(Updated November 2025)

CONGRATS, you’ve found the most detailed gay travel guide for Istanbul on the internet that is BASED ON PERSONAL EXPERIENCES, so better bookmark it, if you’re planning a trip to this magnificent city.

These are recommendations based on the real life experiences of Saf Dogan, the creator of @proudpassport and the readers of the blog. If you’d like to contribute by providing feedback, please drop a line on Instagram or via email at proudpassport@gmail.com.

My name is Saf Dogan and I was born and raised in Turkey and I spent most of my time in Istanbul from 2003 to 2009 until I moved to NYC. While I’ve been living outside Turkey since then, I’ve been visiting it multiple times a year. The time I lived in Istanbul were the “golden gay days” where Turkey won Eurovision in 2003, hosted it in Istanbul in 2004, and saw queer tourism boom in the following years. Those were the years where the LGBTQ rights movements really flourished and the current authoritarian figures in the government who were starting out back then even were making pro-LGBTQ statements.

While Istanbul is located in Europe and it’s one of Europe’s biggest cities, it’s also Turkey’s biggest city so try not to judge it with European or Middle Eastern standards. Instead, accept it as it is and enjoy the cultural diversity and richness of it. Istanbul, due to the liberal visa policies Turkey has, is also a hub for queer travelers from countries where being LGBTQ is not legal and/or the queer scene is non-existent.

The time I lived in Istanbul were the “golden gay days” where Turkey won Eurovision in 2003, hosted it in Istanbul in 2004, and saw queer tourism boom in the following years.

Topics Covered

1. The Legal Status of LGBTQ+ in Turkey
2. When to Visit Istanbul
3. Planning Your Trip
4. Airport Transfer & Public Transport
5. Where to Stay in Istanbul?
6. Gay Apps & Mobile Data in Turkey
7. Istanbul Gay-Popular Spots, Cafes and Restaurants
8. Istanbul Gay Bars, Clubs & Parties
9. Gay Hamams, Saunas and Other Must-Do Activities
10. Must-Visit Places
11. 20 Must-have Foods and Bevs
12. Day Trips from Istanbul
13. Other Turkish Cities
14. Related Posts

The Legal Status of LGBTQ+ in Turkey

• Turkey is home to some same sex proposals or wedding ceremonies especially in globally popular Cappadocia.

When to Visit Istanbul

Istanbul goes through all four seasons and it even gets snow. The best time to visit Istanbul is anytime from April through October. Keep in mind, prices will go up in Summer like most Mediterranean cities.

Planning Your Trip

If you’re a US-based traveler and in the market for a new credit card, you could make your ticket to Istanbul for FREE. Capital One Venture X comes with a 75-100k welcome bonus, and an annual fee that you FULLY GET BACK through travel credits. So the card really pays you to travel. Once you spend the mininum requirement to get the bonus, you rack up nearly 90k points that can be redeemed for $1200+ in FREE TRAVEL. Please use my referral code when you are applying – we both get an increased bonus.

Turkish Airlines flies to most countries in the world, and connects over a dozen cities in North America to Istanbul directly. Although you can score cheaper tickets with layovers in other European cities with other airlines, direct flights on Turkish typically start from $850 and those with layovers could be as low as $500.

Airport Transfer & Public Transport

Istanbul has two airports. The Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the Northwest, in the European Side, and Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) is located on the Asian side. Both airports have metro and shuttle bus services to the main centers, namely Taksim Square in Europe and Kadikoy in Asia.

You can use your credit card to pay for the Havaist Shuttle from Istanbul Airport and Havabus from the Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The ticket price is around $4 for both.

For using the Public Transport, you need an IstanbulKart. You can simply obtain one by paying about $2 at the ticket vending machines at the metro stations located at both airports. Using the same machine you can also top up your card. Inflation has been very volatile in Turkey in the recent years but you can expect the one way fare to be around $0.50. The transfer will be cheaper at around $0.20.

Overall Istanbul has excellent public transport and you might not even need taxis during your stay. Istanbul taxis are not my favorite as a local, for three reasons: There is no standard to their cleanliness, there are times you will come across a taxi that smells like cigarette smoke inside, the drivers are not always trustworthy, they are known to take advantage of tourists by taking them through the longer route, and like most of the Turkish population over 40, they are not good with communicating in English.

If you really have to take a taxi, I recommend the following apps:

Uber: Because of government regulations, Uber in Istanbul is only used to book regular taxis, which provides transparency and ease of use. If you MUST use a taxi, be sure to book it via Uber. People report cancellations or drivers trying to negotiate higher prices but I personally used Uber for getting yellow taxis and it was relatively seamless.

BiTaksi: Similar to Uber, this app is used to “hail” yellow taxis. But if you already have Uber on your phone, it’s pointless to download this one.

Where to Stay in Istanbul?

These are the areas that you’ll want to stay at in Istanbul as a queer traveler:

Cihangir, Nisantasi, Bomonti, Galata, Besiktas, Sisli and Taksim Square vicinity (Europe)

Kadikoy, Suadiye, Moda (Asia)

MisterBnB: Staying with a local queer host is an amazing option if you’re looking for true immersion. Istanbul has a ton of queer hosts, offering unique spaces in awesome neighborhood, some of which are clothing optional.

Take a look and if you decide to book with them, you can use my referral link for a $10 credit towards your booking. TIA!

This option is perfect if you’re looking to socialize with a local, and get tips from them on the specifics.

AirBnB: This is another great option for those who are looking for more freedom – which includes being able to have visitors over. When I visit Istanbul, I typically get an AirBnB in Cihangir, a bohemian and queer-friendly neighborhood, just steps from Taksim Square, home to the city’s gay nightlife.

When you stay at AirBnB or MisterBnB, you have the ability to save on your spending by purchasing alcohol and groceries for your personal consumption. In Turkey, there is a very high tax on alcohol, so if you’re coming from Europe, you will find the prices slightly higher. One can of local beer is typically around $2 and a bottle of wine is typically around $8-10. The best prices for alcohol can be found at nationwide chains like Carrefour or Migros. For a more gourmet experience, try Macro Center. For cheaper prices, try Bim, A101 or Şok (which are discount small markets but they don’t carry alcohol. Alcohol sale at grocery stores ends at 10pm in Turkey like a lot of other countries, so be sure to stock up accordingly.

Global Hotel Chains: Istanbul has all the global hotel chains you could possibly imagine. When I want to woo my boyfriend, I typically get us a room at Hilton Bomonti or Conrad Hotel. You should not worry about asking for a bed for a couple at any 4 or 5 star hotel.

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About Safety: Common sense applies here. Petty theft on the street and pickpocketing are not very common but there is a high risk associated in bringing your valuables into a cruisy bar or having a visitor from a gay social app and leaving your belongings unattended.

One thing that happened to a Latin American friend (who lives in Germany) is pretty scary and it’s the only one of its kind that I have heard happening in Turkey. Someone offered them a drink at a bar, and then they went back to his hotel room, and the next morning he woke up not remembering a thing, with his valuables stolen. It’s super important to be cautious about accepting such gestures for this reason, because while it’s not that common, it doesn’t mean it won’t happen again.

If you’re in Istanbul during Istanbul Pride in June, please refrain from joining the “illegal” Pride March that is almost always dispersed by the police – however the other events (like panels and parties) are perfectly safe to attend. Hope Istanbul Pride will one day make a big comeback but not under the current administration.

Gay Apps & Mobile Data in Turkey

First thing’s first: You’re going to need data to stay connected with friends and the local boys while in Istanbul. If you’re a European Union resident, your phone plan likely includes free roaming in Turkey as well, but if you’re from elsewhere, be sure to download AIRALO eSim if you’re in need of travel data. You can buy 1 GB of travel data for 7 days for $5 to use in Turkey and the rest of of Europe. Plus, if you use my promo code SAF7343 you’ll get a $3 discount with your first purchase. eSim is the technology of the future and it’ll save you so much time and headache since you’ll manage everything from the app.

