Circle Istanbul (Extraordinary Istanbul)

Explore Istanbul’s Hidden Neighborhoods and Scenic Bosphorus Cruise

The Circle Istanbul tour offers a full-day adventure for those eager to see more than just the well-trodden sights. Priced at $200 per person, this 11-hour experience is limited to small groups of up to six people, ensuring an intimate and personalized feel. It departs from Gümüsuyu at 9:00 am and wraps up back at the same meeting point around 9:00 pm.

This tour stands out because it combines visits to vibrant districts like Karakoy, Kadikoy, Balat, and Fener, with scenic ferry rides, a Bosphorus cruise, and a traditional Turkish bath. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic local experience, enjoy walking through traffic-free neighborhoods, and appreciate a mix of cultural, culinary, and leisurely activities. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and relaxed pacing, although it involves a fair amount of walking and some stops are quite brief.

Key Points

• Full-day experience from 9 am to 9 pm exploring diverse Istanbul neighborhoods
• Small group size of up to six people for personalized attention
• Includes delicious Turkish breakfast, lunch, and dinner at local eateries
• Scenic ferry rides between Europe and Asia, plus a 2-hour Bosphorus cruise
• Experience a traditional Turkish bath in a fun, memorable way
• Visit culturally rich areas like Balat, Fener, and Karakoy, away from typical tourist spots

Starting at Taksim Square, the Heart of Istanbul

The tour begins at Taksim Square, widely regarded as the city’s central hub. This vibrant location serves as the perfect meeting point, with easy access via public transportation. You’ll quickly get a sense of Istanbul’s lively atmosphere, setting the tone for a day packed with discovery. The guide leads you through the streets, sharing insights that make the city’s energy come alive.

Enjoy a Traditional Turkish Breakfast in Cihangir

The first stop is Cihangir, a bohemian neighborhood known for its cozy cafes. Here, a traditional Turkish breakfast is served, providing a delicious start to the day. The meal showcases classic Turkish cuisine, which is famous worldwide, especially the breakfast spread. This stop offers a relaxed setting to enjoy fresh bread, cheeses, olives, and other local delicacies.

Discover the Hippie Charm of Karakoy

Next, the tour heads to Karakoy, a district pulsing with hip cafes, bars, and creative shops. Known for its hipster vibe, Karakoy presents a different side of Istanbul. Walking through its streets, visitors can appreciate the blend of modern art and historical architecture. There’s time to explore independent shops and take in the lively street scene.

Baklava Tasting at Gulluoglu in Karakoy

A highlight in Karakoy is a baklava tasting at Gulluoglu, a renowned family-owned hotel famous for making some of the best baklava in Istanbul. Made with pistachios, this Middle Eastern dessert offers a sweet and flaky treat that’s difficult to find elsewhere. The tasting lasts about 30 minutes and is included in the tour.

Crossing to Asian Side in Kadikoy

From Karakoy, the tour takes a 20-minute ferry ride to Kadikoy, on the Asian side of Istanbul. This neighborhood is favored by expats for its open-minded, liberal atmosphere. It’s considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Asian side, with vibrant markets, cafes, and lively streets. The ferry crossing itself provides a scenic view of the Bosphorus, a perfect moment to appreciate Istanbul’s unique position between two continents.

Lunch at a Local Kebap House in Kadikoy

After arriving in Kadikoy, a lunch break is enjoyed at a local kebab house, famous for its chicken doner kebap. This meal offers a genuine taste of Turkish street food, served in a cozy, informal setting. The emphasis on authentic, flavorful dishes makes this a memorable culinary stop.

Scenic Ferry Ride to Uskudar and Bosphorus Overview

Post-lunch, a short ferry ride from Kadikoy takes the group to Uskudar, a historic district on the Asian side. From there, a 1.5-hour ferry cruise along the Bosphorus Strait ensues. The cruise lasts about 2 hours in total and showcases Istanbul’s impressive skyline, Ottoman mansions, and scenic bridges connecting Europe and Asia.

