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Private & personalized tours - just for you!

Experience the best of Istanbul with Withlocals

Whether you're a foodie, history lover, urban explorer or a traveling family. Enjoy Istanbul to the max with the best things to do in Istanbul with a local expert. The best thing? It's private & personalized - just for you!

Tours in Istanbul

Whether you're a foodie, history lover, urban explorer or a traveling family. Enjoy Istanbul to the max with the best things to do in Istanbul with a local expert. The best thing? It's private & personalized - just for you!

Tours in Istanbul

Real People. Real Stories.
Really Good Travel.

  • Feel like a local, not a tourist

    Always private. It’s just you and your local host. No strangers, no groups.

  • More you, less checklist

    Let your local host tailor the experience completely to your wishes.

  • Travel that feels good

    Our tours are designed with people, places, and the planet in mind.



Top 10 things to do in Istanbul

Make your stay in Istanbul complete with these things to do

  1. 1Experience image
    Portrait from local muhammed - Legendary experience maker
    Portrait from local Safiye - The Fun&Friendly Local
    Choose your favorite local

    City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul

    128 reviews
    1.5 hours | City highlight tours | Istanbul

    Welcome to Istanbul! Want to know the best places to eat? Cool events in town? Which places to go to and which to avoid? Or simply get some help to navigate the city? Book this private tour with a local and get the perfect introduction to Istanbul to start your city trip on the right foot.

    €29.91per person
    Explore
  2. 2Experience image
    Portrait from local Cengiz - Kidsofbosphorus
    Portrait from local muhammed - Legendary experience maker
    Choose your favorite local

    The 10 Tastings of Istanbul

    1308 reviews
    3 hours | Food tours | Istanbul

    Ready to taste the best food in Istanbul? Satisfy your cravings for local food and culture with highlights along the way, together with a foodie host. Enjoy 10 delicious and typical tastings that range from sweet to savory as well as drinks on a tasty food tour in Istanbul.

    €72.43per person
    Explore
  3. 3Experience image
    Portrait from local Ayse - Professional Tourist Guide
    Portrait from local Cengiz - Kidsofbosphorus
    Choose your favorite local

    Highlights & Hidden Gems of Istanbul

    822 reviews
    3 hours | City highlight tours | Istanbul

    Want to see the best of Istanbul? We got you covered. But as you can expect from a Withlocals experience, the real excitement is its hidden gems. Join your favorite local and get a feeling of the city's real vibe on a tour that has it all, so you can say: I experienced the real Istanbul!

    €48.90per person
    Explore
  4. 4Experience image
    Portrait from local Sözüm - The Bar Philosopher
    Portrait from local Ayse - Professional Tourist Guide
    Choose your favorite local

    A Magical Evening in Istanbul: City Tour

    271 reviews
    2.5 hours | City highlight tours | Istanbul

    As the sun sets, Istanbul lights up, the heat of the day fades, and the tourist crowds start to thin out. This is the time to enjoy the city at its atmospheric best on a private tour with a local! Take in glittering highlights and the local ambiance that only the evening brings out in Istanbul.

    €34.38per person
    Explore
  5. 5Experience image
    Portrait from local Ceren - The Curious Sociologist & Actor
    With Ceren

    Hipster Kadikoy: Food, Hotspots & Beers!

    98 reviews
    3 hours | city highlight tours | Istanbul

    Kadikoy is the place to be! Explore one of the hippest neighborhoods in Istanbul and discover it bite by bite. Go to up & coming places and try one of the best Turkish dürüm kebap (wraps), street food in a hipster little pop-up restaurant, and a nice beer or cocktail in a local hip bar.

    €72.35per person
    Explore
  6. 6Experience image
    Portrait from local Dilek - The Professional Guide
    Portrait from local Nihal -  The Historian
    Choose your favorite local

    Treasures of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Tour

    118 reviews
    2.5 hours | City highlight tours | Istanbul

    You’ve probably heard that Istanbul is well-known for Hagia Sophia, but do you know the stories and origin behind it? Or how much influence it has on the locals daily life? On this private city tour, you are in for a cultural treat!

