How to Plan Your Private Istanbul Food Tour in Asia & Europe

Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, is renowned for its rich culture, history, and diverse cuisine. A private guided food tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the flavours of this beautiful city. If you’re interested in experiencing the delicacies of Istanbul, the Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk is an excellent choice. Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you plan your tour.

Step One: Book the Tour

The first step is to book the Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk tour through Viator – a trusted third-party company that offers travel and activity bookings. Simply follow this link here and review the details, then proceed to book the tour.

Step Two: Where to Meet

The meeting point for the Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk tour is Karakoy in Istanbul, Turkey. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. If you decide to go to the meeting point, you can find it at Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Türkiye, near the Karakoy tram station vending machine. If you prefer pickup, you can select one from available pickup points.

Step Three: What to Expect

The Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk tour includes breakfast, coffee and/or tea, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and private transportation. You’ll discover the flavours of Istanbul through a comprehensive tour that wanders along the famous Istiklal street and marvels at the stunning Tophane Meydan Cesmesi. The tour is private, which means it’s restricted to your own group – providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

Step Four: Meeting and Pickup

The meeting and pickup for the Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk tour are flexible. If you choose pickup, the tour company will inform you of the exact time and location. The tour duration is approximately 4-5 hours, and the end point is the Egyptian Bazaar in Rüstem Pa. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking.

Step Five: What to Bring

We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and comfortable clothing. Additionally, bring your appetite because there will be plenty of food to try. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the memories, and a small bag or backpack to carry your essentials.

Step Six: Who Can Take Part in the Tour?

The Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk tour is open to everyone – from novices to food obsessives. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of Istanbul while admiring the unique architecture and sampling incredible Turkish delicacies.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, adding the Taste of Istanbul Asia and Europe Guided Food Walk tour to your itinerary is a must. It’s a comprehensive and flexible tour that is tailored to your preferences and needs. Book the tour, meet at the designated location, and let the adventure begin. Don’t forget to bring your appetite, your camera, and your sense of adventure. Happy exploring!

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul, one of the most significant cities in the world, has a rich history, impressive landmarks, diverse culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. As a city that is home to more than 15 million people, Istanbul has been attracting millions of visitors every year. If you are planning to visit Istanbul or curious about this beautiful city, this guide will cover the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul.

1. Where is Istanbul located?

Istanbul is located in the northwest corner of Turkey, straddling Europe and Asia. The city is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, which connects the Black Sea to the north with the Sea of Marmara to the south.

2. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is between September and November or April and May. These months offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and higher prices, summers (June-August) can also be a good time to visit since there are plenty of activities and festivals going on.

3. How do I get to Istanbul?

Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. You can find flights from many different cities around the world.

4. What are the top landmarks to visit in Istanbul?

Istanbul is full of historic landmarks and remarkable buildings. Some of the top landmarks to visit in Istanbul are:

The Hagia Sophia:

The Hagia Sophia is an awe-inspiring building that has been a church, a mosque, and now a museum. Its impressive dome and intricate mosaics are must-see sights.

The Blue Mosque:

Also known as Sultan Ahmet Mosque, the Blue Mosque is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in Istanbul’s Old City. With its six minarets, numerous domes, and magnificent interior decoration, it is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

The Topkapi Palace:

The Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans. Today, it is a museum filled with impressive collections of Ottoman artifacts, including weapons, imperial robes, and intricate ceramics.

The Grand Bazaar:

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With thousands of shops and stalls selling everything from spices to carpets, it is a shopper’s paradise.

5. What is Turkish cuisine like?

Turkish cuisine is a mixture of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan flavors. It is known for its fresh vegetables and fruits, grilled meats, and tasty sweets. Some of the most popular Turkish dishes are:

Kebabs:

Grilled meat kebabs are probably the most well-known Turkish dish. Adana and shish kebabs are the most popular types.

Baklava:

Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Manti:

Manti is a type of Turkish dumpling that is typically filled with spiced beef or lamb and served with yogurt.

Meze:

Meze is a selection of small dishes that are traditionally served before a main meal. They can include a variety of meats, vegetables, and dips.

6. What is the currency in Istanbul?

The currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TL). While many places in Istanbul do accept credit cards, it is always a good idea to have some cash on you for smaller purchases and market shopping.

7. Is Istanbul a safe city for tourists?

Overall, Istanbul is a safe city for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take standard safety precautions, such as watching your valuables, staying in well-lit areas, and avoiding empty streets at night.

8. Can I use public transportation in Istanbul?

Yes, Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, metro, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a pre-paid card that can be used on all public transportation, and it is a great way to save money and time while getting around the city.

9. What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is generally liberal when it comes to dress, and people wear a mix of Western and traditional clothing. For women, it is best to avoid wearing short skirts or shorts in conservative areas such as mosques, and it is recommended to bring a scarf to cover your head when visiting religious sites.

10. What language is spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, and it is the most commonly spoken language in Istanbul. However, English is widely spoken in the tourist areas, and many locals also speak basic English.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a captivating city that offers an abundance of history, culture, and delicious food. Now that you have a good idea of some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul, you can start planning your trip with more confidence. Be sure to take advantage of the rich opportunities for sightseeing and cultural exploration and sample some of the delicious Turkish cuisine. Happy travels!