istanbul tour guides private

THE 10 BEST Istanbul Private Tours & Tour Guides

Private tours in istanbul.

• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour

2. Best of Istanbul private tour pick up and drop off included

3. Full-Day Private Guided Cultural Tour of Istanbul

4. Private Guided İstanbul City Tour

5. The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Istanbul: The 10 Tastings

6. Half Day lstanbul Private Tour

7. Private Tour Guide in Istanbul 8 Hours English Speaking

8. Private Luxury Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus

9. 2-Day Cappadocia Tour with Optional Balloon Ride from Istanbul

10. Istanbul 7-8 Hours Private Guided Tour. Depart from Cruise Port

11. Private and guided Istanbul food tour - Taste of Istanbul

12. Istanbul Highlights Private Guided Tour with Snacks and Transfers

13. Private Day Trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul

14. Istanbul Private Guided Tour for Layover Flight. Transfer incl.

15. BEST Private Guided Istanbul Night Tour Halcyon

16. Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Istanbul Private Tour

17. Full Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

18. Eating Like a Local: Learn About Diverse Culinary Culture of Turkey

19. Istanbul Private Yacht Tour - 2 Hours

20. Luxury Boat Tour Cruise in Istanbul Bosphorus

21. Private Guided Istanbul Day Tour

22. Istanbul: Evening Private Food Tour In Kadikoy

23. Best Seller; Private Guided Istanbul Excursion

24. Private Licensed Tour Guide

25. Istanbul Time Travel Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

26. Istanbul Shore Excursion : Best Seller Private Istanbul Tour

27. Istanbul City and Hidden Gem Private Guided Tour 1, 2, 3 Day opt.

28. Istanbul Private Guiding Service

29. Istanbul Private Layover Tour

30. Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea

What travelers are saying.

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A city that needs no introduction, Istanbul of the Bosphorus Straits is at once historic and hipster. TourHQ’s local guides reveal everything from the Blue Mosque to throbbing nightclubs, frenetic markets and more.

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Istanbul Tour Guides

I am a retired English teacher; used to teach at a tourism commmunity college in Cappadocia. ...

Ugur Karaca

Hi, here we go, a new vision, a new face and an innovative Tour Guide, Ugur,who has been ...

Ahmet Yandik

A professional tourist guide with a vast experience of handling tour groups from all parts of the ...

Ahmet Tuncel

I am a professional nationwide tour guide who is easy going, flexible and knowledgeable in my ...

Lütfullah Fındıkoğlu

I am a professional tourist guide and will be very happy to guide you all over Turkey. I can ...

I am a licensed professional tour guide fluent in English and Spanish. I have been ...

I have been a professional tour guide since 2007 .I was born and grown up in Antalya I know the ...

Can Kurtulay

I'm a Licensed Tourist Guide since 2022, since the day I started guiding I'm ...

I am a 45 years old English Speaking professional tour guide, offering various tailour made tour ...

Good day to travelers, As an Istanbulian I've been officially guiding all around Istanbul and ...

I was born in Istanbul and came later to Germany, where my parents started to work in the ...

Mustafa Efelti

Hello everyone, I am working as a cultural tour guide in Turkey (Istanbul). I have my own tour ...

I am a licensed professional tour guide in English and Greek. I have two degrees from ...

Hasan Günduğar

Hi, I'm hasan a local guide at gallipoli peninsula, since 2008 I have been doing guiding at ...

Hello; My name is Umut. I am a travel professional for 25 years and a tour guide for 3 years. ...

Neslihan Bayrak

Hi!I was born and raised on the Black sea coast of Turkey in a city almost 240 km on the north east ...

Orhan Pamuk’s Istanbul was once the imperial city of Byzantium. Today the sprawling modern metropolis is at once daunting in its size and awe-inspiring in its richness. Istanbul figures as one of the European gateways to the East, at the legendary Bosphorus Straits. As the third largest city in the world by population, it’s perhaps no surprise that Istanbul is alive with various religious and cultural influences. These manifest right across the board in its array of historical heritage sites, from the iconic domes and minarets of the Hagia Sophia to the awesome Byzantine ruins of the late Christian Romans. But it’s not all history in Istanbul, and today the cascade of bohemian bars and quirky districts that pepper its metropolitan patchwork have earned it the epithet of ‘World’s Hippest City’; a place of brooding artists, unbridled youthful energy and exhilarating alternative charm. Visitors can expect their Istanbul tour guide to exhibit both parts ancient and modern; leaving one enthralled at Istanbul’s reputation as Turkey’s economic, cultural and historical heart.

