Viator Rating : 5 (481 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.9/10 (Solid Experience)
Istanbul
Istanbul Turkish Dinner & Dervish Show: Cultural Night
Overview
Discover Istanbul with the Istanbul Traditional Turkish Dinner and Dervish Experience! This top-rated experience immerses visitors in Turkish culture. See a mesmerizing 800-year-old dervish show in a local venue and enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a unique, 140-year-old family restaurant. Meet fun people from around the world and explore Istanbul like a local. Make sure to come hungry!
The adventure begins near the historic Sirkeci Train Station, a gateway to the East. Then, witness the spinning dance of the Dervishes. This UNESCO Heritage performance is a must-see in Turkey. Enjoy a delicious and authentic Turkish dinner at a local favorite restaurant. The experience ends with a convenient private car drop-off near visitor's hotels.
This all-inclusive tour provides a hassle-free experience. It includes private transportation, a dervish performance ticket, and a traditional Turkish dinner. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. It excludes any extra costs, ensuring a budget-friendly adventure. 
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 (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (7 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Highlights
Witness a Dervish Show: See the amazing spinning Dervishes, a special part of Turkish culture.
Eat Real Turkish Food: Taste many different Turkish dishes at a restaurant loved by locals.
No Extra Costs: The price includes everything, so no need to pay extra.
Easy Transportation: A private car will drop you off close to your hotel.
Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free: Enjoy dinner with food options for everyone.
Small Group Experience: Meet new people on this culinary and cultural tour of Istanbul.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing the Dervish show.
-
Many enjoyed the delicious Turkish food.
-
The tour guides are very nice and make the experience fun.
-
Visitors found the whole night well-organized.
Some visitors did not know there would be a set menu and not an a la carte dining experience
-
Some reviewers thought the restaurant was in a touristy area.
The Journey
Sirkeci Train Station & Dervish Venue
Begin your Istanbul journey at the iconic Sirkeci Train Station, the former gateway to the Orient Express, steeped in history and romance. After a brief introduction to your itinerary, savor the local street food as you make your way to a venue hosting the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes. Witness the Sema ceremony, a captivating spiritual dance recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of intangible cultural heritage. Delve into the rich symbolism and 800-year history of this Sufi tradition during an hour-long performance that offers a profound glimpse into Turkish spirituality. Prepare to be entranced by the hypnotic music and graceful movements of the dervishes.
140-Year-Old Kebab Restaurant
Following the dervish performance, indulge in an authentic Turkish culinary experience at a historic 140-year-old kebab restaurant. Savor an unlimited feast featuring a selection of five different kebabs, accompanied by a variety of mezes (Turkish tapas), fresh salads, and refreshing drinks. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, showcasing the diversity of Turkish cuisine. Conclude your meal with traditional Turkish tea or coffee and a delectable dessert, completing your immersive cultural and gastronomic adventure.
Hotel Drop-off
After a memorable dinner, relax and enjoy a private transfer back to a location near your hotel. This seamless service ensures a comfortable and convenient end to your evening, allowing you to reflect on the captivating experiences and flavors of Istanbul.
Know Before You Go
This all-inclusive tour includes private transportation that will drop you off near your hotel after the experience. A delicious dinner is included, as is your ticket to the mesmerizing Dervish performance. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options are available, but it's important to inform the tour operator of your dietary needs after booking. This is an all-inclusive tour, so there are no extra costs or hidden fees.
Hot Tip
Some reviews from Viator suggest to arrive hungry, so you can enjoy all of the many food options. Also, remember to tell them if you have any special food needs when you book so they are ready for you.
Review Summary
Customers finds this experience highly memorable, praising the Whirling Dervishes performance, the variety and quality of Turkish food, and the knowledgeable, friendly guides. Many highlight the intimate group size and the inclusion of local restaurants and street food as standout features. Some negative feedback mentions minor issues with transportation cleanliness and limited drink options at the rooftop, but overall, the tour is consistently rated as exceptional and a must-do in Istanbul.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Istanbul
$200
Discover Istanbul's Hidden Gems: An Insider's Circle Experience
5.0
(370 reviews)
Duration: 600
minutes
Circle Istanbul offers an immersive journey into the heart of the city, beyond typical tourist spots. Led by passionate local guides, experience authentic Turkish culture, indulge in traditional cuisine from breakfast to dinner, and enjoy a luxurious Turkish bath. Discover Istanbul's soul with insider access and curated experiences.
Istanbul
$77
Istanbul's Best Turkish Food Night & Rooftop Views
4.9
(654 reviews)
Duration: 195
minutes
Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience Istanbul is a delicious adventure! This tour shows off Istanbul's best-kept secrets. Imagine seeing amazing views from a local rooftop and trying yummy Turkish street food. Then, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in a 140-year-old family restaurant. You'll meet fun people from all over the world and explore Istanbul like a local! Make sure your tummy is empty when you come.
