they are traditionally mind-blowingly hot, and a slice of lime or lemon to squeeze on your tantuni before each bite. In this sense, some people think of tantuni as a Turkish version of tacos.

If you are not a fan of spicy food, you can ask for a non-spicy version with the magic word of ‘acısız.’ 

### 6\. Kokoreç

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840908/kokorec_large_413aa5444d.jpg)

This is it; this is what those long spits wrapped with crunchy-looking meaty stuff called. Even if most Turkish people love kokoreç, it might be a bit on the adventurous side of street food lists. 

It is sheep’s intestines cooked slowly, rotating on a coal fire, then cut within a half or a quarter of Turkish bread loaf topped up with spices like salt, cumin, thyme, and chili flakes. Some places add tomatoes in their kokoreç, or some of them thinly slice the meat with tomatoes and mix with spices before putting it into bread.

Knowing what the meat is, some people find kokoreç hard to try; however, it is perfectly ok to try it from a well-known place, check out one of the branches of [Şampiyon Kokoreç](http://www.sampiyonkokorec.com.tr/subelerimiz/) in Istanbul. Don’t forget to have a glass of [şalgam](/posts/best-drinks-turkey) (turnip juice) on the side. 

### 7\. Midye Dolma

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840909/midye_dolma_large_d09edda7c9.jpg)

If you are a seafood lover, this is a must-try for you. Midye dolma is known as stuffed mussels. As the name suggests, the mussels are stuffed with cooked white rice mixed with quite a bit of black pepper. 

You can order midye dolma in some seafood restaurants as a cold appetizer. However, it is more delicious if you eat it standing in front of a midye dolma seller’s stall while they are opening mussels one by one for you and squeeze a few drops of fresh lemon juice and hand them to you to eat. 

You should stop the seller when you feel like you had enough. Otherwise, they keep opening one after another. Once you give the signal of you are done, the seller will start counting the mussels shells to tell you how much to pay. 

Don’t forget to ask them how much they charge for a mussel before starting to eat. 

### 8\. Pilav

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840910/pilav_large_2d34a6ae45.jpg)

You might get surprised when you see a street seller pushing their glass-covered carts filled with steamed white rice, but it is a call for a quick lunch or snack for Turkish people. 

Pilav is similar to pilaf or palaf in some Middle Eastern or Turkic cuisines. On the other hand, Turkish pilav is plainer than the others as it usually doesn’t have any veggies or meat inside.

However, pilav sellers usually have their own specialties. Some of them only sell pilav with boiled chickpeas, and chickpeas are sometimes used as toppings or sometimes directly mixed with pilav. Some of them sell pilav with boiled and shredded chicken again either as a topping or combined with pilav. 

If you are lucky, you can find the one who has all the variations as well as a glass of homemade [ayran](/posts/best-drinks-turkey) (Turkish yogurt drink) to go with a generous bowl of pilav.

### 9\. Kumpir

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840911/kumpir_large_d59aa11cad.jpg)

Kumpir is a baked potato filled with various toppings. However, it is almost used as synonyms for Ortakoy in Istanbul. Ortakoy is a seaside neighborhood in between Besiktas and Bebek. Even if you can find kumpir in many places if it is your first time, you have to have it in Ortakoy to feel the atmosphere. 

There are a group of kumpir sellers located on the little cobbled streets toward Ortakoy square. They all have their baked potatoes hot and ready, waiting for you to choose your toppings from the glass fridge in front of you. 

While choosing your toppings, the seller starts getting your baked potato base ready by mashing it together with some cheese and butter. Some favorite toppings for kumpir include corn, Russian or Italian salad, sausage cooked in tomato sauce, pickles, and olives.

### 10\. Kestane Kebap

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840912/kestane_kebap_large_839c3c1c1d.jpg)

Turkish people call roasted chestnuts "kestane kebap" as chestnuts slowly roast on a coal fire and have a smoky taste. Even if roasted chestnuts are mostly seasonal street food, they are indeed a staple of Istiklal Street in Taksim. 

Not one Turkish person can imagine [Istiklal Caddesi](/posts/coolest-istanbul-neighborhoods) without a view of red-roasted chestnut stalls. Equally, none of them can think about this scenery without remembering the warming smell and soft sweet taste of them.

If you visit Istanbul during winter, make sure you get a cone of charcoal roasted chestnuts and enjoy them during your promenade along Istiklal. 

Final Thoughts
--------------

Wherever you are in the world, street foods can be intimidating to try at first; however, once you start trying and learning the different aspects of the relation between the food and the culture, you find yourself wanting to discover more. 

Take this list as a starter guide for your street food discoveries in Istanbul, and remember there are always more to try and learn.

