Istanbul: Fener Balat Old Greek and Jewish Quarter Tour

The guide, Almale, was just awesome! Really knew what he was doing.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was super friendly and really well informed. He was very patient and explained everything in great detail.

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I spent a really nice afternoon with Salih, the tour guide. He was calm, knowledgeable, and genuinely interested. Even though I was the only person on the tour, it still went ahead. Great experience, thanks!

Helpful? Yes

I really wish Salih had been my guide at Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace too. He’s smart, knows his stuff, polite, friendly, and even funny. He definitely made the trip memorable. An excellent guide!

Helpful? Yes

This tour was definitely the best part of my brief stay in Istanbul! Salih, our guide, was really charming and shared history and context in a clear, engaging way. He showed me cool spots I wouldn’t have noticed on my own, even some tucked-away streets. It was the perfect intro to this area of Istanbul, which quickly became my favorite. Fun and memorable experience would totally recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

The guide was super friendly and full of useful info, which made the tour feel easygoing and enjoyable.

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Burst was a great guide really knowledgeable and attentive to our comfort and well-being. He was super helpful too. This tour was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day exploring the bazaars and markets. The relaxed vibe among the historic buildings made it even more interesting.

Helpful? Yes

It was okay, but honestly, the price felt way too steep.

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I really enjoyed this tour. Burak knew a lot, and it was fascinating to stroll through these lovely old neighborhoods for a few hours. The free pastries and drinks at a local cafe were a nice extra! Definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was great to walk with patient, friendly, knowledgeable, and easygoing. We discovered a side of Istanbul and its history that really opened our eyes.

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The guide paid close attention and shared a lot of useful info about the places we visited. Really knowledgeable guy.

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Overall, it was good. The guide was attentive to everyone’s needs. But the refreshments were offered at a café that wasn’t very nice, and it wasn’t clear what was included and what we had to pay for separately.

Helpful? Yes

Burat led a really interesting walking tour around Fener and Balat. We covered lots of history, culture, religion, politics, and architecture, but in a way that was easy to follow. We even got to see a unique part of a Turkish wedding tradition where the groom’s family “steals the bride.” Along the way, we learned how to use the tram, enjoyed tea in a nice shady spot, and climbed some steep cobblestone streets. This tour was perfect for our third day in Istanbul, after exploring both the old and new city. I’d definitely recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

Salih was a fantastic guide really engaging and full of interesting info. Fener is such an intriguing neighborhood, and I’d definitely suggest this tour to anyone staying in Istanbul for more than just a couple of days.

Helpful? Yes

We joined a walking tour of Fener that started a bit late because of some confusion with the tram system. Once it got going, our guide was super helpful, knowledgeable, and really engaging, sharing lots of interesting details about Istanbul’s rich history. The colorful streets of Fener were charming but didn’t quite live up to the hype from the photos online the vibe reminded me of places like Arab Street in Singapore or Harajuku in Tokyo. The best part was finishing the tour with local tea and crispy pancakes on a quiet street corner, giving a nice, nostalgic feel of old Istanbul. Overall, it was a good experience but a bit tiring right after a flight, so I’d suggest getting some rest first. Huge thanks to our amazing guide Salih, who was so strikingly like Tom Cruise that we ended up calling him the “Tom Cruise of Turkey”!

Helpful? Yes

Really loved the guide and the way the tour was planned out. Everything was great overall. If I had to mention one thing it would’ve been nice to stop at a cafe with cleaner and better bathrooms.

Helpful? Yes

We had a great afternoon with our guide, Salih. He shared lots of interesting info about the area’s history and was really enjoyable company. We strolled through Balat, checked out some churches and explored the old quarter. I’d definitely recommend this tour it’s so much easier than trying to do it all on your own, especially if you’re short on time.

Helpful? Yes

Really nice walk through some of Istanbul’s historic old neighborhoods. The tea break with traditional Turkish snacks was a great touch and definitely one of the highlights.

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Had a great time really wonderful experience. The crew was super attentive and genuinely kind. I’d definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

This was the best tour we did in Istanbul! Salih was an amazing guide, and with just six of us in the group, it felt more like a relaxed walk with a friend showing us around his neighborhood. It was really nice to explore parts of the city that felt totally different from the usual tourist spots.

Helpful? Yes

Omar was a fantastic guide who led us through two really interesting neighborhoods at a comfortable pace. The places we explored were fascinating, and the stories he shared were great. We came away with a much better sense of the city’s diversity, history, and unique local flavor. He was super knowledgeable and easy to talk to happy to answer any questions. Highly recommend!

Helpful? Yes

Burak was amazing! He knew so much and made everything really engaging. He even took us to a nice local café for borek and tea. Super polite and friendly guide. We had a great time and definitely recommend Burak for this tour he’s a real gem.

Helpful? Yes

Burak was an excellent guide, full of knowledge and interesting stories. He took us around the area and shared some really cool facts. The tea and snacks break was a lovely touch.

