Joshua Rodriguez in Şişli, İstanbul: 2 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Istanbul

Must-try foods in Istanbul

• Simit
  SimitOften called the 'Turkish bagel,' this circular bread is encrusted with toasted sesame seeds and dipped in grape molasses (pekmez) before baking. In 2026, it remains Istanbul's most essential street food, best enjoyed fresh from the iconic red carts or shared with seagulls on a Bosphorus ferry.
• Balık Ekmek
  Balık EkmekA quintessential Istanbul experience, this grilled fish sandwich (usually mackerel) is served on crusty white bread with onions, lettuce, and a squeeze of lemon. While historically associated with the rocking boats of Eminönü, 2026 trends see locals flocking to 'Balık Dürüm' variants in Karaköy for a wrap-style version with special spices.
• Cağ Kebabı
  Cağ KebabıA horizontally stacked lamb kebab originating from Erzurum, now a massive trend in Istanbul. The meat is marinated with onions, salt, and black pepper, then sliced onto small skewers and finished over a wood fire. Local hotspots like Şehzade Cağ Kebap are widely considered unmissable by food critics in 2026.
• Hünkar Beğendi
  Hünkar BeğendiTranslating to 'The Sultan Liked It,' this classic Ottoman palace dish consists of tender, slow-cooked lamb served over a smoky, creamy eggplant purée enriched with bechamel and cheese. It is a staple of 'Esnaf Lokantası' (tradesmen restaurants) like Hünkar Lokantası in Nişantaşı.
• Lahmacun
  LahmacunOften called 'Turkish pizza,' this thin, crispy dough is topped with a minced meat mixture (lamb or beef), tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. Locals eat it by loading it with fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and sumac-onions before rolling it up. It is a mandatory inclusion for any authentic food list.
• Midye Dolma
  Midye DolmaStuffed mussels are a legendary Istanbul street snack. The mussels are filled with aromatic rice, currants, and pine nuts, seasoned with cinnamon and black pepper. They are sold by the piece at street stalls; a local would tell you to never stop at just one.

Trip guide

• About Istanbul
  About IstanbulIstanbul is a transcontinental city located on the Bosphorus Strait, serving as a geographical link between Europe and Asia. Historically, the city functioned as the imperial capital for the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Its urban center is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing several distinct zones that illustrate different stages of its development over more than 2,000 years.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Istanbul is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October, when temperatures are mild (15–25°C / 59–77°F) and the city’s parks are in full bloom or bathed in autumn colors. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season, bringing high humidity, temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F), and the largest crowds at major historical sites. For budget travelers.
• Getting around
  Getting around Istanbul

  • Airport Transfers (Havaist and Metro) To reach the city center from Istanbul Airport (IST), use the M11 metro line for a fast rail connection or take the Havaist airport shuttle buses, which offer 11 different routes to major hubs like Taksim and Beşiktaş.
  • Public Transit with Istanbulkart Navigate the city using an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable contactless card valid on metros, trams (T1 is best for Sultanahmet).
  • Bosphorus Ferries Public ferries are the most scenic and efficient way to travel between the European and Asian sides (e.g., Eminönü to Kadıköy). They operate frequently, cost the same as a metro ride.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase an Istanbulkart at the airport or major stations to access all public transport, as many ferries, trams, and buses no longer accept cash.
  • Always remove your shoes before entering a Turkish home or a mosque, and ensure shoulders and knees are covered in religious sites.
  • Accepting a small glass of tea (çay) when offered in shops or after meals is a sign of respect for local hospitality.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Istanbul

  • Haydarpaşa and Sirkeci Cultural Hubs: The transformation of these historic railway stations into massive arts complexes, featuring an archaeopark and a Migration Museum.
  • EuroVolley Women 2026: Istanbul is hosting the final stages of the European Women's Volleyball Championship.
• Beşiktaş Municipality↗
  Beşiktaş MunicipalityThe official visitor portal of the Beşiktaş Municipality, providing information on historical sites, museums, and local services for tourists in Istanbul.