GTO Olivia Goodfellow shares how her 24-strong group experienced the authentic side of Istanbul on a seven-day tour, from fish sandwiches at the docks to chocolate bombes in divine patisseries, proving there’s much more to this vibrant city than the main tourist sites.
The first holiday of 2026 for my group was a city tour of the wonderful Istanbul, which we last toured in 2010. My intention this time was to utilise the skills of a local tour operator and guide who would show us the real Istanbul loved by locals and not simply the tourist “must see” attractions.
I chose Murat who has been our guide for nine years on various holidays in southern Türkiye. He is a native of Istanbul and many of my group of 24 ladies chose this city break as they know and love his careful attention to detail and people’s wellbeing.
Our tour lasted seven days and during that time we explored the grand sights and the local ways of life which are much more of a contrast than here in London.
We were escorted by a small coach everywhere and apart from the ferry, this was our main mode of transport.
It is important to explain that this trip is not for those on a strict diet as the culinary experiences were incredible and we could not believe the amazing selection of dishes available at all our restaurants and cafes.
My most memorable were actually at the most local eateries such as the fish and pickle sandwich down by the docks and the huge jacket potatoes called Kumpir in another area popular with the locals, where yet again we were the only visible tourists.
We had breakfast at a restaurant that only serves breakfast-all day long and you cannot book in advance as it is so popular - who would want granola again after a feast of at least 12 dishes?!
The history of Istanbul was covered beautifully, and we explored mosques (including the big ones), churches, palaces and nearby islands.
There were also a couple of very special eating and drinking places such as the very refined Viktor Levi wine house and the divine La Vie Praline chocolate shop - our idea of heaven.
The dishes included hot chocolate bombes and cheesecakes with strawberries and banana which were quite simply the best food ever.
Shopping in the grand Bazaar and in many other wonderful shops and streets was great fun and there was time to sample and browse for special treats to take home.
One night we were treated to a special dinner followed by entertainment and belly dancing of a very high standard. It was a good chance to dance off some of our excesses.
At just four hours away from the UK, I really recommend Istanbul for a cultural treat which is so different to many other city breaks.
For a more detailed view of our trip, please feel free to explore the many photographs on www.enfieldsocialevents.co.uk website under past events.
If anyone would like further information on our tour guide and organiser, I am happy to be contacted on oliviagoodfellow19@gmail.com
