Unveiling Istanbul's Hidden Gems: Beyond the Mainstream Tours and Guidebooks
Explore the enchanting secrets of Istanbul beyond the confines of mainstream tours and guidebooks. In this bustling metropolis, where nearly 20 million people create a vibrant mosaic of cultures, there lies a rich tapestry of history waiting to be uncovered.
REQUEST TO BOOK Join us as we peel back the layers of time and embark on a journey to discover the authentic heart of the city. From hidden local shops and artisanal ateliers to charming restaurants and markets in the old town, our guide will lead you to the lesser-known corners, revealing the true essence of Istanbul that often escapes the typical tourist's gaze. "Unveiling Istanbul's Hidden Gems" promises an immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the soul of this megapolis that transcends the ordinary.
What has Istanbul more than the mainstream sight-seeing tours or guidebooks show you?
Is it still possible to see the historical layers of the city, which is now a megapolis with almost 20 millions of people?
Where can you find the authentic and affordable local shops, artisanal ateliers, restaurants and markets of old town?
This 4-hour walking tour will give you the answers of these questions from a locals own experiences of many years. You will sometimes be surprised by seeing an extraordinary view of the city from an unexpected spot, or you will enjoy a delicious local flavor that you can not find easily by yourself if you are visiting Istanbul for a short time.
We will start our walk in Cemberlitas, by Column Constantine, and discover some khans(caravanserais) of Eminonu, talking about the socio-economical role in the city's history. We will visit some historical hidden mosque or churches, or see small ateliers and locally owned shops when we walk through some narrow streets of the old town. We will cross the Galata Bridge and continue our walk in Karakoy up to Galata Tower. The walk is organized to reveal the interesting and beautiful spots but it is also open to any spontaneous ideas from the travelers. We go easy, we can talk about arts, immigration or anything you like to know or see while we have a turkish tea or coffee...
This walking tour is not a part of mass tourism industry that captured monotonised some very beautiful cities on the earth, including Istanbul. So this tour aims to invite 'real travelers' to a level of consciousness that considers cultural diversity, hand crafted local businesses, by avoiding the environmental impacts of tourism and consumerism.
The tour is limited to 5 people.
some spots to be visited: Buyuk Yeni Han, Ateliers of a local jeweller and beadwork, Rustem Pasa Mosque, Arap Cami(former san domenico chruch), ancient karakoy streets, kamondo stairs...
