Istanbul Turkish Carpet Shopping in a Historic Caravanserai

5.0 (20 reviews) Istanbul, Turkey
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Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 6 travelers

Overview

I invite you to discover the art and symbolism of handmade Turkish carpets in a historic Istanbul caravanserai.

I am a licensed Istanbul guide and the author of How to Read a Turkish Carpet. My teaching background and doctoral research in art philosophy help me explain the language of carpets in an engaging way. You will learn to recognize quality, interpret traditional motifs and colors, and understand natural dyes, materials, and weaving techniques.

Together, we will examine carpets as expressions of Anatolian culture and craftsmanship. If you wish to acquire one, I will help you find a piece that suits your home, taste, and personal story. Complimentary door-to-door shipping is included with every carpet purchase.

There is no pressure to buy. Whether you are an art lover, collector, or simply curious about Turkish culture, you will leave with a deeper understanding of handmade carpets.

Each guest receives a personally signed copy of my book, How to Read a Turkish Carpet.

What's included

  • Private guiding by a licensed cultural expert.
  • Complimentary Turkish tea or coffee during the carpet presentation.

What to expect

  1. German Fountain
    15m
    We meet at the German Fountain in Sultanahmet for a brief welcome and introduction. From here, we take a short walk together to an authentic local café, where the experience begins with an introduction to Turkish carpets and my book, How to Read a Turkish Carpet.
  2. Column of Constantine
    1h 45m
    1. Introduction to Turkish Carpets

    We begin in an authentic local café, where I introduce my book, How to Read a Turkish Carpet, and explain the history, symbolism, materials, and craftsmanship of Turkish carpets. Each guest also receives a personally signed copy of my book.

    2. Visit a Historic Caravanserai

    We then enter a hidden Istanbul caravanserai connected to the city’s history of trade and traditional arts.

    3. Meet the Artisans

    Watch skilled artisans demonstrate traditional carpet weaving and silk production while learning about natural dyes and weaving techniques.

    4. Learn to Read a Carpet

    I show you how to recognize quality and interpret the motifs, patterns, and colors that form the visual language of Turkish carpets.

    5. Explore Turkish Carpets

    We conclude with a presentation of fine handmade carpets. If you wish to acquire one, I will help you choose a piece suited to your home and taste. Complimentary door-to-door shipping is included, with no pressure to purchase.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Our meeting point is the German Fountain in the heart of Sultanahmet, just a few minutes’ walk from the Sultanahmet Tramway Station (T1 line). If arriving by taxi, ask to be dropped off at Sultanahmet Meydanı (German Fountain), a well-known landmark.

End point

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (20)
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$59.00 per person
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Operated by Israfil Oncel Tours - Licensed Istanbul Guide · Booked through Viator
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