Istanbul Discovery: 1, 2, or 3-Day Private Guided Experience

We had high expectations for our private full-day tour, but it turned into a disappointing experience. Despite booking a full day tour, we only got half the time. One major stop was the Hagia Sophia, but after a 45 minute wait, the guide gave a short 20 minute talk outside and ended the tour at 12:30 p.m. way too early. A private tour should offer flexibility, but this felt rushed, with efficiency prioritized over quality. We were so dissatisfied that we didn’t leave a tip and are even considering asking for a partial refund.

Helpful? Yes

Firstly, there's no way to know in advance which guide you'll be assigned. We weren't given any information beforehand, so canceling wasn't an option. The guide's knowledge of the historical sites was quite basic. The transportation was arranged through taxis, which were called only when needed. On one occasion, we had to wait an hour for a taxi to arrive. When we requested that at least one of the three days include a car and driver provided by the agency, our request was completely ignored, with no response, not even a negative one.

Helpful? Yes

This activity was extremely overpriced for the service provided. The first guide we had didn't speak Spanish very well and didn't offer any additional insights or explanations.

Helpful? Yes

The tour lacked a script with details about the places we visited. If I asked, the guide would share some information, but otherwise, there were gaps in the knowledge. I was expecting more insights that go beyond what you can easily find on Google. It's a good option if you're looking for someone to accompany you to the sites or visit places off the beaten path. However, for the typical tourist spots, a group guide would be a better choice.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very kind and approachable, but there was no information provided about the places we visited. I had to reach out to him directly for details. The tour had already begun, and we hadn't received any communication beforehand. We had just 24 hours left to make contact.

Helpful? Yes

We managed to see everything we had hoped to. Our guide took us to all the right spots. However, he didn’t seem to bring much energy or excitement about the city.

Helpful? Yes

This tour is perfect for getting a sense of Istanbul and exploring the city on foot, but I was let down by the limited information and guidance when we visited the Palaces. I would suggest a one-day tour to walk around and see the main attractions, but for the Palaces, it’s better to book a separate tour where the guide can provide more in-depth details about the site.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was decent nothing exceptional, but not bad either.

Helpful? Yes

The organization and timeliness were outstanding. The guide was very personable and flexible, accommodating our requests.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fine, but the transportation was a mess. The driver never took the fastest route according to Google, kept turning around, and even stopped to ask locals for directions. Overall, the experience felt overpriced, even for Turkey.

Helpful? Yes

I had a great time exploring Istanbul with a guide who was excellent. However, the price for the two day tour felt a bit too high to me.

Helpful? Yes

The guide sits next to you during lunch and pressures you to visit tourist shops from which they earn a commission. For a private tour, the price is quite high for what you actually get. The upside is that you don't have to wait in line, and having a guide can teach you about the historical sites.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very pleasant and accommodating. However, he didn’t share much information and didn’t organize the excursions effectively.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was excellent and very knowledgeable. We visited all the historical sites we had planned, but we also made some unexpected stops at shops. The salespeople at each store were quite aggressive. When we did purchase something, we were given one price but charged a different amount without being informed. Towards the end of the tour, we felt a bit rushed, so it might be a good idea to skip the Grand Bazaar and focus on other attractions instead.

Helpful? Yes

The amount of time spent at the Topkapi Palace felt excessive. We paid for transportation, but ended up using it very little.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Hasan, has an amazing depth of knowledge and is eager to share it. At times, it felt like he shared a bit more than necessary.

Helpful? Yes

The guide on the first day was excellent. Unfortunately, on the second day, the new guide did not communicate with the first one, which led to a lack of continuity in the visits and some unnecessary delays.

Helpful? Yes

We booked a 2-day private city tour, and the itinerary was well planned. Our guide was punctual, friendly, and easy to communicate with. He provided helpful suggestions and directions for exploring other neighborhoods after our tour. One area for improvement would be to avoid recommending shopping at the most expensive store in the Spice Market, which was three times more expensive than the neighboring shop. Thank you.

Helpful? Yes

It was a lovely experience, and our guide was very pleasant. Thanks to her, we saved a lot of time as she managed to buy our tickets without us having to wait in line. The tour was fascinating, but it’s such a historically significant site that we chose not to visit the Blue Mosque or the Basilica, as the day was already quite intense and exhausting. She was also very helpful in guiding us back to our apartment using public transport.

Helpful? Yes

Hasan was an excellent guide. He spoke German fluently, and the day was planned exactly as we had requested.

Helpful? Yes

Selami, our guide, put in a lot of effort to make the experience both engaging and enjoyable. He was very accommodating with our requests and provided plenty of local tips to help us steer clear of tourist traps.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very informative and kept us engaged throughout. However, we frequently had to wait in line, which led us to skip a few of the sites.

Helpful? Yes

It was good overall. However, I would have preferred if the guide spent more time explaining the sites rather than being occupied with her phone. Additionally, it would have been helpful if the walking times and distances were clearly outlined, especially for seniors.

Helpful? Yes

The guide tailors the experience to personal preferences. For this tour, the mode of transport is a car. Without it, the entire tour is done on foot.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was wonderful, particularly thanks to the tour guide. He was very knowledgeable, adaptable to our needs, and flexible. However, there was one unexpected aspect: no transportation was provided. When I booked, it mentioned that pick up and drop off were included, but it actually meant the guide would escort us without providing transportation. This meant we had to take a cab to the locations, and we were responsible for the cost. Quite strange.