As a New Yorker, I typically use Grindr when “socializing” with gays. But Grindr isn’t as popular in Turkey because a VPN (I recommend TunnelBear which has a free plan) is needed to use. Although if you’re roaming / using global data, you can access it without a problem. Grindr has quite a bit of users in Turkey but it’s NOT the most popular app.

Hornet is an interesting player in the gay social app market and oddly it’s very popular in countries like Turkey, Russia, Brazil and some Asian countries. Definitely download it as it’s the main app in Turkey.

Scruff is not that popular in the US but it is a legit option in Turkey and it’s not restricted like Grindr is.

Tinder, Bumble, etc: These apps are similarly popular within the Turkish gay community as in anywhere else.

SEXUAL HEALTH: Unfortunately in Turkey the Ministry of Health doesn’t cover Prep so people either pay $100 out of pocket a month to get it or they just don’t. It’s insane to me that the government fully pays for the treatment of HIV positive folks but refuses to do it for preventative care, it’s an extension of the current government’s efforts to control people’s sexual freedoms. I’ve noticed that there is a decreasing focus on condom use so make sure that you are on Prep and DoxyPEP when getting adventurous in Istanbul, to protect yourself and your partner as well.

STD/STI Testing in Istanbul: This is something I don’t have first hand experience with but your travel insurance should cover the costs if you need this at public hospitals or private clinics. Also, I found out that Sisli and Besiktas municipalities in Istanbul have free LGBTQ+ Health Centers that provide anonymous guidance and treatment to anyone including tourists. Keep this in mind in case you need it.

Istanbul Gay-Popular Spots, Cafes and Restaurants

Most of the gay / queer scene in Istanbul is located on the European side, with Taksim Square being its epicenter.

EspressoLab (Taksim): This is one of the locations of the global coffee chain that originally started in Istanbul. It’s directly at the entrance of the main pedestrian street aka Istiklal Avenue, directly opposite from the French Consulate. Their rooftop overlooking the Taksim Square is no doubt the unofficial “gaythering” spot for the locals and definitely recommend visiting it if you’re looking to socialize.

Sendika: Queer owned and operated bar and bistro in Beyoglu, just off Istiklal Avenue. Opened in 2023 and it provides a great hub for drinks and bites before clubbing.

Pinokyo Terrace: Been around since 2011 and under new management as of 2024. It is a queer space with events and drag shows, ideal for early drinks and socializing with locals.

Ziba Bar: Ziba Bar is a vibrant and inclusive venue located in the heart of Istanbul’s gay nightlife scene. With its eclectic decor, friendly atmosphere, and energetic music, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. Enjoy delicious cocktails, lively drag shows, and a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity and acceptance.

Urban Cafe & Restaurant: Urban Cafe & Restaurant offers a stylish and contemporary dining experience in Istanbul’s bustling city center. This LGBTQ+-friendly establishment serves up a delicious fusion of international cuisines in a chic and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely brunch, a romantic dinner, or cocktails with friends, Urban Cafe & Restaurant provides a sophisticated setting to enjoy great food and company.

Frankestayn Bookstore: Frankestayn Bookstore is a hidden gem for LGBTQ+ literature enthusiasts in Istanbul. This welcoming bookstore offers a diverse selection of books, magazines, and literary works that cater to the queer community. Browse through thought-provoking titles, attend book readings, and engage in lively discussions in a safe and inclusive space that celebrates LGBTQ+ literature and culture.

Mecra (Kadikoy, Asian Side): Mecra has 3 floors, a small balcony and a garden. Each floor has a different atmosphere. The whole building has a warm and cozy 90s vibe. Every weekend there are fun parties, drag shows, special events. Mecra is perfect for just chilling. It’s not a hookup place at all but they are very openly gay friendly – cocktails are served with mini pride flag toothpicks, have names like “Stonewall” and “Pride”.

