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Taste of Istanbul Food Tours

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Local Food and History Walks in Istanbul

Experience the true vibe of Istanbul by joining us on a foodie walk in the city that spreads across the historical city center and through Istanbul’s vibrant neighboring districts. We will lead you to the best traditional Turkish restaurants, cafes and shops throughout the city that we have carefully selected for being run by locals whose passion is to serve authentic and delicious Turkish food, accompanied with the typical warm-hearted Turkish hospitality. With Taste of Istanbul Food Tours, you will have the chance to explore the captivating sights, have the opportunity to taste mouth-watering delicacies of the Turkish cuisine and hear the stories that lie behind the classic dishes.

Unique culinary tours in Istanbul

We provide a unique culinary experience by presenting our guests with only the real taste of authentic Turkish cooking that uses fresh, local produce.

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With a great variety of specially designed food tasting tours, we are sure you will find the perfect tour to suit you!

Taste it all

Some of the delicious Turkish foods you will be tasting include; the famous Turkish kebab, mouth-watering baklavas, freshly baked boreks, tasty seafood, delicious Turkish coffee, home cooked meals such as sarma and fasulye. Many more delicious Turkish foodie treasures await you on each one of our Istanbul culinary tours!

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Istanbul Old City Food Tour

Transcontinental Food Tour

Local Food and History Walk at Night

Istanbul Asian Side Food Tour

Istanbul Street Art Tour

Private Food Tour

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Unique things to do in İstanbul

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Travel like a local

Continent-straddling Istanbul offers a range of things to do on both the European and Asian sides. On Istanbul’s European side, expect to find the postcard names: the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, and more crowds to go with it. On the other side of the Bosphorus (just a short ferry ride away), you’ll find neighborhoods such as Kadikoy where many locals come for Turkish pizza, stuffed mussels, and more. Skip the traditional tours and activities for a local’s perspective of Istanbul with Airbnb Experiences.

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What do locals eat in istanbul.

Ask many locals what to eat, and they’ll likely point you to Turkish street food and lokantas, which are cafeteria-style spots located all over the city that serve up beloved staples. Here is a quick guide on what to order. And just remember no matter the circumstance, there’s always time for a Turkish coffee.

Also known as the Turkish breakfast, this morning ritual typically consists of cheeses, breads, and jams served with Turkish coffee or tea. Get to know the customs of the meal on a traditional Turkish breakfast tour in neighborhoods such as Beyoğlu.

You can’t miss these kebab shops, which are sprinkled throughout the city. Vertical rotisseries spin as chefs shave off your choice of lamb, beef, or chicken. Nowadays, you can get döners as traditional street food, but many restaurants are serving more high-end takes on the classic.

Midye Dolma

These stuffed mussels are prepared right before your eyes in places such as the historic Kadikoy Carsisi, a market that teems with shops and vendors selling some of the city’s best food including lokum (Turkish delight), coffee, fresh fruit and vegetables, among many other goods.

A sesame crusted, circular bread mostly eaten as a breakfast food. There are records that suggest this crisp goes back as far as the 16th century, something you can learn more about on a food tour.

This flatbread is typically served with minced meat, parsley, and no more than a few other simple ingredients. It’s something you can learn to make in cooking classes, or choose from menus across the city.

Originally from the town of Mersin, located in the south of Turkey, this is one of the most traditional Turkish street foods. Spicy meats are rolled up into thin breads and make this a perfect on-the-go snack or meal.

What are the most unique things to do in Istanbul?

Take a day trip to princes’ islands.

For a truly idyllic afternoon, visit this archipelago on the Sea of Marmara. On the mostly car-free islands, you’ll see plenty of old world charm. Head out with a local, who can take you to see some of the best sights, along with hidden gems, on bike rides and more.

Do a Bosphorus cruise in style

Board a luxury yacht for a ride along the Bosphorus to see the famed Rumelihisarı (Rumeli Castle), Ciragan Palace, and Beylerbeyi Palace, among other sights. You can sip on your choice of tea or wine, and listen to music as you cruise.

