Food tours in Istanbul cut through the tourist traps to deliver authentic Turkish eating experiences that locals cherish. You’ll discover hidden kebab joints, time-tested meyhanes (taverns), and bustling spice markets while learning the stories behind centuries-old recipes.
Our favorite tours keep groups intimate (usually 6-8 people) and traverse lesser-known neighborhoods like Kadıköy and Beyoğlu. The ‘Evening Food Walk’ stands out for its stops at family-run eateries, while the ‘Markets & Meze Tour’ expertly guides you through the Grand Bazaar’s maze of food stalls. For adventurous eaters, the ‘Home Cooking Experience’ lets you prepare traditional dishes alongside Istanbul families.
Let’s explore the most authentic food tours Istanbul has to offer.
Key Points
- Diverse culinary experiences across various neighborhoods, showcasing local cuisine and culture, with high traveler ratings and small group sizes.
- Unique tour options like home-cooked meals, nightlife exploration, ferry rides, and private guided experiences catering to different interests.
- Popular highlights include Taste of Two Continents, Istanbul Walking Food Tour, and Cook and Eat Homemade Breakfast, offering a range of traditional and contemporary delicacies.
- Flexible pricing, duration, and group size options, with transportation and cancellation policies accommodating different budgets and schedules.
- Emphasis on cultural and historical insights, engaging guides, local interactions, and authentic experiences for a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s vibrant food scene.
Taste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour
Exploring the culinary delights of Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods, the Taste of Two Continents Food Tour takes travelers on a mouthwatering journey across the Bosphorus Strait.
With an impressive 2,468 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this full-day tour offers an intimate experience for up to 10 guests.
Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, the tour features 8-9 unique eateries and restaurants, providing a diverse array of local cuisine, cultural insights, and historic anecdotes.
While it may not accommodate all dietary requirements, the tour promises a well-rounded taste of Istanbul’s vibrant food scene, from Turkish breakfast to Kadıköy Market specialties, culminating in a scenic ferry ride back to Europe.
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Istanbul Food and Culture Tour: Dinner at Local Family
For travelers seeking a more immersive cultural experience beyond the typical sightseeing, the Istanbul Food and Culture Tour: Dinner at Local Family offers a unique opportunity to engage with local Turks in their own homes.
Priced at $76.35 per person, the 3.5-hour tour limits group size to 8 participants and is conducted in English. Guests will enjoy a home-cooked Turkish meal, explore the historical Sultanahmet district, and have an informal chat with family members about life in Turkey.
Included are all fees, taxes, a local guide, and gratuities. Travelers should pack modest clothing and easy slip-on shoes, as well as notify the provider of any dietary restrictions.
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Istanbul Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
The Istanbul Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours immerses travelers in the flavors and culture of the vibrant Kadikoy district.
Offering a half-day small-group experience, the tour boasts a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence. With a maximum group size of 12, guests enjoy an intimate, guided exploration of local delicacies, including Lahmacun, Menemen, and Katmer.
Beyond the tastings, the tour includes Turkish tea, wine, and coffee, as well as fresh salads, pickles, and bread.
The knowledgeable guide, Melis, shares engaging stories and cultural insights throughout the journey, which concludes at the Kadikoy Bull Statue, allowing for further independent exploration.
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Istanbul-Night Walking Tour/Impressive Food Stops
Seeking a more immersive and atmospheric culinary journey, travelers can embark on the Istanbul-Night Walking Tour/Impressive Food Stops.
This 3-hour tour takes guests on a ferry ride to Çengelköy, where they’ll enjoy 45 minutes of food tasting.
They’ll then walk along the Bosphorus before a bus/coach ride to Kuzguncuk and a subway/metro ride back.
The tour includes a live English and Turkish-speaking guide, pickup and drop-off, and all expenses covered.
With a start time of 7 PM, this tour is suitable for those with limited time or who prefer cooler weather.
Highlights include experiencing Istanbul’s nightlife in a peaceful setting, tasting local delicacies, and enjoying unique Bosphorus views while sipping tea.
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Istanbul Traditional Food Tour With Dinner on Off-Touristy-Path
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary journey through Istanbul’s vibrant food scene can embark on the Istanbul Traditional Food Tour with Dinner on Off-Touristy-Path.
This evening walking and food tour explores both the European and Asian sides of the city, including a ferry ride across the Bosphorus. Guests will visit 9 food stops, sampling an array of local dishes like kokoreç, lahmacun, and kunefe.