Helpful? Yes

There was a lot of walking involved. Our hotel was located in the Old Town, so it was very convenient to visit all the sites we wanted to see. Our guide was very knowledgeable and was happy to adjust the itinerary based on our preferences. We had booked two 6 hour days. On Day 1, we had an interesting visit to the Grand Bazaar and the Cistern. On Day 2, however, our group wasn’t particularly impressed with the Palace, and we didn’t get to visit Hagia Sophia due to the long queues. A few of us returned later in the day and were able to walk straight in. It’s definitely worth the visit.

Helpful? Yes

There wasn’t a guide available in Spanish, so we were switched to English, which they had informed us about beforehand. The guide was punctual and met us at the hotel, and we covered all the agreed upon locations during the tour. It was a rainy day, and the area was crowded with tourists. Due to the long lines, we couldn’t enter Hagia Sophia with the guide, but he gave us a thorough explanation outside and suggested we return later in the evening. We came back around 7 p.m. and were finally able to get in.

Helpful? Yes

It was a great experience. We received plenty of useful information about the city of Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Mehmet was great. We had to walk a lot in this heat and got tired.

Helpful? Yes

It was chaotic and intense, yet incredibly authentic. From the magnificent Topkapi and Dolmabahçe Palaces to the modern atmosphere of Galata Tower, the bohemian charm of Balat, the sacred beauty of the Süleymaniye Mosque, and, of course, the iconic Hagia Sophia, Istanbul offers a unique experience. The vibrant Grand Bazaar, Istiklal Street, and the quirky atmosphere of the Tower Pub also added to the adventure. Istanbul will always hold a special place in my memories of the summer of 2024. The people are wonderful just like life itself, straightforward, passionate, and a little eccentric! Thank you, Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We had a fantastic tour covering almost all the major attractions. On the first day, we visited Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. A standout moment was when Kadir quickly explained the subway system to us, which made navigating around Istanbul over the next two days a breeze. We also enjoyed a Bosphorus cruise and explored the Asian side of the city.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very knowledgeable and had a great attitude. He spoke a mix of Italian and Spanish, but we communicated well without any issues. The tour lasted a bit less time than we had anticipated.

Helpful? Yes

While hotel pickup is listed as included, an examination of the listed areas reveals that almost all of Istanbul is not included. Hotel pickup is limited to the area around Hagia Sophia.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fantastic decision to go on this tour with Deniz, our guide. He was outstanding—extremely kind and professional. He took us to all the beautiful spots and essential landmarks in this incredible city. I highly recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was well organized and provided a lot of useful information. Our guide was polite and thoughtful throughout the experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Resat, was fantastic patient, friendly, and genuinely kind. Despite looking a little tired, he went out of his way to provide us with interesting facts and details and took great care of all of us (seven in total). His Spanish was excellent. He recommended a great restaurant for lunch that was both delicious and affordable. We highly recommend him.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was enjoyable. Our guide, a very polite and friendly young man, made the experience pleasant. His explanations were clear and easy to understand, and he also suggested some great places to eat. One of the best parts was that we didn’t have to wait in line.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was always available and attentive to our preferences.

Helpful? Yes

İdil was our guide, and she did a fantastic job of explaining everything to us. We were a group of five, and she ensured that everyone was comfortable and well taken care of during the walking tour

Helpful? Yes

We had an excellent experience with our guide, Sema. Her deep knowledge of Istanbul and its history was incredible, and she made sure we were all comfortable throughout the tour. She also took us to some hidden spots we would have never discovered on our own. Additionally, our driver was always on time and ready for us. I highly recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide was outstanding very knowledgeable and personable. He presented the city in a unique way, different from what we had experienced with other guides earlier in our trip. It was, without a doubt, the best tour we had during our entire journey.

Helpful? Yes

It was an amazing day. The guide was outstanding and I highly recommend them.

Helpful? Yes

We had a great day, and our guide, Ken, was both informative and very accommodating. I highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

I really enjoyed having a private guide. From the start, I felt like we could be friends. They were incredibly knowledgeable about the history and always kept an eye out for things I might enjoy. My experience wouldn’t have been as special without them.

Helpful? Yes

We spent five days in Istanbul with a group of seven, and we decided to book a two day city tour. Our guide, Sinan, picked us up from the hotel in the morning and asked us what we were interested in seeing. Since my wife and I had visited Istanbul several times before, we already knew exactly what our friends wanted to explore. Sinan, who is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, took us to all the places we requested and even showed us some hidden gems. His explanations were fascinating and thorough, and it was a pleasure to listen to him. We truly felt well cared for, as he went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. Sinan provided exceptional service that we hadn’t expected, and he was there for us all day, answering our questions and handling our requests. After dinner, he even accompanied us to the subway to ensure we got on the right train. What a fantastic guide! A big shout out to him.

Helpful? Yes

From the moment we met our guide Erol, we felt an instant connection. It felt as though a close friend was showing us around the old town. We really appreciated how Erol reached out the day before the tour to go over all the details, such as the meeting point and the planned activities. Overall, it was a fantastic and informative tour, and we had an amazing time exploring the city.

Helpful? Yes

We had a wonderful experience with our guide, Victor, who was not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable. He took us to a budget-friendly restaurant and suggested some great places to visit, helping us make the most of our time. We were torn between visiting a mosque or taking a Bosphorus cruise, and Victor made it easy by securing ferry tickets for us and accompanying us on the journey. We also decided to skip the bazaar, as we had already explored it the day before. All in all, it was a fantastic private tour that went above and beyond what I expected.

