Istanbul: Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets

Exploring the vibrant culinary landscape of Istanbul is a true delight for foodies. This guided food tour promises an immersive experience, taking visitors through bustling markets and local street food vendors. Over the course of six hours, guests will indulge in an impressive array of 20 delicious samples, savoring traditional favorites like balik ekmek and iskender kebap, all while enjoying five local drinks. Led by an English-speaking foodie guide, the tour offers a unique opportunity to dive into the rich food culture of this enchanting city. From the lively Kadikoy district to the stunning ferry views, this tour promises to tantalize the senses and leave a lasting impression on the palate.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Food Tours In Istanbul.

Key Points

• This 6-hour guided food tour in Istanbul offers participants a chance to sample 20 local food items and 5 drinks across 8 different stops.
• The tour includes a scenic ferry ride to the Kadikoy neighborhood, where visitors can explore vibrant markets and street food vendors.
• The tour is led by a licensed foodie guide who provides insights and recommendations on Istanbul’s rich culinary culture and traditional specialties.
• This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or vegans, but is open to children aged 4-8 years old.
• Customers have consistently praised the tour’s authentic flavors, breathtaking views, and exceptional value for money, with an overall 5-star rating.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Istanbul: Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets offers a comprehensive 6-hour experience, priced at $109.23 per person.

A group of up to 10 participants can explore the culinary delights of the city with an English-speaking foodie guide.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or vegans, but it’s open to adults and children aged 4-8.

Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes food tastings at 8 different spots, 20 food samples, 5 local drinks, roundtrip ferry tickets, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Travelers can expect to savor Turkish delicacies like balik ekmek, iskender kebap, kaymak, simit, and kunefe.

Experience Highlights

Travelers on this guided food tour can expect to explore the culinary offerings on both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, sampling a variety of Turkish delicacies.

The experience highlights include:

• Tasting Turkish specialties like balik ekmek (fish sandwich), iskender kebap, kaymak, simit, and kunefe.

• Enjoying traditional dishes such as menemen and çay (Turkish tea).

• Taking in panoramic views while traveling by ferry to Kadikoy, a local food shopping area.

• Exploring the city’s vibrant markets and street food vendors to discover the heart of Istanbul’s food culture.

Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by a licensed foodie guide, ensuring an immersive and informative culinary journey.

Food and Beverages Included

This guided food tour includes a variety of food tastings and local beverages. Participants can expect to sample 20 different food items and 5 local drinks across 8 different stops during the 6-hour experience.

The food offerings range from Turkish delicacies like balik ekmek (fish sandwich), iskender kebap, kaymak, simit, and kunefe to traditional dishes such as menemen and çay (Turkish tea).

Roundtrip ferry tickets are provided, allowing travelers to enjoy panoramic views while crossing the Bosporus to Kadikoy, a local food shopping area.

A licensed foodie guide accompanies the group, providing insights and recommendations throughout the culinary journey.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at the Itimat Fabrika Satış Magazası (dairy shop at Egyptian/Spice Bazaar), where participants start their culinary exploration of Istanbul.

From there, the group will:

1. Visit a local dairy market, sampling simit with honey and kaymak.

2. Stop by charming cafes and street food vendors to try iskender kebap and mussels.

3. Wander through the bustling fish market, enjoying the classic Turkish sandwich, balik ekmek.

4. Conclude the tour with the sweet dessert kunefe and a traditional Turkish coffee.

Throughout the 6-hour experience, you will travel by ferry to the Kadikoy neighborhood, taking in panoramic views as they cross between the European and Asian sides of the city.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Istanbul food tour, awarding it an impressive 5-star rating based on 351 reviews.

The tour’s transportation has been rated 4.9/5, highlighting the smooth and efficient travel between destinations. On top of that, customers have deemed the overall value for money to be exceptional, with a 4.8/5 rating.

From sampling delectable Turkish delicacies to witnessing breathtaking views, the tour has consistently exceeded guests’ expectations.

Whether it’s the authentic flavors or the knowledgeable guide, the Istanbul food tour has clearly left a lasting impression on those who’ve experienced it.

With such glowing customer feedback, it’s evident that this culinary adventure is a must-do for any food enthusiast visiting the city.

Tour Inclusions

The Istanbul food tour includes a diverse array of culinary experiences, from sampling Turkish delicacies to enjoying panoramic views during a ferry ride.

Over the course of six hours, you will:

• Sample 20 food items and 5 local drinks at 8 different stops

• Taste traditional Turkish specialties like balik ekmek (fish sandwich), iskender kebap, kaymak, simit, and kunefe

• Explore the flavors of both the European and Asian sides of the city

• Ride a ferry to the Kadikoy neighborhood, a local food shopping area, and take in the stunning views along the way

With a licensed foodie guide leading the way, this tour offers an immersive and delicious introduction to Istanbul’s vibrant street food scene.

Tour Exclusions

While the Istanbul food tour includes an array of culinary experiences, it doesn’t cover everything. Certain items and services aren’t included in the tour package.

For instance, the tour doesn’t provide transportation to or from the meeting point. Plus, any personal expenses incurred during the tour, such as additional food or drinks beyond the included tastings, are the responsibility of the participant.

The tour is also not suitable for wheelchair users or vegans, as it focuses on traditional Turkish cuisine. Lastly, children under 4 years old aren’t permitted on the tour.

Additional Information

Guests on the Istanbul food tour can expect a seamless and well-organized experience, as the tour operator provides comprehensive pre-tour information. This includes detailed meeting instructions, advice on appropriate attire and footwear, and recommendations for those with dietary restrictions or food allergies.

Plus, the tour guide is knowledgeable about the local cuisine and cultural nuances, ensuring participants gain valuable insights throughout the day.

For added convenience, the tour includes:

1. Roundtrip ferry tickets to explore both the European and Asian sides of the city.

2. Hotel pickup and drop-off to simplify transportation.

3. A licensed foodie guide to lead the group and provide expertise.

4. Generous food and drink tastings at 8 different locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants typically cannot bring their own food and drinks on a guided food tour. The tour likely provides all the food and beverage samples for participants to enjoy as part of the curated experience.

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

For the tour, one should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes. Layers are recommended, as the temperature may vary throughout the day. Avoid wearing anything too formal or restrictive, as the tour involves walking and tasting various foods.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour company does not offer specific discounts for students or seniors. Pricing is based on the standard per-person rate, regardless of age or student status. However, travelers should inquire about any promotional offers or deals that may be available.

Can I Request a Modification to the Itinerary?

Yes, you can typically request modifications to the tour itinerary. The tour provider may accommodate special requests, subject to availability and any additional costs. It’s best to inquire directly with them about customizing the experience to your preferences.

How Do I Know if the Tour Guide Is Licensed and Qualified?

The tour guide’s license and qualifications are stated in the tour details. It mentions they are a "licensed foodie guide," ensuring they are authorized and experienced to lead this culinary exploration of Istanbul’s markets and street food.

Recap

This guided food tour of Istanbul’s vibrant street food scene and bustling markets offers an immersive culinary experience.

Savor 20 delectable local delights, from balik ekmek to iskender kebap, accompanied by 5 traditional drinks.

With an English-speaking foodie guide, you’ll explore the rich flavors and food culture of Kadikoy, while enjoying stunning ferry views.

It’s an excellent way to discover the vibrant tastes of this enchanting city.

You can check if your dates are available here: