Discover the local tastes of Istanbul in both continents Europe and Asia with stops in local eateries and food markets.
On this small-group food tour, you’ll get to explore Turkish food culture and taste local delicacies in Istanbul’s both European and Asian side. You’ll start the tour with a traditional Turkish breakfast including simit, menemen, olives, local cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers and all kinds of pastries. Next, you’ll hop on a ferry and get to Kadıköy on the Asian side. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit some of the best restaurants and food markets to taste many more traditional dishes.
Highlights will include Iskender Kebab (doner kebab with yoghurt and tomato sauce), içli köfte (covered meatball), pide (flat bread with ground meat and vegetables filling) and a famous Turkish dessert, Baklava (layered pastry dessert filled with pistachio or nuts.) Throughout the tour, your guide will share invaluable insights into Turkish cuisine and local food culture.
Having Breakfast in the European Side of Istanbul
Turks love eating and since a traditional Turkish breakfast is the ultimate way to start the day, our food journey starts browsing and gathering our local bites from the specialty breakfast shops. We will taste and get a bit of everything, from iconic street food Simit to pastries. A proper Turkish breakfast cannot be contemplated without cheese. Like cheese, a Turkish breakfast without olives is considered incomplete. Menemen is a Turkish breakfast classic made with scrambled eggs, red and green peppers, tomatoes, and onions. So we choose and prepare our own spread, filled with anything your heart desires.
Ferry Crossing To Kadiköy
Crossing Bosphorus has always been fun while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the old city and the islands, sometimes feeding the seagulls or watching fellow passengers rushing for their job. This short journey gives you an insider look at everyday life of local people.
Kadıköy Market
Kadıköy has a fascinating past and one of the most distinctive neighbourhoods in Istanbul today. Our Tour is fun, informative and of course, delicious, this is so much more than a food tour – it’s a taste of the both continents all in one day! You’ll try a selection of proper Turkish foods and enjoy ten food tastings at a range of local haunts, including everyone’s favourite Iskender Kebab (A special döner kebab served with yogurt) and the delisious baklava (flaky pastry with nuts in syrup). We also try some stuffed mussels (Midye dolması) is the other iconic seafood-centered street food in Istanbul and İçli Köfte; (a crispy bulgur shell filled with minced meat, parsley, and sautéed pine nuts). We continue our food journey with delicious Börek; is a family of baked filled pastries made of a thin flaky dough. Our next stop is Pide is pitta like bread with various fillings, baked in a wood-fired oven and more local tastes..
Kadıköy Ferry Terminal
Our food journey ends in Kadıköy Ferry Terminal. Our guide will make sure you take the ferry (fare included) back to Eminönü (European side ) or give you a recommendation of what to see next nearby.
All the foods, drinks and snacks
Ferry ride from Europe to Asia and back to Europe
Professional guide
Small Group
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratitude
Cultural Exploration Across Two Continents:
This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Istanbul’s vibrant food culture from both the European and Asian sides. The ferry ride across the Bosphorus provides stunning views of the city, while the food stops on both continents give you a taste of Istanbul’s rich and diverse culinary traditions.
Authentic Local Food Experiences:
You’ll indulge in iconic Turkish street foods and traditional dishes like Iskender Kebab, İçli Köfte, Baklava, and Menemen. Visit hidden gems where locals eat, and taste flavors that are not typically found in tourist areas. This is a great chance to dive deep into Turkey’s food culture.
Comprehensive Food Tour:
With 10 different food tastings included, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a wide range of Turkish delicacies—from savory dishes like Börek and Pide to sweet treats like Baklava. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Turkish cuisine, there’s something for everyone.
Guided Insight into Turkish Cuisine:
Your professional guide will not only introduce you to a variety of delicious foods but also share the cultural and historical significance behind each dish. Learn about the unique preparation techniques, ingredients, and regional variations that make Turkish food so special.
Perfect for Food Lovers and Explorers:
This is more than just a food tour. It’s an exploration of Istanbul’s vibrant neighborhoods and local life. From bustling food markets to the tranquil ferry ride, you’ll get a taste of the city’s authentic atmosphere while enjoying the best of Turkish cuisine.
Small Group Experience:
With a small group format, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. You’ll have plenty of time to ask your guide questions and fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Istanbul.
Convenience and Comfort:
This tour includes everything—food, drinks, snacks, and even the ferry ride across the Bosphorus—making it an easy and hassle-free way to explore two continents in one day.
Comfortable Walking Shoes:
Since this tour involves walking around local food markets, streets, and across the Bosphorus, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that are good for walking.
Water Bottle:
Though the tour includes food and drinks, it’s always a good idea to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Camera or Smartphone:
You’ll be passing through scenic spots and vibrant neighborhoods, so don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the moments. The ferry ride offers great views of Istanbul, perfect for photos.
Light Jacket or Sweater:
Istanbul’s weather can change throughout the day, so it’s best to bring a light jacket or sweater, especially for the ferry ride where it might be a bit windy.
Sunscreen and Hat (Optional):
If you’re traveling during the warmer months, be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Cash for Extras:
Although the tour includes all food, drinks, and the ferry ride, you may want to bring some extra cash for souvenirs, additional snacks, or gratuities for your guide.
Appetite and Open Mind:
Prepare to sample a variety of Turkish dishes, so come hungry and open-minded! Turkish cuisine is rich and diverse, offering unique flavors that you may not have tried before.
Comfortable Bag:
If you’re carrying items like a camera or extra sunscreen, a small, comfortable bag can be helpful for keeping your belongings handy while you explore.
A Taste of Two Continents:
Experience the unique flavors of both Europe and Asia as you sample traditional Turkish dishes in two distinct parts of Istanbul. You’ll get a deeper understanding of how the city blends cultures, histories, and flavors from both sides of the Bosphorus.
Cultural Insights:
Beyond the food, this tour offers a glimpse into the everyday life of locals on both continents. From bustling food markets to tranquil ferry rides, you’ll gain a sense of Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere and how it has evolved over centuries.
In-Depth Knowledge of Turkish Cuisine:
You’ll learn about the regional variations of Turkish food, the historical influences behind the dishes, and the stories of local eateries. Your guide will introduce you to iconic street foods and teach you about the traditional cooking methods that have been passed down through generations.
A More Authentic Travel Experience:
Instead of simply visiting touristy spots, you’ll be immersed in local food culture. Whether it’s enjoying the best Iskender Kebab in Kadıköy or selecting your own spread of breakfast delicacies, you’ll experience Istanbul like a true local.
A Feast for Your Taste Buds:
With 10 different food tastings, this tour is a culinary adventure. You’ll have the chance to try a variety of savory dishes, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks, including iconic Turkish favorites like Menemen, Baklava, and Pide.
Beautiful Views and Scenic Journey:
The ferry ride across the Bosphorus provides stunning views of the city skyline, the old city, and the islands, allowing you to appreciate Istanbul from a new perspective. The journey itself is as enjoyable as the food!
Connections with Locals:
This tour provides an opportunity to connect with local vendors and eateries, learning firsthand from the people who are passionate about their food and culture. These interactions make the experience more enriching and memorable.
New Food Knowledge:
You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Turkish street food and regional specialties, and you might even pick up a few recipes or culinary tips to try at home.
