20 Best Hidden Gems and Underrated Places in Istanbul

Istanbul isn’t just the Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar. Beyond the postcard-famous landmarks, the city is full with places that tourists often overlook. Some of these spots are true hidden gems, others are well-known, but underappreciated or skipped on the most popular itineraries. If you want to experience the real Istanbul beyond the crowds and clichés and you have a couple more days – this is your list.

True Hidden Gems in Istanbul

1. Arnavutköy – Colorful Waterside Neighborhood

Arnavutköy sits along the Bosphorus, filled with elegant wooden Ottoman mansions in pastel tones. The neighborhood has a quiet and calm vibe and this makes it feel like a different world compared to the crowded city center. It’s one of the true hidden gems in Istanbul that locals know well.

• Address: Arnavutköy, Beşiktaş/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: Always open
• Why Visit It:
  • Stroll along the Bosphorus without crowds.
  • Gorgeous 19th-century houses in candy colors.
  • Hidden cafes and seafood spots loved by locals.
  • Great for memorable moments, Instagram photos and quiet walks.
• Famous For:
  • Its colorful houses
  • Views of the Bosphorus Bridge
    
• How to Get There: Bus or ferry to Bebek, then a short walk.
• Entrance Fee: Free

2. Moda, Kadıköy

Located on the Asian side, Moda is all about the calm and cozy charm, indie cafes, sea views, and local vibes. It’s a neighborhood known for its creativity, where street art and live music are part of daily life. Despite its cultural richness, it’s still overlooked by many tourists. If you’re after authentic, everyday Istanbul, Moda is definitely the place to be.

• Address: Moda, Kadıköy/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: Always open
• Why Visit It:
  • Bohemian vibe and strong youth culture.
  • Coastal walks with sunset views.
  • Independent bookstores, artisan coffee, and vintage shops.
  • Picnic spots by the water.
• Famous For:
  • Istanbul’s alternative music and arts scene.
  • Local hangout spots far from tourist routes.
• How to Get There: Ferry to Kadıköy, then walk or take the tram.
• Entrance Fee: Free

3. Şerefiye Cistern

A beautifully restored underground cistern just minutes from the Blue Mosque but far less crowded. Built in the 5th century, this cistern served as a water source for the ancient city. The space now features a dramatic light and sound show, creating a surreal, reflective atmosphere. It’s a perfect hidden gem in Istanbul if you’re an architecture and history lover.

• Address: Piyer Loti Cd. No:25, Fatih/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
• Why Visit It:
  • Peaceful and atmospheric.
  • Less crowded than the Basilica Cistern.
  • Great for cooling down on hot days.
• Famous For:
  • Built in the 5th century during the Byzantine era.
  • Stunning stone arches and ambient lighting.
  • Long forgotten and only reopened in 2018.
  • Lesser-known spot for architecture lovers.
• How to Get There: Walk from Sultanahmet.
• Entrance Fee: 

4. Theodosius Cistern

Even less know than Şerefiye cistern, Theodosius Cistern is an underground marvel – it also dates to the 5th century and contains impressive marble columns supporting the ceiling. It’s a quiet place that feels like stepping back in time. A must-see for history lovers if you want to discover hidden gems in Istanbul.

• Address: Binbirdirek, Fatih/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily
• Why Visit It:
  • Rarely busy.
  • Quiet underground space.
  • Cool escape from summer heat.
  • Fascinating history under your feet.
• Famous For:
  • Constructed in the 5th century under Emperor Theodosius II.
  • Features 32 marble columns.
  • Rediscovered and opened for tourism only recently.
  • Often missed even by locals.
• How to Get There: Close to the Hippodrome; easy walk.
• Entrance Fee: 

5. Ihlamur Pavilion

A hidden Ottoman hunting lodge with lovely gardens and rococo-style buildings. The pavilion’s peaceful setting contrasts with the busy Şişli area nearby. It’s one of those hidden gems in Istanbul that mixes European style with Ottoman history. It’s the perfect place for you if you love palaces but hate the crowds of Dolmabahce.