    €43.75per person
    Explore
  7. 7Experience image
    Portrait from local Ayfer - The Explorer of History and Lifestyle
    With Ayfer

    Jewelry Workshop at a Local Studio

    175 reviews
    3 hours | | Istanbul

    Ready to get creative? Be part of a fun jewelry workshop taught by a friendly local “usta”. Step into his studio for a perfect hands-on experience that will teach you how to create and design your own accessories through different techniques.

    €170per person
    Explore
  8. 8Experience image
    Portrait from local Diana - The Personal Shopper.
    With Diana

    The Antique Gems of Istanbul Tour

    79 reviews
    7 hours | City highlight tours | Istanbul

    Go off the beaten path on a journey full of hidden gems! Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover tranquil green spaces, local neighborhoods with a lively atmosphere, and a bazaar filled with interesting handicrafts, Turkish products, and textiles.

    €87per person
    Explore
  9. 9Experience image
    Portrait from local Ugur - The Istanbul Guide
    Portrait from local Abdullah - History & Story Teller
    Choose your favorite local

    Explore Topkapi Palace & Surroundings with a Local

    1383 reviews
    3 hours | Skip the line tours | Istanbul

    A quick visit to the Topkapi Palace is not enough. There are other spots worth checking out outside this attraction, and your local host knows exactly where. Combine your visit to the Topkapi Palace with a touch of hidden gems and an easy access to this famous attraction, and you are set for a good time!

    €125per person
    Explore
  10. 10Experience image
    Portrait from local BULENT - Extraordinary Tour Guide
    Portrait from local Esra - The Smiling Local
    Choose your favorite local

    Full Coverage Istanbul City Tour

    254 reviews
    8 hours | City highlight tours | Istanbul

    Ready for a jam-packed tour, full of history, culture, stories, and sights? Checkmark from your travel bucket list all your must-sees of Istanbul, because if there’s a Withlocals tour that shows you all the city's ins and outs, it’s this complete and personalized tour of Istanbul.

    €74.27per person
    Explore
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Explore Istanbul with our incredible locals

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Istanbul with locals

  • Oguz

    The Local Legend

    46 reviews
    English
  • Mine

    The Art & History Lover

    245 reviews
    English
  • Emre

    Geschmackshunter

    878 reviews
    Deutsch・English
  • Emir

    Your lovely Guide in Istanbul & Beyond!

    64 reviews
    العربية・English・Türkçe
  • muhammed

    Legendary experience maker

    77 reviews
    English・Türkçe
  • Faruk

    Hostanblue

    66 reviews
    English・Türkçe
  • Cengiz

    Kidsofbosphorus

    39 reviews
    English
  • Ugur

    The Istanbul Guide

    82 reviews
    English・Türkçe
  • Ayfer

    The Explorer of History and Lifestyle

    175 reviews
    English・Türkçe
  • Hakan

    The Historian

    67 reviews
    English
See all locals


Things to do in Istanbul

Our locals will give you the best experiences that Istanbul has to offer

  • City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
    muhammed - Legendary experience maker
    Safiye - The Fun&Friendly Local
    Choose your local

    City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul

    4.9
    128 reviews
    1.5 hours • City highlight tours
    from €29.91 per person
  • The 10 Tastings of Istanbul
    Cengiz - Kidsofbosphorus
    muhammed - Legendary experience maker
    Choose your local

    The 10 Tastings of Istanbul

    4.9
    1308 reviews
    3 hours • Food tours
    from €72.43 per person
  • Highlights & Hidden Gems of Istanbul
    Ayse - Professional Tourist Guide
    Cengiz - Kidsofbosphorus
    Choose your local

    Highlights & Hidden Gems of Istanbul

    4.9
    822 reviews
    3 hours • City highlight tours
    from €48.90 per person
  • A Magical Evening in Istanbul: City Tour
    Sözüm - The Bar Philosopher
    Ayse - Professional Tourist Guide
    Choose your local

    A Magical Evening in Istanbul: City Tour

    4.8
    271 reviews
    2.5 hours • City highlight tours
    from €34.38 per person
  • Hipster Kadikoy: Food, Hotspots & Beers!
    Ceren - The Curious Sociologist & Actor
    With Ceren

    Hipster Kadikoy: Food, Hotspots & Beers!