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Experience the Essence of Istanbul with High-Quality Private Guided Tours

Discover Istanbul’s unparalleled beauty and rich history with our esteemed travel agency, Turkey’s leading provider of high-quality private guided tours of Istanbul. Our commitment to excellence is evident in our team of professional tour guides, each bringing years of experience and a deep passion for showcasing the best of Istanbul.

Our private Istanbul tours are more than just sightseeing; they are immersive experiences tailored to your unique interests. From the city’s historic heart to its vibrant streets, our tours are designed to offer a comprehensive view of Istanbul’s diverse culture, history, and culinary delights.

Embark on a journey through time with our expertly guided private tours in Istanbul. Istanbul, a city steeped in history, offers a treasure trove of significant sites. Our guides are not only experienced but also deeply knowledgeable about the city’s historical connections to Judaism and Christianity. This expertise allows us to provide insights into the cultural and theological aspects of these religions, enriching your experience with deeper understanding and appreciation.

Exclusive, Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures and Private Tours

Whether you’re seeking hidden gems in Istanbul, the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient wonders of Ephesus, or the serene beauty of the Blue Cruises, our expertise lies in creating unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Your time and availability are our top priorities, guiding us in crafting the ideal program for you.

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Customized Tours Tailored to Your Preferences

Discover the ultimate travel experience with our custom-designed tours, tailored specifically to your unique interests and needs. At Eskinazi, we break the mold of pre-set itineraries, offering you a personalized journey like no other. Our dedicated team functions as your private concierge service, ensuring each itinerary aligns perfectly with what you desire most from your travel adventure.

Experience Istanbul with the Best Professional Tour Guides

Join us for an unparalleled private tour of Istanbul, guided by our team of professional, multilingual tour guides. Each guide brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion, ensuring your tour is both enlightening and memorable. Licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, they are not just guides but storytellers, ready to bring the rich tapestry of Istanbul’s history and culture to life for you.

We (2 couples) spent 3 days in Istanbul with Umit Yildirim, our tour guide from Eskinazi Tourism Ltd. I had reviewed several tour companies and selecting Eskinazi and Umit was the best decision I made. Not only was Umit fluent in English, but he was also extremely knowledgeable with the history of Turkey and the sites. Umit presented the information in such a way that we became well educated with this ancient history. We spent 7-8 hours each day touring all the important sites as well as the city of Istanbul both on the European and Asian sides in a luxury Mercedes van. He took us to classic Ottoman and Turkish restaurants for lunches–not tourist spots. The tour was capped off on the 3rd day with a 2-hour Bosphorus Cruise in a Private Yacht. We are all still raving about this tour. Do yourself a favor and look no further than Eskinazi.

Let's Plan Your Memorable Experiences in Istanbul

Experience Istanbul like never before with our exclusive luxury private tours. We invite you to contact us and unlock a world of personalized experiences, tailored to your unique tastes and preferences. Discover the hidden gems of Istanbul in unparalleled comfort and style, guided by our expert team. Your extraordinary journey awaits!

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Guided Istanbul Tours

Guided istanbul tours.

Most Recommended Travel Agency on TripAdvisor in Istanbul. We offer private tours in English, Spanish, Italian, French, German and Portuguese languages.

Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

4 Days Turkey Tour: Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia

Best of Cappadocia: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Cappadocia Tour

Private istanbul  tours.

Choose among the most popular Istanbul tours and visit must-see attractions with your private tour guide in Istanbul.

Istanbul Tour Classics You Can’t Miss

Private Istanbul Layover Tour From Airport

Small Group Tour: Best of Istanbul Tour with Lunch and Tickets (10 people Max)

2-Hour Private Luxury Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus with Transfers

Istanbul Shore Excursion: 1 or 2-Day Private Guided Tour with Private Van

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Turkey Tour Packages

We cherry-picked the best sites to visit in Turkey but feel free to create your own itinerary with our tour experts.