Istanbul Gay Bars, Clubs & Parties

Istanbul a couple dozens of queer bars, some of which have been running for over 30 years. Most places with a cover will typically include one drink. Most of the bars take credit cards but it would help to bring Turkish Liras in cash for coat check or tip the person in the bathroom.

Cover Charges at Gay Bars: Because the Turkish Lira is devalued horribly since 2015 or so, the biggest bill (200 TL) is only worth $5-6 USD. Interestingly the government is refusing to print bigger bills in denial of the inflation. Good news is credit cards are accepted almost everywhere but make sure to exchange some of your money to Turkish Lira. There are ATMs everywhere, as well as exchange offices with fair rates around Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue, that are open late.

Another thing to note is, unfortunately, similar to cities like Barcelona or Berlin, cigarette smoke becomes prevalent especially in the later hours, despite the indoor smoking ban.

One more thing to remember, most gay bars get busy after midnight and they stay open late until at least 6am on the weekends.

Alright, now… If you have your credit card and Turkish lira cash sorted, we can take a look at the gay nightlife and the must visit gay bars in town:

XLarge: Weekend nightclub with DJ’s, hot shows and dancers on the stage. X-Large Club is popular with gay men but also everyone else so it’s not a gay bar. Located in Maslak district, further from Taksim Square and with higher entry charges than other clubs. I have never been to it personally but it continues to be a popular gay-friendly bar option when you search online.

GZone Parties: Gzone is a privately owned party brand that is known for its fun queer themed parties, that take place in various venues in Istanbul and other cities. Be sure to follow their social handles to see if they have any events during your stay. The parties range from Eurovision themed parties to drag shows.

Skar Co Events: A queer-focused event organizer that hosts a variety of themed parties at different venues in Istanbul. Think drag shows, a Boat Party with a Katy Perry & Taylor Swift theme, Met Gala Istanbul, and more!

The Ultimate Istanbul Gay Travel Guide: LGBTQ+ Bars, Saunas, & Cultural Tips

Gay Hamams, Saunas and Other Must-Do Activities

If this blog helped you with your travel plans, please consider buying me a coffee so I can keep this blog alive. THANK YOU ❤️

In Istanbul, there are many hamams, some of which are more gay friendly than others. Based on my personal experience, Firuzaga Hamam in Cihangir and Yesildirek Hamam in Beyoglu, are two places where you can feel 100% comfortable being your authentic self as a gay person. The busiest times tend to be afternoons on Saturday and Sunday and the crowd is pretty mixed, from immigrants from the Middle East to European tourists to locals. My favorite Sauna in the whole city is “Cihangir Sauna”, where you can rent rooms or lockers, and it’s a fusion between European gay saunas and a Turkish hamam. This one is my favorite if you’re looking for even more privacy. Bring cash if you’re going to get scrub or massage services.

In addition to these two, there are two other places that are known to be gay friendly. Davutpasa Hamam in the Historical Peninsula near Sultanahmet and Aquarius Sauna in Taksim area. Friends and fellow travelers reported that Davutpasa Hamam is pretty similar to Yesildirek Hamam, meanwhile Aquarius Sauna seems to be a place where you meet “professional” masseurs so expect to pay extras.

Bosphorus Ferry Rides: To get a taste of the beautiful Bosphorus Strait that divides continents and the two parts of Istanbul, you can simply take a ferry using your IstanbulKart for just $0.50 per ride. The popular Besiktas (walkable from Taksim) to Kadikoy route offers amazing views of the Historical Peninsula, The Maiden Tower, the skyscraper-filled skylines of Maslak and Levent, and the beautiful palaces and mansions nestled along it. Kadikoy area is also worth exploring since it’s the main hub on the Asian side, and it’s know for its very liberal and multicultural lifestyle. In addition to regular city ferries, you can also find the touristic Bosphorus ferries (Dentur) adjacent to the commuter ferry pier and they typically cost about $5.

