Best Restaurants in Istanbul

Best Restaurants on the Asian Side of Istanbul

1. Çiya Sofrası – Kadıköy

This well-loved spot serves dishes that feel like your grandmother cooked them, hearty, flavorful, regional meals. The menu changes with the seasons, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s located right inside Kadıköy Market, a lively and authentic neighborhood hub.

2. Namlı Gurme – Caddebostan (Kadıköy)

A paradise for Turkish breakfast lovers. You’ll find artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and deluxe breakfast items. Everything is high quality, making it a food lover’s dream.

3. Karadeniz Pide ve Döner – Kadıköy

A small, simple eatery famous for its pide and döner. Cozy and unpretentious, it’s a great place for a quick and tasty Turkish meal while you watch the world go by.

4. Zapata Burger – Kadıköy

If you’re in the mood for burgers, this spot serves some of the best gourmet burgers in the area. The flavors are unique and high quality, perfect for those non-Turkish-food cravings.

5. Kadıköy Market Street Treats

Head to the market to try street food like steamed mussels stuffed with rice (midye dolma) and fried mussel skewers, simple, local, and full of flavor.

6. İsmailğa Kahvesi – Kanlıca

A famous spot to enjoy the local yogurt Kanlıca yoğurdu along the shoreline. Perfect for a light, refreshing snack in a relaxed setting.

Best Restaurants on the European Side of Istanbul

1. Mahir Lokantası – Şişli

A humble, beloved place where chefs often eat. Don’t miss their crispy lahmacun and flavorful içli köfte (meat-stuffed bulgur balls). It’s simple, delicious, and straight from tradition.

2. Aman da Bravo – Bebek (Beşiktaş)

This charming restaurant serves innovative versions of homey Turkish dishes. Think cabbage with lamb, dumplings with a unique twist. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxed.

3. Adana Ocakbaşı – Şişli

A lively kebab house where meat is grilled over open flames. Think Adana kebab with smoky flavor and a buzzing, communal vibe, an iconic Istanbul experience.

4. Seraf Vadi – Sarıyer

Here, Anatolian ingredients meet wood oven cooking. Signature dishes include stuffed onions, mantı, and cabbage rolls with an emphasis on rustic, deeply flavored Anatolian cuisine.

5. Arkestra – Contemporary fusion

A Michelin starred fusion restaurant combining global influences with creative flair. It offers a modern, refined take on flavors from around the world.

6. Neolokal – Modern Turkish

Also Michelin starred, Neolokal serves modern Turkish cuisine with elegant presentation and innovative techniques. Expect beautifully crafted dishes that highlight Turkey’s culinary heritage.

7. Araka – Modern Turkish

A stylish and celebrated spot offering refined Turkish dishes with contemporary touches. Elevated flavors and presentation make it a standout on the European side.

8. Hünkar Lokantası – Nişantaşı or Etiler

A family-run restaurant since 1950. Famous for Hünkar beğendi (eggplant purée with hearty lamb) and ayvalı yahni (quince stew). It feels like a timeless classic for Turkish gourmets.

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Best SIM in Istanbul: Turkcell

Which SIM Card Is Best in Istanbul? My Experience with Turkcell

During my time living in Istanbul, I had the chance to try different mobile networks. After using all the main providers, I can confidently say that Turkcell was the best. Its coverage is excellent not only in Istanbul but also across other cities and even in remote areas. The internet speed was always fast, and the connection rarely dropped. Yes, it may be a little more expensive than other options like Türk Telekom or Vodafone, but the quality you get with Turkcell is definitely worth it.

How to Get a SIM Card in Istanbul

You can get a SIM card from any official Turkcell store in Istanbul. Avoid buying from airport shops because the prices there are usually higher. Instead, walk into any Turkcell store in the city.

To buy a SIM card, you need:

Your original passport

Your Turkish residence card (Kimlik)

You will be asked to provide these documents so the SIM can be registered in your name. The registration includes connecting your phone’s IMEI number and your Turkish Foreign ID Number (YKN) to the SIM. This step is very important.

Why You Should Register with Your Kimlik

If you only use your passport to buy a SIM card, the number will only stay active for around 120 days. After that, your line might stop working due to Turkish telecom rules for foreign phones and unregistered SIMs.