    4.9
    98 reviews
    3 hours • city highlight tours
    from €72.35 per person
  • Treasures of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Tour
    Dilek - The Professional Guide
    Nihal -  The Historian
    Choose your local

    Treasures of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Tour

    4.9
    118 reviews
    2.5 hours • City highlight tours
    from €43.75 per person
  • Jewelry Workshop at a Local Studio
    Ayfer - The Explorer of History and Lifestyle
    With Ayfer

    Jewelry Workshop at a Local Studio

    5.0
    175 reviews
    3 hours •
    from €170 per person
  • The Antique Gems of Istanbul Tour
    Diana - The Personal Shopper.
    With Diana

    The Antique Gems of Istanbul Tour

    4.9
    79 reviews
    7 hours • City highlight tours
    from €87 per person
See all experiences


Find experiences by category

Discover experiences based on your interest

  • City highlights tours 13
  • Art & Culture tours 3
  • Food tours 3
  • Day trips 2
  • Off the beaten track tours 2
  • Wine & Beer tours 2
  • Night tours 1
  • Skip the line tours 1
  • Home dinners 1
  • 1

Enjoy the Best of the Istanbul
Like a Local

Things to do in Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul, the city where the East meets the West! Within this bustling metropolis, you can experience so many different kinds of places, with each part of the city boasting its own unique vibe. But no matter what things you do in Istanbul, you are sure to be met with the hospitality and generosity that defines its local people. So, follow a friendly local and check out below the top things to do in Istanbul!

  • A view from a hill on Istanbul and the Bosporus

    Take a stroll in Belgrad Ormani

    Take a break from the bustling vibes of the city in a local’s favorite spot, the natural gem of Belgrade Forest. Located in the Sariyer district of Istanbul, this protected park includes a huge network of trails where you can explore old Ottoman dams, unwind in the shade next to a lake, or enjoy a lovely picnic (true to the local style). In the forest, you can also find very well maintained running tracks that take you through picturesque, shady woods.

    To get to this lovely green space, you can ask your local host for directions. Your local friend can also arrange a relaxing “mangal” (cook-out) in the forest! Also, before you head into the forest or on your way out, be sure to check out the local flavors in the garden-style restaurants in and around Bahcekoy!

  • A local and a tourist near the Grand Bazaar in a street with colorful umbrellas hanging in the streets in Istanbul

    Get lost in (and above) the Grand Bazaar

    The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a place that is worth visiting! There are so many things to do and see in the Grand Bazaar: you can find spices and precious stones from all over the world, drink apple tea, and explore the twists and turns that lead through the sprawling marketplace.

    But if you’re looking for a new, off-the-beaten-track perspective of this popular bazaar, you should definitely take a look at the city from the roof! Your local friend can help you find the entrance to the roof of the Grand Bazaar at the end of a long hallway and up a tiny staircase. From there, you can catch a stunning view of the old city that very few people get the opportunity to see; this is one of the most unique things to do in Istanbul!

  • A local guide and tourist laughing at the Bosporus in Istanbul

    Cool off near Rumeli Hisari

    Rumeli Hisari is an Ottoman fort located next to the trendy neighborhood of Bebek. It’s located right along the Bosporus straight in the heart of the city. You can explore the old walls of the fort and fancy yourself an Ottoman lookout, or take a relaxing stroll on the wide sidewalks along the water.

    This walkway is a favorite of locals. In the summer, many people like to jump right into the Bosporus along this stretch of the “sahil” (seaside). For the full local experience, feel free to jump right in!

  • A view on Istanbul from Buyak Camlica Tepesi

    Get a bird’s-eye view at Buyuk Camlica Tepesi

    If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of Istanbul from above, then look no further! This is the place where locals go to watch the sun set over the metropolis; it’s also popular for taking photos in the soft evening light, and a must thing to do in Istanbul.

    At the top of the hill, you can find lovely little tea houses and lush green areas for stretching out and enjoying a picnic. You can ask your local guide to take you there and to help you pick some local delicacies to enjoy once you reach the top. Don’t forget to take a selfie with your local friend!

  • Tourist enjoying a dinner on Prince's Island near Istanbul

    Island time on Heybeliada

    Heybeliada is an island in the chain of islands known as the Prince’s Islands. A trip to the Prince’s Islands is among the best things to do in Istanbul, and once you are there, you definitely shouldn’t bypass this little gem! It’s smaller and much less crowded than the other islands, even though it’s easily accessible by ferry from the city center.