The tour also includes a hearty kebab and meze dinner, as well as four non-alcoholic beverages. With a maximum group size of 10, this personalized experience is led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide and receives rave reviews from travelers for its authenticity and cultural insights.
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Istanbul: Private Guided Food Tour With 10 Tastings
For those eager to enjoy Istanbul’s vibrant culinary scene, the Istanbul: Private Guided Food Tour With 10 Tastings offers an unparalleled experience.
This 3-hour private tour, priced from $104.54 per person, includes 10 food and drink tastings as well as vegetarian alternatives. Guests will visit local hotspots and city highlights, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
The carbon-neutral tour provides a cultural experience alongside the food tastings, designed for true foodies. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 19 reviews, this tour is highly recommended, especially for those looking to explore Istanbul’s cuisine on the first day of their visit.
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Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour – Taste of Istanbul
This private and guided Istanbul food tour, aptly named “Taste of Istanbul,” offers an unparalleled culinary experience in the vibrant city.
With a rating of 5.0 and 193 total reviews, 100% of travelers recommend this tour. At $190 per person, it provides an intimate exploration of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, visiting local eateries and markets.
Guests savor a traditional Turkish breakfast, sample delicacies like baklava and kebabs, and enjoy non-alcoholic beverages. A knowledgeable guide caters to dietary preferences and shares insights into the city’s culture and history.
The tour concludes at the Kadikoy ferry station on the Asian side, offering a scenic mode of transportation back.
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Food Tour on the Bosphorus
One of the most captivating food tours in Istanbul is the “Food Tour on the Bosphorus.” This immersive experience takes guests on a culinary journey across the iconic waterway, offering a unique perspective on the city’s diverse gastronomic heritage.
Travelers can enjoy a Bosphorus dinner cruise with a Turkish night show, complete with live music and traditional dance performances.
For a more intimate setting, the Bosphorus sunset sightseeing cruise with an optional audio guide allows visitors to savor the city’s stunning skyline as the sun dips below the horizon.
These water-based excursions provide a memorable way to experience Istanbul’s rich culture and flavors.
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Istanbul Food Tour – History and Culture of Turkish Culinary
Amid the bustling streets of Istanbul, the “Istanbul Food Tour – History and Culture of Turkish Culinary” offers travelers an immersive glimpse into the city’s rich gastronomic heritage.
This highly-rated 3.5-hour tour takes participants on a journey through local eateries, introducing them to a variety of Turkish delicacies, from mezes to baklava.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small-group experience provides insights into the country’s culinary traditions and cultural influences.
Whether savoring raki, exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, or indulging in the tour’s diverse food samples, travelers are treated to a personal and authentic taste of Istanbul’s vibrant food scene.
With high marks for guides and inclusions like funicular transport, this tour is an excellent way to take in the history and culture of Turkish cuisine.
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Cook and Eat Homemade Turkish Breakfast at Home With Locals
A unique cultural experience awaits travelers in Istanbul with the “Cook and Eat Homemade Turkish Breakfast at Home With Locals” tour.
This 2.5-hour culinary adventure invites a small group of up to 6 participants to learn the art of preparing an authentic Turkish breakfast in a local home. Under the guidance of friendly hosts, guests will discover the flavors and traditions behind dishes like Menemen.
Beyond the cooking, the experience offers a glimpse into daily life in Istanbul, fostering cultural exchange and new friendships.
With convenient transportation options and a 5-star rating, this tour provides an immersive and memorable way to savor the essence of Turkish hospitality.
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Istanbul Guided Walking Tours With Food and Beverage Tastings
Istanbul’s vibrant culinary landscape comes alive through the “Istanbul Guided Walking Tours With Food and Beverage Tastings“.
This highly-rated 4-hour tour, operated by Real Istanbul Tours, offers an immersive experience exploring the city’s diverse flavors.
Travelers can expect a sample menu featuring local specialties like wet hamburgers, dolma, and lahmacun, complemented by coffee, tea, and baklava.
With a maximum group size of 30, the tours provide personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.
Highlights include ferry rides, cultural insights, and visits to hidden food gems.
Reviewers praise the tour’s exceptional value, with 100% recommendation.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this tour promises a delectable journey through Istanbul’s culinary wonders.
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Istanbul: Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets
Set out on a captivating 6-hour culinary exploration of Istanbul’s vibrant street food scene and bustling markets.