That’s why I always recommend registering your SIM card using your Kimlik (residency card). When the SIM is connected to your YKN number, it becomes a local number and works permanently without interruption.

Step-by-Step to Get Your SIM Card

1. Go to any Turkcell store in the city

2. Take your passport and your Kimlik card

3. Ask for a prepaid SIM with a data and call package

4. Provide your documents and your phone’s IMEI code (dial *#06#)

5. Make sure the number is registered to your YKN, not just your passport

6. Pay for the SIM and package

7. Your SIM will be activated and ready to use

If you are planning to stay in Istanbul for more than a few weeks or months, getting a SIM card registered on your Kimlik is the smartest choice. I personally used Turkcell and had a great experience. The network quality, customer service, and nationwide coverage made it my favorite. I always suggest Turkcell to new visitors or residents in Turkey.

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Best student laptops 2018 to 2025

In a city like İstanbul, having a personal laptop is essential for students. Whether you're attending university, taking language courses, or working part-time, a laptop helps you attend online classes, complete assignments, browse resources, and stay connected with your teachers and classmates. Public transport rides and campus libraries are also easier to utilize when you have a portable, efficient device.

Acer Swift Go 14 (2023–2025)

Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7, 16 GB RAM, up to 1 TB SSD, 14″ FHD+

Lightweight, fast, and battery-efficient, this laptop is excellent for multitasking, note-taking, and research. It suits students who need to carry their laptop across campuses or work in cafes and libraries.

Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (2024–2025)

Intel Core Ultra 7 or AMD Ryzen 7, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, 14″ OLED

Known for its premium screen and strong battery life, this is ideal for students in design, media, or any field requiring sharp visuals and good color accuracy.

Acer Aspire Go 15 (2024)

Intel Core i3, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, 15.6″ FHD

Affordable and easy to use, this laptop offers a large screen and full keyboard, making it suitable for assignments, video classes, and writing-heavy work.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3x (2025)

Snapdragon processor, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, 14″ FHD

Best for long battery use and smooth performance in day-to-day student tasks like web browsing, online classes, and note-taking. Good for students who move around a lot.

Asus Chromebook CM14 (2025)

Intel N-series processor, 8 GB RAM, 64–128 GB storage, 14″ FHD

Simple, reliable, and ideal for students who mostly work with Google Docs, Classroom, and online platforms. Lightweight and fast for basic education use.

Acer Chromebook Plus 514 (2022–2025)

Intel N-series, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD, 14″ FHD IPS

Great for those who prefer a Chromebook with better screen quality and smoother performance. It's perfect for lectures, writing, and browsing.

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11 (2020)

MediaTek processor, 4 GB RAM, 64–128 GB storage, 11″ detachable screen

Portable and cheap, best for reading, note-taking, and basic tasks. Ideal for students who need a second lightweight device.

Asus Chromebook CX14 (2025)

Intel Core 3 N355, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB storage, 14″ FHD IPS

Performs well for everyday student work like browsing, writing, and video calls. A good Chromebook choice with better specs than earlier models.

MacBook Air M3 (2024)

Apple M3 chip, 8–16 GB RAM, 256–512 GB SSD, 13.6″ Retina

Very efficient and smooth for all types of student work. Great build quality, long battery, and strong for both academic and creative needs.

HP Chromebook Plus 15.6″ (2024)

Intel-based, 8 GB RAM, large FHD screen

Offers more screen space for multitasking and better viewing. A solid option for those who prefer Chromebooks and need a bigger display.

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Best Beaches in Istanbul for Students

Best Beaches in Istanbul - A Student’s Guide

If you are a student living in Istanbul, you should know that this amazing city also has some nice beaches where you can relax and enjoy your free time. You do not need to travel far. Right inside Istanbul, there are beautiful spots by the sea that are perfect for a quick break or a full day of fun.

Here are some of the best beaches in Istanbul that every student should visit:

1. Florya Güneş Beach

Located on the European side, this beach is clean and well-organized. It has showers, changing rooms, and even small cafes. It is easy to reach by metro or bus, and it’s a perfect place for a peaceful day by the sea.