Food Tours: Istanbul has an incredible food culture and it is THE place for a food tour. The advantage of a food tour is to sample as many items as possible while hearing about their history and how they are created. (See below for Must-have Foods and Beverages section to get an idea.) You can find the best and the most authentic food tours on Viator – a platform I used all the time when visiting new countries. My recent food tour in Medellin, Colombia was insanely good. If you decide to book one, please use my referral link to support this blog.

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS: Istiklal Avenue, Bagdat Avenue and Valikonagi Street.

Istiklal Avenue: This is the lively center of Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district and a great place for gay visitors looking for a special shopping experience. The avenue is over a mile long (2 kms), it runs between Taksim Square and Galata Tower, and doesn’t allow cars, so it’s perfect for walking around. You’ll find lots of different shops, small stores, cafes, and galleries here. As you explore the busy street, you’ll come across a mix of trendy shops, vintage stores, and designer boutiques, selling everything from stylish clothes and accessories to unique gifts and souvenirs. Istiklal Avenue is more than just a place to shop – it’s also a cultural center where you can enjoy the city’s lively arts scene, including theaters, cinemas, and art galleries. And if you need a break from shopping, make sure to visit one of the many cafes or restaurants along the avenue.

Bağdat Avenue: Experience luxury and style at Bağdat Avenue in Istanbul. This premier shopping destination on the Asian side offers high-end fashion, jewelry, and accessories. It’s not just about shopping – it’s a place to see and be seen, where you can mingle with the fashionable crowd. The tree-lined promenade and views of the Marmara Sea provide a serene escape from the city. Bağdat Avenue promises a glamorous and inclusive shopping experience.

Nisantasi – Valikonagi Street: Step into the stylish world of Valikonağı Street, located in Istanbul’s Nişantaşı district. This fashionable area is a must-visit for fashion and design enthusiasts, boasting trendy shops, designer stores, and chic cafes. Whether you’re in search of the latest fashion, unique accessories, or special gifts, you’ll find plenty of options to explore. With its relaxed and fashionable atmosphere, Valikonağı Street is the ideal place to shop, socialize, and experience Istanbul’s lively energy. Get ready to uncover the best of Nişantaşı on Valikonağı Street, where style is always in season.

MEDICAL TOURISM: This is something you probably heard about. Turkey is the world’s leading destination for medical tourism, especially for hair transplants, dental and plastic surgeries. I partnered with a Gaymedical tourism company that welcomes all and has lots of experience serving LGBTQ clients. You can take advantage of very competitive prices, high quality services while visiting Istanbul. You can reach out to for a FREE CONSULTATION with no commitment via WhatsApp at this link.

Must-Visit Places

Here is a list of my favorite landmarks, museums and districts, that I personally enjoy visiting when I’m in town:

Istanbul Modern: Istanbul Modern is Turkey’s first museum of modern and contemporary art, located in the vibrant Karaköy district along the Bosphorus. Visitors can easily reach it by taking a tram to Tophane station and then enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. It offers a fascinating insight into Turkey’s thriving art scene, showcasing works by both Turkish and international artists amidst stunning views of the Bosphorus.

Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture located within the Galataport complex on the European side of Istanbul, offers a unique cultural experience amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this newly developed waterfront area. Easily accessible by tram or ferry, Galataport provides a modern and convenient setting for exploring Turkey’s artistic heritage.

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Galataport (Istanbul Cruise Port): Galataport is a newly developed waterfront area on the European side of Istanbul, easily accessible by tram or ferry from various parts of the city. You can also easily walk to is from Cihangir. It’s a modern hub of entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences, with stunning views of the Bosphorus and iconic landmarks such as the Maiden’s Tower. Its promenade is perfect for taking pics with the Bosphorus in as the backdrop.

