10 Best Istanbul Food Tours for Foodies in 2024
Impatient to book one of the best food tours in Istanbul? I got you covered! This guide highlights the 10 best Istanbul food tours for you to dive into the local cuisine and make the most of your trip.
Istanbul is a vibrant culinary destination with a rich food culture that combines influences from various regions and civilizations. Its rich culinary heritage, street food culture, unique ingredients, diverse flavors, and dining experiences contribute to its reputation as a food capital. Exploring the city’s food scene is an adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and traditions of Turkish cuisine.
Taste the best food in Istanbul with the top food tours that Istanbul has to offer. Let’s discover local flavors, try some authentic recipes, and eat our way through Turkish cuisine. That is the true essence of Istanbul and you don’t want to miss out!
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Don’t have time to read the whole article? These are
the best food tours in Istanbul, Turkey:
⭐️ Top rated: Taste of Two Continents Food Tour
👨🍳 Cooking class: Turkish and Ottoman Cuisine Workshop in Istanbul
🔒 Private: The 10 Tastings of Istanbul With Locals: Kadikoy Private Food Tour
10 best Istanbul food tours
Taste of Two Continents Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 6 to 7 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
Join one of the best food tours in Istanbul and let the local guide take good care of you and your taste buds. During the tour, you will visit 8 different eateries and try different local dishes. Basically the best of what Turkish cuisine has to offer. Not to mention that you will cover the traditions of two different continents.
Starting at the Spice Market with a traditional Turkish breakfast sets the stage for a flavorful and culturally rich experience. Then you will cross the Bosphorus by ferry to explore the more modern and chic area on the Asian side.
Exploring the local Kadıköy market is a highlight of the tour. You can expect to encounter a wide array of flavors and aromas as you wander through the market, interacting with local vendors and learning about their products. It’s a great opportunity to try new ingredients, discover unique flavors, and get a taste of the local culinary scene.
Finish up with freshly brewed Turkish coffee while sampling locally-made crispy golden baklava before your guide takes you back to the ferry.
Food that you will get to try:
- 8 uniquely different eateries and restaurants, with multiple tastings at each
- Turkish breakfast items, including cheeses, buffalo cream, hazelnut paste, honey, olives, dried beef pastrami, and simit
- Turkish tea & menemen
- street foods like dolma, tantuni, and kokoreç
- Turkish coffee with baklava
Other things to note:
- small-group tour limited to 8 people
- not recommended for vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free travelers
- comfortable walking shoes recommended
“Ali was the BEST! My husband and I had a great time learning about the history of Istanbul while eating our way through both continents. Come hungry and be ready to leave with a full stomach and more. We even went back to one of the places the next day for lunch because it was so delicious! HIGHLY recommended!!”
Istanbul Foodie Tour by Night: Traditional Meyhane & Street Foods
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
This Istanbul food tour takes you to the Beyoglu (Pera) neighborhood. Known for its eclectic mix of trendy restaurants, quirky meyhanes (traditional taverns), and bustling food markets, Beyoglu offers a captivating blend of Turkish culture, history, and culinary delights.
During the tour, you will get to sample some of the traditional Turkish dishes in the historical places that have been serving locals for years. Exploring the backstreets of Beyoglu adds an extra layer of discovery to your food tour. These hidden corners often harbor charming local eateries and culinary gems that may not be immediately obvious.
And just like every meal in Turkey, the tour concludes with Turkish tea and some baklava. This Istanbul food tour added a twist and included a unique pistachio coffee for you to sample something different as well.
Food that you will get to try:
- Dürüm Kebab
- İçli Köfte
- raki
- baklava
- pistachio coffee
- Turkish tea
- and more food sampling
Other things to note:
- small-group tour limited to 8 people
- the minimum age is 12 years
- transport by funicular included
“Our guide, Erol, took us to great places off the beaten track. Erol is very passionate about Turkish food, not only the dishes themselves but also the cultural context around how each one is to be enjoyed. It made for a very fun, interesting – and delicious experience. One word of caution: Come hungry, and don’t eat too much at any stop, especially at the beginning – there’s so much!!!”
Evening Food and Culture Tour – Dinner in Asia Dessert in Europe
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 5 to 6 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
This is one of the best Istanbul culinary tours and it takes you to explore the European and Asian sides of the city. It starts with a ferry ride across the Bosphorus River so you can visit the famous Kadikoy Carsisi market and other important food attractions.
The market will give you the chance to sample many local bites and explore the street food in Istanbul. After the tour takes you to the restaurant for a hearty meal filled with traditions and history. Baklava and coffee on the European side is a non-negotiable part of the tour. Even if your belly is full by now.
This Istanbul food tour included 9 stops with multiple samples at each place. So arriving hungry and skipping a meal beforehand is definitely a wise choice to fully enjoy and appreciate the diverse range of flavors and dishes that await you.
