Istanbul isn’t just about historic mosques, bustling bazaars, or iconic sights—it’s also a city where food is woven into the fabric of daily life. This city of two continents offers an incredible range of culinary experiences, from street snacks to sit-down dinners with panoramic views. We particularly love how some tours blend sightseeing with tasting, like the Istanbul: European and Asian Side Guided Foodie Walking Tour, which takes you across both sides of the Bosphorus for a true taste of local life. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a comprehensive culinary adventure, Istanbul’s food scene won’t disappoint.
Many tours stand out for their authentic flavors and immersive local stories. Some focus on traditional dishes like kebabs and baklava, while others highlight regional specialties such as Kurdish cuisine or street food delights. For those after a personalized experience, private tours like Taste of Istanbul: Private and Guided Food Tour give you the flexibility to customize your day, making each bite a special moment. Below, we’ve compiled the best options to help you choose your perfect food adventure.
1. Istanbul: European and Asian Side Guided Foodie Walking Tour
Fill your belly with Turkish flavors on this guided walking tour covering both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Over 5.5 hours, you’ll visit 8-9 stops, sampling a variety of foods at each. The tour includes a visit to the Kadikoy market, a local family-run restaurant serving kebabs, and iconic treats like Turkish ice cream, baklava, and traditional Turkish coffee. The guide, Selen, receives glowing reviews for her knowledge and patience, making it a solid choice for first-timers wanting genuine local bites. The ferry ride across the Bosphorus adds an extra layer of fun. Guests consistently praise the pace and variety, along with the chance to discover hidden eateries. This tour is best suited for travelers who want an in-depth, full-day experience tasting across the city. Expect plenty of walking, and be prepared for a feast.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive tour that covers both sides of Istanbul—perfect for those eager to taste authentic dishes while learning about the city’s culinary culture.
2. The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Istanbul: The 10 Tastings
At number 2, this private half-day tour offers a curated experience with 10 different tastings, ranging from sweet Turkish delight to savory dürüm. It’s designed for those who prefer a personalized approach, with the guide tailoring the route to your interests and dietary needs. The tour includes visits to historic spots like Çiçek Pasajı and Avrupa Pasajı, where you sample authentic bites in atmospheric settings. Guests love the undivided attention from their guide, Tolga, who shares deep knowledge of local food traditions. The private setting means you can ask all your questions and enjoy a relaxed pace. For about $192, this experience offers excellent value for food lovers wanting an intimate, customizable exploration of Istanbul’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a tailored, high-quality experience with a focus on classic Istanbul flavors in exclusive settings.
3. Istanbul: Guided Food Tour with Ferry Ride and Tastings
This 6-hour tour blends culinary delights with scenic ferry rides, giving you a full taste of Istanbul’s food and views. Starting at a local bakery, you’ll hop on a ferry to Kadikoy, exploring the neighborhood’s markets and sampling regional specialties like fish sandwiches and iskender kebap. The guide highlights local favorites while you enjoy panoramic Istanbul vistas from the water. Guests appreciate the variety of tastings and the opportunity to experience both European and Asian sides in one day. The tour is perfect for those who love street food and want a relaxed pace with beautiful scenery. Expect to walk between stops, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a diverse food experience combined with the pleasure of ferry rides and scenic vistas.
4. Istanbul: Guided Food and Culture Tour
This 5-hour tour takes you through neighborhoods rich in cultural flavors, from Kurdish dishes to regional treats, with a focus on the 7 hills of Istanbul. Starting at Karakoy, you’ll cross the Bosphorus by ferry, then explore Kadikoy’s markets and cafes. The guide shares stories about local customs alongside tastings like Turkish coffee, regional foods, and sweets. Visitors rave about the mix of food, culture, and the authentic local atmosphere. The tour’s diverse stops make it ideal for those interested in a broader culture. The pace is moderate, and the focus on both sides of the city ensures a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine culinary discovery with cultural insights in a relaxed, informative setting.
5. Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience Istanbul
For a more intimate evening, this 3-hour and 10-minute tour offers a dinner at a 140-year-old family restaurant with spectacular city views. It includes street eats, regional dishes, and a rooftop drink in Sirkeci, capped off with Turkish coffee or tea. The small group size (max 15) fosters a cozy atmosphere, and the guide’s local knowledge shines through. Guests love the authentic feel and the opportunity to enjoy Istanbul’s nightscape from the rooftop. While alcohol isn’t served at the restaurant, the focus is on food and ambiance. If you’re after a relaxed, social evening with great food and views, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those looking for a cozy, cultural evening with delicious regional cuisine and stunning city vistas.