Basilica Cistern: The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water reservoir dating back to the Byzantine era, located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district. Travelers can reach it by walking from the Sultanahmet tram station. It’s significant due to its impressive architecture and historical significance, offering a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich past and providing a serene escape from the bustling city above.

Balat: Balat is a historic neighborhood on the shores of the Golden Horn, accessible by bus or taxi from central Istanbul. A colorful and eclectic area known for its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant street art, and charming Ottoman-era houses, Balat offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage and is perfect for leisurely strolls and off-the-beaten-path exploration. Don’t miss the Iron Church.

Hagia Sophia: Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural marvel located in Sultanahmet, easily reachable by tram or walking from nearby attractions. It’s a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history, having served as a church, a museum and a mosque. Visitors are awe-inspired by its majestic dome, stunning mosaics, and intricate architecture, making it a must-visit destination in Istanbul.

If this blog helped you with your travel plans, please consider buying me a coffee or tipping me Venmo (@safdogan) so I can keep this blog alive. THANK YOU ❤️

Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, located adjacent to Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet. Travelers can easily reach it by walking from nearby tram stations. Significant for foreign travelers due to its breathtaking beauty and historical importance, the mosque features stunning blue tiles, cascading domes, and six towering minarets, creating a mesmerizing sight that captures the essence of Istanbul’s Ottoman heritage.

Topkapi Palace: Topkapi Palace is a grandiose complex that served as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries, situated in Sultanahmet and accessible by tram or walking. It’s significant for foreign travelers as a window into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire, housing exquisite artifacts, imperial treasures, and sprawling gardens with panoramic views of the Bosphorus. A visit to Topkapi Palace offers a fascinating journey through Istanbul’s royal past.

Moda Pier: Moda Pier is a picturesque waterfront promenade located in the Moda neighborhood on Istanbul’s Asian side, accessible by ferry or taxi from central Istanbul. It’s significant for foreign travelers as a serene retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Princes’ Islands. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, seaside dining, and stunning sunsets at this idyllic spot.

Galata Tower: Galata Tower is an iconic medieval stone tower situated in the lively Beyoğlu district, easily accessible by tram or walking from nearby attractions. It’s significant for foreign travelers as a symbol of Istanbul’s skyline, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. With its rich history and breathtaking vistas, Galata Tower provides a memorable experience for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in Istanbul’s timeless charm.

Maiden’s Tower: The Maiden’s Tower, which seemingly floats in the Bosphorus off Asia, is one of the more popular symbols of the city. Once a Byzantine tollbooth and later an Ottoman lighthouse, it’s most famous for a legend involving a princess and a prophecy that she would die from a snakebite. The king, who was warned by a fortune teller that his daughter would die from a snake bite, had a tower built on the cliffs off Salacak. In order to protect his daughter, he placed her in the tower. You get pretty close to it when you take the Besiktas – Kadikoy commuter ferries.

Ortaköy: (Top Instagram Photo Spot ALERT) Nestled along the shores of the Bosphorus, Ortaköy is a picturesque neighborhood in Istanbul that effortlessly blends history, culture, and charm. Known for its iconic waterfront mosque, vibrant street vendors, and lively atmosphere, Ortaköy is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, admiring the stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge and indulging in mouthwatering street food like kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes – my favorite) and börek (savory pastries). Whether you’re sipping Turkish tea at a waterfront café, browsing the stalls of the bustling bazaar, or marveling at the intricate architecture of the Ortaköy Mosque, a visit to this vibrant neighborhood is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Kapalıçarşı (Grand Bazaar): THE FIRST SHOPPING MALL OF THE WORLD – need I say more? With its labyrinthine alleys, bustling marketplace, and vibrant atmosphere, the Grand Bazaar is a sensory delight for shoppers and history enthusiasts alike. Dating back to the 15th century, this sprawling covered market is one of the oldest and largest in the world, housing over 4,000 shops selling everything from exquisite Turkish carpets and dazzling jewelry to traditional textiles and aromatic spices. As you navigate through the maze of narrow streets, you’ll encounter friendly shopkeepers eager to showcase their wares and share stories of the bazaar’s rich history.

