Ahmet

Hi, I’m Ahmet

Hi, I’m Ahmet, your friendly host in the heart of Istanbul! I’m passionate about sharing its rich history, captivating culture, and mouthwatering cuisine with visitors. From the majestic Hagia Sophia and Sultan Ahmet Mosque to the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, I’m your go-to guru for uncovering Istanbul’s Ottoman and Byzantine treasures. I know the best spots in neighborhoods like Fatih, Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Karaköy, where every corner has a story to tell. Love shopping? I’ll take you to the finest leather, shoe, and bag shops, or introduce you to the most delightful tea and Turkish delights in the Grand Bazaar. And for a unique perspective, there’s nothing like a yacht tour to soak in the city’s beauty from the Bosphorus. Whether you’re after history, flavors, or unforgettable experiences, I’m here to make your Istanbul adventure special. Let’s explore together!

I’ve lived in Istanbul for 10 years

I speak English, Arabic, Turkish and some Spanish

I am a Tour Guide.

My Interests are:

Street food Local cuisine Desserts Food markets Fine dining Unique & unusual foods

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Arabic
  • Turkish

My Favorite Experiences To Host

Pre-Trip Planning Session
Istanbul

Istanbul trip planning video call

5 (90)
30-90 minutes
From   $29.25   per person
See details

Video chat or email with a local to plan your perfect trip or get answers to all your questions

Half day in Istanbul with a local Flexible Half-Day Discovery
Istanbul

Half day in Istanbul with a local

5 (48)
4 hours
From   $121.1   per person
See details

Vibrant culture, a very Grand Bazaar, and impossible to resist mezze.

Escape the airport: see Istanbul on your layover Layover Exploration
Istanbul

Escape the airport: see Istanbul on your layover

5 (34)
5 hours
From   $208.26   per person
See details

The Grand Bazaar, meze platters, and some serious haggling.

Must see Istanbul with a local Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems
Istanbul

Must see Istanbul with a local

5 (64)
8 hours
From   $224.06   per person
See details

A mosaic encrusted Byzantine basilica, continent hopping, and syrup-soaked baklava.

Eat like a local in Istanbul Local Food & Drink Tastings
Istanbul

Eat like a local in Istanbul

5 (71)
3 hours
From   $130.46   per person
See details

Baklava dripping in honey, flaky pastries and the best kebab in the city.

Shopping Istanbul’s markets & bazaars Markets & Local Finds
Istanbul

Shopping Istanbul’s markets & bazaars

5 (32)
3 hours
From   $95.36   per person
See details

Yeşilköy, Kapali Çarşi and perhaps a market whose name you can pronounce first time.

Full day in Istanbul with a local Flexible Full-Day Discovery
Istanbul

Full day in Istanbul with a local

4.9 (38)
8 hours
From   $224.06   per person
See details

The Bosphorus Strait, a meyhane tavern, and some good old market haggling.

Kickstart your trip to Istanbul City Essentials: First Day
Istanbul

Kickstart your trip to Istanbul

5 (55)
3 hours
From   $95.36   per person
See details

This is the one where your host spills all their local secrets, and you ask all your questions!

Istanbul’s history: where Europe meets Asia Traditions & Heritage
Istanbul

Istanbul’s history: where Europe meets Asia

5 (95)
4 hours
From   $122.13   per person
See details

2500 years of history, Ottoman mosques, and a mosaic-encrusted Byzantine basilica.

A night in Istanbul with a local Night Experiences
Istanbul

A night in Istanbul with a local

5 (61)
4 hours
From   $134.52   per person
See details

Jewel-hued lanterns, billowing shisha smoke, and Lion’s Milk.

Articles I Recommend or Wrote

Best Places To Eat In Istanbul - Recommended By A Local

By Ezgi Tozar

Unusual Things To Do In Istanbul That Are Not In Your Guidebook

By Ezgi Tozar

3 Days In Istanbul - Best Things To Do In 72 hours

Top 10 Hidden Gems In Istanbul - Uncovered By A Local

By Dilek Camurcu

Solo Traveler's Guide to Istanbul – Best Things to do Alone

By Dilek Camurcu

Must Eat Foods In Istanbul And Where To Eat Them

By Dilek Camurcu
See All Articles

Meet Other Hosts in Istanbul

Our hosts bring destinations to life, sharing local stories and crafting your perfect experience.

Feruza

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

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History buff and rooftop enthusiast with insider tips on Istanbul’s hidden gems and Ottoman and Eastern Roman treasures.
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Mert

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History buff and passionate explorer with deep roots in Istanbul’s past and a local’s eye for its most captivating neighborhoods.
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Tim

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History lover and cultural explorer with a deep appreciation for Istanbul’s Ottoman, Byzantine, and Sephardic heritage and its unique handmade arts.
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Firat

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Cultural enthusiast and street food lover with an insider’s knowledge of Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant neighborhoods.
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özlem

Istanbul
Professional tour guide and culture enthusiast with an insider’s knowledge of Istanbul’s history, architecture, food, and fascinating museums.
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Hi, I’m Feruza

Istanbul
5.0 (56)

