Istanbul on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the City Like a Local for Just $40
Hi, I’m Bekir. In recent years, I’ve been trying to understand the world and have been traveling.
Of course
when you visit Istanbul, you should see landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar.
But the best way to experience the city is to live like a local for a day.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to spend a day in Istanbul on just $40, hitting some of the city’s most authentic spots. By spending your time in these places, you’ll get to see Istanbul through the eyes of the locals.
If you’re visiting Istanbul, check out “Avoid Istanbul Tourist Traps: 10 Key Turkish Words” to avoid being scammed.
A Peaceful Start in Kuzguncuk
Start your day early in Kuzguncuk, a charming neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul. In the early morning, the cool Bosphorus breeze carries the scent of the sea through its peaceful streets. The view of the colorful wooden houses is stunning, and the smell of fresh bread drifts from every local bakery. Head to the historic Cinaralti Café, nestled under ancient plane trees, where you can enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast—simit, börek, poğaça, and, of course, a glass of steaming Turkish tea—while gazing out at the Bosphorus. It’s a magical, slow start to the day that feels like a secret only locals know.
What to Do in Kuzguncuk
- While the city is still asleep, take a peaceful walk through the quiet streets of Kuzguncuk. Wander between colorful old houses, and let the charm of this hidden gem of a neighborhood sink in.
- Next, head to the famous Historical Kuzguncuk Bakery, where the smell of freshly baked goods fills the air. Grab a couple of simit, a savory pastry, or some borek—perfect for a quick, tasty breakfast on the go.
- With breakfast in hand, make your way to Cinaralti Cafe, just a few steps away. Order a traditional Turkish tea, sit back, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while the cool breeze from the Bosphorus mingles with the warm sunlight. This is the kind of breakfast locals savor, and it’s all budget-friendly.
How to Get to Kuzguncuk – Easy Steps
🛥️ By Ferry (Most Scenic & Easiest Way):
Take a ferry to Uskudar Pier from Eminonu, Karakoy, or Besiktas (you can use your Istanbulkart or buy a token at the dock).
→ From Uskudar, walk 15 minutes along the coast or take a short bus ride.
🚌 By Bus from Uskudar:
From Uskudar Bus Station (next to the ferry pier), take bus 15, 15F, or 15K heading toward Beylerbeyi.
→ Get off at Kuzguncuk stop (it’s 3–5 stops away, around 10 minutes).
- When you take the bus, get off at the CENGELKOY station stop.
I wouldn’t recommend using taxis in Istanbul as much as possible.
Morning Budget Breakdown – Kuzguncuk Experience
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ferry to Uskudar | $1.00 |
| Bus transfer to Kuzguncuk | $0.50 |
| Local breakfast in Kuzguncuk (Simit, pastry, Turkish tea) | $5.00 |
| Total | $6.50 |
Journey to Kadikoy
We all know how overwhelming it can be to visit Istanbul’s busiest attractions. You came to explore the city, but with limited time and so much to see, it can feel like you’re racing against the clock. I get it. To help you make the most of your time without breaking the bank, I’m taking you on a tour of Kadikoy, where you can experience the best of the city without the crowds or hefty price tags.
How to get to Kadikoy from Kuzguncuk?
🛥️ By Ferry (Most Scenic & Easiest Way):
→ Use your Istanbulkart to take the bus from Kuzguncuk Cengelkoy bus stop to Uskudar. Once you reach Uskudar, take the ferry to Kadikoy.
🚌 By Bus from Kuzguncuk to Uskudar:
For the bus from Kuzguncuk to Uskudar, you can take the 15, 15F, or 15K buses. These buses head towards Uskudar, and you can get off at the Uskudar stop.
🚶♂️ By Walking and Public Transport:
Walk to Uskudar and take the Marmaray train to Kadıkoy.
What to Do in Istanbul Kadikoy
- Stroll Through Yeldegirmeni Street: Explore the vibrant murals and street art that turn every corner into a canvas. This area reflects the creative spirit of modern Kadikoy.
- Take a Photo at the Bull Statue: The iconic Bull Statue is a symbol of Kadikoy. Capture a memorable photo here—it’s a must for first-time visitors.
- Dine at Ciya Restaurant: Discover rich Turkish flavors at Ciya, one of Kadikoy’s most beloved local restaurants, offering traditional dishes with authentic taste.
- Visit All Saints Church and Baris Manco House: One of Istanbul’s few active Anglican churches, All Saints Church offers a peaceful escape. Next door, explore the Baris Manco House—locals admire him as a national icon of Turkish music and culture.
- Spending time at Moda seaside is one of the best free activities in Istanbul. Sitting on the grass with a cold beer in hand adds a simple joy to the experience—locals do it all the time, and it’s the perfect way to relax like one of them.
Day Budget – Kadikoy Experience
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ferry from Uskudar to Kadikoy | $1.50 |
| Visit to Baris Manco Culture House | $0.50 |
| Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi | $10.00 |
| Donation or candle at All Saints Church | $1.00 |
| Total | $13.00 |
Crossing to the European Side by Ferry
After spending some time in Kadikoy, we’ll take a ferry to Besiktas. The ride takes about 20-25 minutes and offers beautiful views along the way. The ferry costs about $1. Once we arrive in Besiktas, we’ll enjoy exploring the neighborhood.
What to Do on the Ferry to Besiktas?
- As you take the ferry, seagulls will fly overhead – offer them some simit (Turkish bagel-like bread).
- Order some Turkish tea to enhance the experience.
- Don’t forget to take a picture of the magnificent view from Haydarpaşa Station.
What to Do in Istanbul Besiktas
- Besiktas is a lively maze of narrow streets lined with cozy cafes, local shops and street vendors – offering an authentic slice of everyday Istanbul.
- You can try traditional Turkish dishes at Balkan Lokantası – it’s budget-friendly and absolutely delicious.
- Grab a coffee and head to the Besiktas waterfront. The views are breathtaking.
- Shawarma (Doner) or mussels: Many shops in the bazaar offer these delicious treats.
- Take a walk along Barbaros Boulevard towards Yıldız Park.
- For a beer at the bars in Besiktas: The locals here love to grab a beer and relax.
Our budget is a little tight, so we didn’t include the Maritime Museum (Deniz Muzesi) or Dolmabahce Palace on the list. But if you’re willing to stretch your budget, be sure to visit the Dolmabahçe Palace – it’s definitely worth it.
Day Budget – Besiktas Experience
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast at Balkan Lokantasi | $5.13 |
| Coffee at a local cafe | $3.85 |
| Street food (Doner or Midye) | $5.13 |
| Beer at a local bar | $5.13 |
| Stroll along Besiktas waterfront | Free |
| Walk along Barbaros Boulevard towards Yildiz Park | Free |
| Total | $19.23 |
If it’s your first time in Istanbul, make sure to read my other articles too!
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