Eating Out
Dining out in Istanbul means experiencing the splendid fusion of traditional cuisines from two continents in a culinary scene that ranges from busting street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Travellers should head to the Sultanahmet area, which has the highest concentration of restaurants. Traditional Turkish dishes, such as turbot with saffron and raspberry or cinnamon-flavoured chicken kebabs, can be enjoyed in the Edirnekapi and Ortakoy areas. The best seafood is found in Kanlıca. Istanbul also offers a fusion of Turkish, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, particularly in the Beyoglu and Sisli districts, while Taksim and Ortakoy have excellent cafes. For a more casual experience, street food such as simit, balik ekmek and kokorec is widely available and forms an integral part of the city's food culture.
Desserts such as baklava, kunefe and lokum can be found in both local sweet shops and upscale restaurants, while regional specialties such as Iskender Kebab and manti give a taste of Turkey's diverse culinary traditions. International dining options, including Middle Eastern and Western cuisines, are also plentiful. The city's vibrant coffee culture, including the famous Turk kahvesi, can be enjoyed in its many traditional and modern cafes. With so many restaurants and cafes throughout the city, diners will always find a place to eat, no matter the time of day. Menu prices are typically fair, and guests generally get what they pay for. A tip of at least 10 percent is customary. Reservations are often required or strongly recommended at most Istanbul restaurants.
Shopping
Shopping in Istanbul is a unique blend of the old and the new, where travellers can find everything from traditional souvenirs to high-end fashion. The Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, is a must-visit, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices and carpets to leather goods and jewellery. Haggling is an essential part of the experience here, as well as at the nearby Spice Bazaar. However, travellers should be aware that while these markets feature a wide variety of goods, not all items are authentic or of the highest quality.
For those seeking more modern shopping, Istanbul boasts several high-end malls such as Istinye Park and Zorlu Center, where international and local brands can be found. Many shops in tourist areas accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash, particularly in smaller markets, where Turkish lira is preferred. Additionally, the city's streets are home to vibrant local markets, such as the Kadikoy Market on the Asian side, which showcases fresh produce, textiles and Turkish street food.
Shopping for customised goods is also popular, with artisans creating tailored clothing and bespoke leather products. Visitors should keep in mind that shops may close during national holidays, especially in more traditional areas. Overall, Istanbul's shopping scene is a perfect mix of culture, tradition and modernity, with something for every shopper.
Nightlife
Turkey boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, particularly in cities such as Istanbul, where traditional and modern elements blend seamlessly. In neighbourhoods such as Beyoglu, visitors can find everything from wine bars and jazz clubs to chic rooftop lounges.
The historic Sultanahmet area has fewer nightlife options, but authentic experiences such as meyhanes (Turkish taverns) serving raki and mezze provide a unique way to begin the evening. For those seeking upscale venues, Ortakoy features popular spots such as Sortie, which offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and attracts Istanbul's elite. Jazz enthusiasts can visit Nardis Jazz Club, a beloved establishment. The nightlife extends to the Asian side in Kadikoy, where trendy bars cater to a younger, artsy crowd. During the summer, open-air bars and beach clubs along the Bosphorus become prime destinations for enjoying the evening breeze.
While Istanbul's nightlife is lively, tourists should be aware that public transportation stops around midnight, so taxis or ride-sharing services are often necessary. Drinks tend to be more affordable than in many European cities, though it's always wise to confirm prices. Whether sipping a late-night raki or enjoying live performances, Istanbul's nightlife has something for everyone.