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• › Türkiye ›
• › İstanbul Region ›

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Most EPIC Food Tours in Istanbul | The Broke Backpacker 2024 Guide

Most EPIC Food Tours in Istanbul | The Broke Backpacker 2024 Guide

Istanbul is a magical city of many cultures. It’s where the East meets the West, and even spans over two continents, split by the Bosporus Strait. From the stunning mosques of the Sultanahmet district to the cozy cafes of the Jewish Quarter in Balat, contrasting cultures live together in harmony in Istanbul.

This makes for a great culinary scene. The food in Istanbul is a melting pot of spices, flavors, and cuisines from across two continents . The spice markets are a thrill for the senses, with every flavor hitting your nose all at once.

I’m thinking about those delicately constructed layers of filo pastry on a perfect baklava. Dinner is a hearty, meaty delight of of kebab varieties. Istanbul is a place FULL of flavor.

There is just too much amazing food to choose from, and some foods that are unique to the city such as stuffed mussels and sucluc, which is why doing a food tour in Istanbul is such a great idea.

If you want to explore the city and find the best food stops, then a foodie tour of Istanbul is how you’ll get acquainted. Indulge culinary delights with a side order of top-quality hospitality.

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Food in Istanbul – Why is it Special? 

Istanbul foodie neighbourhood breakdown , best food tours in istanbul, final thoughts on food tours in istanbul.

Formerly known as Byzantium, then Constantinople, Istanbul has always been a thriving city and a meeting point between cultures. In fact, the Grand Bazaar is the oldest shopping mall in the world and has always been a hub of trade for centuries.

Every wanderer looking to trade came traveling through Istanbul on the trade routes of the Silk Road, including some recipes…

Even today, the flavors from the East and West combine to make some of the best fusion food on the planet . There are lots of must-try foods in Istanbul.

Let’s start with Simit , a popular street food in Istanbul. This chewy, round bread is covered in sesame seeds and topped with honey or Nutella.

Another doughy favorite of mine is pide or “Turkish pizza”, just like the Italian equivalent but without the tomato sauce. There’s also lahmacun, made of a thin piece of dough, and topped with minced meat, spices, and vegetables.

Breakfast is a big event for locals, and no matter where you stay (particularly in Istanbul Airbnbs and homestays) more often than not given a complimentary Turkish breakfast of eggs, cheese, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and bread. Yum-o.

Menemen is eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and spices, it’s a popular breakfast dish in Istanbul. The dish takes its name from the Menemen district of Izmir in the Aegean Region of Turkey.

One dish you’ve probably heard of is Köfte , usually made from lamb, beef, or both. You may know köfte from the takeaway. But in Istanbul, it’s obviously way better – it’s served with grilled peppers, spicy sauce, flatbread, and rice. 

Döner – you know her. Here it’s cooked on vertical rotisseries and is arguably Turkey’s most famous food. But wait a minute, what about baklava? 

Baklava was one of the most popular sweet pastries of Ottoman cuisine, made of flaky layers of pastry topped with honey and nuts. Borek is a savory version of baklava that can also be found in Istanbul. It’s usually filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. 

And finally, you can’t come to Istanbul and not try the seafood. Grab a fresh Balik Ekmek (fish sandwich) from the fishing boats on the Bosphorus. The cafes along the river bank in Eminonu, near the famous Galata Bridge, serve up the freshest catches of the day and it’s one of the top attractions in Istanbul . 

A note on happy bellies – It’s generally safe to consume street food in Istanbul, but it’s best to avoid very cheap meat or seafood. If there’s a queue, it’s usually good to eat.