20 Must-have Foods and Bevs

1. Kebab: A staple of Turkish cuisine, kebab encompasses a variety of grilled or skewered meats, such as lamb, beef, or chicken, often seasoned with spices and served with rice, salad, and bread.
2. Döner: Thinly sliced meat, typically lamb, chicken, or beef, cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a pita or flatbread with vegetables, yogurt, and sauces.
3. Baklava: A rich and sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey, often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water.
4. Meze: A selection of small dishes served as appetizers or accompaniments to drinks, including a variety of salads, dips, cheeses, and grilled vegetables.
5. Manti: Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat, such as lamb or beef, and spices, typically served with yogurt, garlic, and a drizzle of melted butter or tomato sauce.
6. Lahmacun: Thin, round flatbread topped with a spicy mixture of minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and herbs, baked until crispy and served with fresh vegetables and lemon wedges.
7. Pide: Turkish-style pizza made with a boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and eggs, baked until golden and crispy.
8. İskender Kebab: A specialty dish originating from Bursa, İskender kebab features thinly sliced döner meat served over pieces of pita bread, topped with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt.
9. Köfte: Seasoned meatballs made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs, grilled or fried, and served with rice, salad, and bread.
10. Simit: A popular Turkish street food, simit is a circular bread roll encrusted with sesame seeds, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed with tea or as a snack on the go.
11. Künefe: Künefe is a beloved Turkish dessert consisting of shredded phyllo dough layered with cheese, typically unsalted white cheese such as mozzarella or akkawi, and soaked in sweet syrup. It is then baked until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and gooey on the inside. Künefe is often served hot, topped with crushed pistachios or walnuts and a dollop of clotted cream, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
12. Fırın Sütlaç: My favorite Turkush dessert!! Fırın Sütlaç, also known as Turkish Baked rice pudding, is a creamy and comforting dessert made from rice, milk, sugar, and sometimes flavored with aromatic ingredients such as vanilla or cinnamon. The mixture is baked in the oven until the rice is tender and the pudding develops a golden-brown crust on top. Served chilled, Fırın Sütlaç is a popular sweet treat enjoyed year-round, especially during festive occasions and celebrations.
13. Ayran: Ayran is a traditional Turkish beverage made from a simple combination of yogurt, water, and salt. It is typically served chilled and enjoyed as a refreshing drink alongside meals or as a thirst-quencher on hot summer days.
14. Turkish Coffee: Turkish coffee is a rich and aromatic beverage prepared by boiling finely ground coffee beans with water and sugar in a special pot called a cezve. It is traditionally served unfiltered, allowing the grounds to settle at the bottom of the cup, and enjoyed slowly, sipped and savored.
15. Turkish Tea: Turkish tea, or çay, is a staple beverage in Turkish culture, enjoyed throughout the day and in various social settings. It is made from loose black tea leaves, typically sourced from the Rize region on the Black Sea coast, and brewed in a double-stacked teapot called a çaydanlık.
16. Turkish Raki: Turkish Raki is a traditional alcoholic beverage that holds a special place in Turkish culture. It is an anise-flavored spirit, similar to Greek ouzo or French pastis, distilled from grapes and flavored with aniseed. Raki is typically clear when poured, but turns milky white when mixed with water, a process known as “louche.” It is enjoyed as an aperitif or alongside meals, especially seafood dishes and meze (appetizers).
17. Lokum (Turkish Delight): Lokum, also known as Turkish Delight, is a sweet and aromatic confection that has been enjoyed for centuries in Turkey and beyond. It is made from a mixture of sugar, water, and starch, flavored with various ingredients such as rosewater, lemon, or pistachios, and dusted with powdered sugar or coconut flakes. It is often served alongside Turkish coffee or tea as a treat for guests, and is a popular souvenir for visitors to take home and share a taste of Turkey’s culinary heritage.
18. Borek: The general name for the Turkish savory pastry made from thin phyllo dough typically with an herby cheese, spinach, potato or meat filling. These savory Turkish borek can be prepared ahead and are great served as mezze (appetizer) or snack. Bakeries specialized in Borek can be found all throughout the city. Borek/Burek/Tiropita/Spanakopita is wildy popular in all of Balkans as well.
19. Turkish Breakfast (Serpme Kahvalti): Breakfast is THE most important meal of the day in Turkey, especially on the weekends. It’s also an excuse to bring family and friends together to enjoy hours of catching up and overeating 🙂 This unique concept of serpme kahvaltı, consists of small plates with different products and tastes, such as a cheese platter, a tomato and cucumber platter, fresh herbs, peppers, jams, tahin-pekmez (tahini and grape molasses), butter, bal-kaymak (honey and clotted cream), different types of olives, olive oil with spices for dipping bread in, eggs – either sahanda yumurta (fried eggs) or menemen (scrambled eggs with tomato and green pepper) – a spicy red pepper paste called acuka, sucuk (spicy cured beef sausage), simit (round-shaped bread dipped in molasses and topped with sesame seeds), börek (a flaky pastry that can be filled with cheese, spinach, or meat), and other Turkish pastries.
20. Kumpir: Saved the best for the last! Originating from the streets of Istanbul, kumpir is a delightful twist on the classic baked potato, bursting with flavor and creativity. Picture a piping hot potato, baked to perfection and split open to reveal a fluffy interior just waiting to be filled with a mouthwatering array of toppings. From creamy butter and tangy yogurt to savory meats, fresh vegetables, and a colorful assortment of condiments, the possibilities are endless. It’s vegetarian friendly and definitely my favorite comfort food in Turkey.