    On Heybeliada, you can find little coves that are perfect for swimming. You can also explore the island by bicycle, which is the way that most locals prefer. Plus, if you ask those who live on the island, they’ll be quick to tell you that ice cream on the island tastes better than ice cream anywhere else! Give it a try and compare yourself!

  • A view on a terrace with colorful lights at a Turkish restaurant bar in Istanbul

    Cengelkoy and chill

    Cengelkoy is a picturesque neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul where you can find old wooden houses along the Bosporus. There are also many cute parks and restaurants along the water. At these restaurants, you can enjoy the classic Turkish meal of “meze” (appetizers, both hot and cold), fish or other grilled meat, and “raki” (a licorice-tasting liquor, also called “lion’s milk” for its white color). Such meals often last for many enjoyable hours. Come to Cengelkoy on Mondays for their local “pazar” (market), where you can find the best produce and locally made clothing.

  • A local guide with two tourist on Anadolu Kavagi with a view on Istanbul

    A little hike up to Anadolu Kavagi

    Anadolu Kavagi is a fort at the top of a forested hill on the Asian side of Istanbul. Getting there involves a lovely ferry trip along the Bosporus; your local guide can help you find the correct timetable and directions, as they change according to the season.

    From the ferry, you’ll enjoy a nice walk up to the fortress. From the top, you can look all the way down the Bosporus, from the Black Sea to the North, to the Sea of Marmara to the south. Along the trek to the top, you can find cozy cafes with excellent views of the surrounding forest and the city across the water. This is one of the more out-of-the-way things to do in Istanbul.

  • Colorful houses in Balat, Istanbul

    Exploring the colors of Balat

    Balat is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Istanbul, best known for its colorfully painted wooden houses and its cozy cafes. There’s also a great street art scene in the back streets of the neighborhood that you should definitely check out.

    Balat boasts several things to do in Istanbul, and is home to the Church of St. Stephen, also called the “Iron Church.” This is an old Bulgarian Orthodox Church that was pre-constructed from iron and re-built right in the heart of the city. You can ask your local host to guide you around the twisting streets of Balat, where you’re sure to come across some unexpected art and some much-expected cats!

  • A local guide with two tourists in Hagia Sofia in Istanbul

    Discover the old city at Sultanahmet Square

    When people think of things to do in Istanbul, Sultanahmet is usually the picture that comes to mind: a square surrounded by an Ottoman mosque, a magnificent palace, and a Byzantine church (which was then a mosque, and is now a museum).

    Sultanahmet Square is also home to the famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, as well as Topkapi Palace. While Sultanahmet Square is popular with tourists, there are some little details that only a local can point out. Ask your local host where to find the man “reading the izan” (making the call to prayer) outside the Hagia Sophia, and explore the backstreets in this district to find some of the best examples of Turkish cuisine, tea culture, and hospitality!

  • A group of tourists doing a toast in a locals host with Turkish wine in Istanbul

    Tasting new worlds with Uyghur food

    If you’re looking for a meal that wanders a bit from the staple Turkish cuisine, you have got to try Uyghur food! Uyghur cuisine originated in Central Asia and is popular in Istanbul. The dishes range from mild to spicy, with the excellent and rich blends of spices that you would expect from a place at the heart of the centuries-old spice trade. There are many great Uyghur restaurants in the Capa neighborhood, and your local host probably has a favorite Uyghur restaurant of her/his own!

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Why is Withlocals the best place to buy a tour?

  • Private & Personal

    Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.

    You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.

  • Tailored to your wishes

    From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.

    Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.

  • Chat before you book

    Message your host directly to customize your experience.

    Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.

  • Travel that supports locals

    Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.

    We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.

  • Feel good about where your money goes

    You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.

    Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.

  • Trusted by millions

    Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.

    Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.

  • Secure & flexible booking

    Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.

    Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.

  • Private & Personal

    Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.

    You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.

  • Tailored to your wishes

    From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.

    Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.

  • Chat before you book

    Message your host directly to customize your experience.

    Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.

  • Travel that supports locals

    Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.

    We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.

  • Feel good about where your money goes

    You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.

    Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.

  • Trusted by millions

    Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.

    Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.

  • Secure & flexible booking

    Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.

    Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.



Interesting things to do in Istanbul

Discover Istanbul like a true local! From strolling through ancient mosques to sipping Turkish coffee over a game of Backgammon, your local host will show you the amazing things to do in Istanbul on a private tour. With so much history in such a small space, you’ll be filling up your bucket list with unique activities in Istanbul. History buffs can walk through the many layers of Hagia Sophia with a local historian, explore the Blue Mosque and the ancient souks, or unwind in a 300-year old Turkish bath. Modern city slickers can ride the funicular at Galata, feast on kebabs and discover Istanbul’s vibrant night life. Simply let your local host know what your interests are, and they will show you where to go to discover the best things to see and do in Istanbul! Exploring Istanbul with a local who knows the city inside out is the best way to find the perfect things to do. They will know where to go to find the most interesting things to see in Istanbul. Whether you stroll through the bazaars shopping for bargains, take a day trip to Princes Islands or feast on tasty street food, your local host will be by your side to show you the best things to see on a personalized tour. If you’re deciding what to do in Istanbul, a Withlocals private tour that is fully customizable is the perfect choice. With a friendly local to show you where to go, you’ll discover the most interesting activities in Istanbul. Let them know what best suits you, and they will sort it all out locally for you!



Related Istanbul pages

You might be interested in these

  • Guides in Istanbul
  • Tours in Istanbul
  • Activities in Istanbul
  • City Highlight Tours in Istanbul
  • Food Tours in Istanbul
  • Skip The Line Tours in Istanbul
  • Art & Culture Tours in Istanbul
  • Day Trips in Istanbul
  • Off The Beaten Track Tours in Istanbul
  • Wine Beer Tours in Istanbul
  • Home Dinners in Istanbul
  • Night Tours in Istanbul
  • Things To Do For Couples in Istanbul
  • Things To Do In One Day in Istanbul
  • Things To Do Alone in Istanbul
  • Things To Do In A Weekend in Istanbul
  • Things To Do On The Weekend in Istanbul
  • Things To Do In 3 Days in Istanbul
  • Things To Do In 2 Days in Istanbul
  • Things To Do With Teenagers in Istanbul
  • Market Tours in Istanbul
  • Blue Mosque Tours in Istanbul
  • Grand Bazaar Tours in Istanbul
  • Kadikoy Tours in Istanbul
  • History Tours in Istanbul
  • Jewish Heritage Tours in Istanbul
  • Mosque Tours in Istanbul
  • Architecture Tours in Istanbul
  • Beer Tours in Istanbul
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  • Museum Tours in Istanbul
  • Shopping Tours in Istanbul
  • Street Food Tours in Istanbul
  • Topkapi Palace in Istanbul
  • Hagia Sophia Tour in Istanbul
  • Things To Do Tomorrow in Istanbul
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Travelers love our locals

Reviews from guests about our tours and locals

  • 5.0

    Great City, Nice Guy

    "Thank you Cengiz for your wonderful and informative of your city! We were really pleasantly surprised by Istanbul....what an incredible place and we feel like we only scratched the surface...we will be back for another tour someday!"

    local Cengiz
    guest Charles
    CharlesAbout local CengizIstanbul, February 19, 2026
  • 5.0

    Perfect way to start our Istanbul trip

    "We booked an Evening in Istanbul trip with Goda and friends. It was a great way to start our 4 night vacation. Goda was very knowledgeable, very patient with us and her personality was warm and friendly. She was also kind enough to wait an hour for us to arrive as our travel was delayed. I highly recommend booking with her. "

    local Goda and Friends
    guest Nicole
    NicoleAbout local Goda and FriendsIstanbul, February 18, 2026
  • 5.0

    A Fantastic and well thought out tour!

    "Emre was everything you could ask for in a tour guide- welcoming, informative, and very knowledgeable of local history. After only a few minutes you feel like long time friends. Of course the food was amazing and I feel that he did an outstanding job of choosing delicious stops that encompass the heart of Istanbuls local food and drink culture. All of the owners and employees were also welcoming and served delicious foods and drinks. We hit some amazing local parts of town and we left with a wealth of knowledge that will serve us well for the rest of the trip. Emre went out of his way to make this a very memorable experience. I couldn’t recommend him enough!"

    local Emre
    guest Tony
    TonyAbout local EmreIstanbul, February 16, 2026
  • 5.0

    Amazing Food & Drink Tour with Tolga!