A Taste of Istanbul’s Street Food

• > Where: Kadikoy Market, Beyoglu district
• > Includes: Professional guide, Tastings, Public transportation (Bus, ferry, subway etc.)
• > Duration: 4.5 Hours
• > Price: €63.02

Turkish and Ottoman Cuisine Workshop

• > Where: Istiklal Street, Beyoglu
• > Includes: All food, drinks, food history and cooking demonstration
• > Duration: 3 Hours
• > Price: €57

Dervish Experience & Traditional Dinner

• > Where: Fatih
• > Includes: Food, drinks, transport & tickets to the show
• > Duration: 3.5 Hours
• > Price: €66

Before we introduce you to the top food tours in Istanbul, let’s quickly run through the best foodie neighborhoods so you can explore the culinary delights on your own.

Sultanahmet, also known as the old town, is Istanbul’s most touristed district and includes neighbourhoods such as Sirkeci and Eminonu. Visit the famous Spice Market Misir Carsisi, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, which is an explosion of color and flavor from every corner of the world. 

In Eminou try Turkish delight, also known as lokum, at the oldest confectionary shop in Istanbul, Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir Lokumlari. Stop by at the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia, as well as the underground Basilica Cisterns. Of course, no visit to Istanbul is complete without a trip to the Grand Bazaar, full of indoor souks and market stalls peddling everything from fine leather to fake brands. 

Karakoy is a harborside neighborhood in Istanbul on the opposite side of the river to the old town. Trendy cafes and cocktail bars line the streets while family-run shops and traditional neighborhood bakeries give the area a local vibe. 

Istiklal Street is Istanbul’s busiest thoroughfare, packed with color, culture and flavors from all over the world. Also known as “Independence Caddesi,” it’s a 1.5-kilometre-long pedestrian boulevard that runs through Beyoglu.

Just north of Taksim Square the area of Besiktas is famous throughout Turkey. Hundreds and thousands of Turkish residents visit here year-round to fill their bellies with the first meal of the day. Affectionately known as “Breakfast Street” , the area near to Dolmabahçe Palace is packed full of cafes and restaurants serving up menemen, kaymak, simit, and a whole selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. All washed down with a healthy amount of Turkish coffee of course.

To the north of Besiktas is the flamboyant restaurant Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler , made famous by the viral ‘Salt Bae’ videos on social media. I can say from experience it’s 100% worth the hype and is one of the top places to visit in Istanbul ! The ‘extra’ serving style, refined Turkish dishes, and over-the-top portions make this a meal not to be missed.

Kadiköy is a laid-back residential neighborhood on Istanbul’s Asian shore. It’s probably best known for its fresh seafood and local favorite Marmara Balik Market (fish market). Here you can find everything from Turkish pizza, to fresh olives, and perfectly steamed stuffed mussels. The area is pretty popular with the younger crowds too. You can visit indie boutiques, hipster cafes, and traditional Anatolian eateries. There’s also some of the best nightlife in the city along Barlar Sokak (Bar Street).

For some of the best views, visit the Moda Caddesi neighborhood’s shores that showcase Istanbul’s beautiful skyline. Get a dondurma (ice cream) from Meshur Dondurmaci Ali Usta and look out across the Sea of Marmara.

Now you know where to go looking for the best food in Istanbul, you need to know which… It’s time to take a look at the top food tours to add to your Istanbul itinerary .

A Taste of Istanbul’s Street Food – The Overall Best Istanbul Food Tour

• Where: Kadikoy Market, Beyoglu district
• Duration: 4.5 Hours
• Includes: Professional guide, Tastings, Public transportation (Bus, ferry, subway etc.)
• Price: €63.02

This small group tour gives you a taste of some of the best food in Istanbul. It’s a comprehensive five-hour tour of Istanbul’s street food scene covering everything from pide to simit.

You will travel by foot as well as tram, and take a ferry over the Bosphorus to seek out the best dishes on the Asian side of Istanbul. 

Start by browsing the vibrant Kadikoy Market on Istanbul’s Asian side. Later, take a stroll along the iconic Galata Bridge to sample the seafood sandwiches of Galata.

