Visitors sitting in the gardens of Sultanahmet in front of the Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Written by local guides

The Istanbul blog

Honest, practical writing about Istanbul from guides who work here — a new article every week. No listicles, no filler, and we will tell you what to skip as readily as what to see.

Visitors sitting in the gardens of Sultanahmet in front of the Blue Mosque, Istanbul

What to wear in Istanbul

The dress code that actually exists, the one that doesn't, and the four doorways where it genuinely matters.

Read the article → Public ferries docked at Eminönü on the Golden Horn in Istanbul at sunset

Public transport in Istanbul

Trams, metro, buses and ferries explained by locals who ride them daily — and the one card that unlocks all of it.

Read the article → A tulip glass of Turkish tea held up in front of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Tipping in Turkey

What's genuinely customary, what the new rules changed, and an honest number for guides and drivers.

Read the article → Rooftops and minarets seen from above across Istanbul

How many days in Istanbul?

One day, three days, five days — what each one actually buys you, from guides who plan this for a living.

Read the article → Visitors walking through Sultanahmet Square beside the Blue Mosque in Istanbul

Is Istanbul safe?

An honest answer from guides who walk these streets every day — including the scams that do exist.

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Planning a trip to Istanbul?

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