What to expect? The tour starts at Sirkeci Tram Station/Orient Express Meeting Point. Then, the group heads to a rooftop for beautiful Istanbul views. After that, they will eat at a 140-year-old family restaurant. A private car will drop guests off near their hotels after the tour. This food tour includes coffee, tea, dinner, and options for vegetarians, vegans, and those who need gluten-free food. Just let the tour guide know after booking if you have any dietary needs. Everything is included in the price, so guests do not need to worry about extra costs.
This experience shows travelers the heart of Turkish food and culture. The tour includes a private car for easy transport and a friendly guide to lead the way. With small groups, everyone gets personal attention. Enjoy the tastes and sights of Istanbul on this tasty adventure!
Istanbul
€70.55
Istanbul's Culinary Secrets: A Kadikoy Food Tour Adventure
4.9
(246 reviews)
The Istanbul Walking Food Tour unveils Kadikoy's culinary treasures, blending history with flavors. Enjoy doner, lahmacun, and more, savoring Istanbul's culture through food. This small-group, half-day experience offers an excellent quality introduction to Turkish cuisine, creating lasting memories one bite at a time.
Istanbul
€185
Kadikoy Culinary Adventure: Street Food & Wine Evening
5.0
(18 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
The Street Food & Wine Pairing Kadikoy Evening Tour immerses you in Istanbul's Asian side. This unique experience pairs exquisite wines with local street food, from pastries to mezes. Explore Kadikoy's culinary treasures with expert guides and discover Istanbul's rich food culture. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Istanbul
€105
Istanbul's Culinary Secrets: A Beyoglu Food Tour Adventure
4.9
(265 reviews)
Duration: 210
minutes
Istanbul Food Tour explores Beyoglu's culinary scene, unveiling Turkish cuisine and culture. Limited to eight, savor mezes, baklava, and kebabs, plus local raki. Explore bustling markets and hidden backstreets, gaining insight into Turkish history and gastronomy. Enjoy personalized experience and professional guidance.
Istanbul
$135
Istanbul Food Tour: Taste Two Continents - Ferry & Market!
5.0
(3173 reviews)
Duration: 330
minutes
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.
Nearby Events
İstanbul Kongre Merkezi Harbiye Oditoryumu
Sep 27
9:00 PMSami Yusuf Live in İstanbul: Book Tickets Now
Sami Yusuf returns to perform at the iconic İstanbul Kongre Merkezi Harbiye Oditoryumu for a soulful live music experience. Known for his unique blend of Pop and Adult Contemporary styles, this British composer and artist is set to deliver a captivating show that resonates with fans worldwide. His current 2026 Türkiye tour marks a significant return to the region, featuring special performances across major cities.
Sami Yusuf is celebrated as a visionary composer who seamlessly merges traditional elements with modern sounds, creating a distinctive musical identity that has earned him international acclaim. The İstanbul Kongre Merkezi Harbiye Oditoryumu, located in the heart of Harbiye, offers an intimate yet grand setting renowned for hosting high-caliber cultural events and concerts.
JJ Arena Ataşehir
Sep 05
8:00 PMGogol Bordello
Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu
Sep 02
9:00 PMFazil Say Jazz Quintet in İstanbul - Sep 2
Fazil Say Jazz Quintet performs at İstanbul Büyükşehir Belediyesi Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu, bringing world-renowned pianist Fazil Say's innovative jazz interpretations to Istanbul's premier outdoor venue. This exclusive chamber music performance showcases Say's virtuosic blend of classical training and contemporary jazz improvisation, drawing audiences from across Europe and beyond.
Fazil Say stands as one of the most celebrated pianists of our generation, known for his technical mastery and fearless artistic vision that bridges classical and jazz worlds. The Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu provides an intimate yet grand setting for this exceptional performance, with its open-air architecture creating a magical atmosphere under the Istanbul night sky.
Kadıköy Belediyesi Selamiçeşme Özgürlük Parkı Amfi Tiyatro
Aug 12
9:00 PMİlker Ayrık'la Gerçekler Acıdır
KüçükÇiftlik Park
Aug 14
10:00 PMLP Live at KüçükÇiftlik Park
LP performs at KüçükÇiftlik Park, bringing an evening of alternative pop and rock-driven emotion to one of İstanbul’s most recognizable open-air concert venues. The show is part of LP’s Türkiye summer tour, which has been positioned around the artist’s distinctive voice, high-impact live delivery, and “Lost on You” era appeal, drawing strong interest from fans across the country.
LP has built a reputation as one of alternative pop’s most charismatic voices, blending cinematic ballads with powerful, arena-ready choruses that translate especially well in a live setting. KüçükÇiftlik Park, located in Şişli, is known for hosting major concerts in an atmospheric urban park environment, making it a fitting backdrop for a high-demand İstanbul performance.
Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu
Aug 13
9:00 PMMelike Şahin
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Istanbul
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Istanbul From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Historical Tours & Pop in Istanbul. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Istanbul Activities