Private 2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul (Optional Hot Air Balloon)

Shore Excursion 2 Day Private Tour from Kusadasi Port for Ephesus-Pergamon

2 Days Private Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour

Private Ephesus / Kusadasi Shore Excursion Tour

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Our Reviews

We are 5-Star rated travel agency for Tours in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale and other destinations in Turkey.

Napoleon once said “If the world was only one country, Istanbul would be its capital!”

Discover the potential.

Turkey is a great place to visit with its fascinating history, culture, breathtaking views, welcoming people, stunning landmarks and lively nightlife.

Guided  Istanbul Tours

The best tour guides and tour consultants gathered in highly harmonious team to create Turkey Tour Packages.

Guided Istanbul Tours operated by Urban Explorist Travel Agency is the winner of 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 Certificates of Excellence by TripAdvisor. As your local tour operator here in Turkey, we will be providing Private Turkey Tours with the accompany of our tour guides. Our professional staff will create a personalized tailor-made tour itinerary for your family which includes sites you requested in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and other destinations of Turkey.

We offer Luxury Turkey Tours and Luxury Istanbul Tours with the local tour guides for cultural, historical, culinary tours in almost every destination of Turkey.

Daily Istanbul Tours , Shore Excursions, Archaeological Tours, Food Tours and other Cultural Tour Packages will be designed according to the duration of your holiday and can include off-the-beaten paths as well. Popular Holiday destinations are on the must seen list of every traveler and must-do activities such as Hot Air Balloons will be included in your personalized travel itinerary.

As an agency offering high-quality Turkey Tour Packages for our guests, we are a responsible travel agency, we are ready to help you. Our phones are available for 24 hours and your emails will be answered within a max of 24 hours by our experienced staff.

Our services are available in various language options such as English, Spanish, Italian, French, German and Portuguese, please do not hesitate to contact us for your  Turkey tour or Private Istanbul tour. Your happiness is our purpose, as it’s your holiday. You have worked hard all year for this experience and now as you’re here in our home, we will make our best for your happiness.

Urban Explorist Travel Agency is officially licensed by TURSAB (Association of Turkish Travel Agents) with a Licence Number 10876.

Welcome to Turkey!

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Hospitality is in our nature, culture and soul. Visit Turkey, where you feel like home in another country.

Private Tours Only

We don’t operate group tours. All our guests are special for us so we operate only private services for ur guests. We only operate private service for our guests.

No Hidden Cost

During the process of booking you will be informed about all the costs. Inclusions and exclusions will be notified in written with the confirmation email.

24/7 Support

Please do not hesitate to give us a call if you need. If you haven’t got a reply email, please send us a follow-up email, since the previous tour inquiry is lost in space.

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Istanbul Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to istanbul, turkey with a local guide.

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Popular Istanbul Tour Guides

Hi everyone, My name is Dilek, a national - licensed tour guide. I am 42 years old and have been guiding for 14 years. My husband is from Mexico and with our two young kids we live in Istanbul. When I don't work I spend most of my time outdoor with my family, enjoy istanbul as much as we can. I am qualified in the knowledge of Turkish history, mythology, archaeology, history of religion and history of art. I speak English and Spanish. Following my university graduation, I lived in England for 5 years where I continued my education studying Travel and Tourism at Greenwich School of Management. After I lived a short time in Guatemala, Cuba to learn Spanish. In my tour I would like to show you architectural styles, historical fun facts, famous historical monuments, tell you about the peoples life in Istanbul, how we spend our days, where do people go to eat, what we eat, where we shop, what we listen, the best places to eat, drink and party. As your local guide, I am flexible to your wishes and needs. Making it interesting and enjoyable for you is my wish. With all of my years of experience in the travel industry, I hope to help you make the most of your time in beautiful Istanbul by taking a tour with me. I very much look forward to meeting you all!                                                                                                                                  

Hi there. My name is Semih. I live in İstanbul. I am professional licensed tourist guide. I would like to host my curious tourist guests as being their tour guide.                                                                                                                                  