Helpful? Yes

We really enjoyed exploring Fener and Balat. Our guide Burak was friendly and knew a lot. It was a meaningful three hours getting to see a different side of Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

We really enjoyed the walking tour with Burak. He knew a ton about Istanbul’s history and the specific places we visited, like the beautiful Greek Orthodox church and the charming, scenic town of Balat. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip highly recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Burak was really attentive and professional. We visited two important churches on Istanbul’s Asian side, plus the famous colorful neighborhood of Balat. We took a break at a local spot with coffee, tea, and a freshly made sweet treat. Burak gave us a detailed explanation about the differences between the Catholic and Orthodox churches (patriarchate). We saw St. George’s Cathedral, where the current patriarch lives, and got to see relics and a piece of the column where Christ was crucified. We also visited the Bulgarian church made entirely of iron and the Orthodox school. It was a beautiful tour very informative and highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Burak Şahin, was absolutely fantastic. He was relaxed, friendly, and knew so much about the area everything from architecture and history to current insights. We were totally captivated by everything he shared. Plus, he was really funny and generous. He even got us some delicious borek and joined in our conversations, helped take photos, and was part of the fun. This ended up being our favorite tour in Istanbul because of Burak.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Sahin was really friendly and paid close attention to all our questions and requests. He kept the tour interesting with lots of historical and cultural stories. Definitely recommend this visit.

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Even though it drizzled a bit, the tour was really enjoyable. Our guide, Salih, was funny, friendly, and packed with interesting facts about the neighborhood. I’d definitely recommend it for anyone wanting to explore the quieter, less touristy parts of Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

Omer was an awesome guide super knowledgeable and kept everyone interested the whole time. Definitely worth booking.

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Awesome tour with a really great guide.

Helpful? Yes

We really enjoyed our visit to Fener and Balat. Both neighborhoods are beautiful and full of charm, and it was great to escape the usual tourist crowds. Our guide was lovely and shared plenty of interesting and fun stories. Ending the tour with tea or coffee and some snacks together was a nice touch.

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Fantastic guide, super engaging and clearly well prepared.

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The tour was really nice, and the guide was friendly and knew a lot about the topic. We really enjoyed it!

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A really fun and totally worth it tour. Omer was an amazing guide with tons of knowledge. Balat is so colorful and full of life. We learned a lot about the history and architecture and enjoyed some hot tea and pastries in the lively neighborhood. Definitely recommend!

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We picked up a lot of history and culture that we wouldn’t have discovered on our own without the tour.

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Really liked the pace of the walk not rushed at all. Salih was a great guide, and we had a really enjoyable day.

Helpful? Yes

First off, our guide Omar was fantastic super knowledgeable and easy to communicate with. If you want to explore a colorful and authentic side of Istanbul, this tour is a must. That’s why I’d give it 5 stars!

Helpful? Yes

I’d definitely recommend this tour. Omer knows all the cool secrets and fun facts about the area and shared some great stories about Istanbul’s history. The tour was just the right length and ended with a stop at his favorite spot for Turkish pastry and chai!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide knew a lot, and learning about the history made the walk way more enjoyable.

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The tour was alright, but honestly way too expensive for what we got. It should’ve been a group price, but we were charged per person...

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was fantastic really knew the neighborhood’s history and gave us lots of great tips for other spots to check out in Istanbul. Overall, it was a great experience.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was awesome friendly and gave us a good feel for the neighborhoods without being dull. Definitely recommend it.

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Our guide was really attentive and knew a lot about the places we visited. The tour matched the schedule advertised and was definitely worth it.

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The tour was educational, and the guide spoke excellent English.

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The tour was excellent super informative, friendly, and welcoming. Really enjoyed it!

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Ohad was an amazing guide really insightful, fun to be around, and quite funny. I enjoyed the tour a lot, learned tons, and would definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

We really loved our guide, Omer. He knew so much and was happy to take it slow in the heat. This part of Istanbul is definitely worth seeing!

Helpful? Yes

Had a fantastic time getting to know the local community!

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The experience was really good. The places we visited were interesting, and the guide’s explanations about both history and the present day made it even better.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Omar was great he really knew the area well and was super pleasant throughout the tour. He could answer any question we had. It’s a unique part of the city, and I’d definitely recommend checking it out. Thanks, Omar!

Helpful? Yes

Our guide had a deep understanding of the history and answered every question we asked. He was really tuned in to what we were interested in. Overall, it’s a tour I’d highly recommend if you want to get a solid grasp of the people and religions of old Constantinople.

Helpful? Yes

It was great to get away from the main tourist spots for a change this city has so much to offer, and you’ll still come across some incredible sights, just not the usual ones. This tour gives you a chance to dive into a side of the culture that often gets missed. The guide was really charming, and it was definitely good value.

Helpful? Yes

This is a tour worth taking. Our guide was fantastic he shared loads of info and fun stories, which made the whole experience really engaging and friendly. The neighborhoods were full of character, with beautiful old houses and a vibrant, colorful vibe. We’d definitely recommend it. Thanks, Salih!

