Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour

Discover Istanbul’s Asian side on a private food tour, savoring Turkish and Kurdish delights, stunning views, and iconic landmarks with an expert guide.

Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania
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Explore Istanbul’s Flavors in Style: A Private Food and Culture Tour | ®ExcursionMania

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary culinary adventure that takes you to the heart of Istanbul’s Asian side, a region rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. This private tour is designed for food enthusiasts eager to savor the authentic flavors of Turkey while discovering the hidden gems of this vibrant city. Guided by a professional gourmet expert, this experience blends iconic landmarks, stunning views, and unforgettable culinary delights.

Your journey begins with a traditional Turkish breakfast shopping experience at a local market near the Spice Bazaar. Here, your guide will curate a selection of delectable items such as a variety of cheeses, olives, pistachio paste, hazelnut spreads, buffalo cream drizzled with honey, and fresh-baked simit bread. Pair these with Menemen (a Turkish-style scrambled egg dish) and steaming cups of Turkish tea for a breakfast like no other at a local café.

Next, head to the Ortaköy Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel set against the backdrop of the Bosporus Strait. Capture breathtaking views of the first Bosporus Bridge, a landmark that symbolizes the connection between Europe and Asia. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the mosque and its cultural significance.

Continue your journey to the Çamlıca Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity of 60,000 worshippers. Located on Istanbul’s highest hill, this modern architectural masterpiece offers sweeping panoramic views of the city and the Bosporus Strait. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and admire the serene beauty of Istanbul.

From there, the adventure leads to the bustling Kadıköy Food Market, a food lover’s paradise. Sample an array of local delicacies at seven unique stops, each offering a variety of flavors and culinary traditions. Indulge in delights like pastrami (sun-dried beef), pickled vegetables, goat cheese aged in goat skin, and tantuni—diced beef or chicken wrapped in lavash bread with yogurt, garlic, and sumac sauce. Try the Middle Eastern-inspired lahmacun, a flatbread topped with minced lamb and fresh herbs, as well as spicy stuffed mussels cooked with rice.

For a grand finale, enjoy the famous İskender Kebab, served at a historic restaurant run by the fourth generation of the family who invented this beloved dish. The meal continues with the decadent Künefe dessert, made from angel hair noodles filled with melted cheese, pistachios, and sweet syrup, accompanied by traditional Turkish ice cream made from goat’s milk and orchid root.

Throughout the tour, you’ll explore the lesser-known parts of Istanbul, connecting with its local culture and experiencing the city as its residents do. This private tour ensures personalized attention and a seamless experience with luxury transportation, making it a perfect choice for families, couples, and small groups seeking an exclusive, in-depth exploration of Istanbul’s culinary and cultural treasures.

End your day with a satisfied palate and a deep appreciation for Istanbul’s vibrant food scene and rich history, as your guide drops you off back at your hotel.

This unique journey combines gastronomy, history, and culture, offering you an unforgettable taste of Istanbul that lingers long after the tour concludes.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1

Adult

Age 10-25+

Excursion Itinerary

Istanbul
Start Activities

Van (Transfer)
Duration: 40 Min.

Your private luxury vehicle will pick you up from your hotel. Sit back and enjoy the ride to your first destination.


Local Market Breakfast
Breakfast,
Duration: 1 Hour.

Experience an authentic Turkish breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh market delicacies like Menemen, buffalo cream with honey, and simit bread paired with Turkish tea.


Ortaköy Mosque & Bosphorus Views
Visit,
Duration: 30 Min.

Visit the iconic Ortaköy Mosque and take in panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the first bridge connecting continents.


Çamlıca Mosque & Hill
Visit,
Duration: 45 Min.

Marvel at one of the world’s largest mosques and enjoy breathtaking views from Istanbul’s highest hill.


Kadıköy Food Market
Visit,
Duration: 2 Hours.

Savor diverse flavors across seven stops, from Iskender kebap to lahmacun, mussels, and unique cheeses. Explore the bustling market and sample local specialties.


Dessert Stop - Künefe & Dondurma
Dessert,
Duration: 30 Min.

Indulge in mouthwatering künefe with Turkish ice cream made from goat’s milk and orchid root.


Van (Transfer)
Duration: 40 Min.

Return to your hotel in comfort with a happy belly and unforgettable memories of Istanbul’s culinary treasures.


Istanbul
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring local market delights.
  • Visit the iconic Ortaköy Mosque with stunning Bosporus views.
  • Explore the Çamlıca Mosque, one of the largest in the world, on Istanbul’s highest hill.
  • Taste Turkish and Kurdish delicacies at the vibrant Kadıköy Food Market.
  • Indulge in authentic İskender Kebab and the decadent Künefe dessert.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Delicious food tastings at Kadıköy Market and luxury restaurants across 7 unique stops.
  • Comfortable roundtrip transport in a private luxury vehicle.
  • Expert guidance from a professional licensed gourmet guide.
  • Ferry ride fees to explore both sides of Istanbul.
  • All taxes and handling fees included for a seamless experience.