During the cruise, travelers enjoy the sight of lavish Ottoman mansions, some among the most expensive homes in the city. The route offers spectacular views of both continents and an opportunity to appreciate the city from the water, a classic Istanbul experience.

Explore the Historic Balat District

Next, the tour visits Balat, known as Istanbul’s Jewish district. Here, the influence of Jewish culture and architecture is evident, with active synagogues and colorful streets. The area is noted for its striking architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors get an hour to wander, photograph the charming streets, and absorb the unique vibe.

Visit the Patriarchate of Constantinople in Fener

In the nearby Fener district, the tour visits the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate. This area is known for its quaint boutique coffee shops and historical backstreets. It’s a little-known corner of Istanbul that reveals the city’s diverse religious and cultural heritage. The guide provides insights into the significance of the Patriarchate and the local community.

Experience a Traditional Turkish Bath in Karagümrük

One of the most distinctive parts of the tour is the Turkish bath experience in Karagümrük. This activity lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes and offers a fun, lively, and authentic way to relax. Walking into a Turkish bath is stepping into a centuries-old tradition, and the guide ensures it’s a memorable part of the day.

Returning to Taksim and Exploring Istiklal Street

The day concludes back at Taksim Square, where you can stroll down Istiklal Street. This famous pedestrian avenue is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The tour ends with lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant called Meyhane, offering a final taste of local cuisine in a lively setting.

Practical Logistics and Tour Inclusions

This tour includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and various food tastings such as Turkish baklava and coffee. It also features transportation between neighborhoods, ferry rides, and a guiding service from a licensed professional guide. The small group size ensures personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions.

Not included are alcoholic beverages and gratuities for the guide and Turkish bath staff. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves a fair amount of walking in traffic-free areas. The mobile ticket adds convenience, and the tour’s full-day schedule ensures a comprehensive experience.

The Guide Experience and Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Metin and Ayse, for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. Their ability to share local tips, answer questions, and create a fun atmosphere is highly valued. Many mention feeling like they spent the day with a friend, thanks to guides’ enthusiasm and genuine warmth.

The food experiences receive high marks, with highlights including delicious breakfasts, authentic kebabs, and traditional baklava. The Turkish bath is described as a memorable, lively activity that adds a special touch to the day.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy walking, exploring diverse neighborhoods, and sampling authentic Turkish cuisine. It suits those seeking a personalized, in-depth look at Istanbul’s local life beyond the typical tourist attractions. The limited group size creates a friendly, relaxed environment, ideal for curious travelers who appreciate storytelling and culture.

Final Thoughts on Circle Istanbul

Circle Istanbul offers a comprehensive, lively journey through Istanbul’s neighborhoods, waterways, and cultural traditions. Its well-paced schedule, combined with delicious food and engaging guides, creates a memorable day. While it involves quite a bit of walking and some stops are brief, the inclusion of scenic ferry rides and a Bosphorus cruise makes it a rich experience.

For travelers who want to see the city from multiple angles, taste the flavors of Turkey, and connect with local life, this tour provides excellent value for its $200 price tag. It’s especially suited for those eager to go beyond the usual sights and enjoy a more personal, authentic day in Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness since it involves a good amount of walking in traffic-free neighborhoods. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of exploration.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with snacks like Turkish baklava and coffee. These meals showcase authentic Turkish cuisine in local eateries.

What makes this tour different from other Istanbul city tours?
This tour emphasizes exploring lesser-known neighborhoods, scenic ferry rides, and a Turkish bath experience. Its small group size and personalized guide service set it apart, offering a more intimate and authentic experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour will not be refunded, and the tour may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient participants.

How many stops are included, and what are they?
The tour covers 11 stops, including Taksim Square, Cihangir, Karakoy, Baklava tasting, Kadikoy, Bosphorus cruise, Balat, Fener, Turkish bath, and Istiklal Street with lunch at Meyhane.

This Circle Istanbul tour stands out for its authenticity, intimacy, and diverse experiences, making it an excellent choice for those looking to truly get to know Istanbul’s local side.