6. Istanbul Food Tour – History and Culture of Turkish Culinary
This 3.5-hour tour explores the Beyoglu neighborhood, blending food with stories of Turkish culture. It covers markets, street food stalls, and backstreet restaurants, with tastings like mezes, baklava, and kebabs. The guide, with 25 years of experience, shares insights that connect food to the city’s history and traditions. Guests enjoy a small group setting (up to eight), making for personalized attention. Highlights include sampling mussels, enjoying Turkish raki, and exploring iconic spots like Galata Tower. The tour is especially suited for those interested in local history as it relates to food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history-minded food lovers who want a detailed, small-group experience tasting Istanbul’s culinary essentials.
7. Istanbul: Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience
This 3-hour tour offers a panoramic rooftop dinner combined with street food sampling. Starting at Sirkeci, you’ll enjoy traditional dishes in a 130-year-old restaurant, accompanied by views of Istanbul at night. The guide, Sule, is praised for her lively storytelling, making this a lively, social outing. The focus is on experiencing Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting without alcohol. It’s excellent for travelers wanting a combination of food, scenery, and local atmosphere without a lengthy commitment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls and those seeking a lively, authentic Turkish dinner in a historic setting.
8. Istanbul Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This 4-hour tour takes you through Kadikoy’s hidden culinary spots, with just 10 people max. You’ll taste lahmacun, menemen, and regional specialties while hearing entertaining stories and legends. The small group ensures an intimate experience, and the guide’s focus on local, lesser-known venues makes this a hit for those craving authentic street food. Guests love the pace, the variety of snacks, and the personal atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to explore a less touristy side of Istanbul’s food scene.
Bottom Line: Recommended for adventurous eaters eager to discover off-the-beaten-path eateries with a knowledgeable, friendly guide.
9. Istanbul Traditional Food Tour with Dinner on Off-Touristy-Path
This 5-hour tour offers a culinary journey across both sides of Istanbul, including a ferry ride, Kadikoy market visits, and a hearty dinner with kebabs and meze. The small group is capped at 10, making for a personalized experience. Travelers appreciate the balance of sightseeing and tasting, especially the chance to explore local markets and enjoy regional dishes. The tour is suited for foodies who want a comprehensive, relaxed evening of eating and exploring in a less tourist-oriented atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a full evening of diverse food, cultural sights, and local ambiance.
10. Private and guided Istanbul food tour – Taste of Istanbul
This private tour offers 10 tastings across Istanbul, with the option to customize your route. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel or cruise port, then take you on a 5-6 hour journey through neighborhoods like Karakoy and Tophane. The experience includes Turkish breakfast, baklava, Turkish ice cream, and regional specialties. Guests praise Furkan’s personal attention, and the flexibility makes it ideal for families or groups with specific tastes or dietary needs. The $210 price reflects a high level of customization and intimacy.
Bottom Line: A top pick for travelers wanting a fully tailored, private experience with food and cultural insights.
How to Choose
When selecting your perfect Istanbul food tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a comprehensive full-day adventure, the European and Asian Side Guided Foodie Walking Tour offers a deep dive into local flavors. If you prefer intimate, private experiences, the Taste of Istanbul or Private Istanbul Food Tour are excellent choices, especially for families or couples. Budget-conscious travelers might lean toward the Turkish Food Night and Rooftop Experience, which combines dinner, views, and authentic dishes.
Timing-wise, many tours are available throughout the day, with some offering nighttime options—perfect for experiencing Istanbul’s lit-up skyline. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Istanbul’s food tours cover every interest — from guided walks with local stories to private tastings and scenic dinners. For travelers eager to taste the city’s famous kebabs, baklava, and regional specialties, the European and Asian Side Guided Foodie Walking Tour offers an excellent all-in-one experience. Alternatively, if you want a customized, private adventure, the Taste of Istanbul provides flexibility and personal attention.
No matter your interest or schedule, Istanbul’s culinary scene promises to be a feast in both flavor and story. Be sure to plan ahead and book your preferred tour early — these experiences fill up fast, especially in high season. Happy eating!