2. Caddebostan Beach

This is one of the most famous beaches on the Asian side. It’s free and very popular among young people. You can swim, sunbathe, or just sit on the grass and enjoy the sea view. It’s close to the city center and easy to reach.

3. Kilyos Beaches

Kilyos is on the northern coast of Istanbul, by the Black Sea. The beaches here are bigger and many of them are private with entrance fees, but they are clean and full of energy in summer. Some places also have music, food, and fun events for students.

4. Menekşe Beach

Close to Florya, Menekşe Beach is another nice option on the European side. It’s a bit quieter and has a family-friendly vibe. If you want to relax and avoid the crowd, this could be a good choice.

5. Poyrazköy Beach

Located near the Bosphorus Bridge on the Asian side, this beach feels more natural and less crowded. The water is clean, and the views are beautiful. It’s a good place for a peaceful day away from the busy parts of the city.

Quick Tips:

• Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
•  Some beaches are free, others have a small fee
• Take your student ID with you
• Always clean up after yourself and respect others

Istanbul is not only about studying and city life. These beaches can help you relax and enjoy the beauty of nature while you are here. Try to visit at least one when the weather is good.

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From Istanbul to Consultancy

From Istanbul to Pakistan: Guiding Students to Their Dream Education in Turkey

Living in Istanbul changed my life and now I’m using that experience to help others change theirs.

After completing my second master’s degree in business administration from İstanbul Okan University, one of Turkey’s most reputable institutions, I returned to Pakistan with a mission: to guide students who dream of studying in Turkey. I now work as a consultant, specializing in Turkish education, helping students from Pakistan take the right steps toward their academic future abroad.

My own journey wasn’t just about academics. I was a high-achieving student at Okan University, often securing top positions in various subjects throughout my MBA. But beyond the classroom, I immersed myself in the culture, language, and daily life of Istanbul. I worked at Manara International College and Asia International College during my time there, teaching subjects like Business Studies, Economics, IT, and ICT. These roles helped me grow not only as a professional but also as a person who understands the local academic system inside out.

Istanbul became more than a city to me, it became my second home. I lived in four different towns and cities during my two-year stay, each with its own flavor and charm. From the bustling heart of the European side to the peaceful pockets of the Asian side, I experienced the diversity and depth of Turkey’s social fabric. And let’s not forget the food, Turkish cuisine won me over in every possible way.

Today, I bring all this knowledge and experience back to my home country. I don’t just talk to students about universities and programs, I share lived realities. From admission procedures and visa details to daily life tips and cultural adjustments, I give my students the kind of insider insight that only someone who’s truly lived there can offer.

Turkey isn’t just a destination for education, it’s a gateway to growth, independence, and a broader worldview. I know it, because I lived it. And now, I help others live it too.

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Top Private Universities in Istanbul (2025)

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is home to some of Turkey’s most prestigious private universities. These institutions offer world-class education, cutting-edge research facilities, and globally recognized programs that attract students from all over the world. In 2025, several private universities in Istanbul have risen to prominence in global rankings, thanks to their academic excellence, strong industry partnerships, and international outlook. Whether you're interested in medicine, engineering, business, or social sciences, Istanbul’s top private universities provide a rich blend of quality education and cultural experience.

1. Koç University – Sarıyer, Istanbul (European Side)

Koç University is widely regarded as the best private university in Turkey. Located in the serene area of Sarıyer, it boasts a large, modern campus and strong English-taught programs. The university excels in research, medicine, engineering, and social sciences. It consistently ranks in the top 100–150 universities worldwide due to its international faculty, research funding, and partnerships with global institutions.

Why It’s on Top:

• Highest global ranking among Turkish privates

• Strong in research and graduate employment

• English-medium instruction and scholarships

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2. Sabancı University – Tuzla, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Sabancı University is a research-driven institution known for its interdisciplinary approach. Located in Tuzla, its modern campus supports innovation in engineering, natural sciences, and business. It ranks among the top 150 globally.

Why It’s on Top:

• Flexible academic structure

• Strong industrial and academic partnerships

• Focus on innovation and entrepreneurship

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3. Istanbul Medipol University – Bağcılar/Kavacık (Both Sides)

Medipol has gained fame due to its focus on medical sciences, pharmacy, and health sciences. With campuses on both the Asian and European sides, it offers high-quality practical education supported by its own hospital network.

