About this experience
You have already seen all the mosques and palaces, tried various kebabs and washed it down with strong tea and baklava. However, the real life of Turks with their power spots, leisure locations, and favorite restaurants has remained behind the scenes - although it is the most curious. With me, you will spend a day like a local resident and feel what it's like to be born in Istanbul.
What to Expect
Where Istanbul residents relax: districts, parks, favorite views
Let's start the journey from the 'magical' park, where you can feel that unity with Istanbul: Turks come here to gain strength and energy for new achievements. Next, you will see the second suspended bridge across the Bosphorus, and once on the strait's shore, you will explore the majestic 15th-century fortress. Walking along the Bosphorus, we will enjoy the idyllic picture of old fishing villages - today they have turned into fashionable districts with real estate worth millions of dollars. And in the elite quarter of 'Malish', beloved by filmmakers, there is a great chance to appear in a scene or meet a local celebrity during their morning run along the embankment.
Where Istanbul residents eat: restaurants, shops, cafes
I will tell you about the locals' taste habits and share their most visited gastro spots. We will visit an old confectionery and indulge in the legendary dessert - Turks’ favorite. Among themselves, they call this sweetness '3-4 minutes of your life.' In addition, you will visit a shop where the freshest marzipans have been sold since 1904, be tempted by the scents of the famous meat restaurant Nusr-Et, and discover Istanbul's long-standing trendy establishment, famous for its cocktails for over 15 years! Almost forgot - of course, I will reveal the famous café for breakfasts: any local Turk considers it an honor to be seen there, especially on weekends. If you wish, we can also stop by.
Colorful meeting conclusion: market and winery
After strolling through the favorite spots of Istanbul residents and enjoying delicacies, we will head to the elite fishing village of Arnavutkoy. It is known for its wooden mansions in the Ottoman style and the best fish restaurants in the city. In ancient times, the area was famous for its strawberry plantations - and even now, in springtime, stalls sell juicy berries. We will end the meeting in the Kurucheshme neighborhood, where you will buy unique gifts for yourself and loved ones. Here, organic products are brought from the olive plantations of the southern Turkish peninsula: thyme-flavored oil, olive and almond paste, fig vinegar, and a sea of cosmetic products. The locals in the boutique are the most loyal customers.
In the winery, we will raise a glass of Turkish 'rose' for a wonderful rest and unforgettable impressions left by the best city on earth!
Organizational Details
- Depending on the start time of the walk, we can have breakfast/lunch or dinner. Note that it is better to make a reservation at popular places a week in advance.
Additional Expenses
- breakfast (approximately 25 euros for two)
- lunch/dinner (approximately 50 euros for two)
- dessert in the confectionery (38 Turkish liras)
- entrance tickets to Rumeli Hisari Fortress (18 Turkish liras per person + guide ticket)
- expenses on metro or taxi to get to the meeting point
- seasonal fruits at the local mini-market (if the walk takes place on a Saturday when the market is open)