There’s a bit of everything on this tour, all finished off with baklava at the famous pastry shop ‘Karakoy Gulluoglu’ in the Beyoglu district.

Your local guide will give you loads of facts about the surrounding area as well as some great tips for getting around. Do this tour at the start of your visit, even if you’re only visiting for a weekend , and save yourself a load of money on taxis and bland food.

No Diet Club Istanbul Food Journey – For Those Who Don’t Care About Calories

• Where:  Karakoy & Kadikoy
• Duration: 3 Hours
• Includes: Food, drinks, ferry, local guide

This offbeat 3-hour tour is perfect for those that aren’t watching their weight. Packed with tasty delights from favorite local spots and food markets, this tour takes in the highlights of Istanbul’s treats.

Try fresh mussels at the Karakoy Pier, a local favorite, wander the backstreets of Kadikoy on the Asian side, and try some of the best Turkish mezes. Then uncover the secrets to Turkish cheese and try Künefe, a cheesy dessert adored by locals.

Local guide, Yunus Emre, has been an official tour guide in Istanbul for over 12 years. He’s done all of the sights and knows the facts, but this tour isn’t for sightseeing. 

It’s a deep dive into the flavorsome food that keeps this city running.

Half-Day Turkish Coffee Tasting and Tour – The Caffeine Addicts Food Tour in Istanbul

• Where: Fatih / Old Town
• Includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off from centrally located hotels, local guide, coffee and Turkish delight tasting, all entrance fees

Turkish coffee is world-famous and making the perfect cup is a fine art. Visit a unique museum and get the chance to drink at some of the most historic coffee venues in Istanbul on this three-hour guided tour.

You will learn everything there is to know about the national drink during this tour for caffeine lovers. Make the perfect Turkish coffee in a historic coffee shop, visit the coffee storage of the Ottomans, and try authentic Turkish delights at the Kurukahvedji Inn.

Coffee is a huge part of Turkish culture, and this tour gives you all of the facts. Learn the how, the why, and the where to drink coffee along the beautiful “Coffee Route” of Istanbul.

Dervish Experience & Traditional Dinner – The Best Traditional Food Tour

• Where: Fatih
• Duration: 3.5 Hours
• Includes: Food, drinks, transport & tickets to the show

Join the locals at a very traditional Sufism Dervish show, then get spoiled with a feast on the rooftop of a 150-year-old restaurant. 

Spend an hour experiencing the hypnotic ‘Whirling Dervish’ of Turkey. Learn all about the dance and the history of the authentic surroundings from your local guide.

Hosts Kubilay and Zeynep are passionate about their culture and want to share it with visitors. You will get to know them and learn about the spiritual ways of Sufism .

This tour is a great way to get a sense of the Rumi spirit, a word borrowed from Arabic literally meaning ‘Roman’. The community comes together for these impressive shows, a far more authentic Istanbul experience than belly dancing.

After the show, you will be whisked away to a local kebab restaurant. It’s housed in a historic building with beautiful views out over the city from the rooftop.

You will get an unlimited amount of quality Turkish cuisine. Try traditional soups, a great choice of kebabs, and of course lots of mezes. Finish the night off with tea or Turkish coffee and a local dessert.

There are vegetarian and vegan options available too! Just let them know your dietary requirements when you book.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Breakfast in Istanbul – The Breakfast Tour in Istanbul

• Where: Besiktas 
• Duration: 2 Hours
• Includes: Traditional Turkish Breakfast and Turkish tea
• Price: € 37

Hundreds of people flock to ‘Breakfast Street’ in Istanbul every morning, but it remains largely unheard of to tourist visitors. The first meal of the day is an important part of Turkish culture, experience it like a local with one of the best Istanbul foodie tours. 

Just across from the Dolmabahce Palace, this trendy neighborhood in Besiktas is the best place to get breakfast in Istanbul. People from all over Turkey head here but many foreign visitors miss it completely.

