Take a stroll in Belgrad Ormani

Take a break from the bustling vibes of the city in a local’s favorite spot, the natural gem of Belgrade Forest. Located in the Sariyer district of Istanbul, this protected park includes a huge network of trails where you can explore old Ottoman dams, unwind in the shade next to a lake, or enjoy a lovely picnic (true to the local style).  In the forest, you can also find very well maintained running tracks that take you through picturesque, shady woods.

To get to this lovely green space, you can ask your local host for directions.  Your local friend can also arrange a relaxing “mangal” (cook-out) in the forest! Also, before you head into the forest or on your way out, be sure to check out the local flavors in the garden-style restaurants in and around Bahcekoy!

Get lost in (and above) the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a place that is worth visiting!  There are so many things to do and see in the Grand Bazaar: you can find spices and precious stones from all over the world, drink apple tea, and explore the twists and turns that lead through the sprawling marketplace.  But if you’re looking for a new, off-the-beaten-track perspective of this popular bazaar, you should definitely take a look at the city from the roof! Your local friend can help you find the entrance to the roof of the Grand Bazaar at the end of a long hallway and up a tiny staircase.  From there, you can catch a stunning view of the old city that very few people get the opportunity to see; this is one of the most unique things to do in Istanbul!

Cool off near Rumeli Hisari

Rumeli Hisari is an Ottoman fort located next to the trendy neighborhood of Bebek.  It’s located right along the Bosporus straight in the heart of the city. You can explore the old walls of the fort and fancy yourself an Ottoman lookout, or take a relaxing stroll on the wide sidewalks along the water.  This walkway is a favorite of locals. In the summer, many people like to jump right into the Bosporus along this stretch of the “sahil” (seaside). For the full local experience, feel free to jump right in!

Get a bird’s-eye view at Buyuk Camlica Tepesi

If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of Istanbul from above, then look no further!  This is the place where locals go to watch the sun set over the metropolis; it’s also popular for taking photos in the soft evening light, and a must thing to do in Istanbul.  

At the top of the hill, you can find lovely little tea houses and lush green areas for stretching out and enjoying a picnic.  You can ask your local guide to take you there and to help you pick some local delicacies to enjoy once you reach the top. Don’t forget to take a selfie with your local friend!

Island time on Heybeliada

Heybeliada is an island in the chain of islands known as the Prince’s Islands.  A trip to the Prince’s Islands is among the best things to do in Istanbul, and once you are there, you definitely shouldn’t bypass this little gem!  It’s smaller and much less crowded than the other islands, even though it’s easily accessible by ferry from the city center.

On Heybeliada, you can find little coves that are perfect for swimming.  You can also explore the island by bicycle, which is the way that most locals prefer. Plus, if you ask those who live on the island, they’ll be quick to tell you that ice cream on the island tastes better than ice cream anywhere else! Give it a try and compare yourself!

Cengelkoy and chill

Cengelkoy is a picturesque neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul where you can find old wooden houses along the Bosporus.  There are also many cute parks and restaurants along the water. At these restaurants, you can enjoy the classic Turkish meal of “meze” (appetizers, both hot and cold), fish or other grilled meat, and “raki” (a licorice-tasting liquor, also called “lion’s milk” for its white color).  Such meals often last for many enjoyable hours. Come to Cengelkoy on Mondays for their local “pazar” (market), where you can find the best produce and locally made clothing.

A little hike up to Anadolu Kavagi

Anadolu Kavagi is a fort at the top of a forested hill on the Asian side of Istanbul.  Getting there involves a lovely ferry trip along the Bosporus; your local guide can help you find the correct timetable and directions, as they change according to the season.  

From the ferry, you’ll enjoy a nice walk up to the fortress. From the top, you can look all the way down the Bosporus, from the Black Sea to the North, to the Sea of Marmara to the south.  Along the trek to the top, you can find cozy cafes with excellent views of the surrounding forest and the city across the water. This is one of the more out-of-the-way things to do in Istanbul.

Exploring the colors of Balat

Balat is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Istanbul, best known for its colorfully painted wooden houses and its cozy cafes. There’s also a great street art scene in the back streets of the neighborhood that you should definitely check out.  

Balat boasts several things to do in Istanbul, and is home to the Church of St. Stephen, also called the “Iron Church.” This is an old Bulgarian Orthodox Church that was pre-constructed from iron and re-built right in the heart of the city. You can ask your local host to guide you around the twisting streets of Balat, where you’re sure to come across some unexpected art and some much-expected cats!

Discover the old city at Sultanahmet Square

When people think of things to do in Istanbul, Sultanahmet is usually the picture that comes to mind: a square surrounded by an Ottoman mosque, a magnificent palace, and a Byzantine church (which was then a mosque, and is now a museum).  

Sultanahmet Square is also home to the famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, as well as Topkapi Palace.  While Sultanahmet Square is popular with tourists, there are some little details that only a local can point out.  Ask your local host where to find the man “reading the izan” (making the call to prayer) outside the Hagia Sophia, and explore the backstreets in this district to find some of the best examples of Turkish cuisine, tea culture, and hospitality!

Tasting new worlds with Uyghur food

If you’re looking for a meal that wanders a bit from the staple Turkish cuisine, you have got to try Uyghur food! Uyghur cuisine originated in Central Asia and is popular in Istanbul. The dishes range from mild to spicy, with the excellent and rich blends of spices that you would expect from a place at the heart of the centuries-old spice trade. There are many great Uyghur restaurants in the Capa neighborhood, and your local host probably has a favorite Uyghur restaurant of her/his own!