Considered one of the capitals of football, Istanbul is home of three giants in Turkey: Besiktas, Fenerbahce and Galatasaray. Football for them really is more than a sport, it is part of everyday Turkish life. Most newspapers devote an average of 4 pages daily to the subject, even during the summer when there are no more matches. It is just crazy!

Upon arrival in the city, you will soon realize that football has a more important place than religion in society, which affects all classes of the population. From the President to the taxi drivers, women, men and children; everyone has an opinion about football and knowing which team you support is such a big deal. The atmosphere, the madness at major games sometimes has no comparison to Europe and even the world. The songs of the supporters, flags, and choreographies provide a memorable show you will not forget.

Understanding Turkish culture requires an understanding of the love that Turkish people have for football. This sport moves people’s passions to the point of delirium. Turkish football fans not just support their team and cheer for them, but they follow and analyze every move of their favourite teams in the papers, wear clothes adorned with their team’s symbols and logos, and endlessly talk about the matches with friends as well as strangers in every kind of social situation.

In this trip, you will meet our English Speaking Homefans Local Host who will take care of the whole group at all times. You will visit the Old Town and walk through the main landmarks, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. He will be able to connect football with amazing stories from these specials places.

Think about a tasty and delicious Kebab or visiting Besiktas neighbourhood, Sinan’s club? You will have that in the same day. They have a huge fan base, known as the “Çarşı”. It is one of the most well-known ultras groups in Europe, supporting the team home and away, being very loud and creating an electrical atmosphere during games, especially at the European cup games. RB Leipzig forward Timo Werner was forced to wear earplugs and also held his hands to his ears before he was taken off during a Champions League game, in a hostile atmosphere inside the Vodafone Arena in Istanbul. We will have an amazing behind the scenes Stadium Tour and Sinan will be able to tell you the best stories about his club and the rivalry with Galatasaray.

Next, Asia! Yes, the match day everybody is waiting for! We will jump in a boat and drive to through the Bosporus River to the Asian side of the city. Take this moment to enjoy and watch the beautiful mosques and important monuments from the sea. Arriving in the docks, we will go straight to Fenerbahce area and its stadium, to have a pre-match experience with local supporters. Then, check out on some Fenerbahce murals and go to the match!

Are you ready?