Helpful? Yes

Davi is a guide who speaks Portuguese fluently and has a deep understanding of Istanbul and its key attractions.

Helpful? Yes

Ayla was extremely knowledgeable and full of energy. She guided us on a walking tour, as we had requested, through the most fascinating areas of Istanbul's Old Town, including the mosques and the spice market. She also provided useful tips on how to navigate the Grand Bazaar, which we planned to explore on our own later.

Helpful? Yes

There were two of us visiting Istanbul for two days, and we booked a German-speaking tour with a fantastic itinerary. Our guide, Sinan, was incredibly knowledgeable and could answer every question we had. He gave us a deep dive into the city's history and culture, covering everything from ancient times, through the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, all the way to the modern era. Since we were traveling without private transport, the tour included a hotel pickup from Taksim Square, and we got around using public transport. We also did a lot of walking, which allowed us to connect even more with this amazing city. Sinan shared interesting details about nearly every street and corner we passed. What we appreciated most was that the tour was tailored to our interests, and he provided the best suggestions for how to spend our two days. And don't forget to take the Bosphorus cruise at the end.

Helpful? Yes

We arranged a two day private tour in Istanbul, and from the moment we met Zeybey Erol, it was clear we were in good hands. His extensive knowledge was shared in a very engaging and easy-to-understand manner. What really made this tour stand out, aside from the historical facts, were the personal stories and insights he shared. From that standpoint, I would absolutely recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

My wife and I spent three fantastic days exploring Istanbul with Osman as our guide. We learned so many interesting facts and discovered numerous hidden gems throughout the city. Without Osman’s expertise, we wouldn’t have been able to experience nearly as much in such a short time. He took us through several lesser known streets and areas that we would have likely missed on our own. While it’s possible to save money by doing extensive research and planning the trip independently, we doubt our experience would have been as smooth or enjoyable. One thing to note is that this tour requires a good level of fitness on our first day, we walked over 30,000 steps. The following days, we relied more on public transport, which made things easier, though there are still some hills to climb. A big thank you to Osman for making our days in Istanbul so memorable!

Helpful? Yes

We had a fantastic day in Istanbul with Mrs. Serap, and I’m really grateful for the experience. She provided us with a wealth of information and insights, giving us a deep dive into the local culture. We also enjoyed fast track entry at various sites, and she took us to some of the best local eateries for an authentic taste of the city. Her recommendations were incredibly valuable and truly made the day even better.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was absolutely amazing. The guide was outstanding it really couldn’t have been better.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was exceptional. It was an action-packed few days full of history, exploration, and enjoyment. Cihan was an excellent guide, bringing each location to life with insightful details and interesting anecdotes. We also had the chance to visit spots that the locals frequent.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very accommodating to our requests, and using public transportation made it simple and enjoyable to get around. I would definitely recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was fantastic, and the driver was excellent as well. Communication prior to the tour was seamless. We were greeted promptly and taken on a thorough tour around Istanbul. Just a heads up, the traffic in Istanbul can be quite heavy, which may lead to some delays.

Helpful? Yes

Mustafa, our guide, truly has a deep love for his city. Throughout the day, we explored Istanbul’s most iconic sites, including the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar. But we also got some great recommendations for lunch spots, places to shop for jewelry, and other local treats. Thanks to him, we were able to skip the long lines and explore effortlessly, which was incredibly valuable considering how crowded the entrances can be. It was an amazing day with an outstanding guide! I highly recommend this experience without hesitation.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was flawless. Our guide was both friendly and well informed, taking us through the main attractions of Istanbul in a single day and providing us with plenty of insightful details. The schedule was packed, and the pace was quick, but we still managed to absorb the history behind each location. I highly recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and kept a comfortable pace throughout the tour. He was very helpful, and I’m so grateful for the private tour. It allowed him to speed up ticket purchases, provide direct answers to our questions, and assist us in many ways, which really enhanced our experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was fantastic. She was extremely kind to everyone, especially to my son. She had a deep knowledge of the city, and we had a wonderful time visiting all the spots we were interested in. I highly recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Çiçek was an excellent guide. She provided us with insightful information about every place we visited. She was incredibly friendly and always made sure we were well taken care of. I highly recommend her. It was a truly enjoyable experience.

Helpful? Yes

We really appreciated how passionate our guide was about sharing the culture of her country with us. She was a lovely guide who truly listened to what we wanted. We got to explore Istanbul and learn about its rich history. Asli is an exceptional guide, full of enthusiasm and knowledge. We're so grateful to her for making these three days unforgettable. Istanbul is truly a stunning city.

Helpful? Yes

What a lovely city! It was an amazing experience, and everything was very punctual. Thank you.

Helpful? Yes

Our time in Istanbul wouldn't have been the same without our guide, Yuksel. For three days, he took us around the city, picking us up from our apartment each day and showing us all that Istanbul has to offer, including its amazing food. Thanks to his recommendations, we had incredible meals at local restaurants, and we enjoyed every bite. We would absolutely return.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was incredible. The city is beautiful, and our guide was exceptional. Jacobo paid attention to every detail and made us feel right at home. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Kenan was an incredibly knowledgeable guide, truly passionate about history. He was friendly, approachable, and made sure to listen to our preferences. While the tour was fantastic, it would have been nice to have had the chance to explore more sites in the newer part of the city, such as the Galata Tower and Bridge, as well as perhaps the Dolmabahçe Palace. A coffee or light snack stop along the way would have been a nice touch too.

