Istanbul Food Tour: 8 Tastings Across Two Continents
Discover Istanbul through its flavors, neighborhoods, and local way of life on a private food journey across two continents. Travel like a local by Marmaray from Europe to Asia, explore the vibrant streets of Kadikoy, and cross the Bosphorus by ferry to Karakoy. Along the way, enjoy 8 authentic Turkish tastings while experiencing Istanbul’s everyday life, local flavors, and unforgettable views from a truly local perspective.
Itinerary
10:00 – Pick up from your hotel.
Our culinary adventure begins with a ride on the Marmaray, the undersea rail connecting Europe and Asia. We’ll travel from the European side to Kadikoy, one of Istanbul’s most vibrant neighborhoods and a favorite destination for local food lovers.
In Kadikoy, we will taste:
• Lahmacun – Turkish flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat.
• Tantuni – A delicious wrap filled with thinly sliced, seasoned beef.
• Balik Ekmek (Mackerel Sandwich) – A popular Turkish street food classic.
• Midye Dolma – Mussels stuffed with aromatic rice and spices.
• Manti – Traditional Turkish dumplings served with yogurt and butter sauce.
• Cigkofte – A spicy bulgur specialty served in lettuce leaves or wrapped in lavash.
After exploring Kadikoy, we'll board a Bosphorus ferry to Karakoy, enjoying spectacular views of the Bosphorus, the Historic Peninsula, and Istanbul's iconic skyline while crossing between Asia and Europe.
In Karakoy, we'll enjoy:
• Kunefe – A famous warm dessert made with crispy shredded pastry, melted cheese, and sweet syrup.
From Karakoy, we'll take a scenic walk across the Galata Bridge along the waterfront to Eminonu.
Our experience ends with a cup of traditional Turkish coffee, the perfect way to conclude an unforgettable journey through Istanbul's flavors, neighborhoods, and local way of life.
PRICE DETAILS:
Groups of 4: 80 Euro per person
Groups of 3: 95 Euro per person
Groups of 2: 130 Euro per person
Single Traveler: 215 Euro per person
(For larger groups or custom arrangements, please contact us for a personalized quotation)
❯ Check Availability & Book 📅
No credit card required for inquiry – Response within 24 hours.
This private food tour includes:
✓ Professional licensed English-speaking local guide
✓ Round-trip local transportation by Marmaray and Bosphorus ferry
✓ All scheduled food stops and tastings as described in the itinerary (food and drinks are not included)
✓ All scheduled walking and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
Private Vehicle Upgrade: Prefer to travel in a private vehicle instead of using local transportation? A private vehicle with driver is available for €250 per vehicle. Please contact us for availability.
Good to Know
• No hidden costs.
• This is a private tour, exclusively for you and your travel companions.
• Food and drinks are not included in the tour price. Guests are responsible for the cost of their own food and drinks, as well as those of the guide during the food stops.
• Local transportation is included, including the Marmaray journey from the European side to Kadikoy and the Bosphorus ferry from Kadikoy to Karakoy.
• The tour combines authentic local food, neighborhood exploration and everyday Istanbul transportation for a more immersive experience.
• The tour includes moderate walking through the lively neighborhoods of Kadikoy, Karakoy and Eminonu. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions, traffic, public holidays, local business opening hours or operational reasons.
• Please inform us in advance about any food allergies, dietary restrictions or special requirements.
• Prices are subject to change without prior notice and may vary depending on group size, travel date and seasonal demand. Please contact us for the latest availability and quotation.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• This private tour is operated exclusively for you and your travel companions.
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included from centrally located Istanbul hotels.
• The itinerary can be customized according to your interests, dietary preferences and available time.
• The tour uses Istanbul's public transportation as part of the experience, allowing you to travel between the European and Asian sides like a local.
• The Marmaray takes us from Europe to Asia, while the Bosphorus ferry brings us back from Kadikoy to Karakoy, offering beautiful views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul's historic skyline.
• This is primarily a food and local experience tour, rather than a traditional sightseeing tour. The focus is on tasting local specialties and discovering Istanbul through its neighborhoods and everyday life.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour includes moderate walking.
• Tour itineraries may be adjusted due to weather conditions, traffic, public holidays, local business opening hours or operational reasons.
More Things to Do in Istanbul
Whirling Dervish Ceremony
Experience the spiritual beauty of the centuries-old Mevlevi Sema ceremony, one of Turkey's most captivating cultural traditions.
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
Enjoy an unforgettable evening sailing between Europe and Asia while savoring dinner, live entertainment and stunning views of Istanbul by night.
Turkish Night Show
Immerse yourself in Turkish culture with traditional folk dances, belly dancing, live music and a vibrant evening of entertainment.
Hammam Experience
Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish bath experience, combining centuries-old rituals with soothing steam and expert massage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are food and drinks included in the tour price?
No. Food and drinks are not included. Guests pay directly for their own food and drinks, as well as the guide's food and drinks during the tasting stops.
Q2: Is local transportation included?
Yes. Local transportation is included in the tour price. The tour uses the Marmaray to travel from the European side to Kadikoy and a Bosphorus ferry from Kadikoy to Karakoy.
Q3: How much walking is involved?
The tour includes moderate walking through Kadikoy, Karakoy and Eminonu, with regular stops for food tastings and local experiences. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Q4: Is this a private tour?
Yes. This is a private tour, operated exclusively for you and your travel companions.
Q5: Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. As this is a private tour, the itinerary can be adjusted according to your interests, dietary preferences and available time. Please contact us before your tour to discuss your preferences.
Q6: Can I use a private vehicle instead of public transportation?
Yes. A private vehicle with driver can be arranged for an additional €250 per vehicle, subject to availability.