This guided food tour allows you to sample 20 food items and 5 local drinks at 8 different spots across both the European and Asian sides of the city.
Savor traditional dishes like kaymak, simit, İskender kebap, balik ekmek, menemen, and kunefe, while enjoying a scenic ferry ride with panoramic views.
Led by a licensed foodie guide, this small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) offers an immersive experience, sharing cultural insights along the way.
With round-trip ferry tickets, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all tastings included, this is an excellent value for money.
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Luxury Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour
For those seeking a more elevated culinary experience, the Luxury Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour offers an indulgent exploration of the city’s diverse flavors.
Priced from $500 per person, this exclusive experience includes private transportation, a professional guide, and a range of delectable inclusions such as breakfast, lunch, coffee/tea, and optional alcoholic drinks.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 18 reviews, the tour is highly recommended for its mix of food and history, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides.
Flexibility is also a key feature, as the tour offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
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Turkish Cuisine Food and Drink Tour in Istanbul
This 6-hour Turkish Cuisine Food and Drink Tour in Istanbul takes visitors on a culinary and cultural journey through the Fatih, Fener, Balat, and Kadıköy districts.
Priced at $358.67 for up to 6 participants, the private tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide.
Highlights include tasting local delicacies like kebabs, seafood, and traditional sweets, as well as exploring historic neighborhoods and visiting significant religious sites such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople.
With a 5/5 rating from a previous traveler, this tour offers a comprehensive experience for those seeking to enjoy Istanbul’s vibrant food scene and rich cultural heritage.
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Food Tour in Istanbul With Local Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Istanbul will find the Food Tour with Local Guide a delightful choice.
This 36-review, 100% recommended tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s traditional Turkish cuisine. With a local guide, participants explore both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, visiting seven eateries to sample starters, mains, and desserts like Turkish breakfast, mezes, kebaps, home-cooked meals, and baklava.
The tour includes food, non-alcoholic drinks, transportation fees, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, with a maximum of eight travelers.
Reviewers praise the great food, informative guide, and overall enjoyable experience, making this an excellent option for food lovers visiting Istanbul.
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Istanbul: Turkish Food Tour in Kadikoy Across the Bosphorus
Seeking a deeper immersion into Istanbul’s esteemed culinary heritage? Look no further than the “Istanbul: Turkish Food Tour in Kadikoy Across the Bosphorus.”
This 3-hour tour whisks you across the iconic waterway to the Asian side of the city, where you’ll discover local eateries and socialize with residents.
Savor a tantalizing array of traditional Turkish dishes, from meze to baklava.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll gain valuable insights into the history and cultural influences shaping the nation’s gastronomy.
Priced at €349.00 for up to 2 participants, the tour earns a stellar 4.8/5 rating from 32 reviews, with praise for its quality, value, and culture.
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Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience Istanbul
The “Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience” in Istanbul offers an immersive culinary adventure, with 186 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate from travelers.
This all-inclusive tour features Turkish kebabs, vegetarian mezes, desserts, tea, and coffee, all served in a stunning rooftop location with views of the city.
Vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options are available. The tour includes private car service for drop-off near hotels and is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers.
Guests praise the knowledgeable and hospitable guides, who provide a deeper understanding of Turkish culture through their engaging storytelling.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, this experience promises an authentic taste of Istanbul.
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Istanbul: Asian & European Side Food Tour
Immerse oneself in the rich culinary tapestry of Istanbul’s Asian and European sides on this comprehensive food tour.
Priced from $83.69 per person, the 5-hour experience offers a personalized itinerary with diverse Turkish specialties, from menemen for breakfast to lahmacun and aubergine kabap.
Traverse the city via ferry, subway, and on foot, stopping at highlights like the Süleymaniye Mosque and Istiklal Street.
Savor a unique boza drink and indulge in optional Turkish hamam therapy or a dance show on Sundays.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides an authentic, well-curated exploration of Istanbul’s vibrant gastronomy across both continents.
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Guided Street Food Tour. Breakfast in Europe Lunch in Asia.
Discover the culinary riches of Istanbul’s European and Asian sides on this immersive street food tour.
With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll savor an array of breakfast classics like kaymak, açuka, and menemen on the European side.
After crossing the Bosphorus by ferry, you’ll feast on lunch staples like midye, balık dürüm, and börek.
Rounding out the experience are Turkish desserts like künefe and Maraş Dondurma, as well as traditional Turkish coffee and tea.
