Istanbul Off the Beaten Path Tour with Guide, Lunch and Transfers

How about uncovering the hidden gems of Istanbul—places where locals go and tourists often miss? On this tour, you’ll see the city through the eyes of a local, hopping on trams and ferries to explore its fascinating mix of history and modern life. Starting in the vibrant Karaköy neighborhood, you’ll uncover Istanbul’s secrets, experiencing its rich past and lively present together. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in the daily life of Turkish people, visiting the old Greek and Jewish districts, the bustling Tahtake market, the majestic Süleymaniye Mosque (Istanbul's largest historical mosque), the charming second-hand bookseller's market, and much more. This is a chance to dive deep into the heart of Istanbul and see it like never before!

1. 1

   Karakoy

   25 min

   We'll begin our tour in Karaköy, offering a chance to see Istanbul from a more local viewpoint. After your guide gives a brief introduction to both Istanbul and Karaköy, we'll head to Balat, enjoying freshly bought bagels or pastries along with Turkish tea during our ferry ride.

2. 2

   Balat & Fener Tour

   50 min

   In Balat and Fener, former Greek and Jewish districts, we’ll explore the buildings that have outlasted the communities once living within them. As we trace the rich, cosmopolitan history of Istanbul—shaped by Christian and Jewish cultures alongside their neighbors until the 1960s—we'll reflect on the shift from the past to the present. Walking through side streets greeted by clotheslines, we'll reminisce about the lost neighborhood culture and ponder the meaning of events that once unfolded here. Today, Fener and Balat are vibrant with colorful cafés, antique shops, and a diverse mix of people, offering us a unique glimpse into this evolving neighborhood. After exploring this fascinating area, we’ll hop on the tram and make our way to Eminönü.

3. 3

   Venerable Patriarchal Church of St. George

   20 min

   Located in one of the oldest parts of Istanbul, in Fatih, the Cathedral Church of Saint George is a Greek Orthodox Church which is still in working order

4. 4

   Tahtakale District

   55 min

   We’ll take a quick look at the Egyptian Spice Market, popular with tourists, before heading to the Tahtakale Market, where locals do their shopping. This is also where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the area.

5. 5

   Misir Carsisi

   25 min

   Vividly coloured spices are displayed alongside jewel-like lokum (Turkish delight) at this Ottoman-era marketplace, providing eye candy for the thousands of tourists and locals who make their way here every day.

6. 6

   Suleymaniye Mosque

   40 min

   After lunch, we’ll indulge in some Turkish delight at a local spot, with no pressure to shop, and take in the grandeur of the Süleymaniye Mosque. We’ll also learn more about the Islamic faith, gaining insight into its teachings and significance.

7. 7

   Istanbul Universitesi Rektorlugu

   25 min

   Next, we'll learn about the Turkish education system as we explore the area around Istanbul University.

8. 8

   Sahaflar Carsisi

   10 min

   We’ll also visit the historic bookstore market where has been a book and paper market since Byzantine times.

9. 9

   Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi

   25 min

   An old madrasah which turns into a coffee shop

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Minimum capacity is 2 persons. We reserve the right to cancel a tour due to insufficient reservations. We will do all we can to reschedule your tour or a refund will be provided.
• A maximum of 12 people per booking
• Our tours are done by public transportation and walking so if you have any serious mobility issues, we advise you to book a private tour

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.