Merhaba (Hello) from a friendly Istanbulite! My name is Yasin, a licenced tour guide who is in love with his city. Istanbul is more than a regular city. It has been a melting pot of different empires, religions, languages and cultures for centuries! I've been living in this amazing city for 36 years and have about 8 years of experience as a guide. My purpose is not only to show you some historical buildings but also give you a chance to learn more about our unique history, culture-traditions, cuisine, daily life etc. I am very interested in both Roman/Eastern Roman (Byzantine) and Ottoman heritage of Istanbul, so I can offer you very specific tours that you'll always remember. I have basic information on the old/medieval Greek and can read the Ottoman Turkish. I can also understand caligraphic inscriptions easily. I believe that if you really want to feel the soul of historical buildings, you should know what those inscriptions explain to us. That's why I spent so much time to improve myself in this field. I also love photography and trying different types of healthy and traditional food. Fortunately, Istanbul gives us a great chance for them. I'll be so happy to help you with them, too! Feel free to contact me for either a full-day or a half-day tour. I can provide you a complete program or customizable itinerary. Let's explore this amazing city and unique culture together!                                                                                                                                  

Hello , I am a professional licensed english speaking tour guide in Turkey, I do guiding all around Turkey.                                                                                                                                  

New istanbul tour guides.

Enthusiastic And Enjoyable ToursProfessional Tour Guide First-class customer service, Interesting Insights , Very Knowledgeable A+ Private Tour Guide, treated like VIP With more than 20 years of professional guiding experience, Our Tour Guides are very passionate sharing informations about Istanbul ,Ephesus, Cappadocia and rest of Turkey with great Narrations                                                                                                                                  

I am a tour guide in Istanbul. I usually do walking tours and street tours. I have a lot of routes in Istanbul                                                                                                                                  

Hi everyone! My name is Hamide. I'm a professional tour guide who studied and graduated with bachelor's degree. I've been guiding for 14 years with a great enthusiasm. I'm a lifetime learner and experiencer in my stunning city, Istanbul! I love to see the reaction on the faces of my guests that happens when they let Istanbul touch their souls. I like listening what old buildings tells, strolling on the narrow streets of historical and local markets and feasting my tongue with unique tastes... I'm just looking for more friends who would like to join me to share my experiences!                                                                                                                                  

There is a saying in the Middle East called "hello". If you look in the dictionary; It will translate as "hello" but the real meaning of this word is "you will find friendship here, feel comfortable". Merhaba, I'm Dogan. I am 27 years old, I have a degree in both international relations and international trade, a master's degree in guidance, and I am currently an art history student. I have been a student for many years and my area of expertise is having a pleasant time with a low budget - just like students.                                                                                                                                  

Popular istanbul private tours.

Must See Places in Istanbul

It's always a good idea to see the highlights of the city during the first day of your visit to Istanbul for a good introduction accompanied by the stories of this stunning city blended with history, culture, mythology, geography and cuisine. For someone who is visiting a new city for the first time it's a place people are just passing by. When it comes to the exploring the hidden gems you may need a company.

Top five most visited sites of Istanbul walking private tour

Your walking tour will include the most visited (and most famous!) sites of Istanbul's historic peninsula. Your old Istanbul walking tour takes you to the imperial center of the old Turkish Ottoman Turkish Empire. Visit the Blue Mosque, Beautiful mosque with predominantly blue stained glass windows and tiles, Topkapı Palace where you can get good understanding about how the Turks ruled and lived, The Grand Bazaar with more than 4 thousands shops and the relics of the Roman (Byzantine) Empire: Ha

Topkapi Palace and Harem

This tour is for the travellers who want to know topkapi palace deeply with its harem. there has always been two different life in this palace, one for the men of the court which includes sultan, all other politicians, soldiers, enderun students, other one is for women including wives, concubines, daughters of sultan. throughout history very few people entered into harem, this has been the reason of curiosity. we will picture the life in harem together..

History based City Tour

Istanbul is one of the most beautiful city in the world. It has so many attractions, Bosphorus and Istanbul is the city connects Asia to Europe. There are so many buildings coming from past, reflects the whole history. You will be surprised when buildings start to talk to you and say their own stories in the exact place.

New Istanbul Private Tours

Enchanting Family Escapade: Tailored for Kids and Parents Alike

We will take the tram to eyüp sultan district. then, depending on your preference, we can visit eyüp sultan mosque and feed the pigeons. afterwards, we will take the cable car up to pierre loti hill for a nice tea or coffee break at the terrace. then, we will descend and transfer to small boats to visit miniaturk. an open-air miniature park located in istanbul, turkey. it features meticulously crafted miniature models of famous landmarks from turkey and other parts of the world..

