Witness the Local's Daily Life at Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge is one of the best places to go people-watching in Istanbul. It is a modern 2-level bridge connecting Karakoy district with Sultanahmet, the old town district. At the upper level of the bridge, you will find many locals fishing from the bridge on the sidewalks. You can even befriend some of the locals here and try your hands at fishing as well.
If you want to spend some time and relax by the Bosphorus, you can also do it at the lower level of the bridge where you will find a line of restaurants and cafes with a pretty stunning view of the Bosphorus strait. Or you can do it for free at the steps near Karakoy pier and enjoy an unbeatable view of the old town with a pretzel in hand bought from the street vendors nearby and a good book in another.