Gastronomical Experiences in Istanbul

Updated on 2014-03-03

Daily Program

A day to cherish for a lifetime for visitors more interested in eating than cooking! You will launch your culinary experience of Istanbul with an early traditional Turkish breakfast in Bebek, a lovely peaceful neighborhood on the northern shores of the Bosphorus, but away from the touristy spots of the city. Your breakfast venue is where locals prefer for a gorgeous start for the day, especially on weekends. A short ride on the local ferry to cross the famed strait running between Asia and Europe would give you the opportunity to capture superb views of some of the historical mansions and impressive palaces along with the skyline of Istanbul adorned with domes and minarets of Byzantine and Ottoman cultures. Docking at Kanlica, another beautiful neighborhood on the Asian shores of the city locally famous for its yogurt with icing sugar, which you will also get a taste of today, you will enjoy the unique combination of the magnificent scenery of the Bosphorus and tranquility of the Asian side. You will continue along the cozy neighborhoods on the Asian shoreline to drive over the Bosphorus Bridge leading you back to the European shores of Istanbul and offering you a panoramic outlook at the breathtaking setting of the strait while enabling you to experience the wonder of changing continents within minutes only. Built in 1973 by British civil engineers to commemorate the 50th anniversary of foundation of Republic of Turkey, Bosphorus Bridge is the sixth longest suspension bridge in today’s world and a true civil engineering gem adorning the strait of Bosphorus. You will find yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Spice Market when you reach the Old City. Built in the 17^th century, Spice Market is still the most popular bazaar visited to shop for fresh ingredients to spice up the dishes prepared at the homes of Istanbul. You will blend with the locals looking for the best buys of all kinds of merchandise for their daily need in the bustling atmosphere of the Spice Market. Strolling through the aisles of the market led by the enchanting smells, you will be greeted by pleasant merchants who will compete to show you their eye-dazzling displays of selection of spices brought from different parts of the world. Our venue for lunch today is Hamdi Restaurant, worldwide famous for its kebabs and desserts in addition to the splendid scenery of the Golden Horn from its rooftop terrace. You will also visit the historical candy shop of Ali Muhittin Hacibekir to taste samples of Turkish Delights presented in great variety and Koska Store to try out “hot halva”, another Turkish sweet well-known among locals and usually served as the dessert after seafood meals. A short break at the coffee store of Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, which now houses the headquarters of the family company after the re-building of the store on the site of the original family shop, will familiarize you with the history, characteristics and preparation of Turkish coffee as well as its significant place in daily life and Turkish culture combined with the activity of fortune telling from the patterns left on the cup by coffee grounds. A different dine-out experience awaits you tonight with dinner at a typical Turkish seafood restaurant in a region mostly preferable by the locals of the city for the entertaining and interactive performance of the local musicians. The locals frequent Meydan Restaurant to celebrate joyful events in life with family and friends which becomes a ritual leaving everybody a little dizzy with happiness at the end of the night. You will enjoy a delightful seafood dinner enriched with all kinds of mezes (Turkish appetizers) and mostly the company of your beloved ones. You will return to your hotel after a night full of delicious food, music and fun in the intimate atmosphere of the restaurant.

 

Notes

Rate Includes:

- Transportation by A/C non-smoking deluxe minivan for touring mentioned in the itinerary.

- Services of the English-speaking professional private tour guide throughout the program.

- All entrance and parking fees for the sightseeing.

- Complimentary refreshments on vehicle throughout the journey.

- Traditional Turkish Breakfast at Bebek

- Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

- Dinner at Meydan Restaurant in Kumkapi

- Ferry tickets

 

Rate Excludes:

- Accommodation in Istanbul.

- Beverages

- Personal expenses.

- Gratuities for guide and driver.

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