This 5-star tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from 116 reviews, thanks to the knowledgeable guides and authentic dining experiences.
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Istanbul: Guided Food and Culture Tour
Embarking on a culinary journey through Istanbul, this guided food and culture tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s diverse gastronomic landscape.
Priced at $105.59 per person, the 5-hour experience takes small groups of up to 10 participants across the Bosphorus Strait to discover the flavors of both the European and Asian sides of the city.
Highlights include sampling Kurdish specialties, visiting vibrant markets, and savoring local drinks like cay.
With a 4.9/5 rating, the tour receives rave reviews for its knowledgeable guides, culture, and delectable food selections, making it a must-try for any Istanbul visitor.
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Private and Guided Food and Culinary Tour of Istanbul
Travelers seeking an intimate culinary journey through Istanbul will find the Private and Guided Food and Culinary Tour an excellent choice.
This half-day experience focuses on local foods and beverages, with a professional guide leading guests through open-air markets. Participants will taste seasonal foods at hidden outlets, sample Turkish coffee in Beyoglu, and visit famous delicatessens for traditional treats.
The tour also includes lunch at an Ocakbasi Kebab restaurant and tastings of food, bottled water, coffee/tea, and alcoholic beverages.
With 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers a highly personalized and informative exploration of Istanbul’s vibrant food scene.
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Traditional Home Dinner Night With ÇiğKöfte – Learn and Eat
Oftentimes, visitors to Istanbul seek an authentic cultural experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail.
The Traditional Home Dinner Night with Çiğköfte – Learn and Eat offers just that. For $52.80 per person, participants can discover the original way of cooking this popular Turkish street food, learn about its culture and tradition, and enjoy genuine Turkish hospitality.
The 2.5-hour experience is limited to 8 people and includes a traditional Turkish dinner and a Çiğköfte recipe. Reviewers praise the memorable experience, personal connections with locals, and delicious food.
With convenient public transportation options and a flexible cancellation policy, this activity is a must-do for those wanting to enjoy Istanbul’s culinary culture.
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Istanbul Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For those seeking an intimate, immersive culinary experience in Istanbul, the Istanbul Private Walking Food Tour by Secret Food Tours offers an exceptional opportunity.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 49 reviews, this tour promises to take guests on a delightful journey through the city’s traditional dishes. Priced at $317.75 per person, the tour includes a variety of authentic bites, such as lahmacun, menemen, and the secret dish.
Accompanied by Turkish tea, ayran, and other beverages, the tour is a feast for the senses. While not wheelchair-accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
Dietary restrictions may not be accommodated, so guests should check with the tour provider prior to booking.
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Istanbul Home Cooking Course – Cook and Eat
Foodies seeking an authentic Turkish home-cooking experience can enjoy the Istanbul Home Cooking Course – Cook and Eat.
This 4-hour class, limited to 5 participants, offers a cultural exchange and culinary adventure. Guests visit local markets, learn traditional recipes from the instructor’s grandmother, and enjoy a meal at a local’s home.
The experience includes a tour of a pickle shop, meze spot, and charcuterie, as well as lessons on preparing common Turkish dishes. Participants also receive cooking materials, dinner, tea, Turkish coffee, and an authentic dessert.
With a 4.9/5 overall rating and 4.8/5 for value, this course provides an exceptional opportunity to connect with Turkish cuisine and hospitality.
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PRIVATE ISTANBUL FOOD TOUR & Hidden Pearls of the Old City
Those seeking a more personalized culinary adventure in Istanbul can consider the Private Istanbul Food Tour & Hidden Pearls of the Old City.
This highly-rated 5-star tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s street food and hidden attractions. Travelers can expect 10 food tastings, including visits to tea gardens and often-overlooked sites like the Rustem Pasha Mosque.
The tour is private, ensuring only your group participates, and vegetarian options are available. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain insights into Turkish food culture.
The tour starts in Sultanahmet and ends at the Egyptian Bazaar, using public transportation. Reviewers praise the informative and personable guides, making this an excellent choice for a unique Istanbul experience.
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Recap
Istanbul offers an array of delectable food tours that cater to diverse culinary interests. From exploring the vibrant flavors of two continents to immersing in traditional home-cooked meals, these tours provide an authentic taste of the city’s rich gastronomic heritage. Travelers can savor local specialties, learn from knowledgeable guides, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path, making for an unforgettable culinary adventure in this dynamic city.