Street Delights Through the Eyes of a Turk

In this tour, we will take a ferry from the european side to the asian side to experience both a walking tour and a taste of street delights. we will visit kadıköy, one of the most beautiful districts on the asian side. in short, kadıköy is a district primarily inhabited by locals rather than tourists..

Exploring Istanbul's Majesty: A Journey Through Topkapı Palace

Topkapı palace is an important part of istanbul's historical and cultural heritage. by visiting it, you have the opportunity to explore the rich history and impressive architecture of the ottoman empire. the palace served as the living quarters and administrative center for ottoman sultans, playing a significant role in istanbul's and even world history. visiting topkapı palace allows you to discover this important heritage and gain a window into the magnificent past of the ottoman empire..

2 Continents 1 City: From Europe to Asia

Istanbul is the only city in the world situated on two continents. this tour will start from the eminönü. in this tour we will see the rüstem pasha mosque, a coffee roastery from the ottoman period, spice bazaar, galata bridge, building of ottoman bank on the european side. then we will go to the asian side by a short boat tour. we will see the mihrimah sultan mosque, fountain of ahmed iii, gastronomy street of usküdar and new mother's mosque..

Istanbul Tour Reviews

Felixberto generoso n M.

“ Istanbul personalized tour ”

It was great considering the short, short time. He showed me all the tourist places in Istanbul, at least the important ones due to time limitation. The Topkaki Palace was already closed by then so I did not get to see it. But got to see the beautiful mosques not only the Hagia. He is very knowledgeable of the history of, and proud of his city - Istanbul. Would have been great if this was a whole day tour, but time limitations due to flight arrivals late in the afternoon prevented that. Anyways, try him, you will not regret it. Thanks

“ Very enjoyable tour ”

It was great fun to walk the basic course of Istanbul with Dilek. She was very cheerful and kind. In addition, she seemed to be friends with many guides in the city, so I was able to walk very efficiently while obtaining the latest information on congestion and other things from them.

Hi Hiroshi Thank you very much for your positive review. It is a big motivation for me to see you were satisfied with my tour. Thank you very much for your interest in my country and for your visit.

“ Great tour ”

Excellent guide. Quite pleasant and very informative. Really good way for someone with a mobility issue to see the city. Rather than me having to keep up with a ship’s tour, she was able to adapt to my slow speed.

Thank you very much Kevin. I really enjoyed guiding for you and Mary and I'm hoping to see you again some day. Please take care and stay well

Istanbul Private Tour Guide

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Connect with a Istanbul Local Guide

Read reviews and chat with the best local tour guides in istanbul. get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today..

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Browse istanbul tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite istanbul tour., related istanbul tour guide pages.

What? Tour Antalya Bursa Capadoccia Eskisehir Gallipoli Gaziantep Istanbul Izmir Pamukkale

Our Popular Tours

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Private Istanbul Food Tour – Taste of Two Continents

Along with your professional and friendly guide, your private group will navigate to the most delicious food and historic Istanbul spots.

Private Helicopter Tour Istanbul

Get pleasure from mind-blowing views of the Golden Horn and the historical peninsula of Istanbul from the air.

Bursa Tour from Istanbul

Educate yourself on the first capital of the Ottoman Empire on a 12-hour tour to Bursa from Istanbul. Known as “Green Bursa” for its several parks and encompassing forest, during the full-day Bursa trip, you are going to visit mosques, bazaars and the renowned Silk Market.

7 hours Istanbul Layover Tour

If you have got a six or seven-hour layover in Istanbul, you can easily see several famous Istanbul tourist points with this layover tour.

Hagia Sophia Guided Tour With Entry

Visit the most famous historical attraction in Istanbul. Our private tours permit you to skip hours of wait time and allow you to jump in an in-depth Hagia Sophia tour.

1 Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Flight Tickets

The Capadocia region is deemed as like no-where else on this planet. If you take pleasure in nature and history, this trip to Capadocia is the most appropriate option for you.

Hierapolis & Pamukkale Day Tour from Istanbul with a Flight Ticket

Pamukkale is renowned for its white cascades of calcium springs. If you wish to stop by one of Turkey’s natural wonders during your time in Istanbul, go on a Pamukkale day trip from Istanbul to get pleasure from Pamukkale’s white terraced pools.