Food that you will get to try:
- Pastrami, pickled vegetables, olive, cheese, halva tasting, lahmacun, Tantuni, stuffed mussels
- Meze varieties, kebabs, baklava, and ice cream made of goats milk
- Unlimited soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water
Other things to note:
- group tour limited to 10 people
- travel on the public ferry is included
“We really enjoyed our evening food and culture tour. Not only was our guide knowledgeable but he was also funny and kind. The local market was amazing and we loved all the different tastings. We would never have gone into some of the shops and restaurants on our own but felt completely comfortable on the tour. Our guide was always ready with a bit of history and a joke along the way. Couldn’t recommend this anymore!!!”
The 10 Tastings of Istanbul With Locals: Kadikoy Private Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
Get an insider’s perspective on the trendy Asian-side district and eat your way through Turkish cuisine. If you are looking for an intimate experience, this private Istanbul food tour is for you!
This tour offers an individual approach, which means that you can alternate the itinerary and the food that you want to sample. Or you can fully trust your local expert to navigate you around and guide you through some of the local flavors. Flexibility is the key.
Also, this Istanbul food tour includes cultural attractions in between the food sampling, which means that you will get a unique perspective and learn more things about the famous food district of Istanbul.
Food that you will get to try:
- 10 tastings
- with vegetarian alternatives
Other things to note:
- this is a private tour and only your group will participate
- alternatives offered for those with dietary restrictions
- opportunity to change the itinerary: let your guide know your wishes at the beginning of the tour or contact them after booking
“My husband and I can’t say enough good things about our time eating our way through Kadikoy with our guide, Sözüm. It wasn’t just a tour- it was more like hanging out with your cool friend who knows all the best spots. She also took us to amazing places we wouldn’t have tried on our own. Can’t recommend enough!”
Istanbul walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 4 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
This is one of the top food tours in Istanbul as it offers a secret dish and other hidden gems during the tour. If you are an experienced foodie and you have tried a lot of things from Turkish cuisine already, this tour is your opportunity to learn something new.
Get a unique perspective of Istanbul’s historic district of Kadikoy and discover some of the best eateries in the area. These places are often overlooked by tourists, which means that you get an authentic experience to eat at the places that you would normally miss.
During this tour, you will also pass by some famous attractions like Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Suleymaniye Mosque. If you have a limited time in Istanbul, it is your chance to tick off these sights.
Food that you will get to try:
- Lahmacun
- Doner
- Menemen
- Muhlama
- Cheese
- Manti
- Beyran soup
- Katmer
- Pide and freshly baked brown bread
- Fresh salad, vegetables, olives, etc
- Wine, coffee, water
Other things to note:
- group tour limited to 10 people
- upgrade for a private food tour is available
- comfortable shoes are recommended
“It was awesome. The food portions were great and the food was delicious. The length of the tour was perfect.”
VOLR. Turkish and Ottoman Cuisine Workshop in Istanbul
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
If you have done some of the best food tours in Istanbul and want to try something different yet still food-related, a cooking class is the best option for you. Join your local chef in his own kitchen and take the most from this hands-on experience.
During this workshop, you will learn to prepare traditional Turkish and Ottoman dishes under the guidance of a licensed chef and recreate classics like roasted eggplant, Turkish ravioli, or stuffed grape leaves. Not only do you get to follow authentic recipes, but you also get direct insights into Turkish cooking traditions.
The presence of a chef in a culinary experience adds an element of expertise, guidance, and entertainment. Their role is not only to prepare a delicious meal but also to ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable learning experience. And the best reward is the meal that you can enjoy together with the group.
Food that you will get to try:
- Osmanlı Yaprak Sarması
- Çiğ Köfte
- Roasted Eggplant Appetizer
- Yaglama
- Mani
- Künefe
Other things to note:
- small-group tour limited to 8 people
- brunch, lunch, or dinner options are available
- this is a cooking class so it is a hands-on experience
“This was so much fun! Kaan was fantastic and guided us in correctly preparing the dishes. The food was delicious and everyone was having a good time chatting and laughing. He sent us the recipes so we could make them at home. Also, excellent directions to get to the kitchen. 5 stars all around!”
Guided Street Food tour. Food sampling in Local Food Markets
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 5.5 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
The half-day, small-group food tour of Istanbul is an incredible opportunity to explore the culinary delights of both the European and Asian sides of the city. With breakfast, lunch, and snacks included, you’ll have a chance to sample a variety of street food in Istanbul, Turkey throughout the tour.
One of the highlights of this food tour is the opportunity to traverse bustling food markets, such as those in Kadikoy and Karakoy. These markets offer a vibrant and lively atmosphere, where you can immerse yourself in the local food culture. From fresh produce to aromatic spices, you’ll have the chance to discover a wide array of ingredients and products.
Throughout the tour, you’ll visit family-run shops and eateries, which often offer authentic and traditional Turkish dishes. The guidance provided during the tour will assist you in navigating through the menus, ensuring that you can make informed choices and fully appreciate the unique flavors of the region.
