10 BEST TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES IN ISTANBUL

Discover the ancient capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Istanbul
,
Turkey

Istanbul is an ancient stronghold that’s functioned as both a bridge and barrier between the powers of Europe and Asia. The city’s culture has been influenced by the many empires that have ruled there, represented by the remaining structures and artefacts such as the Roman Hippodrome, Egyptian obelisks and rare Christian mosaics.

Istanbul is a popular tourist attraction and many activities can be found as a result. With experiences like culinary tours, cooking classes, go-karting and glassblowing workshops, a team-building retreat in Istanbul is guaranteed to be exciting and varied.

In this resource, we’ve compiled some of our favourite team-building activities in Istanbul to help you put together ideas for your offsite retreat.

Would you like to book any of these activities?

These team-building activities are available as part of our retreat package.

Get a quote
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Sample authentic Turkish dishes on a guided food tour

  • Embark on a unique experience as you explore the beautiful city while tasting delicious local dishes.
  • Make sure you arrive with an appetite, as you’ll be presented with 7-12 standard portion sizes from a variety of places.
  • Your professional guide will explain the origin of each dish and answer any questions you might have.
  • Make sure to bring a camera so you can capture the beautiful architecture and dishes.
  • A private tour can accommodate group sizes of two to 30 people.
  • The tour guides are passionate, friendly and speak English fluently.
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Cruise and dine onboard a luxury yacht

  • The yachts can comfortably accommodate a variety of group sizes for your corporate event.
  • The yachts provide ample space for dining and meetings with prominent views of the Bosphorus and city skyline.
  • Private events include a dedicated tour guide who will provide a personalised experience of Istanbul.
  • Experience a range of delicious foods such as Turkish cookies, baklava and fresh seasonal fruits.
  • An excellent way to explore the city while dining and socialising with your team.
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Challenge your team to a live escape game

  • Teams must attempt to escape the rooms by solving puzzles and uncovering hidden clues.
  • A total of 6 rooms are available with unique storylines and challenges.
  • Games can be played in either Turkish or English.
  • The games are designed to test problem-solving, observation, communication and teamwork skills.
  • The staff are very attentive and provide hints when needed.
  • Teams have just one hour to solve the puzzles, find the clues and escape the room.
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Discover the city on a guided walking tour

  • Visit all the must-see landmarks that give this ancient city its charming character.
  • The official tour guide takes you through the city, telling interesting facts and stories along the way.
  • Tours are available every day in English and Spanish.
  • The full duration of the tour is approximately two and a half hours.
  • To visit the mosque, women must cover their heads, shoulders, chest and legs.
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Learn to cook traditional Turkish dishes

  • This hands-on cooking course aims to introduce you to the ingredients typically used in Turkish cuisine and how to combine them.
  • The course takes place in a fun and relaxed setting with professional Turkish chefs.
  • Cooking and dining together is one of the most fun and effective team-bonding experiences.
  • Classes are conducted in English unless requested otherwise.
  • Vegetarians, allergies, gluten intolerance and others can be accommodated.
  • The maximum class size is 10. 
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Learn surfing in the Black Sea

  • Escape the city and spend an afternoon learning to surf on the Black Sea.
  • The surfing conditions on the Black Sea provide a perfect learning environment.
  • Your group will be paired with a fully-qualified surf coach who will teach you the theory and practical skills to get started.
  • For more experienced surfers, equipment is also available for rent.
  • The basic package typically lasts four hours.
  • You’ll be provided with premium quality surfing equipment and a passionate coach.
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Experience the thrill of motorsport at the go-kart track

  • Experience the excitement of racing to the fullest with the track 20-kart capacity and professional tour reporting.
  • Race over the longest indoor karting track in Turkey, complete with technical turns and high-speed straights.
  • The track is wide with plenty of opportunities to overtake.
  • The staff are very friendly and always happy to help. 
  • The karts are regularly optimised to ensure responsive braking and rapid acceleration.
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Learn professional glassblowing techniques

  • You’ll learn the story of glassblowing and develop essential techniques.
  • No previous experience is required, the professional instructors provide all the necessary equipment and information.
  • Learn to form the glass in its fluid form as it’s heated to 1200°C.
  • You can have coffee and eat cake while you make your masterpiece.
  • Workshops are available in English upon request.
  • At the end of the workshop, the products are delivered as necklaces, bracelets or key chains.
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Swing through the trees at the high-rope course

  • The variety of courses provides an enjoyable yet challenging experience for all.
  • The treetop course is woven through 8000 square metres of forest canopy.
  • Several obstacles await you including a zip line track and a “Quick Jump” activity where you’ll drop from a 15-metre-high platform.
  • The staff are friendly and speak English fluently.
  • The equipment is of high quality and well maintained.
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Lead your squad to victory in paintball

  • Take on the opposition in several adrenaline-pumping game modes.
  • Use the environment to provide yourself with cover as you attempt to eliminate enemy forces.
  • The fields are equipped with floodlights for night games.
  • All equipment is cleaned and washed for the next player.
  • The referee assistants are very welcoming and professional.
  • The match duration lasts approximately one and a half hours.

Would you like to book any of these activities?

These team-building activities are available as part of our retreat package.

Get a quote

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