Not Included

  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Personal expenses

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with mobility impairments

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Alcohol and drugs

Important Information

What to Bring

Camera
Cash
Comfortable clothes
Comfortable shoes

Information Before Booking

  • This tour involves walking and exploring markets.
  • Public transport may be used for short distances.
  • Respect local customs while visiting mosques.
  • Dietary preferences can be accommodated if informed in advance.
  • Come hungry to enjoy all the food tastings!

Know Before You Go

  • Your guide will meet you at your hotel lobby.
  • The tour starts and ends with convenient transportation.
  • Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Bring a camera for capturing unforgettable moments.

4.7/5

6
Reviews

About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 5  Hours

Check availability to see starting times.

Live Tour Guide

English

Pickup Optional

Please wait at the main security gate of your hotel 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

Location

Istanbul Türkiye

Book Today

From

€21.88

per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Alana Hicks - Canada
01 March

I was traveling alone and really wanted to experience Istanbul's food scene, and this tour didn't disappoint. The breakfast foods were so fresh and delicious, and I loved trying all the different cheeses and honeys. Visiting the Ortaköy Mosque was wonderful, and the view of the Bosphorus Bridge was...

Read More

Lewis Lake - Canada
02 March

I booked this tour for my wife and I, and it was a wonderful experience. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. He explained the cultural significance behind each stop, including the Ortaköy Mosque and Çamlıca Mosque. The entire day was like a private VIP experience, with great food, stun...

Read More

See More Reviews

Customer Reviews

All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.

Overall Rating

4.7/5

Based on 6 Reviews

Guide

4.7/5

Transportation

4.7/5

Value for Money

4.7/5

By Traveler Types
By star rating
A
Alana Hicks - Canada
01 March

I was traveling alone and really wanted to experience Istanbul's food scene, and this tour didn't disappoint. The breakfast foods were so fresh and delicious, and I loved trying all the different cheeses and honeys. Visiting the Ortaköy Mosque was wonderful, and the view of the Bosphorus Bridge was breathtaking. The tantuni and lahmacun were amazing, and I couldn't resist eating the kunefe at the end. If you love food and want to experience the true flavor of Istanbul, this tour is for you.

Helpful? Yes

L
Lewis Lake - Canada
02 March

I booked this tour for my wife and I, and it was a wonderful experience. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. He explained the cultural significance behind each stop, including the Ortaköy Mosque and Çamlıca Mosque. The entire day was like a private VIP experience, with great food, stunning views, and a local perspective on the city. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for something special in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

R
Rene Hebert - Canada
03 March

My wife and I took this tour to celebrate our anniversary, and it was one of the best travel experiences we've ever had. The breakfast shopping experience at the local market was unique and gave us a taste of local life. We loved the Kadıköy Food Market, especially the pastrami and stuffed mussels. The tour concluded on a sweet note with an excellent Künefe dessert. It was a wonderful combination of food, culture, and beautiful scenery. Definitely worth every penny.

Helpful? Yes

D
David McCallum - Canada
04 March

I joined this tour with a group of friends, and it was a perfect way to explore Istanbul's food scene. We all love exploring food markets, and the Kadıköy Food Market was full of delicious surprises. The İskender Kebab was delicious, and the Künefe was unlike anything I'd ever tasted before. The whole experience was fun and well organized, and we learned so much about Istanbul's history along the way. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the city through its food.

Helpful? Yes

S
Stella Nikiforov - Russia
05 March

My sister and I took this tour while visiting Istanbul, and it was truly a delight. We're both foodies, so exploring the Asian side of the city with a local food guide was perfect for us. Breakfast at the market near the Spice Bazaar was a wonderful experience. By the end, we were stuffed but delighted by the kunefe and Turkish ice cream. The tour was well organized, and our guide was very knowledgeable. I highly recommend it for foodies, but we would have liked to have spent more time savoring the food at each stop.

Helpful? Yes

E
Eduard Bocharova - Russia
06 March

I took my girlfriend on this tour to experience the authentic food culture of Istanbul, and it was a truly unforgettable day. The food was fantastic from start to finish, and we especially loved the pastrami and lahmacun. The only thing I wish it had been different was that some places were a bit crowded, so we didn't get to linger as long as I would have liked. But overall, it was a wonderful day.

Helpful? Yes

Book now

Select person

Adult

12y+

01
Children

2 - 12 years

01
Infant

Below 2 years

01
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From
€21.88 per person