• Address: Teşvikiye, Şişli/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Why Visit It:
  • Tranquil gardens.
  • Ornate interiors with golden ceilings.
  • Quiet despite being in central Istanbul.
  • A great stop between Nişantaşı and Beşiktaş.
• Famous For:
  • 19th-century imperial retreat.
  • Frequently visited by Sultan Abdülmecid I
  • Romantic European architecture
• How to Get There: Short walk from Nişantaşı or Beşiktaş.
• Entrance Fee: 

6. Küçük Ayasofya (Little Hagia Sophia)

This small Byzantine gem is often ignored although it’s close to the Blue Mosque. Originally built as a church, it later became a mosque and has been very well restored. The interior features beautiful calligraphy, domes, and quiet spaces. It’s one of the more spiritual and peaceful hidden gems in Istanbul.

• Address: Küçük Ayasofya Mahallesi, Fatih/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed during prayer times)
• Why Visit It:
  • Calm and spiritual atmosphere.
  • Detailed mosaics and domes.
  • Usually empty, even in peak season.
• Famous For:
  • Built by Justinian I before the Hagia Sophia.
  • Once a church, later a mosque.
  • Rich in early Byzantine architecture.
  • One of the oldest surviving religious spots in the city.
• How to Get There: Walk from Sultanahmet.
• Entrance Fee: Free

7. Camlıca Hill and Camlıca Mosque

This lovely area on the Asian side offers the best panoramic views of Istanbul, stretching across both continents. While many visitors overlook it for more central sights, it’s a favorite spot for locals to relax and catch sunsets over the Bosphorus. The recently built Camlıca Mosque is the largest in Turkey and a modern architectural marvel – it’s an interesting mix of traditional Ottoman motifs with contemporary design. It’s definitely a peaceful place often missed by tourists, and so one of the best hidden gems in Istanbul.

• Address: Ferah, Camlıca Cd., Üsküdar/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: Park and mosque open daily, 24/7 (avoid prayer times for interior visits)
• Why Visit It:
  • Panoramic city views
  • Picnic-friendly park areas
  • Impressive, serene mosque experience
  • Not on most tourist itineraries
• Famous For:
  • Largest mosque in Turkey (opened in 2019)
  • Massive dome and six towering minarets
  • Panoramic terrace facing Europe
• How to Get There: Metro to Üsküdar, then bus or taxi
• Entrance Fee: Free

8. Chora Church (Kariye Museum)

Hidden in the Edirnekapı neighborhood, this former Byzantine church is famous for its breathtaking mosaics and frescoes. Though it’s one of the most important examples of Byzantine art in the world, it’s often skipped in favor of the Hagia Sophia. The interior walls are covered in scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. For sure one of the most underrated hidden gems in Istanbul especially for lovers of art and history.

• Address: Kariye Mahallesi, Fatih/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Why Visit It:
  • World-class mosaics and frescoes
  • Quieter alternative to busy Sultanahmet
• Famous For:
  • Built in the 4th century, current form from 11th century
  • Mosaics from the Palaiologan Renaissance
  • Converted into a mosque, museum, and now mosque again
  • UNESCO-listed structure
• How to Get There: Bus from Eminönü or short taxi ride
• Entrance Fee: Free (currently functioning as mosque; museum entry paused)

9. Princes’ Islands: Sedef & Democracy Islands

The Princes’ Islands are well-known, but beyond Büyükada and Heybeliada lie smaller, less visited islands like Sedef and Democracy (formerly Yassıada). These two offer a peaceful escape from the busy Istanbul. Sedef is privately owned, calm, and only accessible to foot traffic, while Democracy Island has recently opened as a museum space with a loaded political past. Visiting these islands is like entering a different rhythm of life – another of the hidden gems in Istanbul waiting to be explored.

Entrance Fee: Free access (Democracy Island museum may have entry fees)

Address: Off the Asian coast of Istanbul (via ferry)

Opening Hours: Ferry access varies; Sedef is open seasonally

Why Visit It:

• Serene getaway from city crowds
• No cars, just bikes and walking paths
• Ideal for swimming and slow exploration
• History-rich

Famous For:

• Sedef Island: smallest inhabited Prince Island, crystal-clear water
• Democracy Island: site of political trials, now an open-air museum
• Peaceful beaches and picnic spots
• A quiet break from Istanbul’s hustle

How to Get There: Ferry from Bostancı or Kartal; seasonal private boats

Popular but Underrated Places in Istanbul that are worth visiting

You may have heard of these places, but they often stay away from the most popular itineraries of Istanbul. The reason is clear – Istanbul has so much to offer, you have to prioritize. But if you have a few more days here, these popular hidden gems are definitely a must.