Local guide Utku will order you a feast including menemen, kaymak & honey, and muhlama. Don’t worry about trying to translate menus, he’ll take care of everything.

Utku has traveled all over the world. He brought the very first Airbnb Experiences to Istanbul while he was working as Airbnb Brand Ambassador. His aim is to give you an unforgettable local experience in Istanbul.

If you’re not too full, chat about the best things to do in Istanbul over Turkish tea or coffee before heading back into the city center.

Turkish and Ottoman Cuisine Workshop – The Best Istanbul Cookery Class

• Where: Istiklal Street, Beyoglu
• Includes: All food, drinks, food history and cooking demonstration

Tucked away in a cozy house on Istiklal Street, between the Galata tower and Taksim square, you will find a fun-packed cooking experience with locals.

Kaan and Arda will immerse you into the world of Ottoman gastronomy, but this is no history lesson. They have been doing this sort of thing for a while, and know the key to great food is having fun!

Compete with your fellow cooks for ‘best chef’, learn some new dance moves while listening to traditional Turkish music, and eat your heart out during this action-packed cooking lesson in Istanbul.

Learn the art of making Turkish lasagna called ‘Yalama‘, and try Salgam (fermented black carrot juice), yum! There are plenty of options for vegetarians too with humus, Çig Köfte, and lots of other tasty treats. 

This is a great way to get a real appreciation for the food in Istanbul. Learn what goes into the food you are eating as well as try some of the best things to eat in Istanbul.

Local Food, History, and Hidden Places – The Do It All Food Tour in Istanbul

• Where: Sultanahmet and Eminou 
• Includes: Food, drinks, vegan/gluten-free options (advanced notice required)

Wander the hidden streets of the old town and visit the most historic and authentic local eateries in the heart of Istanbul. 

This tour takes in all of the essentials. If you want someone else to do all of the hard work for you and try the very best food in Istanbul, this is the one for you.

Starting at the iconic Spice Bazaar you will try pide, followed by Turkish delights from a 245-year-old shop, then to a local stall for the “best döner in town”. 

Find hidden kebab stalls in the Grand Bazaar and wash it all down with Turkish coffee. Finally, demolish some baklava as you take in the sights of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Ozcan, the founder of Taste Of Istanbul, along with a small team (Didem and Elif) runs highly-rated food tours in Istanbul. As a local foodie, he has hand-picked some of the very best spots to try the most delicious and iconic food in the city.

This tour is perfect if you don’t have much time in Istanbul, or if you just want to learn about all of the best spots in the old town to return to during your stay. Taste of Istanbul also runs a nighttime tour of Beyoglu and a transcontinental foodie walk.

So there you have it, the best Istanbul food tours you just have to try. They are packed with history, culture, flavor, and a little pinch of heaven.

Not only will you ignite your taste palet, but these tours will help you learn all about the cultures of the many empires that have ruled and traveled through Istanbul. It helps you understand the people around you better. You’ll also find yourself greeted with open arms. 

Taste some of the very best fusion cuisines that have come from centuries of trade and shared cultures. Try and use a couple of Turkish words too and watch their faces light up.

Istanbul is a complete paradise for foodies, so make sure you make the most of your stay. These awesome food experiences really set your world on fire.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Unique things to do in İstanbul

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Travel like a local

Continent-straddling Istanbul offers a range of things to do on both the European and Asian sides. On Istanbul’s European side, expect to find the postcard names: the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, and more crowds to go with it. On the other side of the Bosphorus (just a short ferry ride away), you’ll find neighborhoods such as Kadikoy where many locals come for Turkish pizza, stuffed mussels, and more. Skip the traditional tours and activities for a local’s perspective of Istanbul with Airbnb Experiences.

Find local things to do

Top-rated activities.

What İstanbul has to offer

Most popular in İstanbul

Activities near top attractions

Things to do near burgazadasa.

