Explore Istanbul through its vibrant culinary heritage with this immersive evening food tour. Designed for food lovers and culture seekers, this tour offers a unique opportunity to taste traditional Turkish and Kurdish dishes, navigate bustling local markets, and experience the rhythm of Istanbul from both its European and Asian sides.

Tour Highlights

• Ride a public ferry with locals across the Bosporus to the Asian side of Istanbul.

• Capture stunning views of the Maiden’s Tower, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque from the water.

• Wander through authentic food and fish markets in Kadıköy.

• Sample a wide variety of local delicacies, including stuffed mussels, Lahmacun, Tantuni, Maraş ice cream, baklava, olives, pickled vegetables, beef pastrami, and regional goat cheese.

• Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, selected by your food expert guide.

• Taste authentic Kurdish and Southeastern Turkish cuisine.

• Relax with a cup of tea served in a tulip-shaped glass, just like a local.

• Discover hidden gems and enjoy fantastic photo opportunities along the way.

Tour Details

Tour Style:
Walking tour, ferry cruise, city orientation, local lifestyle immersion, storytelling, Turkish and Kurdish cuisine, cultural insights, off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Ideal For:
Travelers interested in authentic experiences, local food enthusiasts, cultural explorers, photographers, and those eager to see a non-touristy side of Istanbul.

What’s Included:

• Expert English-speaking local food guide

• Public tram transportation

• Round-trip Bosporus ferry crossing

• Food tastings at eight stops

• Four soft drinks throughout the evening

What’s Not Included:

• Any additional food or beverages not listed above

• Personal shopping expenses

• Guide gratuity (recommended: 10–20 USD per person)

Group Size:
Maximum of 10 participants per tour
Available daily

Special Notes:

• Children aged 6–11: €55 per child

• Children 12 and above: charged full price

• For families with children under 6, private tours are recommended

• The tour starts a short walk from the Karaköy tram station

• The public tram operates from 6:00 AM to midnight

Tour Schedule

Duration:
Approximately 5 to 6 hours

Meeting Point:
Karaköy Pier (Karaköy İskelesi)
Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mah., Rıhtım Cd. No:13, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Important Note:
Be sure to arrive at the City Lines ferry terminal (NOT Turyol). Look for the yellow sign reading “Karaköy İskelesi” on the right side of the pier entrance. Nearby landmarks include Afrodit Restaurant and Sofra Restaurant.

Start Time: 6:00 PM
End Time: Around 10:30 PM
Finishing Point: Near the Karaköy Pier
Your guide will assist you in finding transportation back to your hotel if needed.

Directions:

• By Tram:
  Get off at Karaköy tram station. With the Galata Tower behind you, turn right, cross the street at the lights, and walk along the waterfront. You’ll reach the pier in about two minutes. If you see Afrodit Restaurant across from you, you are at the correct location.

• By Taxi:
  Ask the driver to drop you at “Karaköy İskelesi Şehir Hatları” (not Turyol). From the drop-off point near the bridge, walk to the pier, it’s just two minutes away.

Itinerary Overview

The tour begins in the modern district of Galata, at the Karaköy Pier. From there, you’ll board a public ferry and enjoy a scenic 20-minute cruise to the Asian side of Istanbul. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of both continents and capture photos of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks from the water.

Upon arrival in Kadıköy, explore the bustling food markets and narrow local streets. Visit the fish market and taste freshly prepared stuffed mussels. Stop at a cozy café to unwind and try traditional board games like backgammon or Okey.

As your appetite builds, your guide will lead you to a beloved local restaurant serving authentic Kurdish cuisine from southeastern Turkey, including options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions.

After a satisfying dinner, take the ferry back to the European side while admiring the illuminated skyline of Istanbul by night. The tour concludes in Karaköy with a delicious Kunefe dessert and a taste of traditional Turkish goat milk ice cream.

Your guide will be available to assist you with directions or transportation back to your hotel.

Reserve your spot today and taste the heart of Istanbul, one bite at a time.