Why It’s on Top:

• Leading university in health and medical research

• Large clinical practice network

• Rapid rise in national and international rankings

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4. Yeditepe University – Ataşehir, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Yeditepe is known for its comprehensive programs ranging from engineering to dentistry. The university offers an American-style education with English as the medium of instruction. Its main campus is modern and tech equipped.

Why It’s on Top:

• Wide academic program range

• English-medium instruction

• Strong alumni network and job placement

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5. Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University – Ataşehir, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Acıbadem is a top institution in the medical and health sciences fields. Affiliated with the prestigious Acıbadem Healthcare Group, it provides hands-on medical education with modern laboratories and hospitals.

Why It’s on Top:

• Strong industry integration (Acıbadem Hospitals)

• Leading in medical education

• State-of-the-art facilities

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6. Istinye University – Sarıyer/Topkapı, Istanbul (European Side)

Istinye University is relatively new but has quickly risen in rankings due to its research-oriented environment and strong backing from the MLPCare healthcare group. It offers programs in health, technology, and business.

Why It’s on Top:

• Fastest-growing private university

• Practical education in health sciences

• Modern urban campuses

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7. Bahçeşehir University – Beşiktaş, Istanbul (European Side)

Located in the heart of Istanbul, Bahçeşehir University is known for its international outlook. It has global campuses and exchange programs in the U.S., Germany, and Canada. The university excels in engineering, business, and media.

Why It’s on Top:

• Global campus network

• Strong international student body

• Industry-focused education

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8. Istanbul Bilgi University – Eyüp/Santral, Istanbul (European Side)

Bilgi University is a liberal and progressive institution, especially strong in law, media, and social sciences. It is one of the few Turkish universities ranked in global QS rankings. The Santral Campus is located at a former power plant turned cultural center.

Why It’s on Top:

• Creative, liberal arts focus

• International recognition

• Culturally rich and innovative campus

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9. Özyeğin University – Çekmeköy, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Özyeğin University is a research-oriented institution with a beautiful green campus in Çekmeköy. It is known for its entrepreneurship and innovation culture, and its business and engineering schools are highly ranked.

Why It’s on Top:

• Entrepreneurial ecosystem

• Scholarships and modern campus

• Rising research productivity

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10. Kadir Has University – Cibali, Istanbul (European Side)

Kadir Has University is located near the Golden Horn and has a strong focus on humanities, international relations, and design. It’s a mid-size university that combines tradition with modern academic offerings.

Why It’s on Top:

• Central location in historic Istanbul

• Well-known programs in arts and politics

• English-medium education and international ties

These universities are at the top not only because of academic performance but also because of strong global ties, industry integration, English-taught programs, and active research environments. Each one offers something unique, whether it's health sciences, engineering, social impact, or business education. For international students or local scholars seeking quality education in Istanbul, these ten are the best private options as of 2025.

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A teacher in Istanbul

Teaching in Istanbul, where the majority of students hail from conflict-ridden Arab nations, has been both a rewarding and challenging experience. Despite holding double masters in Information Technology and Business Studies, the struggle lies in motivating students, with only a small percentage genuinely interested in learning.

Navigating through the complexities, I find solace in the proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child." In this case, the village extends beyond the classroom to the broader community, acknowledging the collective responsibility in nurturing these young minds. As I persist in my mission, I am reminded of another proverb, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago; the second-best time is now." Each effort, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter future for these students.

The impact of war is palpable as students grapple with disrupted lives and parents facing the daunting task of rebuilding in a new country. The burden on these families, exacerbated by Turkey's high inflation rate of 110%, leaves little room for dedicated parental guidance. Yet, amid these challenges, a resilient few emerge as shining examples of transformation.

Right now I'm teaching at Manara International School in Basaksehir, Istanbul, As I continue to inspire change, I reflect on the words of Confucius: "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." It is in the resilience of both students and educators that true success is found, transcending the hardships of the past.

Moreover, the disconnect between managers, school heads, and the daily challenges faced by teachers is glaring. Despite their awareness of the students' academic caliber, there seems to be a lack of empathy or action. Admission processes in many high schools and colleges lack rigorous assessments, contributing to an environment where genuine interest in education takes a back seat.

