Walking Tours In Istanbul

Tailoring each experience to your wishes by locals who love their city

Top private tours in Istanbul

From exploring cool neighborhoods to eating with the locals to seeing iconic sites, these are some of our favorite experiences

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The best private guides and local insiders in Istanbul

Looking for the ultimate walking tours of Istanbul for an unforgettable, authentic experience in Turkey’s colorful capital? As the final stop on the ancient Silk Road, this fascinating city that straddles two continents is a melting pot of cultures who have settled here over the centuries, and you can experience the best of it on Istanbul walking tours. With so much to uncover that you couldn’t find in your guidebook, you’ll be ecstatic to have a knowledgeable local host by your side to show you the ropes on Istanbul walking tours. We’ll plan a route that shows you the highlights as well as the hidden gems. What are you waiting for? Let us start planning your perfect day.

Meet some of our Istanbul private guides

Feruza

Istanbul

An enthusiastic Istanbul local, unveils the city's historical wonders and culinary delights, guiding you through a captivating journey of culture and flavor.

Devanshu

Dublin

Istanbul off the tourist trail

If you’ve planned a trip to Isanbul, you know exactly what you’re here for. The city’s fascinating past, illustrated by centuries-spanning European- and Asian-influenced attractions, could keep you occupied for ten weeks worth of Istanbul walking tours – but with a local by your side, you’ll see the city from a different perspective. Step off the tourist trail lined by mosaic-adorned mosques and frescoed churches to explore charismatic neighborhoods you wouldn't find on a top 10 list. Our walking tours in Istanbul give you a totally authentic experience of the locals-only lifestyle.

Walking tours with you in mind

Our local hosts take you on the best walking tours of Istanbul because they’ll tailor every experience to you. Once we know a little about your personality and passions, we’ll plan 100% flexible walking tours of Istanbul that highlight everything you’ll love about this beautiful city. Whether you want to walk a route that winds through Istanbul’s breathtaking architecture, sample Şiş Kebap and jewel-toned Turkish delight on food walking tours of Istanbul or experience a night out like a local, we’ll make sure you get exactly what you want out of your time in the Turkish capital.

A unique shopping spree

In the chaotic streets of the Turkish capital, walking tours of Istanbul are best led by an in-the-know local. There’s more to Istanbul walking tours than the centuries-old Grand Bazaar – in fact, this world-famous attraction is just the tip of the Istanbul iceberg. Let your local insider lead you down the crowded alleys of over 200 traditional markets that set up shop across the city each week. It’s not your average shopping experience, but from fresh produce to fine textiles, you’ll find them all at a traditional marketplace on private walking tours in Istanbul.

Istanbul travel tips and inspiration from our Travel Magazine

Find essential city info, travel tips and the best things to do in Istanbul and around the world recommended by our local hosts

Latest reviews from our guests

Burak was a fabulous guide who shared the history with through storytelling which made the experience so much more rich. He was flexible and was very attentive. I would highly recommend him.

Sep 2025

Laurie J
Tolga was an amazing guide full of knowledge. Very personable and friendly. Able to answer any questions we had and extend on it. Obviously passionate about his work. Thank you

Aug 2025

Eileen T
We booked a half-day “Explore Istanbul with a Local” tour with Tugba, and she was absolutely outstanding. We told her we wanted to see as much as possible without wasting time in long lines — even if that meant skipping the Blue Mosque — and she delivered exactly what we hoped for. She guided us through hidden gems, the spice shops, the Grand Bazaar, and even introduced us to simple but wonderful street foods like roasted corn and chestnuts. Her knowledge and passion for the city made every stop meaningful. By the end of the day, Tugba was even calling to make us breakfast reservations at her favorite local spot for the next morning — such a thoughtful touch! Spending the afternoon with her felt like exploring Istanbul with a close friend who knows all the city’s secrets. If we’re ever lucky enough to return to this remarkable city, Tugba will be the first person we contact. Highly recommend!

Aug 2025

Philip W
We booked a half-day “Explore Istanbul with a Local” tour with Tugba, and she was simply outstanding. We explained that we wanted to see as much as possible without waiting in long lines — even if it meant skipping the Blue Mosque — and she delivered exactly what we hoped for. She guided us through hidden gems and lively neighborhoods, sharing insights and stories that made the city come alive, all while keeping us away from the crowds. By the end of the tour, Tugba was even making breakfast reservations for us at her favorite local spot — such a thoughtful touch! Spending the afternoon with her felt like exploring the city with a close friend or family member who knows all the best tips, tricks, and secrets. If we’re ever fortunate enough to return to Istanbul, Tugba will be the first person we contact. Highly recommended!

Jun 2025

Philip W