Available as a half or full day experience.
There is always more to food than just eating and learning the ingredients. It tells the story of a culture.
This tour provides a unique look into the culture and society through food and takes you beyond the city’s historic buildings and museums.
You will travel across the continents to Asia, peek into the everyday life, immerse yourself in the beat of the city. The food will be far away from the kebab and baklava cliché, and include delicacies locals choose for themselves.
Your experience will be in Üsküdar and Kadıkoy districts, each standing at different positions in the political spectrum, also a good example of the country’s citizens.
Your day will begin with the Bosphorus crossing to Üsküdar—either by the ferry or via the Marmaray metro line. Üsküdar was once the springboard for caravans heading on pilgrimage to Mecca. While enjoying its waterfront promenade and views of the historic peninsula’s domes and spires, you’ll savor the simit—sesame crusted bagel— from a street vendor and experience a typical Turkish breakfast ritual, with 3–4 small tastings accompanied by tea and coffee. Learn about the daily routines, cultural norms, and current social issues from a local perspective.
Then, you will hop on a dolmuş (a quintessential Istanbul experience, the shared taxi) for a short ride to Kadıköy, a liberal stronghold with theatres, operas, cafes, beer halls, and music clubs. Its marketplace and produce market are always busy with locals. Walk through colorful food stalls, observe the rhythms of everyday life, and taste 6–8 unique dishes served across two stops, and inspired by Black Sea and Mesopotamian cuisines.
* Vegetarians and vegan friendly options are available.
Walking: moderate
- You will meet your guide at your hotel or at a location you prefer.
- Tour can be customized based on your specifications, travel plans and expectations.
- This itinerary was developed together with Rick Steves to provide an insight to everyday life beyond tourisy Istanbul. SRM provides a guaranteed group departure the day before each Rick Steves Best of Turkey tour begins. Contact us to join.
What’s included
- A certified SRM guide
- Public transportation
- All food tastings and lunch (9 – 12 kinds that change by the season)
Contact us for questions, prices, booking and customization.
