2 DAYS Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour – Istanbul Old City Tour

Explore the vibrant flavors and rich history of Istanbul on this private, guided 2-day food tour. Day 1 takes you through the iconic Old City, visiting the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern. Day 2 focuses on culinary experiences, exploring the Spice Market, Istiklal Street, and local delicacies in Kadikoy. The tour utilizes public transportation for an eco-friendly experience and is priced from $550 per person. Wheelchair and stroller accessible, with knowledgeable guides and high customer satisfaction. Learn more about the personalized service and authentic flavors of this captivating Istanbul adventure.

Key Points

• A 2-day private guided tour in Istanbul that combines exploring the city’s historic sites and discovering its vibrant culinary scene.
• Visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern, providing insights into Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.
• Immersive experiences in local markets, such as the Spice Market and Kadikoy Carsisi, allowing for authentic encounters with Turkish cuisine and traditions.
• Utilizes public transportation for eco-friendly exploration and offers a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.
• Includes breakfast, lunch, and complimentary access to various attractions, ensuring a well-rounded and hassle-free tour.

Tour Overview

This 2-day private and guided Istanbul food tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic attractions and local Turkish eateries.

The tour features a private guide who provides an insider’s perspective on Turkish culture and the food scene.

Travelers will use public transportation to navigate Istanbul’s streets, enjoying an eco-friendly travel experience while avoiding traffic jams.

The tour ranges from $550 per person, with the price varying based on group size.

Travelers can expect a personalized experience that showcases the best of Istanbul’s historic sites and culinary delights.

Day 1 – Istanbul Old City

The first day of the Istanbul food tour begins with a visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, the second-largest mosque in Istanbul, known for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and six minarets.

The tour then moves on to the historic Topkapi Palace, the main residence of Ottoman Sultans, where visitors can explore the Imperial Treasury and enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosporus.

Next, the tour takes guests to the bustling Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, with over 4,000 shops.

Finally, the day concludes at the Basilica Cistern, the largest ancient underground cistern in Istanbul.

• Blue Mosque: 30 minutes, admission free
• Topkapi Palace: 2 hours, admission included
• Grand Bazaar: 1 hour, admission free
• Basilica Cistern: 45 minutes, admission included

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, stands as the second-largest mosque in Istanbul.

Featuring six towering minarets and over 20,000 Iznik tiles adorning its interior, the Blue Mosque is an architectural marvel.

Visitors can admire the stunning blue hue that gives the mosque its name, while learning about its rich history and cultural significance.

With a visit duration of around 30 minutes, the Blue Mosque offers travelers a glimpse into Istanbul’s Islamic heritage and the grandeur of Ottoman-era architecture.

As one of the city’s iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque is a must-see stop on the Istanbul Old City tour.

Topkapi Palace

Dominating the Istanbul skyline, Topkapi Palace was the main residence of Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years.

Visitors can explore the Imperial Treasury, which houses impressive collections of jewels, weapons, and other treasures. The palace also offers breathtaking views of the Bosporus Strait.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Marveling at the opulent Sultan’s Harem, a secluded living space for the Sultan’s family and concubines
• Discovering the palace’s rich history through interactive exhibits and guided tours
• Admiring the intricate Iznik tiles and stunning architecture throughout the complex
• Learning about the powerful legacy of the Ottoman Empire and its influence on Turkish culture

The Topkapi Palace tour provides a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Ottoman era.

Grand Bazaar

After exploring the opulent Topkapi Palace, visitors can enjoy the bustling energy of the Grand Bazaar.

As the largest covered market in the world, the Grand Bazaar offers a dizzying array of shops, stalls, and vendors. Visitors can navigate the 52 streets and over 4,000 shops, haggling for traditional Turkish carpets, leather goods, spices, and more.

This vibrant marketplace provides a unique opportunity to witness the time-honored traditions of Turkish commerce. With its labyrinth of alleyways and lively atmosphere, the Grand Bazaar offers a truly immersive cultural experience for travelers in Istanbul.

Basilica Cistern

Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul’s historic Old City lies the Basilica Cistern, an expansive underground water reservoir that dates back to the 6th century.

This awe-inspiring structure features 336 marble columns, many of which support the weight of the city above. Visitors can explore the serene, dimly lit space, marveling at the architectural grandeur and historical significance:

• The cistern’s columns are arranged in a grid pattern, with each one standing over 40 feet tall.

• The Medusa heads at the base of two columns are particularly noteworthy, believed to be remnants of earlier Roman structures.

• Walkways allow visitors to navigate the vast interior, offering a unique perspective on Istanbul’s underground infrastructure.

• The Basilica Cistern is a testament to the engineering prowess of the Byzantine Empire and a must-see destination for any visitor to the city.

Day 2 – Istanbul Food Tour

The second day of the Istanbul Food Tour begins at the Karakoy Rihtim, where visitors start by exploring the vibrant Spice Market. They then walk along Istiklal Street in Beyoglu, where they can enjoy a traditional Turkish tea or coffee. Next, they take a ferry to the Asian side of the city, Kadikoy Carsisi, to taste authentic Turkish dishes and visit the bustling fish market. The tour concludes at the Misir Carsisi, where travelers sample Turkish coffee and desserts.

Location	Duration	Admission
Karakoy Rihtim (Spice Market)	2 hours	Free
Beyoglu (Istiklal Street)	1 hour	Free
Kadikoy Carsisi	2 hours	Free
Misir Carsisi (Spice Market)	1 hour	Free

Additional Information

The tour includes breakfast and lunch, as well as the use of public transportation to provide an eco-friendly travel experience.

The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.

A dress code is required for places of worship and selected museums, with knees and shoulders needing to be covered.

The tour has received an overall rating of 5.0 out of 18 reviews, with customers praising the knowledgeable guides and personalized service, as well as the authenticity of the food exploration and cultural insights.

• Wheelchair and stroller accessible
• Dress code required for places of worship and museums
• Overall rating of 5.0 out of 18 reviews
• Personalized service and cultural insights

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Food Will Be Served During the Food Tour?

During the food tour, travelers will sample a variety of authentic Turkish dishes, including traditional breakfast items, tea and coffee, and local specialties from the Spice Market and fish market. The tour provides an immersive culinary experience.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate various dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure an enjoyable and customized experience.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, covering several historic sites and local eateries. Guests can expect to walk up to 5 miles/8 km throughout the two-day experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Personal Interests?

The tour can be customized to personal interests. The private nature of the tour allows the guide to tailor the itinerary and focus based on the traveler’s preferences for food, culture, or specific attractions within Istanbul.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Additional Days?

Yes, the tour can be extended to additional days, allowing more flexibility to explore Istanbul’s vast cultural and culinary offerings tailored to the traveler’s interests. Customization options are available upon request when booking the tour.

Sum Up

This private and guided Istanbul tour offers an immersive experience, blending the city’s iconic landmarks with its vibrant culinary scene. Travelers will discover the architectural wonders of the Old City, explore the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, and savor the flavors of traditional Turkish delights. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this two-day adventure promises an intimate and unforgettable exploration of Istanbul’s rich cultural tapestry.