Taksim to Galata: Tastes, Tales & the Spirit of Istanbul

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4 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Taste, explore, and experience the vibrant heart of Istanbul with history, flavors, and hidden gems!
Discover the real Istanbul with a private expert guide on this immersive Taksim & Pera walking tour. This experience is designed for private groups, allowing flexibility to tailor the tour based on your interests.

Explore hidden gems, historic landmarks, and diverse flavors as you walk through the multicultural heart of the city. From legendary patisseries to authentic Turkish eateries, enjoy tastings that are included in the tour price.

Want to stay longer at a favorite spot? No problem! The tour can be adjusted to spend more time at places you love. Guests are also welcome to try additional food and drinks beyond the included tastings at their own expense.

This isn’t just a tour—it’s a journey into the soul of Istanbul, where culture, history, and cuisine meet. Join us for an unforgettable experience!

What's Included

Enjoy wet burger, roasted chestnuts, profiteroles at İnci Patisserie, compote at Abdullah Lokantası, fried mussels and lakerda at Fish Market, tea at Hazzopulo, and mantı at Fıccın. Tastings included!
Private transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Taksim Square

Our meeting point is the Taksim Republic Monument (Cumhuriyet Anıtı), located at the heart of Taksim Square in Istanbul. The monument stands at the center of the square, surrounded by an open pedestrian area.

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Republic Monument

    • Meet at the Taksim Republic Monument, the symbolic heart of modern Istanbul. • Learn about Taksim’s historical evolution, from the Ottoman era to today. • Get an overview of İstiklal Street, a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Istiklal Caddesi

    İstiklal Street: History & Architecture & Tastes • Walk down İstiklal Street, exploring its multicultural heritage. • Admire the elegant façades of Ottoman and Art Nouveau buildings like the Botter Apartment and Mısır Apartment. • Visit İnci Patisserie the temple of profiterole. • Visit Abdullah Lokantası, experience the authentic flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Cicek Pasaji

    Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage), Balık Pazarı & Nevizade: Culinary Delights • Visit Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage), a lively arcade with historic taverns. • Explore Balık Pazarı (Fish Market), a historic market filled with fresh produce and local delicacies. • Stroll through Nevizade, a lively street known for its meyhanes (taverns) and seafood specialties. • Stop for a tasting at Tunç Balık or a similar local eatery.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 4
    Passage Hazzopulo

    • Pass through Galatasaray Square, a historic meeting point for locals. • Pass through Saint Antuan Church, a stunning neo-Gothic Catholic church. • Visit Hazzopulo Passage, a charming alley with boutique shops and cafes. • Enjoy Turkish tea tasting at Hazzopulo street cafe.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 5

    • Fıccın Restaurant is a beloved eatery in Istanbul, famous for its delicious Circassian cuisine, especially its signature dish, "Fıccın Mantı" (Circassian mantı (Psihalive) is a unique type of large, boat-shaped dumpling, typically filled with ground beef or lamb), along with a variety of traditional Turkish and Anatolian flavors.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 6
    Pera Palace Hotel

    • Pass through legendary Pera Palace Hotel, which hosted famous figures like Agatha Christie and Ernest Hemingway. • Explore Asmalı Mescit, a bohemian neighborhood known for its art scene and cozy cafes.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 7

    • Walk to Tünel Square, the endpoint of the historic Tünel funicular. • Pass through Galata Mevlevihanesi, a Whirling Dervish lodge that offers insight into Istanbul’s spiritual heritage.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Galata Tower

    Galata Tower & Şişhane Square • Admire the iconic Galata Tower from the outside and learn about its history. • End the tour at Şişhane Square, near the Şişhane Metro Station for easy transport access. • Guests can explore Galata Tower on their own or enjoy the modern cafes of Şişhane.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by OSMAN ALTAY - YOUR TOUR GUIDE AND LOCAL PARTNER

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Tags

Half-day Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Small Group
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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