Old workshops and ateliers are tucked away along the hilly streets of Beyoğlu. Narrow wooden doors lead to surprisingly large studios; some crisp and modern, others dusty and rustic. With our lovely guide for our artisan tour, Duygu, we met several artists who continue to work passionately at these “dying arts” and who were kind enough to show us their trades. Some of these “ustas” (masters) have been practicing their craft for 60 years and their impressive skill is evident.Duygu guided us off the beaten path, and introduced us to these local artists that we would not have had the chance to meet otherwise. We finished our tour at a small restaurant (another gem we wouldn’t have found on our own, and a place we enjoyed so much that we returned for dinner the next day!), discussing politics, culture and life in Turkey over çay (tea). It was a great part of our time in Istanbul. You can find information on Duygu’s walking tours here.