Privat Istanbul Airport Transfer

Gain benefit from the comfort by taking a private transfer from Istanbul International Airport (IST ) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to your accommodation at a reasonable cost.

Istanbul: Dolmabahçe Palace Guided Tour

Explore Ottoman luxury Dolmabahçe Palace and Be all set for pure deluxe as you go to the residence of former sultans.

Private Gallipoli Day Tour from Istanbul

If the history appeal to you, take a trip back in history and look at the site of the ANZAC landings of World War I on our full-day tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula from Istanbul.

Full-Day Private Istanbul City Tour

Go through the premier attractions in Istanbul's district during this full-day private tour of Istanbul's city guided by a tour guide. You will visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazar and more.

Bosphorus Cruise Tour Istanbul

The Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with entertainment is essentially the most popular tour among tourists.

Princess Island Tour

Look into Büyükada, the largest of Turkey’s Princes islands, on this 9-hour excursion from Istanbul. Go through the tranquility of the biggest Princes' Island in Turkey, Büyükada, on this full-day guided tour from Istanbul.

Sapanca Tour

Get away from the bustle of Istanbul, and uncover a trendy weekend retreat from the city on a 14-hour day trip to Lake Sapanca and the village of Masukiye in the Gulf of Izmit.

Private Byzantine Empire History Guided Tour

Explore significant Byzantine attractions such as Hagia Sophia, the Valens Aqueduct, Stoudios Monastery and the Church of St. Polyeuctus during this trip.

Private Ephesus Tour from Istanbul

Experience the splendor and history of Ephesus on a Full Day Ephesus Tour from Istanbul

Private Istanbul Old City Tour

During this full-day old city Istanbul tour, you'll be able to view old attractions of Istanbul dating back to the 6th-century with a private, valuable local tour guide.

Istanbul Combo: Old City & Bosphorus Cruise

Merging two activities in one tour is a great choice to save time. The old City & Bosphorus Cruise Combo tour makes it possible for you to dip yourself into fun-based activity and historical spots simultaneously.

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All of our guides are licensed by the Ministry of Tourism of the Turkish Republic , but perhaps more importantly, we hire only those guides who truly have a passion for all things Turkish, and in sharing our culture with you. With Istanbul Local Guides, you are getting more than a tour guide--you are getting a Turkish friend, an insider who can unlock the mysteries of ancient and modern Istanbul, from our oldest traditions to present-day life.

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Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or how to brew the perfect Turkish tea,  Istanbul Local Guides  has you covered! We are ready to take you around Istanbul or all of Turkey, for one day or the duration of your trip.

Istanbul Local Guides  are just that locals who care deeply about making your trip to our beautiful country an experience you will remember for a lifetime.

Delight in the sights, sounds, and smells of Istanbul: no other city on earth straddles two continents -Europe and Asia- and has been home to three great empires (Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman). In a city like this, it's important to have a local friend who can help you to navigate, all the while ensuring you the most personal experience possible.  Istanbul Local Guides  will fascinate you with the story of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, will wander with you (and help you bargain!) in our bazaars and spice markets, and host you in our favorite restaurants off the tourist track. If your interest is modern Turkish culture and politics, discovering the very best Turkish kebabs, or anything in between, we'll tailor-make a trip just for you. With  Istanbul Local Guides , you'll get knowledgeable, experienced, and very friendly guides, all at an affordable rate.

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5 Fantastic Private Tour Guides in Istanbul You Can Book Directly

They are not easy to get a hold of.

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Table of Contents

Introduction to istanbul's professional tour guides.

I was talking to a friend the other day, who happens to be a tour guide, about this article and whether he would be interested in being featured in it. And to my surprise, he wasn’t interested. The surprising thing about tour guides in Turkey is that the vast majority of them do not offer their services directly but only through travel agencies.

Isn’t that interesting? Most of them are not used to being booked and paid independently because they are not legally prepared for it. Well, lucky for us, there are still some tour guides who are willing to work independently and can be booked directly by visitors.

If you are planning to visit Istanbul , hiring a private tour guide can be a great way to explore the city and learn about its rich history and culture . In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about private tour guides in Istanbul , including how to book them, their cost, and whether or not you need one.

Common Questions

Let’s start asking some basic questions to get to the truth of it 🙂

Can You Explore Istanbul on Your Own?