Helpful? Yes

Ozgur Guynet is a fantastic guide extremely friendly and skilled at keeping visitors engaged. We had a wonderful time with him and gained a lot of insight into the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome. It was a memorable experience, and we’re very grateful to Ozgur.

Helpful? Yes

Mehmet Türlek was an outstanding guide. He was incredibly flexible, which made our days enjoyable and full of useful information. We had an amazing experience, thanks to him.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was highly informative and very attentive to our needs.

Helpful? Yes

Our group consisted of only two people. Since the group size was smaller, it would have made sense to include entrance fees, especially since the guide was not managing a large group.

Helpful? Yes

Jahim was an exceptional guide, truly amazing.

Helpful? Yes

Çiçek was incredible. We had a fantastic two day tour with her.

Helpful? Yes

We had a fantastic tour with Erol Zeybey, who did an excellent job of tailoring the experience to our preferences. We visited iconic sites like the Blue Mosque, Taksim Square, Galata Tower, the Port, and the Bridge. It was truly a memorable experience.

Helpful? Yes

We opted for the 2 day tour with our two children and we couldn’t have been more pleased. Our guide, Mr. Erol Zeybey, was an incredibly kind and knowledgeable person. Not only did he have a deep understanding of the history and landmarks, but he also knew how to adjust to our personal preferences and needs. He was always ready with solutions for any challenges that arose and was exceptionally good with the kids. His calm and approachable demeanor made him very easy to connect with. We’d definitely choose him again for future tours, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for an exceptional guide.One thing that stood out was his remarkable fitness despite his age, he easily kept up with us during the 8 hour days, providing in depth explanations of each site the entire time. By the end of the day, we were exhausted, but he still outpaced us all. Thank you, Mr. Zeybey, for such an unforgettable experience.

Helpful? Yes

The tour went beyond all of our expectations. It was flawless in every way, thanks to an exceptionally skilled and personable guide. We were absolutely delighted with the experience.

Helpful? Yes

I thoroughly enjoyed the Istanbul tour, thanks to our guide, Kamel Mustafa. His English was flawless, and the stories he shared were both engaging and fascinating. His practical tips and expertise were also invaluable. A big thank you to you, Kamel.

Helpful? Yes

We had an amazing day filled with new experiences, valuable insights, and helpful local tips. Our guide, Sinan, was incredibly personable and knowledgeable, almost like a living history book. He was very accommodating to our requests and, most importantly, genuinely passionate about what he does. We received an excellent overview of the city and managed to see so much in one day.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was Bahattin Aybek. He is truly passionate about his work, speaks excellent German, and brings a lot of enthusiasm to the experience. He was very considerate and treated us like good friends throughout the tour. We felt well cared for and appreciated his warm and attentive approach. Highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

We were fortunate to have an amazing guide who took us around and showed us many sights over the course of two days. The experience was both insightful and conducted in flawless French. A big thank you to Saliha Kismet for providing such excellent service.

Helpful? Yes

We had a completely tailored private tour over three days, which allowed us to experience all the must-see sights of Istanbul as first-time visitors while also getting a feel for the city like a local. The tour included transportation, and I would definitely recommend that option to anyone. Our guide, Emel, was incredibly knowledgeable and easy to get along with, and we immediately connected, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Istanbul. Wishing you all the best.

Helpful? Yes

We had an amazing day with an outstanding guide who was incredibly kind and helpful.

Helpful? Yes

We had the opportunity to explore the main tourist sites in Istanbul. Our guide provided clear and detailed explanations and answered all of our questions. It was even more enjoyable since it was just the two of us, my wife and I. Our guide spoke flawless French and gave us valuable insights into both the history of Turkey and its customs. We truly enjoyed our time with him. A huge thank you for his professionalism and commitment. I highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was very pleasant and spoke fluent French. The explanations were clear and detailed, and we were provided with a voucher for the museum. The guide also had excellent knowledge of Ottoman history. I highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

It was good, but it felt a bit too cramped.

Helpful? Yes

The one day tour in French with Saliha was truly captivating. It gave us a wonderful opportunity to explore the history behind the main landmarks of Istanbul. I highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

Istanbul is a stunning city, and everything went smoothly. Fuat was a very friendly guide who shared a wealth of information with us and also assisted with the tickets. I highly recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

Selami, our guide, did an excellent job of keeping the experience both engaging and fun. He was very accommodating to our requests and offered valuable local advice to help us steer clear of tourist traps.

Helpful? Yes

This was such a fantastic walking tour. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, and we visited all the major attractions, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and the Blue Mosque. We also stopped for lunch at a fantastic Ottoman-style restaurant. I would definitely recommend this tour!

Helpful? Yes

I wasn’t expecting to have both a driver and a dedicated guide who stayed with us throughout the entire day, so it turned out to be a truly personalized private experience, not just a simple ride with a bit of information. Our guide, Cicek, was fantastic—extremely knowledgeable and also mindful of keeping things engaging for my daughters by focusing on the main highlights. Although we could have visited more places given the time we had, my girls were a bit tired, so we decided to concentrate on the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and a local shop where we learned about how rugs and ceramics are made. We also had lunch at a spot recommended by the guide, with a lovely terrace view of the sea, and my daughters even got to feed some seagulls. It was a wonderful experience. The only advice I’d give is to double-check if you actually need transportation, as I didn’t realize we were only a five-minute walk from the historical sites. I ended up paying more for a car that we didn’t really need, only using it for a short 2-minute drive.

