About this experience
During a walk through one of the calmest and most luxurious areas of the European part of Istanbul, you will delve into the history of the city and its battles. The narrative will be rich in facts from modern everyday life and interesting parallels. You will learn who the great Conqueror of Constantinople was, walk through the old streets and bridges of Istanbul, try authentic Turkish coffee and various street foods. I will teach you how to quickly orient yourself in the noisy metropolis and tell you how to explore the city independently and where in Istanbul you can make advantageous purchases.
What to Expect
The Great Conqueror and His Victories
The walk will start from the Hisar district, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the old streets. We will admire the panoramic view of the bridge, built in honor of Sultan Mehmed II, also known as the Conqueror of Constantinople. You will hear a story about his life and glorious deeds, about the difficult times he ruled, about the history of the Ottoman Empire. I will tell you how Mehmed II managed to do what had long eluded the Turks - to capture the capital of Byzantium - and why the towers over the Bosphorus Strait played a crucial role in this feat.
Try the Best Street Food of Istanbul
We will stop for a coffee break at a cozy cafe with a stunning view of the bay, and I will treat you to coffee and Turkish sweets. Our walk is also filled with other gastronomic stops: wet burgers, stuffed mussels, çi-köfte, and much more - I will be your guide to the world of Istanbul street food.
Tale of a Fortress
Rumelihisarı Fortress is located in one of the most elite and modern districts of Istanbul - Bebek. You will learn why it was built here, how it became a prison, and what is inside it today. If you wish, we can explore its ancient structures from the inside. Then we will walk along the luxurious waterfront, where Turkish TV series are sometimes filmed - and local fishermen are always present. This romantic and quiet place will make you want to come back again.
To the Other Continent
On a ferry, we will cross to the Asian part of the city, enjoying the view of the Bosphorus. Strolling through the picturesque Üsküdar district, you will hear about the ancient Golden City that existed here even before Constantinople. We will visit historic mosques that are nearly half a century old and climb to an observation deck, from where we will have an impressive view of the Maiden's Tower - and I will tell you its romantic legend.
Who Is This Walk For
The tour is perfect for those who have already seen the main attractions of the city and for first-time visitors to Istanbul.
Organizational Details
- I will tell you where and how to conveniently purchase a museum pass, which will facilitate your further exploration of historical sites and museums.
- If desired, we can cross to the Asian side and return (1$ per person).
- The tour will be conducted by me or one of the guides from our team.
What's Included and What's Not
- The price includes transportation expenses, as well as coffee, sweets, and mussels.
- Entrance tickets to Rumelihisarı Fortress (4$ per person, optional visit) and street food are paid for separately.