10. Beylerbeyi Palace

Beylerbeyi Palace is often overlooked – it sits right under the Bosphorus Bridge on the Asian side and once hosted European royalty during Ottoman times. While tourist crowds are typical for Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi offers a more peaceful, but equally stunning experience. It offers ornate interiors and lush terraced gardens. It’s surprisingly under-visited, making it one of the best hidden gems in Istanbul. You can even hear the sound of seagulls while walking through its marble halls.

• Address: Abdullahağa Cd., Beylerbeyi, Üsküdar/Istanbul
  
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • Less crowded than Dolmabahçe but just as impressive
    
  • Fantastic seaside views of the Bosphorus
    
  • Authentic Ottoman palace experience
    
  • Easy access via ferry from the European side
    
• Famous For:
  
  • Summer residence of the Ottoman sultans
    
  • Hosted Empress Eugénie of France
    
  • Lavish Neo-Baroque interior with Egyptian reed mat flooring
    
  • 19th-century European and Eastern design mix
    
• How to Get There: Ferry to Üsküdar, then taxi or short walk
  
• Entrance Fee:

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11. Fener & Balat Neighborhoods

These neighboring districts are colorful and full of surprises. Once home to Greek and Jewish communities, they’re now a mix of antique shops, churches, and hipster cafés.

• Address: Along the Golden Horn, Fatih district, Istanbul
• Opening Hours: Always open; best visited during daylight
• Why Visit It:
  • These neighborhoods feel like an open-air museum, perfect for enjoying Istanbul’s multicultural heritage.
  • It’s a photographer’s dream with colorful houses, hanging laundry, and cobbled streets – one of the most Instagrammable spots in Istanbul
  • Watch the authentic local life all around
  • You can easily spend half a day café hopping and browsing antique stores.
• Famous For:
  • Historically home to Greek Orthodox, Armenian, and Jewish communities.
  • Houses the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church made entirely of cast iron.
  • Balat’s steep streets and old-world charm have been used in Turkish TV shows.
  • Some of the city’s oldest synagogues and churches are here.
• How to Get There: Take bus 99 or 48E from Eminönü or walk from the Golden Horn ferry pier.
• Entrance Fee: Free

12. Süleymaniye Mosque & Courtyard

Most tourists rush to the Blue Mosque, but the Süleymaniye Mosque offers something quieter and just as breathtaking. It’s located on one of Istanbul’s seven hills and so it’s one of the places with most amazing panoramic views of the Golden Horn. The courtyard is massive and peaceful, framed by elegant arches and gardens where you can sit and listen to birds instead of crowds. Suleymaniye Mosque is really one of the most relaxing historical spots in the city.

• Address: Prof. Sídi̇ka Avar Cad. No:1, Fatih/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily (closed during prayer times)
• Why Visit It:
  • A more peaceful alternative to the bustling Sultanahmet area.
  • Offers panoramic views over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.
  • The architecture is stunning but often missed by tourists
  • The surrounding gardens are perfect for a break.
• Famous For:
  • Built by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century.
  • It’s the final resting place of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
  • Features a large courtyard and complex Iznik tilework.
  • Part of a larger complex that included a hospital, school, and hammam.
• How to Get There: Walk uphill from the Grand Bazaar or take Tram T1 to Beyazıt, then a short walk.
• Entrance Fee: Free

13. Pierre Loti Hill

Perched high above the Golden Horn, the Pierre Loti hill is a favorite spot for locals who come here to enjoy tea and conversation with one of the best views in Istanbul. The peaceful surroundings and Ottoman-style café make it feel like you’re stepping into a different era. Early mornings are especially magical here, as fog rolls in over the city below. It’s a spot where the noise fades and the beauty of Istanbul speaks for itself.

