Alternative Walking Tour; Daily Life, Customs, Stories

5.0 (37 reviews) 2 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

37 reviews

5.0

Alternative Walking Tour; Daily Life, Customs, Stories — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Alternative Walking Tour; Daily Life, Customs, Stories, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This unique tour offers an in-depth look at daily life in Turkey, exploring local customs, traditional weddings, the economy, education, healthcare, and more. Designed for those who want to go beyond the city's historical landmarks, this experience provides a fresh perspective on modern Istanbul and its vibrant culture. An alternative way to see Istanbul and Turkey.

This is a tip-based walking tour. While there is no fixed fee, a recommended contribution is provided in the tour details for your reference.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 25 people
People per booking: 1–25
Guide: English
Operated by: Basis Travel

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Children (4–10 years) · Adults (11–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Booking fee.
Included: Sampling Turkish Delights with fruit tea.

Not included

Not included: Tipping Tour Guide

Itinerary

Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi

15 min

We will begin our tour with an old madrasah, a religious school from the time of the Ottoman Empire. It reflects the period before the separation of education and religion, which took place with the founding of the Republic.
Grand Bazaar

15 min

We will explore the backstreets of the Grand Bazaar first, and then take a brief look inside to get a glimpse of items related to daily local life. Please note that our visit to the Grand Bazaar will be very short, and keep in mind that the bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Sahaflar Carsisi

15 min

We will visit the historic Old Book Bazaar, where we’ll talk about Turkish literature and I’ll share some recommendations of notable Turkish authors.
Beyazit Mosque

10 min

We will visit the interior of Beyazıt Mosque and learn about how Muslims pray, while exploring the different sections of the mosque
Beyazit Square

10 min

We will visit Beyazıt Square, which was once a significant gathering place where many protests began and spread throughout Turkey. There, we’ll also discuss the current situation in the country.
Istanbul Universitesi Rektorlugu

15 min

We will see Istanbul University and learn about the education system in Turkey
Istanbul Universitesi Rektorlugu

5 min

We will walk past several university faculties and stop in front of the Faculty of Economics and the hospital to talk about Turkey’s economy and healthcare system.
Suleymaniye Cultural Info Center

10 min

We will see some old houses, many of which have been turned into non-profit organizations. Here, we’ll talk about daily life in the past, traditional weddings, and much more.
Suleymaniye Mosque

25 min

We will visit one of the most beautiful mosques in Turkey, and from its garden, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the Bosphorus and Istanbul. This spot will also help you better understand the city's unique geography.
Suleymaniye HamamI

10 min

We will see this Turkish Bath from outside and talk about the Hamam Culture.

At this point, you may choose to leave or continue with your guide for a short 2-minute walk to enjoy a complimentary sampling of Turkish Delight with fruit tea. This is not a shopping stop—no one will try to sell you anything. Instead, you'll experience a peaceful atmosphere with access to a free rooftop view.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We will be waiting with a yellow umbrella in front of Corlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah, at the entrance where the tram runs.

End point

Tour ends 5 min walking distance to Suleymaniye Mosque.

Using your ticket

All Set: Your tour covers all mandatory fees. Any further tipping to the guide is completely optional and at your discretion.

Please note that this is an orientation tour designed to give you a deeper understanding of the daily life, education, LGBT, economy, traditions, marriages and a lot more. Your guide is a licensed professional who has studied for four years to become a guide and does this as a full-time career. Thank you!

Meeting point is the entrance of madrasah where the tram runs ( across the Hafiz Mustafa Beyazit ) and your guide is holding a yellow umbrella.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.