Tünel and Galata neighborhoods: The historical Galata neighborhood slopes down the hill from Beyoglu (Pera) towards the Golden Horn. For centuries, this was a cosmopolitan outpost of European traders in the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and the ancient monuments and citadel walls are still visible in its maze of streets. Today, the district is home to numerous boutiques and vintage shops along with mansions and embassies that survive from that time, continuing to exude their elegance as museums, art galleries and restaurants. These streets have been through many transformations over the decades, but always represent Istanbul’s beating, complex, and countercultural heart.
Fatih and Zeyrek neighborhoods: Fancy a taste of old-world Istanbul? Fatih and Zeyrek are two neighborhoods in the heart of the city that will transport you back to the 16th century! From the stunning Sehzade Mosque, to Fatih Kadınlar Pazarı, one of Istanbul's oldest markets, Fatih and Zeyrek give you a unique insight into the city's history. Built in the 16th century, the Sehzade Mosque is a sight to behold, with its four towering minarets and intricate Ottoman tiling. Fatih Kadınlar Pazarı will remind you of another era as you wander through the colorful stalls filled with local eateries, specialty food shops, traditional fabrics, spices, fruits and vegetables. Zeyrek Mosque is recognized as one of the oldest surviving Byzantine structures in Istanbul. Built between 1117-1136 CE, this structure is a melting pot of different architectural styles. Its terrace has some of the best views of the Golden Horn.
Local Tea and Coffee Shops: On average, Turks drink about 7-8 cups of tea per day, so it’s no surprise that there are many tea and coffee houses all around the city. On this tour, we visit a very local tea house where we have a chance to photograph the local tradition of tea and backgammon. Following this, needless to say, we will sit down for a glass of tea or Turkish coffee.
Cats of Istanbul: Istanbul is a cat city. There are all kinds and colors of cats all around the city. You’ll spot them in restaurants, shops, houses, sidewalks, roofs and even on the public boats! Local people take care of these street cats. We will visit a neighborhood with one of the city’s highest populations of feline inhabitants. Antique Stores and Designer Shops: Walking through these neighborhoods full of antique stores, you’ll come across anything from the 18th century Ottoman hand-made ceramics to Far-east Asian art, and from vintage sunglasses to traditional copper work. This is a great opportunity for photographers interested in shooting vintage scenes.
Impressive Istanbul Buildings: The interesting architecture of Istanbul comes in an array of styles. On this day, you will experience many different architectural styles ranging from three storey wooden houses with cumba (wooden bay windows), Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, art nouveau, 19th century belle epoque… etc.
