Turkish cuisine is renowned for its bold and diverse flavours, a testament to the country's unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It has been shaped by a wealth of culinary traditions from Ottoman to Persian, Balkan, and Central Asia. Istanbul in particular is a delectable destination for food lovers, with its legendary markets and restaurants providing a feast for the senses. Taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide is a great option for travellers looking to make the most of the city’s culinary scene, ensuring you navigate the markets with ease, uncover authentic local cafés and taste Turkey’s most emblematic dishes.
On your half-day food tour, you will:
- Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s food scene on a walking tour around some of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods;
- Enjoy the undivided attention of your private guide;
- Wander the lively streets of Karaköy as you sip Turkish coffee or nibble on a piece of Borek;
- Set sail on a Bosphorus ferry ride, enjoying Turkish tea and simit while soaking in panoramic views of Istanbul;
- Visit the bustling Kadıköy Market where you can try lahmacun, mezze, and fresh seafood;
- Discover the iconic Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı) and sample spices, Turkish delights, and baklava;
- Learn how each dish reflects the vibrant history and cultural influences that make Istanbul a culinary paradise.
Embark on an appetizing journey through Istanbul’s vibrant markets, savouring the flavours and aromas that define this historic city. With your private guide leading the way, this tour promises an intimate and immersive experience, blending culture, history, and gastronomy. Your adventure will begin at a conveniently located meeting point in the heart of Karaköy, a true foodie haven and one of Istanbul’s trendiest quarters. Your guide will lead you through the charming streets to give you a feel for the area, a melting pot of old-world charm and modern flair. You’ll have the chance to sip on freshly brewed Turkish coffee or treat yourself to a flaky, savoury börek, as your guide gives an exhilarating introduction to the culinary traditions of the city.
You will then hop aboard a ferry and glide across the sparkling waters of the Bosphorus Strait, the striking waterway that divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia. While onboard, you will enjoy a classic Istanbul pairing of simit (sesame-crusted bread) and Turkish tea, as you take in panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline, where East meets West. You will disembark on the Asian side of Istanbul and make your way to the marvellous Kadıköy Market. Your guide will share stories of the market's history and its significance in Istanbul’s culinary scene. While there, you will get the chance to sample a delightful selection of market produce such as freshly baked lahmacun (Turkish flatbread pizza), flavourful meze, and succulent fresh seafood.
Your next stop will be the legendary Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı), one of Istanbul’s most alluring aromatic marketplaces, for a memorable sensory experience of the city’s unique flavour. You will find out all about the history of the market, which originated in the Ottoman Empire, as you weave among stalls bursting with colourful spices, fragrant teas, and exotic sweets. You can also indulge in tastings of Turkish delight, baklava, and dried fruits, while your guide explains the cultural significance of these delicacies.
Your tour will come to a close within the Bazaar, where you are free to continue exploring, and your guide will be happy to provide further recommendations for restaurants and other bites to try around the city. However you choose to spend the rest of your day, you’ll end the tour with a full belly and a much deeper understanding of Istanbul’s extraordinary gastronomy.