Your savory tour launches near Taksim Square, where you will meet your local guide and the rest of the small group. From the centrally located square, set off for your first stop. As you walk through this bustling district of Istanbul, listen to your guide explain fascinating anecdotes about the area. Prep your palate for tasty treats to come (all tastings at own expense).
Make your way through Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul’s busy pedestrian street lined with a melange of restaurants, galleries, cafes, and shops. Stop into some that pique your interest along the way, and take advantage of insider recommendations from your in-the-know guide.
Gear up for more bites as you approach the most concentrated area of restaurants, Cicek Pasaji (Cité de Péra), which dates back to 1876 when it originally opened as a theater. Continue on to a local market where the brave can sample traditional kokorec (grilled lamb intestines).
Savor local delicacies from Istanbul’s street vendors, such as stuffed mussels (kumpir) and massive baked potatoes stuffed with an array of toppings. Follow your guide to St. Anthony of Padua Church (Sant'Antonio di Padova Church) and the Pera Museum. At Pera Square, admire the Golden Horn, where famous poet Pierre Loti wrote much of his poetry. Refuel with a glass of potent Turkish tea.
Stop by Istanbul’s oldest patisserie, Markiz, to try Turkish coffee and maybe some sweet treats in the convivial atmosphere. Lastly, cruise a few local cafeterias before departing the group to continue exploring Istanbul on your own.