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Explore the must-try street foods in Istanbul and embark on a delightful culinary journey. Experience the diverse flavors of Turkish cuisine.

10 Must-Eat Street Foods in Istanbul

Istanbul is a dream destination for most, but you can make your Istanbul holiday even dreamier by just picking the best time of year to visit Istanbul. 

So when is the best time of year to visit Istanbul? **As transition seasons, fall and spring offer pleasant temperatures and add their colors to the city's stunning scenery and architecture, they are considered the best times to visit Istanbul.**

Let's dig into the details of what Istanbul offers in each season and why fall and spring are the best times for your Istanbul trip.

What Is the Best Season to Visit Istanbul? 
-------------------------------------------

**Fall and spring offer more comfortable temperatures and less busy tourist scenes in Istanbul.** Therefore you'll have more flexibility during your visit around these times. Fall and spring also emphasize the transition between tougher, more challenging times to a bit of relaxation with a help of the change in temperatures; hence it is also time for locals to socialize, discover and appreciate their city a bit more. 

In Turkish, fall directly translates to 'last spring' and spring to 'first spring.' And the common belief is that everything has two springs hence two chances to bloom in their lifetimes. So what is better than visiting a place in its blooming time? 

On the other hand, situated on the border between two continents, Europe and Asia, Istanbul never sees the extremes through the balancing effect of neighboring places over the climate. Therefore, this means that you can enjoy a trip to Istanbul in winter and summer too. 

Istanbul has mildly cold winters and hot and dry summers, and you can expect rain in almost every season. Depending on your travel length, you might end up having a gray and foggy holiday during the winter or a holiday filled with boiling temperatures in summer. So you have to be extremely careful about planning your Istanbul trip during these seasons.

### Fall: Get Lost Amongst Istanbulites

Fall is a homecoming month for Istanbulites as the summer holidays end and the new school year starts. So it is an ideal season to get a glimpse of daily life in Istanbul from the morning rush to evening serenity. You can walk around the empty streets during the day and join the locals with their after-work drinks or even a Friday night out around a raki table. 

Besides, fall is known as a festival season in Istanbul as it hosts various festivals from art to film and music. It might be your chance to join and get lost in the crowds of young Istanbulites and experience the city in a way that they do. 

You can also catch some fall colors in Istanbul. If you stroll towards the famous Bogazici University campus and continue towards Bebek, there is no doubt that Rumeli Hisari will amaze you covered with autumnal colors. 

During the fall, the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold. However, you should always be ready for rain showers or some hot and dry days. So the key here is dressing up in layers and always have an umbrella handy. But don't worry, umbrella sellers in Istanbul will never let you get soaked with unexpected rain as they are popping up like mushrooms with a drop of rain. 

Fall season starts in late September and lasts until mid-November in Istanbul. As it is not the peak time for travelers, you can enjoy affordable prices on hotels and airline tickets.

#### Where to Stay in Istanbul in Fall

[The Story Hotel Pera](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Istanbul-Hotels-Stories-Hotel-Kumbarac.h4200786.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-04&chkout=2022-09-05&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661535001061&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=1639&destination=Istanbul%2C+Istanbul%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&neighborhoodId=553248635974901134&selected=7116245&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=119&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=200434683&selectedRatePlan=203510386&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) is located in the very heart of Taksim, by the famous Istiklal Street. You can discover the city on foot or by public transport, and write your own unique story while staying in this beautiful historical building with modern rooms. It’s got exceptional user ratings, and it offers excellent value.

### Spring: Explore the Every Corner

Spring is known as the season that everything and everybody gets a bit more relaxed with the warming weather in Turkey. So expect to see Istanbulites enjoying the city that they are living in at every possible opportunity. Spring is the time of the year in Istanbul that urges everyone to have one more bite of everything. 

Therefore there is no better time than spring to enjoy a leisurely walk by the side of the Bosphorus topped up with a delicious cup of coffee or a gelato. Alternatively, you can jump on a morning ferry for a little excursion to discover one of the islands of Istanbul or to have a cruise on the Bosphorus. 

Without a doubt, the Istanbul Tulip Festival is another charm of the city during spring for more than 15 years. The festival takes place in several city parks in Istanbul and demonstrates over 2 million tulips every year. Make sure that you check the dates of the upcoming Tulip Festival before making your bookings. 

From mid-March to the end of May is considered the spring season, you can still benefit from winter specials' perks, especially on airline tickets for March.