Helpful? Yes

It was a great experience. I would love to come again. We had a great time as a family.

Helpful? Yes

Batu was fantastic he’s incredibly knowledgeable and made sure to show us everything he could, explaining it all very clearly. We had a great time and really enjoyed his tours. I highly recommend him.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide was dedicated, well informed about the area, and both friendly and knowledgeable about its history. She guided us through the attractions expertly and always picked the best moments to visit, avoiding long lines. I highly recommend this tour. Without a guide, we wouldn't have been able to complete the itinerary in the time we had.

Helpful? Yes

Fuat was an excellent guide! He was extremely punctual when meeting us at the hotel and took us around all the amazing sights Istanbul has to offer. He was very knowledgeable, sharing lots of fascinating facts and stories. We opted for the two-day tour, and Fuat helped us plan and divide the attractions we wanted to see, making sure we made the most of our time. We highly recommend both the tour and Fuat as a guide.

Helpful? Yes

Even with the crowds in Istanbul, we had a fantastic time on our tour with our guide Kenan and our driver Oscan.

Helpful? Yes

We had a wonderful time with our guide, O. He provided many detailed explanations and always made sure to prioritize our satisfaction. He took the time to show us around the area near our hotel. It was a fantastic, action-packed day! Thank you so much.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was extremely knowledgeable and kept us engaged throughout. Unfortunately, we spent a lot of time waiting in line, which led us to skip some of the attractions.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Enver, was excellent. His English was flawless, and he had a deep understanding of history.

Helpful? Yes

Everything went smoothly. Cihan is an outstanding guide always on time, patient, and very knowledgeable about all the places we visited. He offered great food recommendations and made sure the itinerary was followed, giving us an unforgettable experience in this beautiful city.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent very knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Ozgur, was excellent engaging, passionate, and very helpful. However, the site should clearly state that the entrances to Sainte-Sophie and the palace are additional costs. Ideally, the organizer should provide the tickets, as this would save us from waiting in line. Fortunately, our guide insisted on taking care of it. For Sainte-Sophie, though, we still had to wait in line since there’s no priority access for guides at this monument.

Helpful? Yes

It was a great experience. Nurtel was an outstanding guide, providing clear and detailed explanations at each site we visited. Thank you so much. I highly recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

Cicek, our guide, showed us many different places and was always receptive to suggestions and ideas. I would recommend him. The only downside is that his Spanish isn’t very fluent; if you speak excellent English, it won’t be an issue, but for non English speakers, the translation might be a bit tricky at times.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was excellent, and opting for the excursion with transportation included was a great decision. Over the course of three days, we saw the city's most iconic sites, all thanks to a fantastic guide. Highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

We had two wonderful days with our guide, who made sure to show us everything and more! Istanbul is a beautiful city, but having someone explain the customs, history, and key points of interest made it even more enjoyable. This was all perfectly done. I highly recommend this experience. The only downside was the visit to the leather shop, which many others have mentioned in their reviews, especially the awkward fashion show. However, they didn't pressure us, and we left the shop shortly after.

Helpful? Yes

Paulina, our guide, was excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed the well organized tour, and she was incredibly kind and patient with our young children.

Helpful? Yes

We had Isly as our guide, and she spoke excellent French. She was incredibly knowledgeable about everything we visited. Very pleasant and cultured, she knew how to share information in an engaging way. We had a fantastic day, walking around the Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and especially the Topkapi Palace. We highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

Opting for a two day private guided tour was by far the best choice we made during this trip. Our guide, Enver, was truly outstanding. On the first day, we visited all the major attractions, spending the majority of our time in Sultanahmet exploring the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia. Enver knew exactly how to avoid the long lines, which made the experience much more enjoyable. He also recommended we visit the cisterns, and I’m so glad we took his advice it was absolutely amazing. Throughout the day, Enver shared fascinating insights about Turkey’s history, language, people, and culture. He added some delightful personal touches, like buying figs from a street vendor for us to enjoy, and taking us to the famous Pudding Shop for a meal. On the second day, he arranged a private boat tour of the Bosphorus, took us to Balat, where we tried sodas from a local shop, and we even went up to Pierre Loti Hill by gondola. He also taught us the fun tradition of fortune telling with coffee grounds. I’m so thankful for Enver without a doubt, this experience was a 10/10.

Helpful? Yes

Cicek was an incredible guide. Thank you so much.

Helpful? Yes

An outstanding experience with Selami, who was well prepared and very courteous.

Helpful? Yes

It was a wonderful day, and Hasan was very flexible with our individual requests. Thank you so much.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Ayla, was absolutely wonderful. Everything went smoothly and everything worked as expected, from the pickup at the port to the drop-off. We want to express our sincere thanks once again.

Helpful? Yes

It was a great experience, and our guide, Musa, was highly professional.

Helpful? Yes

We had an amazing 3 day private tour of Istanbul that we will never forget. Our guide, Berke, was incredibly friendly and adaptable, making our experience both smooth and enjoyable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone planning to visit Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We had a truly fascinating day. Our guide was wonderful and very well informed.

Helpful? Yes

It was excellent. Our guide was fantastic.