Helpful? Yes

The guide explained everything in detail, and I really think this is a tour you shouldn’t miss. Thanks, Salih!

Helpful? Yes

Salih was an excellent and informative guide. I got to explore a part of Istanbul I probably wouldn’t have found on my own. The pace was just right, and we walked through some beautiful neighborhoods and buildings, getting a glimpse of everyday life. The tea and cake were a nice bonus, and having the tram sorted in advance was one of the reasons I chose this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide Alih was excellent well prepared, attentive, entertaining, and really knowledgeable about this amazing tour. We really loved it and had a great experience. Thanks so much!

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Our guide Salih was fantastic. He explained everything thoroughly, we took our time getting to know the spots along the way, and we enjoyed tea at a nice place. Everything was just perfect.

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Salih really knew a lot about these lesser-known neighborhoods. Besides being packed with history and fascinating stories, the area is a real treat to see with winding, narrow, and sometimes steep streets lined with colorful three-story houses from the 1890s that have been lovingly restored. Plus, we even got a shout out for some authentic Turkish afternoon tea on the house!

Helpful? Yes

We had such a great time walking through Fener and Balat with our awesome guide Salih. He was charming, entertaining, and really professional. The tour was well planned and super interesting. Salih knows his stuff, has a good sense of humor, and is very calm. Exploring these neighborhoods is definitely a must if you want to see a different side of Istanbul. Highly recommend it don’t miss out!

Helpful? Yes

I had an amazing tour on my last day in Istanbul. My guide was the best so friendly and kind. Honestly, it was the best tour I took during my whole stay, and a big part of that was thanks to him. Thank you so much, and I hope to see you again someday!

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really informative. Our guide (I think his name was Salih?) was excellent and even treated us to a quick café stop with great options. He was very knowledgeable and spoke excellent English. The pace was just right. It was a small group just me and my daughter.

Helpful? Yes

This is a must do when you’re in Istanbul. The guide was great, and I’d definitely recommend this activity.

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It was an interesting visit, and the guide was great at answering all our questions. The views were fantastic. Just a heads up you need to be comfortable walking!

Helpful? Yes

Really beautiful sights and packed with history.

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Salih was fantastic friendly, knowledgeable, and really thoughtful. My wife and I highly recommend him. He offers several different tours besides this one. Truly awesome!

Helpful? Yes

The tour was okay. It was nice to have breaks for hot drinks now and then, and the neighborhoods were pleasant to explore. Using public transport worked well. There was quite a bit of walking, which felt good.

Helpful? Yes

A really nice tour to explore a more authentic side of Istanbul. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and very helpful. Definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was fantastic! I had an injured foot and was moving slowly, but he never rushed me and kept the walk interesting with lots of historic facts about the city. The route was really well planned, and he even suggested some great places to visit. Amazing tour thank you!

Helpful? Yes

We had an excellent visit with Burak as our guide. He gave us plenty of explanations about everything we saw and made sure we got to try the local specialties. Since there were only three of us, it felt more like a private tour. Really great experience!

Helpful? Yes

A really interesting and diverse tour highly recommended. Our guide, Mr. Salih Batkin from LocalGuideIstanbul, shared loads of cultural and historical knowledge. If you’re going to do this tour, make sure it’s with him he definitely deserves a sixth star. We can’t recommend it enough!

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The tour was really enjoyable!

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Beautiful tour. Our guide Salih explained everything really well, which made the whole experience more interesting. We visited some fascinating places, and he even treated us to drinks and local appetizers, which was very kind. We had a lovely afternoon, and I’d definitely recommend this tour especially with Salih. Thanks to him, I have great photos and a wonderful experience.

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We really enjoyed the tour and would recommend it to anyone.

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The tour was both informative and entertaining. You can tell the guide really cares about the neighborhoods it shows right away. The districts themselves are definitely worth visiting. I was surprised by how colorful and unique the architecture is in Istanbul.

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The place was amazing and definitely worth checking out.

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Really enjoyed this tour it showed me a totally different side of Istanbul!

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The tour was really good. Berk is a fantastic guide super knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. I had a great time with him. He even gave me plenty of time to take photos away from the usual Instagram spots. It was the perfect day for it.

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We had a fantastic day with our guide and fellow travelers. It was great to explore a different side of Istanbul and the beautiful Fener and Balat neighborhoods. Thanks for an amazing afternoon I’d definitely recommend this tour to anyone.

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The tour was really interesting. We got to see places we probably wouldn’t have found on our own.

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The tour was informative, fun, and well organized. It included bus, train, cable car, ferry, and food everything covered. We were really happy with the guide.

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An excellent tour that shows you more than the usual tourist spots in Balat and Fener. Our guide Onder was fantastic and really knowledgeable.

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We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed the tour. The guide was very knowledgeable and gave us a fantastic experience. Definitely recommend it!

Helpful? Yes