I'm Feruza, a local host in the mesmerizing city of Istanbul, brimming with excitement to share my love for this ancient city's rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering food. There's nothing I enjoy more than exploring Istanbul's many treasures and embarking on delicious food adventures, all while sharing my knowledge and passion with friends. As an expert in historical sites, bustling local markets, and bazaars, I also know my way around delectable dishes like kebab, kofte, chicken, desserts, and street food. Join me for a thrilling journey through Istanbul's most captivating and flavorful experiences!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
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Ipek_with_guest_Ruud_and_companions
Echoes of History: A Memorable Encounter

Hi, I’m Ipek

Istanbul
5.0 (45)

For me, this city is like stepping into a living museum, where history and modern life blend seamlessly. From Byzantine churches to Ottoman palaces, every corner of Istanbul tells a story. I love exploring new international restaurants and discovering hidden gems—whether it’s a cozy café or a quiet spot with an incredible view. I know the neighborhoods of Sultanahmet, Taksim, Üsküdar, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş really well and can introduce you to their unique charm. I’m also great at finding hidden spots even most locals don’t know about, and I have a knack for finding places where you can shop without breaking the bank, from local markets to hidden gem stores. Let’s explore Istanbul together!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Turkish
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Host_Burak_with_guests
Capturing Smiles and Adventures
Embracing Adventure in Istanbul's Heart

Hi, I’m Burak

Istanbul
5.0 (39)

What I love most about this city is the profound sense of history that you can feel simply by walking down any street. One of my favorite ways to explore the city is by riding my motorcycle, whether through the lively streets of the city center or the quieter outskirts where nature and history meet. I also enjoy visiting authentic neighborhoods, where I can engage with the local people and hear their stories. As someone who has a deep knowledge of Istanbul’s historical buildings and must-see sites, I’m excited to share these treasures with visitors. I also know where to find the best and most traditional food in the city, from local street vendors to hidden gems that serve up authentic flavors you can’t miss. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to discover something new, I’m here to help you experience the best of what Istanbul has to offer.

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Turkish
Caroline
Burak was fabulous, one of the best tour guides we've ever had!! Give that man a raise! :) — Caroline , Istanbul
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Hi, I’m Emi̇r

Istanbul
5.0 (26)

I absolutely love the sweet chaos of Istanbul – a city that’s alive with energy and rich history. From the mesmerizing Bosphorus to the hustle of the local markets, there’s always something exciting happening here. I’ve spent years uncovering the best-hidden spots, from charming rooftop cafés with breathtaking views to local shisha lounges where I hang out with friends. One of my favorite things to do is take visitors on a journey through Istanbul’s past, exploring the Grand Bazaar and the Historical Peninsula. I’m a bit of a history nerd with a deep knowledge of the Ottoman and Eastern Roman eras, so if you're into discovering the city’s fascinating past, you’re in for a treat. But Istanbul’s also about modern life – the shopping, the hidden gems – and I know all the best spots for both. Let’s dive into the vibrant life of Istanbul together, and I’ll show you why this city has captured my heart!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
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Hi, I’m Mert

Istanbul
5.0 (1)

What I love most about Istanbul is how history is everywhere you look—this city is like an open-air museum where every corner tells a story. It’s amazing how people from different cultures and religions live side by side here, and you can feel that harmony as you explore. Even after all these years, I still find new places to discover! I especially enjoy visiting religious sites of all kinds—they're a big part of what makes Istanbul so unique. I know the neighborhoods of Fatih, Balat, Beyoğlu, Şişli, and Beşiktaş like the back of my hand, and I’d love to show you my favorite hidden spots, historic sites, and delicious local places to eat. Let’s explore this incredible city together!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Turkish
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Hi, I’m Tim

Istanbul
5.0 (1)

I love Istanbul for its unique blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures, where mosques rise beside ancient churches and every street feels like a walk through history. I enjoy exploring the city’s flavors, from street simit to stuffed mussels and the best pistachio baklava with Turkish coffee. As a National Professional Tour Guide with 16 years of experience, I love discovering historical mosques, churches, synagogues, and museums, and sharing the stories behind them. I know Istanbul and Turkey well and can show you the best sights, hidden gems, and photo spots.

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Turkish
  • Indonesian
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Hi, I’m Firat

Istanbul

From the historic heart of the Old Peninsula with its bustling markets in Eminonu and Sirkeci to the vibrant streets of Fener, I have a deep knowledge of the neighborhoods that define this city. Whether it's a peaceful cruise along the Bosphorus, a stroll through historic districts, or diving into the city's famous street food culture, I’m here to offer authentic and unique experiences. My love of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and culinary scene allows me to craft experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trails, ensuring that you see the real Istanbul. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious, I’m here to take you on an unforgettable journey.

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
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Hi, I’m özlem

Istanbul

I love wandering through the city and discovering traces of different eras hidden in plain sight. What I cherish most is how we live in harmony with animals, especially the street cats who are part of daily life, and how breathtaking views of the Bosphorus appear around almost every corner. I specialize in history, architecture, culture, food, museums, and hidden gems, and I know Istanbul’s neighborhoods inside out. I’d love to share its unforgettable layers and flavors with you.

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Turkish
  • Indonesian