Istanbul Walking Tour with Lunch

The 5-hour guided Istanbul walking tour begins in Sultanhamet, Istanbul's most popular tourist district. From there you proceed to the Blue Mosque, where you will see the 6 minarets and beautiful tiles manufactured in Iznik, the Ottoman Empire's birthplace. Continue to the Grand Bazaar by walking down the old route past the Ottoman Parliament House, here you may learn how to bargain like a local. Take a walk to the adjacent Sahaflar Book Market, where the first books were printed during the Ottoman era. Learn about Islam and the Quran, the religion's holy text. On your route to the Suleymaniye complex, you'll pass past Istanbul University's stunning façade and enter the Cagaloglu district, which is a local shopping hub away from the main tourist attractions. Your guide knows a terrific secret teahouse here where you can sample a nargile (water pipe) with its seductive perfume and fruity flavors, as well as drink çay (tea). You'll resume your journey through Istanbul's hidden streets after the break. Discover a mountain of Turkish spices, Turkish delight, and local handicrafts at the spice market.  After that, you can take a walk from the Spice Bazaar to the scenic Galata Bridge to take in the mesmerizing sights of the surrounding area. Finally, sit back and enjoy a luscious lunch of regional favorites.