Compounding the issue, a substantial number of private international schools are under Arab influence. Unfortunately, the emergence of lobbying systems among staff has created a concerning trend. Nationality discrimination is prevalent, overshadowing the significance of education and skills. In this environment, lobbying often triumphs over merit, raising questions about the fairness and integrity of the educational system.

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Turkiye, Istanbul and Okan University

Ten years ago when I was entering university from college. Had to enroll. The result was to come then the intention, the wish was to go to Turkey and study. 

This wish of mine is fulfilled this year in 2022. I did my undergraduate and then my masters in computer science from a university in Pakistan. Now came to Turkey with the intention of doing another master's in business. 

Turkey is home to both Islamist and anti-Islamic races. The system here is completely different from Pakistan. My luggage was two bags. One big bag and one small, small bag weighed eight kilograms. The big bag, however, was thirty kilos. Wheels are also installed to run it. But since the journey was too far, I came to know after leaving the airport. 

On October 18, I was at Istanbul Airport. My flight was from Lahore Pakistan to Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi to Istanbul. The journey was very tiring, but when you see a new environment and you have to manage everything by yourself. You don't remember the fatigue, the fatigue is felt only when you reach your destination. 

My university, Istanbul Okan University, was six hours away from the airport. Which I had to cover by bus travel and train then taxi. Had to wait for half an hour and walk for half an hour. 

I don't like the transport system here in Turkey. You should manage a train. Which connects the whole country. In Pakistan, the train system is very extensive. India is running the best train system. I stayed in UAE 2019, The metro line there was fantastic. Turkey has a large bus system. Traffic on the road is a huge waste of time.

Well, after the journey, when I came to my university, I intended to stay here for a year. I will complete two semesters here (First thoughts). And one for the rest, I will spend the rest of the semester outside somewhere with friends since my degree will be completed in a year and a half. There is a two-year visa. I will also work together with study.  

Then I realized Job is not possible now because the teachers are doing so much work that I have to give full time to study. There will be only one project in the final semester. Then time will be available for me to do a job. 

The food that my university "Istanbul Okan University" serves to its students. As such, we are provided with facilities such as gym, swimming pool, games (including snooker), high speed Wi-Fi, computers and modern libraries. But in this post. I will mention the food. 

Three meals a day are provided to those staying in the hostels. But those who do not live in the hostel can also eat. At half the price compared to the outside market; This is the reason why most of the students prefer Okan food. 

Everything is made in olive or canola oils. Here.. I have not seen unnecessary use of oil. Take food, willingly; Two dishes are made for each meal (whether it is lunch or dinner). There is a beef dish a day, with vegetables; Now the fish season started, yesterday was the best fish, with chicken and white rice. Breakfast: boiled egg, salad, chocolate, jam and bread. Bread You can take as much as you want with every meal. Because here, Bread is made as an alternative to “Roti” i.e. Chapati.

If you want to add black pepper, cumin, hot sauces, olives, ketchup to the food.. add as many things as you want. It's all free. Pepper, salt, water and tissue paper are always present on the dining table. 

Students are given exceptional respect here. No one is lined up. In addition, there are vending machines throughout the university; Add coins and take out whatever you want to eat. 

You can have cold drinks, lassi, pudding, custard or fruit with your meal at a nominal price. The system here is a paperless system, you only need to place your university card on the scanner, not currency.

 

But the hostel system of my university told me that you stay outside bro. Their rent is very high.  $3,450 a year; Now I planned to stay here for one semester only. And I will say goodbye to them by giving 1700$ and something. Anyway, the university is far away from city in Tuzla Istanbul. I love walking around and meeting people which is not possible here. We are in middle of no where. Only, university mates are people around me.

My friends here from class are from Jordan, Iraq and Turkey. My roommates names Ata and Tüçan are from Turkey. Both are under grad’ students. Nice in overall, Their families are good actually. They both stay busy in playing video games and study.

I’m also attaching pictures with this post, to be memorable. November 22, three days later, our first semester midterms begin. My first semester subjects are Financial Accounting, Marketing, Business Economics and Marketing and Organization. 

Now that I am in the new country, I will continue to write about it, that's all for now. Bye bye 

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