TRIP DETAILS
DURATION
5 days / 4 nights
ACCOMODATION
Hostel
MEALS
All Meals included
TRANSPORT
Tram / Bus / Ferry
GROUP
4 – 6 people
PRICE
599 €
Taste of Istanbul
local flavors & real neighborhoods
21.05.2026 – 25.05.2026
& 18.06.2026 – 22.06.2026
Join me in Istanbul, one of my favorite places on earth. I have returned countless times, and with every visit my connection to its streets, its energy and especially its food has grown deeper.
This trip is not about rushing from one sight to the next. It is about experiencing Istanbul the way I have come to love it. Through local markets, small family-run restaurants, quiet backstreets and neighborhoods where everyday life unfolds naturally.
I will take you to the places I keep coming back to, the hidden spots I have discovered over time and the flavors that, for me, truly define the city.
Istanbul is more than a destination to me. It is a place I feel deeply connected to, and I would love to share that side of it with you.
Included
- 5 nights in a shared 6-bed dorm (private room option might be available).
- All meals included (vegetarian) – 1 drink per meal.
- Transportion by bus, tram, and ferry.
- All activities included.
- Pre-trip assistance for visas, packing and travel tips.
- Help finding cheap flights.
- Local guides and support during the entire journey.
NOT INCLUDED
- Flights to Istanbul and from Trabzon
- Transport in between Airport & Accomodation
- Visa (if needed)
- Travel Insurance for the trip (mandatory)
HIGHLIGHTS
Make
Furry Friends
Enjoy
Turkish desserts
explore
history
visit
local markets
try turkish
breakfast
Discover
scenic streets
dine in a
turkish tavern
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival & First Tastes
In the evening, we take the ferry across the Bosphorus to the European side. With the skyline slowly lighting up around us, we head towards Galata for our first shared dinner: freshly made mantı¹ near the Galata Tower.
Afterwards, we stroll along İstiklal Caddesi, soaking in the atmosphere of the city at night, and end the evening with baklava² before heading back.
Culinary Notes:
¹ small dumplings filled with potatoes and served with yogurt and butter sauce
² layered pastry filled with nuts and soaked in syrup
Day 2 – Kadıköy & Beşiktaş
The afternoon is spent in Kadıköy and Moda, exploring daily life rather than monuments. We walk through local markets, small side streets and seaside paths where residents spend their weekends. This is where Istanbul feels less like a spectacle and more like a lived-in city.
Along the way, we try freshly prepared çiğ köfte², learning how something simple can carry deep culinary history.
In the evening, we head to Beşiktaş, a lively but still local neighborhood, for dinner at a traditional lokanta³ . For dessert, we share irmik helvası⁴, often associated with family gatherings and comfort food.
Culinary Notes:
¹ a large shared Turkish breakfast with cheeses, olives, eggs, spreads, fresh bread & much more
² a spiced bulgur-based street food traditionally mixed by hand and served in lettuce wraps
³ a casual restaurant serving classic home-style Turkish dishes
⁴ a warm semolina dessert slowly cooked with butter and sugar
Day 3 – Old Town & Timeless Istanbul
From there, we head into the historic old town. We visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, taking time to understand its architectural and cultural significance rather than rushing through.
For lunch, we enjoy pide² before wandering through the Spice Market, where aromas of saffron, sumac and dried herbs fill the air.
We continue into the Grand Bazaar, not just to shop, but to observe the rhythm of trade that has existed here for centuries. Somewhere along the way, we stop for künefe³.
Dinner is intentionally simple: traditional mercimek çorbası⁴, a humble but essential dish found in nearly every household.
Culinary Notes:
¹ scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, peppers and olive oil
² Turkish flatbread baked with various toppings such as cheese or spinach
³ a warm dessert made with shredded pastry, melted cheese and syrup
⁴ turkish lentil soup
Day 4 – Balat & Meyhane Night
After breakfast, we explore Balat, one of Istanbul’s most colorful and atmospheric districts. Beyond the famous painted houses, we take time to wander its quieter streets, observe daily routines and visit a small café for Turkish coffee. Lunch is relaxed and unhurried.
In the afternoon, there is the option to visit Hagia Sophia – for those who want to experience one of the city’s most iconic historical sites.
Our final evening is spent in a traditional meyhane², back in Kadıköy. We share mezze³, drink raki⁴ and reflect on the days we’ve spent together. Meyhane culture is about conversation, storytelling and slowing down – a fitting way to close the journey.
Culinary Notes:
¹ soft layered pastry filled with cheese and baked until golden
² Turkish tavern
³ small plates meant for sharing
⁴ an anise-flavored spirit traditionally mixed with water
Day 5 – Farewell Breakfast
What travelers say about Rucksack Routes
This was my first time traveling outside my home country and I had zero expectations. I got so much help with the preparations and felt guided the whole way. The trip totally exceeded anything I imagined and it made me totally fall in love with traveling.
It was my first time backpacking and I was a bit nervous. I didn’t plan much and simply trusted Selçuk and the process. In the end, nothing felt too overwhelming. I loved every moment, felt safe and supported, and I’d join the next trip again without hesitation.
I’ve backpacked solo before, but this trip was something completely different. Everything felt authentic, personal, and thoughtfully prepared by Selçuk. I experienced places, moments, and food I would have never found on my own. Honestly, it was one of the best trips of my life.
Your Guide
Selçuk aka "Sel"
Creator & Guide of the trip
I’ve always had a deep love for travel and exploring different cultures.
Over the years, I’ve visited more than 40 countries, immersing myself in local traditions and learning the art of storytelling along the way.
As your guide, my goal is to create a fun, engaging, and authentic experience.
I enjoy sharing interesting stories, uncovering hidden gems, and making every trip feel personal and meaningful.
History, nature, or local culture, I’m here to make sure you have an unforgettable adventure.
FAQ
Who is this trip for?
This trip is for adventurous travelers who value authentic experiences over luxury.
It’s perfect for those who are open to traveling in a small group, using public transport, and staying in simple accommodations to connect with local culture and everyday life.
What Visa do I need for Türkiye?
Most travelers can enter Türkiye visa-free for short stays, depending on their nationality.
If a visa is required, it can usually be obtained easily through the official e-Visa system online.
I will provide guidance and clear instructions if needed to make the process simple and stress-free.
Why is travel insurance mandatory?
Travel insurance protects you against unexpected events like medical emergencies.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
We’ll be staying in a hostel (shared room)
The beds will have curtains and you’re only going to share the room with fellow trip members.
Private room option depends on availability.
What kind of food can I expect?
Throughout the trip, we’ll enjoy vegetarian turkish cuisine.
All the meals will be vegetarian out of respect for sustainability and ethical choices.
How it works
Fill out the form
Send a short request to join the trip. No payment required at this stage.
Personal call & confirmation
We schedule a short call to make sure the trip fits your expectations and travel style.
Secure your place
Once confirmed, you reserve your spot with a deposit and you can start preparing for the journey.
Selcuk
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