• Address: Eyüp Merkez Mahallesi, Eyüp/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Why Visit It:
  • The viewpoint gives you a picture-perfect scene of the Golden Horn.
  • It has a peaceful atmosphere, especially in the morning.
  • There’s a cozy café named after Pierre Loti himself.
• Famous For:
  • Named after the French novelist who wrote about Istanbul.
  • Located next to a historic Ottoman cemetery.
  • Features traditional Ottoman tea houses.
  • You can get there via a nice cable car ride.
• How to Get There: Take the Eyüp ferry from Eminönü, then walk or use the cable car.
• Entrance Fee: Free; cable car is paid

14. Kuzguncuk

Kuzguncuk is a charming but still underrated neighborhood and a hidden gem on the Asian side of Istanbul. With its old wooden houses, narrow streets, and lush gardens, Kuzguncuk has a vibe that’s more small-town than big city. You’ll see neighbors chatting outside, bakers selling fresh bread, and maybe even a wedding in one of the local churches. It’s also one of the best places to slow down and sip your tea in peace.

• Address: Kuzguncuk Mahallesi, Üsküdar/Istanbul
• Opening Hours: Always open
• Why Visit It:
  • Feels more like a village than a city neighborhood.
  • Small local bookstores, quiet cafes, and artisan shops abound.
  • A great place for slow travel and people watching.
  • Home to Istanbul’s first community garden.
• Famous For:
  • Rich history; synagogues, churches, and mosques side by side.
  • Filming location for classic Turkish TV series.
  • Cobbled streets and Ottoman wooden houses.
• How to Get There: Take the ferry to Üsküdar and walk or use minibus.
• Entrance Fee: Free

15. Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Mausoleum

This sacred mosque complex is one of the most spiritually important places in Istanbul even if it doesn’t see many international tourists. Located at the end of the Golden Horn, it’s a major pilgrimage site for Muslims and holds the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. The surrounding cemetery and hilltop café offer incredible views over Istanbul. If you want to feel the local spiritual atmosphere, this is one of the hidden gems in Istanbul you shouldn’t miss.

• Address: Eyüp Sultan Mh., Eyüpsultan/Istanbul
  
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed during prayer times)
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • One of the holiest sites in Turkey
    
  • Beautiful Ottoman architecture and peaceful courtyard
    
  • Vibrant local life around the mosque
    
  • Panoramic views from Pierre Loti Hill
    
• Famous For:
  
  • Resting place of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari
    
  • Important Ottoman religious site
    
  • Pilgrimage destination for centuries
    
  • Rich calligraphy and stained glass inside
    
• How to Get There: Tram or ferry to Eyüp, or bus from Eminönü
  
• Entrance Fee: Free
  

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16. Anadoluhisarı

This less known fortress sits on the narrowest point of the Bosphorus and predates its better-known sibling, Rumelihisarı. Built by the Ottomans in the late 14th century, it played a key strategic role before the conquest of Constantinople. The site is small and quiet, but its history and riverside views are fascinating. A walk around Anadoluhisarı and the nearby Göksu Creek feels like stepping into a slower version of Istanbul.

• Address: Anadoluhisarı Mh., Beykoz/Istanbul
  
• Opening Hours: Exterior view anytime (Interior usually closed for renovation)
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • Great photo spot with the Bosphorus backdrop
    
  • Quiet and authentic residential vibe
    
  • Historical spot without the tourist bustle
    
  • Nice stop on a Bosphorus day tour
    
• Famous For:
  
  • Oldest Turkish-built structure in Istanbul
    
  • Strategic military fortress from 1395
    
  • Overlooks the narrowest point of the Bosphorus
    
  • Close to charming waterfront cafes
    
• How to Get There: Ferry or bus to Kanlıca, then walk
  
• Entrance Fee: Free (Exterior only)

Underrated Experiences in Istanbul

17. Istanbul Dervish Ceremony

Watching the Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul is one of the most spiritual and impressive cultural experiences in the city. The ceremony is part of the Sufi Mevlevi tradition and it dates back over 700 years. It symbolizes a mystical journey of spiritual ascent. Although often seen as a tourist event, the performance is deeply connected with Turkish history and religion. It’s one of the hidden gems in Istanbul if you want to connect with its spiritual heart.

