Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
How to See Istanbul like a Local. Experience the real Istanbul -- and avoid tourist traps
-- with these insider tips. You will need Sense of adventure Offbeat destinations and
raki (optional). Step 1. Enjoy the famous Grand Bazaar. But don't miss these local favorites
-- Balik Pazari, the Fish Market; Cicek Pasaji, the Flower Passage; and the Kadikoy Market.
For a truly hidden treasure, visit the Kasimpasa Kastamonu market; it's only open from 5 a.m.
to 10 a.m. on Sundays, but the delectables are worth an early wake-up call. Step 2. After
you've admired Istanbul's ancient treasures, check out the robust modern art scene at the
Istanbul Modern Museum and the Haaz Gallery. Step 3. Spend a day exploring the Princes'
Islands, a chain of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara. Four are open to the public and
accessible by ferry. Buyukada is the largest of the islands, and also the most crowded.
If you'd prefer a less touristy retreat, go to Burgazada. Step 4. Head to Istiklal Avenue
at sunset; that's where Istanbul residents pack the taverns for after-work drinks and
mezes -- small plates of nibbles similar to Spain's tapas. Also check out the Cihangir
area, known as the Soho of Istanbul, and nearby Cukurcuma, which is filled with antique shops.
Try raki, an aniseed-flavored alcoholic beverage that's considered the national drink; other
spirits are quite pricey. Step 5. When happy hour ends, move on to the rest of Beyoglu,
where you'll find lots of restaurants serving traditional fare and bars and nightclubs featuring
Turkish pop music. Pooped? Have a Turkish coffee! Did you know Istanbul has the second-oldest
subway in the world still in operation, built in 1875.