Walking Tour for Foodies in Istanbul with Tastings

Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel for an 8-hour tour of the tastiest side of Istanbul. Hop on a transcontinental ferry, sip hot tea in tulip-shaped glasses and feed the swooping seagulls while soaking in the majestic views of the old city skyline. Land in Kadikoy, a neighborhood on Istanbul’s Asian shore, and explore the colorful food and fish markets. Stroll up lively streets lined with restaurants and pause at a local coffee house, where you can sample dark aromatic Turkish coffee, served black and thick over the grounds. Travel by tram to the Moda neighborhood and try freshly made ice cream or a hot creamy cinnamon-infused drink called sahlep.

Meander past the tree-shaded tea gardens that dot the seaside and arrive at Bahariye Street, a vibrant shopping street bustling with activity. At a special dessert shop, sample a mysterious Turkish pudding called tavuk gogsu. Stop for lunch at Yanyali Fehmi Lokantasi and taste soup, kebabs, and other traditional Turkish food.

Ride the ferry back to the European side of the city and observe a baklava cooking demonstration. Afterwards, explore the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, where your guide will tell you about the history of this covered market. Your final stop will be the famous Haci Bekir Sekercisi shop, which is known for lokum, or Turkish delight. Purchase these bright sweets in vacuum-sealed containers to transport home.

Conclude the tour at the Sirkeci tram stop and independently return to your hotel.