Day Trips from Istanbul

The Prince Islands: A chain of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara that are a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul for both locals and tourists. Several ferries will take you from Istanbul to the islands and the trip can be anywhere from 55 to 100 minutes. The islands are known for their lush pine forests and wooden Victorian cottages as well as being free of motor vehicles making horse-drawn carriages and bicycles the main means of transportation.

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Bursa: If you’re tired of the regular commute, why not take the scenic route to the Ottoman Empire’s first capital? Hop on a ferry across the Sea of Marmara and brace yourself for the adventure! A short bus ride later, you’ll find yourself in the city center ready to explore. Get ready to be floored by Bursa’s most historic landmarks like the oh-so-green Green Mausoleum (Yesil Turbe) and the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii) – trust us, they’re not green with envy, just really into tile decor. Make sure to visit the 14th-century Great Mosque (Ulu Cami) and for a blast from the past, head to Koza Han to unravel the ancient secrets of the silk trade! Who knew history could be this entertaining? FUN FACT about Bursa: I spent my childhood here and the city is knows for its queer celebrities including the legendary Turkish singer Zeki Muren (you can compare him to Libarace in the USA) so if you’re from Bursa, you’ll get the “Are you gay?” joke in a group of friends.

Troy: Forget about a quick in and out, I suggest dedicating a solid couple of days to this place (Çanakkale or Eceabat) if you’ve got the time. The journey from Istanbul will have you in transit for about six hours by bus, car, ferry, and maybe even a taxi. Be prepared to rise with the birds because this whole adventure will eat up 14-16 hours of your day. Once you’re there, prepare to be amazed by ancient ruins galore, catch a glimpse of a faux Trojan Horse, and take a stroll through the Roman Temple (Bouleuterion) and museum.

Other Turkish Cities

These are recommendations based on the real life experiences of the creator of @proudpassport and the readers of the blog. If you want to share your own experiences to be published on this blog, please contact.

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