Things to do near Acıbadem

Things to do near Ayazağa

Your guide to İstanbul

What do locals eat in istanbul.

Ask many locals what to eat, and they’ll likely point you to Turkish street food and lokantas, which are cafeteria-style spots located all over the city that serve up beloved staples. Here is a quick guide on what to order. And just remember no matter the circumstance, there’s always time for a Turkish coffee.

Also known as the Turkish breakfast, this morning ritual typically consists of cheeses, breads, and jams served with Turkish coffee or tea. Get to know the customs of the meal on a traditional Turkish breakfast tour in neighborhoods such as Beyoğlu.

You can’t miss these kebab shops, which are sprinkled throughout the city. Vertical rotisseries spin as chefs shave off your choice of lamb, beef, or chicken. Nowadays, you can get döners as traditional street food, but many restaurants are serving more high-end takes on the classic.

Midye Dolma

These stuffed mussels are prepared right before your eyes in places such as the historic Kadikoy Carsisi, a market that teems with shops and vendors selling some of the city’s best food including lokum (Turkish delight), coffee, fresh fruit and vegetables, among many other goods.

A sesame crusted, circular bread mostly eaten as a breakfast food. There are records that suggest this crisp goes back as far as the 16th century, something you can learn more about on a food tour.

This flatbread is typically served with minced meat, parsley, and no more than a few other simple ingredients. It’s something you can learn to make in cooking classes, or choose from menus across the city.

Originally from the town of Mersin, located in the south of Turkey, this is one of the most traditional Turkish street foods. Spicy meats are rolled up into thin breads and make this a perfect on-the-go snack or meal.

What are the most unique things to do in Istanbul?

Take a day trip to princes’ islands.

For a truly idyllic afternoon, visit this archipelago on the Sea of Marmara. On the mostly car-free islands, you’ll see plenty of old world charm. Head out with a local, who can take you to see some of the best sights, along with hidden gems, on bike rides and more.

Do a Bosphorus cruise in style

Board a luxury yacht for a ride along the Bosphorus to see the famed Rumelihisarı (Rumeli Castle), Ciragan Palace, and Beylerbeyi Palace, among other sights. You can sip on your choice of tea or wine, and listen to music as you cruise.

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Istanbul AirBnb Experiences

Discovering the city through local eyes in 2023.

Back in 2014, I had the pleasure of meeting an Airbnb executive who oversaw operations in continental Asia during his participation in The Other Tour . Though his name now eludes me, our conversation remains fresh in my memory. We spoke about how The Other Tour ‘s unique concept of city experiences would fit Airbnb like a glove. It didn’t take long after that for Airbnb to launch its experiences section in 2016, opening up a world of authentic and unforgettable activities hosted by locals for travelers worldwide. Today, Airbnb experiences have become wildly popular, with tens of thousands of unique activities available in cities across the globe.

While I can’t take all the credit for this revolution, I’m pleased to say that my prediction was spot-on. Airbnb has fundamentally transformed the travel industry by providing a new way to explore cities. Instead of booking traditional hotels and standard guided tours, travelers now have the opportunity to stay in one-of-a-kind accommodations and take part in unforgettable experiences led by locals who aren’t necessarily professional tour guides . Istanbul, a city steeped in history and culture, has hundreds of experiences listed on Airbnb alone, offering travelers a chance to discover this incredible city in a whole new light.

Istanbul Airbnb Experiences

Istanbul is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are more than 500 experiences listed on Airbnb that offer a chance to explore the city in a refreshing way. These experiences range from typical guided tours to alternative experiences offered usually by locals who are not professional tour guides. This has caused some tension with licensed tour guides, but it also offers travelers a chance to discover the city in a more authentic and local way.

