Istanbul Old City Tours (Licensed Guided)

WALKING TOUR THROUGH OLD CITY

What does Istanbul have to offer beyond the standard sightseeing tours and guidebooks?

Is it still possible to see the historical layers of a city that is now a megapolis of almost 20 million people?

Where can you find the authentic and affordable local shops, artisan workshops, restaurants and markets of the old town?

This 4-hour walking tour will give you the answers to these questions from a local’s own experience of many years. You will sometimes be surprised to see an extraordinary view of the city from an unexpected place, or enjoy a delicious local flavour that you might not easily find on your own if you are visiting Istanbul for a short time.

We will start our walk in Cemberlitas, by Constantine’s Column, and discover some Khans (caravanserais) of Eminonu, talking about the socio-economic role in the history of the city. We will visit some historically hidden mosques or churches, or see small workshops and local shops as we walk through some of the narrow streets of the old town. We will cross the Galata Bridge and continue our walk in Karakoy up to the Galata Tower. The walk is organised to show the most interesting and beautiful places, but it is also open to any spontaneous ideas of the travellers. We take it easy, we can talk about art, immigration or anything else you would like to know or see while having a Turkish tea or coffee…

Who is it suitable for?

This walking tour is not part of the industry of mass tourism that has monotonously captured some of the world’s most beautiful cities, including Istanbul. Therefore, this tour aims to invite real travellers to a level of consciousness that takes into account cultural diversity, local handicrafts, by avoiding the environmental impact of tourism and consumerism.

From the beginning to the end of our walk, our aim is to turn you into an Istanbul local, sharing everything we know about the history, culture and art so that you can feel the true spirit of the city.

Notes:

– The tour is limited to 5 persons.
– Please wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for changing weather.
– Tour time is decided with you. Morning or noon is better.

Included:
-Entrance fees
-Public transport
-Licensed Guide fee

Excluded:
-lunch
-Coffee and tea breaks
-Tips
-Extra personal expenses