    "We joined Tolga’s 10 Tastings of Istanbul, and it was one of the highlights of our trip! Tolga was great fun from the moment we met him — friendly, engaging, and full of fascinating facts about the city and its food culture. We tried so many delicious dishes and drinks we never would have found on our own, and each stop came with wonderful stories and local insights. You can really feel his passion for Istanbul and its culinary traditions. Tolga also went above and beyond before the tour, helping us with clear directions on how to get to the meeting point via the Metro, which made everything so easy. We had a fantastic time and would highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting an authentic and tasty introduction to Istanbul. Tolga is outstanding!"

    local Tolga
    guest Lucy
    LucyAbout local TolgaIstanbul, February 9, 2026
  • 5.0

    Outstanding Tour Guide!

    "Cengiz was an absolutely outstanding tour guide. From the very beginning, he was incredibly responsive, professional, and graciously accommodated our many schedule and itinerary changes before the tour even began. What truly set him apart was his ability to tailor the experience perfectly for our group, some of us had visited Istanbul before, while others were experiencing it for the very first time. Cengiz somehow made the tour feel fresh, engaging, and fun for everyone, blending deep knowledge with great energy and a wonderful sense of humor. If you’re visiting Istanbul, whether it’s your first time or your 10th, I cannot recommend Cengiz highly enough. He made our time in the city unforgettable."

    local Cengiz
    guest Robby
    RobbyAbout local CengizIstanbul, February 9, 2026
  • 5.0

    a Perfect day in Istanbul

    "We are so happy we chose Esra to plan our day in Istanbul. We only had one day to tour and she got us around to see the best sites in perfect fashion! She communicates well and has great energy, pride, and energy. And, we enjoyed her company -- we had fun together. The Turkish Bath was life changing --- I am so glad we took her advice! Thank You Esra -- it was a memorable day of a beautiful place in history!"

    local Esra
    guest Anne
    AnneAbout local EsraIstanbul, February 5, 2026
  • 5.0

    Fantastic tour

    "Cengiz was a fantastic guide. He was very collaborative in terms of wanting the tour to meet my expectations. Moreover, he was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. The tour truly was time well spent."

    local Cengiz
    guest Jamie
    JamieAbout local CengizIstanbul, February 2, 2026
  • 5.0

    Exceeded Expectations!

    "My tour with Cengiz far exceeded my expectations. I told him that I was interested in both food tasting and seeing/experiencing things that maybe the typical tourist wouldn’t get a chance to see. And wow did he deliver! We ate great food and saw some great sites, but the biggest surprise (and most enjoyable) part of the tour was how Cengiz made the community part of the experience. I cannot recommend a tour with Cengiz enough. Thank you, Cengiz, for such a memorable experience! "

    local Cengiz
    guest Cliff
    CliffAbout local CengizIstanbul, February 2, 2026
  • 5.0

    If ever a wiz there was...

    "What an enjoyable day we spent with Oz in Istanbul. Not only was the information and stories shared entertaining, the insights into life in Istanbul were delightful. Loved the conversation, tea, food and relaxed feel of the tour. At the end of the day we felt we had a new friend in the world. Peace and prosperity Oz."

    local Oguz
    guest Patrick
    PatrickAbout local OguzIstanbul, February 1, 2026
  • 5.0

    Exceptional guude Cengiz

    "Cengiz was an absolutely exceptional guide in Istanbul. From the moment we met, he was warm, personable, and incredibly knowledgeable. His depth of historical and cultural insight truly brought the city to life, but what set him apart was how far he went beyond any reasonable expectation of his job. He was thoughtful, attentive, and genuinely invested in making the experience meaningful and memorable. I cannot recommend Cengiz highly enough. If you are even considering a private guide in Istanbul, hire him as quickly as possible and get on his calendar. He is very busy—and for very good reason—but he is absolutely worth it. Highly, highly recommended."

    local Cengiz
    guest shawn
    shawnAbout local CengizIstanbul, January 27, 2026