Helpful? Yes

We had an amazing two days in Istanbul with Osgour. He is a fantastic guide with extensive knowledge of Turkey and its history. Not only is he incredibly friendly, but he also has a great sense of humor. Thank you, Osgour.

Helpful? Yes

We chose this Istanbul tour because it mentioned the option to customize it. Our guide, Paulina, was more than willing to adjust the itinerary to meet our preferences, while also offering valuable suggestions to enhance our experience, based on her expertise. She was very knowledgeable, approachable, and professional. We highly recommend her. Our two day tour was fantastic. The only small issue I’d mention is with the tour description on GYG. Although it states that transportation is not included in the headline, it doesn't clearly mention that entry tickets aren’t either. This information is in the fine print but could easily be overlooked. I think it would be helpful to include it in the headline along with the note about transportation.

Helpful? Yes

Hasan, our guide, did a great job explaining the history of Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Mustafa was an amazing guide, leading us through Istanbul and its famous landmarks. Although we only had him for one day, we were grateful for the time we spent with him. He was extremely knowledgeable and also understood how to manage our time, ensuring we had moments to take photos without feeling hurried. We managed to fit in a full day of sightseeing and were pleasantly tired by the end in the best way.

Helpful? Yes

Mustafa, our tour guide, was fantastic. He showed us all the key attractions, and his English was excellent. He contacted us through WhatsApp before the tour to confirm the pick up time and location, which we really appreciated. Additionally, he went out of his way to help us add four more people to our private tour by coordinating with the company. I would certainly book this tour again.

Helpful? Yes

This tour is perfect for exploring the city on foot and getting a sense of Istanbul, but I was a bit let down by the limited information and guidance when we visited the palaces. I’d suggest opting for a one-day walking tour to cover the main highlights, but for a more in-depth experience at the palaces, it’s better to book a dedicated tour with a guide who can provide detailed insights into the sites.

Helpful? Yes

Selami was an excellent guide, and thanks to him, we had an amazing day exploring Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We were fortunate to have Cicek Hekimgil as our guide. She was incredibly attentive to all our questions throughout the tour and made sure we felt welcome every step of the way. Cicek gave us a deep dive into Istanbul's rich history, culture, and customs. She was well-recognized at every location we visited and took the time to explain the city's famous foods as well. Even when it got late, she never rushed us and made sure we thoroughly understood everything about the sights. We couldn't have asked for a better guide!

Helpful? Yes

We really enjoyed this tour. We just wish we knew our guide’s name he was excellent!

Helpful? Yes

We had a great time with our guide for the day. He communicated clearly and ensured we got to experience everything we were hoping to see. Even after the tour ended, he remained available via WhatsApp to answer any follow up questions. He was knowledgeable and helpful throughout. Highly recommended.

Helpful? Yes

Overall, the experience was good. However, I would have appreciated it if the guide spent more time providing explanations about the sites rather than being occupied with her phone. It would also be helpful if the walking time and distance were clearly stated in advance, especially for older participants.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was a smooth and enjoyable experience. Our guide, Selami, met us right at the Port as we disembarked from the cruise, which made things much simpler. He took us by tram to the city center where the main part of the tour started. After visiting the key attractions, he walked with us to the Grand Bazaar and explained how we could return to the Port on foot. We were very pleased with everything.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was highly knowledgeable, spoke flawless German, and was very attentive to our preferences. The tours also extended beyond the scheduled time without any additional cost.

Helpful? Yes

We booked a one day tour, and it turned out to be the perfect way to explore the city and its cultural landmarks. Our guide, Ferhat, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, with a deep understanding of the history, culture, and everything else we were curious about. We would definitely take this tour again. I highly recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

Cicek is truly outstanding one of those professionals who feels like a friend by the end of the day. She brings with her a deep cultural background and extensive local insight. Even though it rained, spending the day with her was a real pleasure. She managed to fulfill all our requests and went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time. Thank you so much! Wishing you continued success.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was truly engaging, and our guide did a fantastic job throughout.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was excellent he managed to cover all the key sights in a short time and even included more than what was listed in the tour description.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Asli, was highly professional and perfectly tailored the tour to match our preferences for stops and sightseeing. I would definitely recommend her—she contributed greatly to our enjoyable stay in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We booked a French speaking guide for two days and had the pleasure of touring with Asli Kutay. Those two days were absolutely wonderful she was outstanding: attentive, approachable, and easy to communicate with. Her cultural knowledge is impressive, her French is excellent, and she guided us smoothly throughout our visit. We highly recommend her to any French travelers looking to explore Istanbul with ease.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was truly wonderful. Gülşen expertly managed the timing to make the most of our tour. We enjoyed a walking tour through the city center, covering all the essential sights of Istanbul. She was constantly on the move and shared impressive knowledge about every aspect. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guided me through Sultanahmet, covering all the key tourist attractions. Kerim Kuveti, our guide, was both knowledgeable and engaging, making sure the day was as educational as possible. I highly recommend his services.

Helpful? Yes

We arranged a guide for three days without transportation for our group of five adults. Our guide, Cihan, was exceptional throughout the entire time. We relied on public transport, and his suggestions for places to eat and answers to all our questions were spot on. I highly recommend hiring a guide, as we wouldn’t have been able to explore both the main tourist spots and the less visited areas we requested on our own within just three days.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fantastic experience! Our guide was outstanding warm, approachable, and adaptable. We really enjoyed our time.

