Viator Rating : 5 (3173 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.9/10 (Solid Experience)
Istanbul
Istanbul Food Tour: Taste Two Continents - Ferry & Market!
330
Overview
The Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour takes you on a tasty trip through Istanbul, exploring food on both the European and Asian sides! This walking and culinary tour is perfect for food lovers who want to see more of Istanbul than just the usual tourist spots. It's a delicious dive into Turkish culture and daily life.
The tour starts with a yummy traditional Turkish breakfast in the heart of Istanbul's Old City in Europe, near Eminönü and the Turkish Breakfast Market. Then, the tour will hop on a ferry to Asia to explore the lively streets and Kadıköy Market in Kadıköy. This food adventure includes 8-9 stops, each offering different samples. Expect to eat street foods, homemade Turkish dishes, kebabs, and even Turkish ice cream. The tour provides a local insider's view, sharing culinary, cultural, and historical stories.
This experience is led by a friendly, English-speaking guide. The group size is small, so it will be easy to ask questions and learn about the food and city. It's a full-day of eating and exploring, so wear comfortable shoes! Please note that vegetarian options are limited at 2-3 stops, and vegan options are limited at 4-5 stops. This tour has earned Viator Experience Awards and is known for its excellent quality and low cancellation rate. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Highlights
Taste Istanbul's Best Flavors: Enjoy 8-9 unique food stops with multiple tastings!
Cross to Asia by Ferry: See two continents in one amazing food tour.
Local Foodie Guide: Learn about Turkish food and culture from a friendly expert.
All-Inclusive Food Experience: Snacks, lunch, coffee, and tea are all included!
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the variety and amount of food on the tour.
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Many reviewers highlighted the guide's knowledge and friendliness.
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Travelers enjoyed experiencing both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
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Several reviews mentioned the tour being a great way to experience local culture through food.
Some mentioned that vegetarian/vegan options are limited.
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A few people noted that the tour involves a lot of walking.
The Journey
Eminönü
Begin your culinary adventure in Eminönü, the bustling heart of Istanbul's Old City. This historic district, steps away from the legendary Spice Market, is a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and aromas. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you prepare to sample the diverse tastes of Turkish cuisine. Eminönü is not just a starting point; it's a gateway to understanding Istanbul's rich history and culinary heritage, a place where the past and present deliciously collide.
Turkish Breakfast Market
Delve into the heart of Turkish culinary tradition with a visit to a vibrant local breakfast market. Here, you'll gather an array of authentic Turkish breakfast items, including creamy cheeses, rich buffalo cream, sweet hazelnut paste, flavorful honey, savory olives, and delectable dried beef pastrami. Enjoy your curated feast with freshly baked simit, traditional Turkish tea, and comforting menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs) at a nearby tea house, while your guide shares captivating stories about Turkish culture and daily life, transforming a simple meal into an unforgettable cultural experience.
Kadıköy
Journey across the iconic Bosphorus by ferry to Kadıköy, Istanbul's modern and chic district on the Asian side. This vibrant neighborhood is a haven for food lovers, boasting some of the city's best local restaurants favored by a new generation of Turks who cherish both contemporary dining and the traditional flavors of their childhood. Explore its bustling streets, discover hidden culinary gems, and experience the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Kadıköy's captivating atmosphere.
Kadıköy Market
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Kadıköy Market, a sensory delight showcasing the best of Turkish produce and culinary traditions. Wander through colorful stalls overflowing with fresh ingredients, while your guide unveils the stories behind the local products. Capture the essence of Turkish cuisine with your camera, as every corner of this bustling market offers a visual feast and a glimpse into the heart of Istanbul's culinary culture.
Kadıköy Streets
Stroll through the lively streets of Kadıköy, where every corner reveals a new culinary delight. Sip on freshly brewed Turkish coffee while indulging in crispy, golden baklava crafted by local artisans. Savor the authentic tastes of popular street foods such as dolma, tantuni, and kokoreç, along with other local favorites. This is more than just a food tour; it's an exploration of Istanbul's diverse culinary landscape, offering a true taste of the city's vibrant street food culture.
Kadıköy Ferry Terminal
Conclude your Taste of Two Continents tour at the Kadıköy Ferry Terminal, a bustling hub connecting Istanbul's European and Asian sides. With return ferry tickets provided, your guide will assist you in boarding the ferry to Eminönü (near the Spice Market) or Karaköy. Take one last look at the vibrant Kadıköy skyline as you embark on your return journey, filled with unforgettable memories of Istanbul's diverse flavors and cultural experiences.
Know Before You Go
This food tour includes a friendly, knowledgeable English-speaking guide and visits 8-9 different eateries with multiple tastings, including snacks, lunch, coffee, and tea. Gratuities/tips for the guide and private transportation are not included. Please note that vegetarian options are limited at 2-3 stops, and vegan options are limited at 4-5 stops. The meeting point will be in the Old City, and the tour ends in Kadıköy. Please meet 15 minutes before the tour start time.
Hot Tip
Come hungry! There is plenty of food, so pace yourself to enjoy every stop. Also, wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Review Summary
Customers generally say the Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour is an outstanding culinary and cultural experience, praising the knowledgeable guides, well-planned itinerary, and generous food tastings. Many highlight the ferry ride and the opportunity to explore both European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The most common positive points are the authentic food, engaging storytelling, and smooth organization. Some travelers note limited vegetarian and vegan options at certain stops, and a few mention the amount of walking involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
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