Yes, you can explore Istanbul on your own. The city is relatively easy to navigate, and there are plenty of resources available to help you plan your itinerary. However, keep in mind that Istanbul is a vast city with a rich history and culture , and there is a lot to see and do. If you have limited time and want to make the most of your visit, hiring a private tour guide is a great way to ensure that you don’t miss any of the highlights and get the most out of your trip.

Do I Need a Guide in Istanbul?

While it is possible to explore Istanbul on your own, hiring a private guide can enhance your experience in several ways. A guide can provide you with valuable insights into the city’s history and culture, take you to hidden gems that are off the tourist trail, and help you navigate the city’s complex transportation system. If you want to make the most of your time in Istanbul and learn as much as possible about the city, hiring a guide is highly recommended.

Are Tour Guides Worth It?

Whether or not a tour guide is worth it depends on your travel style and preferences. I personally love a good tour guide! Even when I’m wandering an ancient place alone, I often try to eavesdrop on the tour guides that I run into. The guide can do wonders to the overall educational value of the visitation. But that’s just me.

If you enjoy exploring on your own and don’t mind doing research and planning ahead, you may not need a guide. However, if you want to maximize your time in Istanbul , learn about the city’s history and culture from a knowledgeable local, and avoid the stress of navigating a foreign city on your own, hiring a guide is definitely worth it.

For example, when you visit sites like Hagia Sophia or Basilica Cistern , having a great guide who is passionate about the Byzantine Empire , explaining the finer details of the history and architecture of the structure, as well the context in which these structures were built and utilized through centuries can actually greatly enhance your experience. But hey, some people don’t want to stand around and listen to an expert for minutes at a time, breaking down the nuances of the topic in hand, do they? We don’t judge.

What are Tour Guides like in Istanbul?

Please forgive me for being so blunt: statistically, most tour guides that I’ve observed were simply not that good. However, some tour guides in Istanbul are knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. They have a deep understanding of the city’s history, culture, and traditions, and are passionate about sharing their knowledge with visitors. And they are so much fun to be around!

They can take you to the most popular tourist attractions in the city as well as off-the-beaten-path locations that only locals know about. So finding them can make a world of difference for your experience in Istanbul .

How Much is a Private Guide in Istanbul?

The cost of a private guide in Istanbul varies depending on several factors, such as the length of the tour, the number of people in your group, and the guide’s experience and expertise. On average, you can expect to pay around $150-$250 per day for a private guide in Istanbul.

The hourly rate is calculated by dividing the daily rate by four, as most tours last for four hours. The rates may vary depending on the season, the language, and the availability of the guides.

How to Book a Private Tour Guide in Istanbul

Booking a private tour guide in Istanbul is easy and straightforward but booking them directly, not so much. There are several ways to do it, including:

• Booking through a travel agency : Many travel agencies offer private tour guides as part of their packages. What’s important is to find a reputable travel agency that works with hand-picked professional guides in Istanbul. Their private tours are designed to give you a more authentic and immersive experience of the city. For some great companies, you can read our article on Istanbul Private Tours . And we highly recommend Istanbul Tour Studio and their in-house guides .

• Booking directly with a tour guide : You can also book a private tour guide directly by contacting them through their website or email. Below, we will recommend 5 independent tour guides you can get in touch with directly . These are knowledgeable and experienced tour guides who can customize your tour according to your interests and preferences. And even if they’re booked out for the dates you want, they can refer you to their friends who are also top-notch tour guides.
• Using online platforms : Several online platforms, such as ToursbyLocals , TourHQ , PG.world and Airbnb Experiences allow you to find private tour guides in Istanbul. These platforms offer a wide range of tour options and allow you to read reviews and compare prices before booking.

5 Recommended Tour Guides in Istanbul

Here are some top guides you can communicate with directly:

Metin Koca is a professional tour guide in Istanbul, with 30 years of experience in tourism. He is an expert on ancient Greek and Roman history and has an in-depth knowledge of the history of Istanbul and Turkey . Metin is a freelancer, which means travelers can book him directly, and he provides an unforgettable tour experience. His tours are informative, interesting, and engaging, and he presents history in a way that is easy to understand, making it fun and exciting for travelers.

Metin’s tours are also reasonably priced, and he provides a high level of customer service, making sure that all his guests are satisfied. His dedication to providing an excellent tour experience is reflected in the glowing reviews he has received from satisfied customers. If you want to explore Istanbul’s historical sites with an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide, Metin Koca is the perfect choice.