Helpful? Yes

We spent the day with Mustafa, who was very knowledgeable and engaging. He guided us to the major landmarks while also taking us to some less crowded spots. I highly recommend this tour—it’s a great way to learn a lot while making the most of your time.

Helpful? Yes

Spent a day with a local guide exploring the city’s top attractions.

Helpful? Yes

Excellent guide who was knowledgeable and highly organized.

Helpful? Yes

The guide is attentive to personal preferences. For this tour, transportation is by car; otherwise, the entire tour involves walking if no transport is arranged.

Helpful? Yes

The guide demonstrated a high level of professionalism throughout.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent. Thanks to her, I got to explore Istanbul and gain a deeper understanding of both its history and contemporary life. She recommended activities that matched my interests perfectly and offered valuable tips for the remainder of my visit.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was excellent; they were punctual, friendly, and provided exceptional attention. Cicek stood out she was warm, caring, and well prepared, showing deep knowledge of her city and a genuine passion for her work. Her kindness and dedication left a lasting impression on us.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was outstanding. Our guide, Nurten, spoke excellent Spanish, and her knowledge combined with perfect timing made the tour even better.

Helpful? Yes

Punctual, polite, and professional. Mehmet helped us skip all the queues, allowing us to see a lot in a short time.

Helpful? Yes

Istanbul is a stunning city filled with rich culture and incredible food, perfect for anyone looking for a distinctive Mediterranean experience. It offers a unique blend of European and Asian influences all in one place. The locals were friendly and supportive as well. This city is definitely memorable and worth visiting again! For first time visitors, having a guide was crucial to truly understand the local lifestyle and history.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was very personable, treating us warmly and showing genuine dedication to her work. The flexible schedule was much appreciated. However, I have some concerns about the agency I wasn’t entirely clear on what I had booked, and I feel that the service I received didn’t fully correspond to the price paid. I recommend making sure all services are clearly outlined before booking.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fantastic experience. Matt was a highly knowledgeable and professional guide.

Helpful? Yes

Our time in Istanbul was fantastic thanks to our guide Korhan. He knew the city inside out and was very approachable. I would definitely recommend him without hesitation.

Helpful? Yes

It was enjoyable, though there was quite a bit of walking involved.

Helpful? Yes

I took the one day tour today, and it was fantastic. My guide, Caner, was excellent he showed me some hidden spots I never would have imagined. I highly recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was excellent. Our guide, Bariş, was very knowledgeable and did a fantastic job sharing detailed information about historical events, figures, and places. The extra cost was definitely worth it.

Helpful? Yes

Mustafa was a fantastic guide. We gained a great deal of knowledge about Istanbul and Turkish history from him. He also offered many helpful tips for the remainder of our journey. I would recommend him without any reservations.

Helpful? Yes

We had an incredible two day private tour with Cicek. She was extremely knowledgeable about the city and very warm, and the places she took us to were truly magical and one-of-a-kind. Because of her, we developed a deep love for the city and its culture. She was very flexible, easily adjusting to our plans and any changes we wanted during the day. After those two days, we felt like we had made a friend. We wholeheartedly recommend her. Many thanks, Cicek.

Helpful? Yes

Kubra was an outstanding guide. We visited Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace including the harem, the Blue Mosque, and the impressive Archaeological Museum, and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. She was very punctual, spoke excellent Spanish, and showed great patience with our large group. I highly recommend her.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was excellent, especially because of our tour guide. He was knowledgeable, attentive to our needs, and very flexible. The only unexpected part was that transportation was not actually included. When I booked, it mentioned pick-up and drop-off, but that only meant the guide would meet and see us off not that transport was provided. We had to take taxis between locations and cover those costs ourselves, which was a bit surprising and confusing.

Helpful? Yes

We enjoyed a three-day tour with a guide but without transportation. I would suggest avoiding tours that include transport because of the traffic public transportation works very well for getting around. Our guide was fantastic knowledgeable and full of fascinating facts and stories about the Ottoman Empire and the city itself. She was punctual, well-organized, very kind, and always willing to assist. A three day tour feels ideal since there’s no need to rush through the main attractions. I highly recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

We had two truly outstanding days thanks to Ozgur. We highly recommend exploring the city with him, as he arranged everything flawlessly.

Helpful? Yes

Our day trip was fantastic, thanks to Yusgur, our wonderful guide. He was captivating and had an excellent knowledge of the sites we visited the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. He even introduced us to some hidden gems not included in our original plan. Yusgur speaks French fluently and was incredibly kind and patient throughout the day. His care and attention made us eager to return to Istanbul soon.

Helpful? Yes

We took a one day tour with Bahar as our guide, and it was absolutely fantastic! She explained everything clearly and introduced us to many hidden gems we would have otherwise overlooked. Bahar also assisted us in planning the rest of our trip and gave excellent dining recommendations. I would definitely choose this tour again.

Helpful? Yes

An incredible experience! Having Gülsen as our guide was truly wonderful. She was committed to keeping us amazed, safe, and engaged throughout the entire tour. Knowledgeable, flexible, energetic, and above all, very charismatic. She didn’t just show us the major landmarks; she also led us through charming backstreets, giving us a real sense of the local lifestyle. We fell in love with the city.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was excellent and spent the entire day with us.

Helpful? Yes

They arranged a private guide for us, Enés, and he was the highlight of the tour. We were so impressed that we hired him exclusively for the rest of our stay in Istanbul. Enés is highly recommended; he's very friendly, explains everything clearly, and speaks excellent Spanish.