• Address: Hodjapasha Cultural Center, Hocapaşa Hamamı Sk. No:3, Sirkeci/Fatih
  
• Opening Hours: Ceremonies usually held in the evenings (reserve ahead)
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • Experience a spiritual Sufi tradition.
    
  • Rich music, costume, and symbolism.
    
    
• Famous For:
  
  • UNESCO-recognized Mevlevi Sema ritual.
    
  • Originating from Rumi’s teachings.
    
  • Connection to Islamic mysticism.
    
  • Historic performances in ornate hammam spaces.
    
• Entrance Fee: Around $30 per person
  

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18. Flora Aquarium

Often overlooked in travel guides, the Istanbul Akvaryum (Florya Aquarium) is a massive thematic aquarium located near the Sea of Marmara. It’s one of the most advanced in Europe, featuring over 1,500 species in recreated ecosystems from the Amazon to the Pacific. It’s a peaceful and educational spot far from the city buzz and so perfect for families with children. A real hidden gem in Istanbul for nature lovers and kids.

• Address: Şenlikköy, Yeşilköy Halkalı Cd. No:93, Florya/Bakırköy
  
• Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • Huge tanks with sharks, rays, and exotic fish.
    
  • Themed environments from across the world.
    
  • Great family-friendly indoor activity.
    
  • Less crowded than city center attractions.
    
• Famous For:
  
  • World’s largest themed aquarium trail.
    
  • Realistic rainforests and underwater tunnels.
    
  • Educational exhibits and touch pools.
    
  • Nearby beach and mall for a full-day trip.
    
• Entrance Fee:
  

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19. Pera Palace Hotel & Atatürk Room

Pera Palace is more than a hotel  – it’s a living museum. Opened in 1895 to serve guests of the Orient Express, it hosted celebrities, royals, and intellectuals. Room 101, preserved as the Atatürk Museum Room, honors Turkey’s founding father who stayed there during his visits to Istanbul. 

• Address: Meşrutiyet Cd. No:52, Tepebaşı/Beyoğlu
  
• Opening Hours: Hotel open daily; museum room usually open during the day between 10.00-11.00AM and 3.00-4.00PM
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • Step inside the legacy of the Orient Express.
    
  • Explore historical architecture and interiors.
    
  • Learn about Atatürk’s time in Istanbul.
    
  • Sip tea in the historic salon.
    
• Famous For:
  
  • Hosting Agatha Christie, Ernest Hemingway, and Greta Garbo.
    
  • Room 101 dedicated to Atatürk.
    
  • Neo-classical and Art Nouveau architecture.
    
  • Scene setting for period dramas and novels.
    
• Entrance Fee: Free to enter hotel; Atatürk Museum Room 101 is about $4
  

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20. Istanbul Archaeological Museum

The Archeological museum is not one of the places that you’ll visit right away. This complex of three museums offers one of the richest collections in the world – from ancient Mesopotamian tablets to sarcophagi and classical statues. It’s quiet compared to the surrounding tourist spots, but this especially makes it perfect for a peaceful but rich historical experience. It’s one of the must-see attractions in Istanbul if you’re into history and definitely a hidden gem in Istanbul.

• Address: Cankurtaran, Osman Hamdi Bey Yokuşu Sk., Fatih
  
• Opening Hours: Daily except Mondays, 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
  
• Why Visit It:
  
  • Thousands of artifacts from ancient civilizations.
    
  • Marvel at the Alexander Sarcophagus and Treaty of Kadesh.
    
  • Right next to Topkapi Palace but often skipped.
    
• Famous For:
  
  • Oldest museum in Turkey (est. 1891).\n – Home to Istanbul’s founder’s tomb.
    
  • Features from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
    
  • Designed by Osman Hamdi Bey, pioneer of Turkish museology.
    
• Entrance Fee: 

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Discovering Istanbul Beyond the Guidebooks

Istanbul’s charm isn’t just in the postcard-perfect spots. It’s in the narrow streets, slow breakfasts in cute little cafes and the places you were not planning to find or visit at the beginning.

If you leave room in your itinerary for a few detours, I promise you’ll come home with way better stories than just a photo of the Blue Mosque. No matter if you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Istanbul, exploring beyond the famous landmarks will give you a deeper connection to Istanbul’s layers of history, beauty, and local life.