By exploring both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s food scene. Each side has its own distinct culinary identity, influenced by different cultures and traditions.
Food that you will get to try:
- Midye
- Balık dürüm
- Kokorec
- Iskender
- Turk kahvesi & Çay ; Turkish coffee or Çay
- Künefe
Other things to note:
- group tour limited to 10 people
- travel on the public ferry is included
“This tour was an amazing introduction to an array of Turkish food. Our guide Salih was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing not only his knowledge about food but also of Turkey as we explored the area. The tour was extremely enjoyable and appropriately paced. Highly recommend!“
Istanbul Food Journey
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
This is one of the best Istanbul food tours and it promises to be a delightful and immersive experience. Your guide will be able to provide insights into the preparation methods, ingredients, and stories behind each dish.
Starting in the Karakoy neighborhood, you’ll have the chance to explore and indulge in the diverse street food offerings. With the guidance of your knowledgeable guide, you’ll be able to navigate through the neighborhood and discover local culinary gems.
Exploring the backstreets of Istanbul and dining with locals offers an authentic experience. You’ll have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s culinary culture. It’s an adventure that will satisfy both your appetite and your curiosity.
Food that you will get to try:
- Wet hamburger
- Dolma
- Pickles
- Meatball
- Fish Sandwich
- Lahmacun
- Baklava
Other things to note:
- small-group tour limited to 8 people
- travel on the public ferry is included
“Salih was the absolute best tour guide I’ve ever come across. He was super knowledgeable and friendly and took us to some amazing off-the-radar local food places. We had been in Istanbul for a few days before this food tour and felt that we ate the same things almost every time so Salih did a fantastic job showing us some awesome new choices! Would definitely recommend it.”
Private and guided Istanbul food tour – Taste of Istanbul
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 6 to 7 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
The private guided food tour in Istanbul is a fantastic way to explore the culinary delights of Turkey while receiving personalized attention from your local guide. With the flexibility to customize the tour according to your preferences and appetite, you’ll have the opportunity to discover both popular and lesser-known foods that you may not have discovered on your own.
Throughout the tour, your local guide will introduce you to a variety of culinary delights, providing insider knowledge and recommendations that add depth to your food experience. Trying local dishes that are off the beaten path can truly immerse you in the authentic flavors and traditions of Turkish cuisine.
As it is a private tour, you can expect a more tailored and intimate experience, ideal for friends and family traveling together. Your guide can adapt the tour to suit your interests and dietary preferences, ensuring that you get the most out of your culinary adventure.
Be prepared for plenty of walking and eating during the tour. Exploring the vibrant streets of Istanbul on foot allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover hidden food gems. Comfortable shoes are essential to ensure a pleasant experience.
Food that you will get to try:
- Turkish breakfast: menemen, sucuklu omlet, kaymak, and honey
- Mersin’s tantuni or liver wrap
- stuffed or fried mussels and pickles
Other things to note:
- this is a private tour and only your group will participate
- vegetarian option is available, please advise at the time of booking if required
- your tour guide will meet you ‘personally’ at your hotel reception, vacation rentals, Airbnb, or cruise port
“Furkan was our guide and knew all of the best places to sample real Turkish food. His recommendations on what to order, how to eat it, and what he thought tasted great were spot on. He was also a very pleasant person to spend the day with and very knowledgeable about Istanbul as well as Turkey. We had a great time.”
Private Food and Culinary Tour of Istanbul
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 6 to 7 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy a variety of traditional dishes. Each dish represents a unique aspect of Turkish gastronomy and by tasting a variety of traditional dishes, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local food culture.
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to have a traditional Turkish breakfast or lunch at Ocakbasi Kebab restaurant. Visiting one of Istanbul’s famous delicatessens and trying Turkish treats is another exciting part of the tour. And Turkish coffee cannot be excluded from this popular food tour in Istanbul either.
But there are more delicious surprises on your way if you choose to book this private food tour in Istanbul, Turkey.
Food that you will get to try:
- beyran soup and seasonal kebabs
- stuffed mussels
- traditional home cook-style food
- Turkish desserts
- Turkish coffee
Other things to note:
- this is a private tour and only your group will participate
- vegetarian option is available, please advise at the time of booking if required
“Our guide, Furkan, was outstanding! Extremely knowledgeable and fun. We enjoyed a variety of Turkish food and drinks. It was the highlight of our Istanbul visit.”
Further reading for the best food tours in Istanbul
Or read more about: Istanbul | Turkey
Other useful tips for visiting Turkey
🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide, Viator, and Klook have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Turkey? Use Rentalcars
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo
In conclusion…
This is the end of the best food tours in Istanbul and I am sure you have found one (or more!) that you will join during your time in Istanbul. Make sure you secure your spot and book now because these top-rated food tours sell out fast!
I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.