Discover Istanbul: Antiques and Artisans Tour in Historic Balat Neighborhood

Embark on an exclusive walking tour through Istanbul’s historic Balat neighborhood, known for its cultural diversity and vibrant artisan, antique, and coffee shops. Explore the well-preserved Orthodox, Jewish, and Muslim communities while immersing yourself in the local art and craftsmanship. Don’t forget your comfortable shoes!

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Misir Carsisi (Spice Market) - Spices, dried fruits, nuts and seeds are among the many treasures to be found at this bazaar also known as the Spice Market.
What's Included
  • All local taxes included
  • Expert professional guidance
What's Not Included
  • Tips
  • Food & Beverages
  • Transportation
Additional Information

A neighborhood which has been a cultural melting pot for centuries!

Balat has always been a home for Jewish society. People from different backgrounds and of every age today help for a colorful transformation with lots of artisan, antique & coffee shops and together build one of the best hotspots in Istanbul.

An exclusive walking tour through well preserved historical texture of Orthodox, Jewish, Muslim communities in Fener and Balat’s narrow streets and slopes surrounded by stylish artisan coffee shops, art workshops and antique shops.

Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Location
Cafe Society
Kalçin Sokak
In front of "Cafe Society" very nearby the Spice Market(Spice Bazaar) and Hamdi Restaurant
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(61 Ratings)
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Fedorovaa114
Aug 4, 2024
Great tour - lots of fun facts & interesting anecdotes - It was a really cozy and exciting trip with Rose, who was a great storyteller. She was great at spreading good vibes. We got far and so many lovely places. The trip can be recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kretorg
Jul 19, 2024
Incredible tour! - Incredible tour! Z is so sweet and knowledgeable, you can tell that she loves sharing the history of her city and culture. Don’t hesitate to book!!
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Temekag2024
Jul 5, 2024
Exceptional guide and friend - I took a guided tour with L and it was an extraordinary experience. L is an exceptional guide: she is passionate, knowledgeable and really knows how to share the city in a captivating way. Thanks to its anecdotes and knowledge, every monument and neighborhood has come to life. I highly recommend L to anyone who wants to experience Balat in its best light. Thank you, L, for this unforgettable tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jana
Jul 1, 2024
Tour Off The Beaten Path! - Rose was our energetic, knowledgeable and friendly guide. Rose had a well planned itinerary and while walking from place to place she shared her wealth of knowledge with us. Throughout our time together it felt like we were being guided by a friend and we thoroughly enjoyed our time and conversations with her.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Charannad
Jun 19, 2024
Thanks Rose - It was our second time in Istambul and we found this area very interesting. Especially coffee houses and mini bars are very cute. Recommend every second timer.
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Cherib905
Jun 2, 2024
Thank you Rosie - We highly recommend it. The guide’s deep knowledge of the neighborhood’s history and christian culture made the experience very informative. Balat’s colorful streets, historic building were brought to life through fascinating stories and insights. The guide was personable, attentive, and ensured the tour was engaging and informative. This tour is a must for anyone looking to explore one of Istanbul’s most charming and historically rich areas.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
625lottieh
May 31, 2024
Great time with L - Istanbul is a fascinating city and I like discovering every part of it. It's been few times I have been in this city but first time in this interesting and colourful part. Our guide L was fantastic, all insights, recommended places and background stories of minorities in town was really helpful and acknowledging. Enjoyed it.
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Britneyk832
May 30, 2024
Don't miss this places - This tour route was my favourite in Istanbul. Such a vivid life in fener and Balat to experience the difference between metropolitan life and usual Istanbul life. We had a very friendly and knowledgeable guide to walk us through labyrinth like streets of this area and explained us every detail. Thanks for everything Rose
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Naborh2024
May 14, 2024
Thank you and we recommend it - Very informative and pleasant tour guide. We had a great time with her. Thank you and we recommend it. Very informative and pleasant tour guide. We had a great time with her. Thank you and we recommend it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
404despinav
Apr 25, 2024
Everything was great - Very nice friendly and knowledgably good guide. Informative and chill tour, we really liked the area of Balat and neighborhood
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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