Chelsea
Come and explore 3 hidden gems in Istanbul that are cheap, and off-the-beaten track!
Istanbul holds a special place in my heart and is one of my favourite cities in the world. After a brief visit in 2019, I was captivated by Türkiye and knew I wanted to see more. In April 2023, I embarked on my first ever solo trip and chose Istanbul as my base for six weeks. Since that trip, I’ve been back to Istanbul twice and will be visiting again in 2025 – I can’t get enough!
This blog post will share 3 hidden gems in Istanbul that might not be on your radar. An added bonus is that these treasures come with minimal cost, bringing more incentive to add them to your list of things to see and do in Istanbul.
1. Anadolu Kavagı
Overview: Nestled at the northern end of the Bosphorus, Anadolu Kavagı is a quaint fishing village that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Istanbul.
Why Visit: Explore the winding streets lined with colourful houses and have lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants. If you’re up for some exercise, take the short hike up to the historic Yoros Castle for breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and the entrance to the Black Sea. The grand Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge is also a sight to see!
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the chance to take a leisurely ferry ride along the Bosphorus to reach Anadolu Kavagı. You can take the ‘Long Bosphorus Tour’ from the main tourist ferry terminals in Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Üsküdar all the way to Anadolu Kavagı for approximately €8* (return trip). This ferry journey spans just under 2 hours one way and is an experience all of it’s own. Relax onboard with a Turkish tea or coffee and enjoy the spectacular views as you pass the waterfront towns along the way. Make sure you keep an eye out for dolphins that are regularly found playing in the waters.
Helpful Link – You can find the timetable for the Long Bosphorus Tour here – https://sehirhatlari.istanbul/en
2. Rüstem Pasha Mosque
Overview: Tucked away in the bustling Eminönü district, and amongst the famous Spice Bazaar, is Rüstem Pasha Mosque. This hidden architectural gem was built in the 1500s.
Why Visit: You’ve likely heard of the famous Blue Mosque, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Interestingly, locals say Rüstem Pasha is “bluer than the Blue Mosque”. Inside this mosque, you’ll find beautiful blue carpet and tilework that covers the mosque’s interior depicting floral motifs, geometric patterns, and calligraphic inscriptions. Despite its proximity to popular tourist attractions of Istanbul, this mosque remains relatively undiscovered. I’ve visited Rüstem Pasha several times in the middle of the day, and there are usually only a handful of other people visiting, which makes for a quiet and tranquil visit. This is very different to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia which are always bursting with tourists.
Insider Tip: Remember to remove your shoes before entering and ensure you are dressed modestly with your knees and shoulders covered. If you’re female, you must also wear a headscarf. Mosques are closed to non-Muslims during prayer time, so it’s best to check the daily prayer times before visiting (Google – ‘Istanbul prayer times’).
3. Kuzguncuk
Overview: Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kuzguncuk is a charming neighbourhood with stunning architecture and a fascinating history. Over the past 500 years, Kuzguncuk has been home to significant Jewish, Armenian, and Greek populations. This multicultural history is reflected by the synagogues, churches, and the more recently built mosques in the neighbourhood.
Why Visit: Kuzguncuk is a local suburb with a laid-back vibe. Take some time to wander the beautiful tree-lined main street and admire the cobblestone laneways and colourful Ottoman-era houses. There is also a thriving community farm and garden called Kuzguncuk Bostanı which is worth exploring. Locals can rent space here to grow their own fruits and vegetables. Kuzguncuk is also filled with many local boutique shops and cafes offering a variety of sweet treats. My favourite thing to do in Kuzguncuk is to sit with Turkish tea and watch the world go by.
Insider Tip: If you’re up for some exercise, a short uphill walk along Bican Efendi Street will treat you to some stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Istanbul’s allure lies not only in its iconic landmarks but also in its hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From the serene village of Anadolu Kavagı to the enchanting Rüstem Pasha Mosque and the charming neighbourhood of Kuzguncuk, these off-the-beaten-path gems offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history and diverse culture. Whether it’s your first time exploring Istanbul’s wonders or you’re returning for another adventure, be sure to add these three destinations to your itinerary for an experience that will stay with you forever.
This post was about 3 hidden gems in Istanbul that you must explore!
If you’re keen for more travel related content, make sure you follow @Roamingwithchelsea on Instagram. If you’re interested in some other tips for visiting Istanbul, and Türkiye more broadly, be sure to check out these other posts
21 Free Things to To in Istanbul: How to Maximise Your Visit
Quick Guide: 10 Tips For Pamukkale and Hierapolis
7 Things to Do in Konya: Explore the Magic of Türkiye
Safe travels
Chelsea xx
*prices correct as of February 2025
