There is a saying in Latin: Live like a Roman when you are in Rome! Istanbul is a city which is built for walking. For that reason, the best way of exploring Istanbul is to walk up and down through the hills and try the best local food along the way as the locals do. Here, with this tour, we would like to show you the hidden local gems and how the locals live.
You're going to meet your local expert at your hotel lobby and she/he will take you to hidden places such as Corlulu Ali Pasha Madrasa, Column of Constantine the Great, 500 years-old Cemberlitas Bathhouse, 400 years-old Caravansaray (now it's a handicraft center and its optional place, we can only visit it if you are more into the nomadic art), backstreets of the old town, Istanbul University - from outside, colorful Grand Bazaar, the great masterpiece of Architect Sinan which is Suleymaniye Mosque, 400 years-old Spice Bazaar and the gorgeous view of Istanbul from Galata Bridge.
We're going to taste local tastes such as kebabs and baklava and we're going to explore the Jewish town - now it's a hipster-like area. We're going to see 600 years old Genovese house from outside and walk uphill through the famous Camondo stairs (also hear the sad story of the famous Camondo family).
Finally, we're reaching Galata Tower. Here, after all the commentary, we're finishing our tour.
You may stay longer, go up to the tower, or turn back to the hotel with your guide and private van.
Your hotel lobby
That gigantic column dates back to the 4th century AD.
This madrasa used to be an Islamic school but now it's a local cafe, where local people hang out.
We're going to explore the ancient and local bazaars. That's going to be a journey to the 1001 nights of Arabic fairy tales.
We are tasting local and traditional food.
Suleymaniye Mosque is the masterpiece of architect Sinan. We're going to learn about Islamic architecture.
Galata Bridge has a splendid view of the Golden Horn, Bosphorus Strait, and the historical peninsula - Sultanahmet. We're going to see the 650 years old Galata Tower from the outside as well.
We're going to explore an old Jewish town and then end our tour.