Email: [email protected]

And here is his TripAdvisor listing with 296 stellar reviews – he doesn’t even have a 3 star review so far.

Duygu Gümüşay

Duygu Gümüşay is a licensed tour guide in Istanbul and Turkey with over 15 years of experience. She specializes in elaborate walking tours of Istanbul and has a passion for helping her guests discover hidden pathways and unbeaten paths in the city. Duygu is also a travel enthusiast, so she understands the expectations of travelers well.

She offers customized tours, so it’s best to contact her before booking to see if you can work together to create the perfect tour for your needs. Her guests have praised her for being knowledgeable, personable, and professional, and for designing tours that fit their tastes perfectly. She is also flexible and accommodating, as seen in the review where she adjusted the tour for guests who overslept.

Duygu’s expertise in Turkish cultural, geopolitical, architectural, and social history has impressed her guests and brought the sites to life. She has also been highly recommended for her ability to provide historical context while still holding the attention of all ages, making her tours a perfect introduction to Istanbul for anyone.

Overall, Duygu Gümüşay is a highly skilled and enthusiastic tour guide who is dedicated to making your visit to Istanbul an unforgettable experience.

Here’s her email address: [email protected] and you can also see her ToursbyLocals page here .

Serhat Engül

Serhat Engul is an experienced and knowledgeable local tour guide based in Istanbul. He offers private guided tours of historical districts such as Sultanahmet , Fener & Balat , and Beyoglu , and has been a licensed tourist guide since 2004.

Reviews of his services praise his expertise, preparation, and ability to provide context and information about the history, architecture, and culture of Istanbul. He also offers advice on restaurants and stores in the area. Many reviewers appreciate the fact that he can arrange visits to sites that are not typically open to tourists, such as closed churches and mosques.

If you’re interested in seeing Istanbul through the eyes of a local tour guide, Serhat Engul’s website, istanbullocaltourguide.com , provides more information about his services and contact details to schedule a private tour.

Mustafa Doğan

A Distinguished Connoisseur of Istanbul’s Hidden Gems

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Istanbul with Mustafa Doğan, a seasoned professional whose expertise in guiding tours is unparalleled. Having spent his formative years in Australia, Mustafa boasts an impeccable command of English, complemented by a captivating sense of humor that enriches every tour. His profound knowledge and mastery in showcasing the cultural tapestry of Istanbul are simply extraordinary.

What truly sets Mustafa apart is his penchant for spontaneity. He possesses a unique talent for tailoring tours to the interests and personalities of his guests, often leading them to unexpected and enchanting destinations within the city. With Mustafa, every tour transforms into a personalized adventure, revealing the soul of Istanbul through its lesser-known streets, vibrant markets, and hidden historical sites.

Join Mustafa Doğan for an experience that transcends the conventional tour, immersing you in the authentic spirit and allure of Istanbul.

Book Mustafa now

What sets Rubil apart is his ability to connect with his guests on a personal level. He has a warm and welcoming personality that immediately puts people at ease. He enjoys sharing stories and anecdotes about Istanbul’s past and present, and loves to engage in lively conversations with his guests. His passion for his work is infectious, and he always goes the extra mile to ensure that his guests have an unforgettable experience.

Rubil’s tours are highly rated by his clients, who praise his professionalism, knowledge, and friendly demeanor. They often comment on how much they have learned and how much fun they have had on his tours. Many have even gone on to become repeat customers, eager to explore more of Istanbul with Rubil’s expert guidance.

If you’re looking for an experienced, knowledgeable, and personable guide to show you the best of Istanbul, look no further than Rubil Gündüz.

You can contact him directly at [email protected]

Or book him through us.

Hiring a private tour guide in Istanbul is an excellent way to explore the city and learn about its rich history and culture. Whether you book through a travel agency or directly with a tour guide , there are plenty of options available to suit your budget and preferences. You just should pay attention to finding the good ones.

While it is possible to explore Istanbul on your own, hiring a guide can help you make the most of your time in the city and provide you with valuable insights and knowledge that you might miss on your own. So, if you’re planning a trip to Istanbul , consider hiring a private tour guide to enhance your experience and make your visit unforgettable.

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