Galata Beyoglu Tour, 3 hrs in Istanbul
Beyoglu, Galata, Karakoy, Pera – Discover European Istanbul across from Sultanahmet in 3 hrs.
Galata and Beyoglu is the European Quarter of Istanbul. The area is home to the Sephardic Jews from 1492 and a Genoese colony from whom the Turks learned sailing.
Sultan Mehmed II made Galata a residential area for Greeks and Jews after the conquest of Constantinople in 15th Century. Galata and Beyoglu were non-Muslim area in the heart of the capital of Islam.
Galata has been a very active business center since its establishment. It also was a night-life center with its taverns which attracted the Muslim population, too.
The small town of Galata was also a financial center with its bankers and stock exchange. Its harbor was one of the busiest harbors of Europe.
Walking around Galata and Beyoglu, your local expert guide will explain the finest examples of the link between Muslim architecture in Istanbul and Europe.
Beyoglu: The Hub Of The Modern Town
A long, narrow and interesting pedestrian avenue which is a museum of Istanbul’s sights, sounds, and smells: Istiklal… As we walk we see:
Curious, old embassy buildings
Local fish and flower market
Galatasaray Lycée which is the oldest Turkish institution in the city.
Passage of flowers which is a rococo structure and is the liveliest and most colorful spot on the street.
The magnificent Pera Palace hotel built by the Orient Express Company.
Various churches, descending steps to haunting courtyards, alleys and of course most venerable restaurants.
Cihangir and Cukurcuma
This is the artsy neighborhoods of Istanbul. Meet the artists, visit galleries, watch poets meeting their dates, marvel antique shops, try some second-hand clothing, enjoy people-watching and some serious tea drinking while playing backgammon.
Galata Beyoglu tour is a great extension of your days in Sultanahmet. It’s a great opportunity to discover how Istanbul was during the heyday of the Ottomans and the lifestyle of the non-Muslim population.
You can join Galata Beyoglu tour in a small group ( there will be a max of 8 people) or enjoy a private tour. Both experiences will be intimate.
Galata Beyoglu tour runs twice every day and starts at 40Euros.