Helpful? Yes

There was a lot of walking involved. Our hotel was located in the Old Town, which was very close to all the sites we wanted to visit. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and flexible, tailoring each day to suit our preferences. We booked two six hour tours. The first day was very engaging, including visits to the Grand Bazaar and the Cistern. On the second day, our group was underwhelmed by the Palace, and we missed seeing Hagia Sophia due to long queues. However, several of us returned later and were able to enter immediately. It’s definitely worth the visit.

Helpful? Yes

The trip was both fascinating and thorough. Although it lasted only a few days, the time was used very effectively.

Helpful? Yes

We booked a guide with them the day before, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Our guide, Selim, was by far the best we had during our entire trip to Turkey. His Spanish was excellent, and the way he narrated Istanbul’s history made us fall in love with the city. We managed to see a lot in just one day! I highly recommend this tour, especially with Selim as your guide, since I can’t speak for the others. Thank you so much.

Helpful? Yes

A very enjoyable visit with a warm welcome from our guide, Saliha. She has a deep understanding of the city’s culture and history. Throughout our visits to the mosques and nearby sites, she shared valuable insights. Saliha knew exactly how to save time and make sure we experienced everything on the day’s itinerary from the Hippodrome to the Blue Mosque, then Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and finally the Grand Bazaar. It was a wonderful day spent with her. I highly recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

We had a very enjoyable experience with our guide, Selim, who stayed with us throughout the tour. He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and well-versed in the history of the city.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Çağatay, was fantastic. We thoroughly enjoyed the private 9 hour tour. He was very knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience both informative and heartfelt.

Helpful? Yes

We had an amazing day touring with Bahar. She picked us up right at our hotel and guided us through using public transport. She took the time to find out what sights mattered most to us and made sure we experienced them all. We spent the entire day exploring Sultanahmet, and having such a knowledgeable and experienced guide made all the difference. Despite the crowds, we managed to see everything on our list, and she also shared many helpful insider tips. Traveling with two young kids, we appreciated how she explained things in a simple way they could easily follow. This tour was definitely worth it, and we would highly recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

We were informed beforehand that there was no Spanish speaking guide available, so they switched us to an English speaking guide. He arrived promptly at our hotel, and we visited all the planned sites. Despite the rain and large crowds, the guide was very helpful. Unfortunately, because of the long lines, we couldn’t enter Hagia Sophia with the guide, but he explained everything to us from outside and suggested we come back later. We returned around 7 pm and were finally able to get inside.

Helpful? Yes

Our tour guide was incredibly skilled and attentive, carefully addressing every request we made when booking privately, ensuring that no question went unanswered. It truly made for a memorable and unique experience.

Helpful? Yes

Choosing the private tour was a perfect decision for us, especially because we had limited time to explore Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was reliable and straightforward exactly what we needed, nothing beyond that.

Helpful? Yes

We opted for the two day tour with a French speaking guide and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Thanks to our knowledgeable guide, who answered all our questions, we visited all the must see landmarks in Istanbul. We also had the chance to dine at excellent restaurants suggested by him. I highly recommend this tour, and the guide’s name is Ozgur.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Kerim was by far the best we have ever had. His expertise and way of presenting information were flawless. He even took us to the famous Pudding Shop for lunch and gave us a copy of his book. Our children were fully engaged throughout, and there wasn’t a single question Kerim couldn’t answer. This tour was a perfect way to conclude our visit to Turkey.

Helpful? Yes

Our tour guide was highly skilled and made every effort to minimize waiting times at the attractions. Her warm approach and kindness made the experience truly special, offering me a deeper understanding of the everyday life of people in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We had an outstanding day. Our guide was exceptional, skillfully leading us through the history of Turkey while also bringing each monument to life with detailed insights. He carefully planned the schedule to ensure we visited every site on the list, and he delivered perfectly. Özgur is both fascinating and highly knowledgeable. I wholeheartedly recommend him, as guides like him are rare. Many thanks once again.

Helpful? Yes

Highly recommended. Erol was an excellent guide who attentively addressed all our questions and catered well to our needs. We can confidently suggest choosing him for your tour.

Helpful? Yes

We spent two days discovering Istanbul with Baris Gündüz. The experience was both educational and enjoyable. He was always on time and very approachable. I would definitely recommend him.

Helpful? Yes

We had a very positive experience exploring Istanbul with our guides Hasan and Samil. They were both incredibly punctual and eager to help throughout the tour. Their knowledge, particularly while guiding us through the mosques and around Taksim and the Bosphorus, added great value. Booking a tour for our two day stay in the city turned out to be an excellent decision, as we not only saw the major landmarks but also gained insight into the history of the Ottoman Empire.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Kerim, had excellent English skills and did a great job showing us all the places we wanted to visit. He also knew how to avoid the long queues, which made our experience much smoother.

Helpful? Yes

Incredible experience. Our guide was fantastic. We chose the Spanish tour because we wanted to make the most of our limited time, and she was incredibly efficient in guiding us through the main attractions while helping us skip long lines. She also assisted us with shopping in the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. Since the line at Hagia Sophia was extremely long, she suggested visiting early the next day so instead, we crossed the Galata Bridge and explored the neighborhood and the tower. Highly recommended if you want to truly understand the history, move quickly, and experience the culture in depth.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was absolutely amazing, and Kübra turned out to be an outstanding guide. The city itself is truly incredible.

Helpful? Yes