Recommended Listings

Here are some of our top picks for Istanbul Airbnb experiences:

(you may click on the title of each experience to visit their Airbnb listing)

Istanbul Foodie Walk with Ferry Ride

This experience is led by an expert guide, Latif, who takes you on a walking tour of the city’s culinary hotspots, including street food vendors and markets. You’ll also get to take a ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait. The reviews are nearly perfect, Latif must be doing something right!

Bosphorus Yacht Tour with Wine & Music

In their own words:

Hey guys! If you love, history, nature, photography and meeting interesting travelers from all over the world then this experience is definitely for you. We will cruise the scenic Bosphorus and its beautiful sites. We will see palaces, bridges and learn about the Bosphorus and it’s history. We will provide snacks and wine as we enjoy music and conversations. 

Experience Football Match like a Local

In the guide’s own words:

My name is Oğulcan (OG for short). I am a passionate sports fan. I have been to more than 100 national and international stadiums all over the world. I’ve seen big football tournaments like Euro 2016 in France and many away matches from Portugal to Georgia. I enjoy introducing my team to guests from all over the world and showing them how we live football in Turkey.

Dogs & Cats of Moda Istanbul

Istanbul is known for its large population of street dogs and cats, and this experience takes you on a tour of the Moda neighborhood to meet some of them. You’ll also learn about the city’s efforts to care for its stray animals.

Canoeing in Bosphorus under Istanbul Bridge

This experience offers a unique perspective on the city, as you paddle along the Bosphorus Strait under the iconic Istanbul Bridge. You’ll also get to see the city’s skyline from a different angle.

A Turkish and Ottoman Cuisine Workshop

This workshop offers an opportunity to learn about the history and techniques of traditional Turkish and Ottoman cuisine. You’ll get to participate in hands-on cooking classes and learn how to make dishes such as stuffed grape leaves and baklava.

Marbling Paper Workshop

This Turkish arts workshop has raving reviews about the artist, Betül. You’ll learn about the traditional art of marbling paper, which has been practiced in Turkey for centuries, and create your own marbled paper.

ATV Adventure in Forest of Istanbul

For those adrenaline-seeker, this one offers an exhilarating ride through the forests outside of the city on an ATV. You’ll get to see a different side of Istanbul and enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way.

Motorcycle tour in Istanbul

This one is not only a great way to explore the city, but also an exciting and fun experience. Guests can enjoy the thrill of riding on the back of a motorcycle while taking in the sights and sounds of Istanbul . The host’s expertise in riding and knowledge of the city make this tour an unforgettable adventure that visitors are sure to remember long after their trip to Istanbul.

To be completely honest, majority of these experiences kinda look like the bits and pieces of The Other Tour to me. Nonetheless, Airbnb experiences offer an alternative way to discover Istanbul, allowing travelers to see the city through the eyes of locals who are passionate about sharing their culture and knowledge with visitors.

With almost 500 experiences available in Istanbul alone, travelers can choose from a variety of options that cater to their interests and travel style. From food tours and art workshops to ATV adventures and wine tastings , Airbnb experiences in Istanbul provide a unique and authentic way to explore the city. Plus, by supporting local hosts, travelers are also contributing to the local economy and exploring new exciting options for 2023 .

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The Mystery of Turkish Language

Exploring istanbul’s asian side, top 5 bookshops in istanbul, bosphorus cross continental swim.

We take you beyond the ordinary, crafting immersive experiences that reveal the true essence of this captivating land. Born and raised in Istanbul, our passionate team shares insider secrets and authentic encounters. We design unique itineraries that blend iconic highlights with off-the-beaten-path wonders.

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Discover the real extent of Istanbul with The Other Tour. Our unique and personalized tours connect you with locals, like sharing a home-cooked meal at mom's house. Experience the warmth of Turkish culture firsthand. Plus, as a full-service travel agency, we offer an extensive range of services in Istanbul and throughout Turkey.

• Hagia Sophia
• Basilica Cistern
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapı Palace
• Galata Tower
• Spice Bazaar
• Grand Bazaar

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