#### Where to Stay in Istanbul in Spring

[Celine Hotel](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Istanbul-Hotels-Celine-Hotel.h6172612.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-02&chkout=2022-09-03&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661541751807&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6272783&destination=Old+City%2C+Istanbul%2C+Istanbul%2C+Turkey&destType=BOUNDING_BOX&neighborhoodId=6272783&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=125&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=200301659&selectedRatePlan=264115467&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) in Sultanahmet, where most of the sights of Old Istanbul are gathered, is one of the best places in Istanbul to observe the colorful tulip festival. You can walk to the great Ottoman palaces and parks to take the most amazing pictures. The top floors of the hotel also offer a sea view, and the decor gives you a peek through history.

### Winter: Discover the Seasonal Delicacies

Traveling to Istanbul during the winter season could be the most economical amongst others and the least crowded one. However, you should bear in mind that there will be some limitations over what you can or cannot do during your visit. 

Even if it is rare to see snow in Istanbul, you should be ready for cold weather, especially near the water. So the walks by the Bosphorus won't be as enjoyable in winter, and you might struggle to find some activities like dinner cruises or day tours available at this time of the year. 

On the other hand, Istanbul shows its beauty differently during winter. It is spectacular to see Maiden Tower or Rumeli Castle through the curtains of fog. Besides, you can opt for indoor activities from gallery hopping to see some international and local artists' works to experiencing Turkish Hamam, aka sauna. Don't forget to treat yourself with seasonal street food delicacies like roasted chestnuts and sahlep to warm your spirit on cold Istanbul days. 

As Turkey doesn't celebrate Christmas, you don't need to worry about the closure of regular businesses during that time as opposed to European countries. Still, you might need to keep in mind that the 1st of January is a national holiday in Turkey.

#### Where to Stay in Istanbul in Winter

[Nordstern Hotel Galata](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Istanbul-Hotels-Nordstern-Hotel-Galata.h9983401.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-02&chkout=2022-09-03&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661543107762&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6276016&destination=Karakoy%2C+Istanbul%2C+Istanbul%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&neighborhoodId=6276016&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=148&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=200899463&selectedRatePlan=204555943&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) is located in Karaköy, which is within walking distance of most landmarks, and its decor also embodies the Old City. Some rooms have a sea view and the hotel even offers a suite with Hamam, the traditional Turkish bath, for the extravagant. The fireplace in the lobby will also warm your heart on winter nights.

### Summer: Enjoy the Long Days

As Istanbul is not only a destination by itself but also serves as a gateway to a more extended adventure in Turkey, you might expect that the crowds can be overwhelming during summer. Summertime in Istanbul is the exact opposite of fall in daily life as you might end up seeing more tourists on the streets than the locals. 

On the other hand, being in Istanbul during summer has some advantages, from enjoying the endless sunshine and long days to discovering the beaches along the northern coast of Istanbul. Getting around the city can also become easier in summer as most of the Istanbulites go to their hometowns or summer houses and the traffic declines. 

However, you should always be aware of the higher rates applied to almost everything for the famous holiday season.

#### Where to Stay in Istanbul in Summer

[Royal Galata Hotel](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Istanbul-Hotels-Royal-Galata-Hotel.h41695438.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-02&chkout=2022-09-03&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661543107764&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6276016&destination=Karakoy%2C+Istanbul%2C+Istanbul%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&neighborhoodId=6276016&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=129&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=217542314&selectedRatePlan=385128552&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) in Karaköy is in a very central location. You can use all public transport options or take a walk by the sea and reach the main attractions of the city in a short time. The rooms are decorated in a way that will make you feel like you are under the sea, which is a great vibe for a summer visit to Istanbul.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

Istanbul proved to be one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations by welcoming almost 10 million visitors every year. 

Let alone the sights and the activities, Istanbul never fails to amaze people with the possibility of jumping on a ferry and traveling between continents in 15 minutes. Thanks to its unique location, Istanbul unveils different bits of its beauty in each season. Feel free to visit Istanbul anytime or visit more than once in different seasons to discover the city's every magical element.

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Explore the best time to visit Istanbul, Turkey, and experience the city's unique beauty in different seasons. From the festivals of fall to the tulip festival of spring, and the seasonal delicacies in winter to the long days of summer, find your perfect time to explore Istanbul.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Istanbul?

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Explore Istanbul confidently with this guide tailored for solo female travelers. From safety tips to local experiences, discover everything you need to know for a worry-free adventure.

A Complete Guide to Istanbul for Solo Female Travelers

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Find the best neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul and explore the unique attractions in each area. Discover Galata, Karakoy, Sultanahmet, Taksim, Grand Bazaar, and Moda.

7 Best Ways to Explore Istanbul Like a Local

10 Must-Eat Street Foods in Istanbul

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Istanbul?

A Complete Guide to Istanbul for Solo Female Travelers

Where to Stay in Istanbul (Best Neighborhoods & Things to Do)