Istanbul
Half day in Istanbul with a local
Flexible Half-Day Discovery • 4 hours
5.0
(45)
Half day in Istanbul with a local
Vibrant culture, a very Grand Bazaar, and impossible to resist mezze.
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- Get what you want out of Istanbul on a private and personalized experience
- Enjoy local music, vibrant restaurants, historic neighborhood strolls or simply go for a walk in the streets and take in the diverse ambiance
- Fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Istanbul, getting the best of what the city has to offer in a limited space of time
- Get a taste of what makes Istanbul one of the most popular tourist cities in the world, with a twist – your stories will be authentic and all your own!
- Get the scoop from your host on other areas to explore and exciting things to do whilst visiting Istanbul
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
4 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
A private and personalized experience
4 hours with your host
Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations)
What’s not included
Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
Your hotel/apartment or any other central locationCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostWhat you’ll do
Think of this personalized experience with one of our local Istanbul hosts like spending the day with a friend. You’ll explore markets and get seriously hooked on haggling, see the enchanting sights and domes Istanbul is so famed for, hop between continents (you know, as we all do with our friends), and stop for a coffee or maybe an ice-cold beer and some mezze.
You could navigate one of the oldest bazaars in the world or wander through the lively Kadıköy district, stroll through lush palace gardens, or do some serious sightseeing. Just tell us what you’re into and we’ll do our best to make it happen.
Our hosts can’t wait to share their home city with you, and although half a day isn’t possibly long enough to see all there is in this bustling urban antiquity, we know you’ll embrace it all!
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Tugba_Kurti_Istanbul_BR-1267458343
Rooftop Smiles Overlooking Istanbul
Echoes of History: A Memorable Encounter
17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting
Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.
recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.
Rasa
Oct 2025
An exchange tour with Ms. Ipek. She went far beyond our expectations, was ver attentive and extremely knowledgeable. We felt like having a new friend in Istanbul. We highly recommend this tour. Thank you, Ms. Ipek.
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Waynenetta
Sep 2025
I had a 13 hour layover in Istanbul and decided to tour the city. After sifting through many tour options, I decided on this one since you have the option to customize it and choose the sights you want to see, rather than wasting time looking at sights that may not interest you. After doing a ton of research, I had a list of sights and places I wanted to visit, sent it to the guide, and we were confirmed! My guide was Tugba who was an absolute gem. She reached out to me via WhatsApp shortly after booking. She provided recommendations and suggestions to compliment the sights I wanted to visit. She knows the city very well and has great knowledge of places to go and to avoid. I left the airport and met her in the city. Her guidance was much appreciated as she also intervened when local hustlers tried to approach. We were able to see some beautiful sights and places. One of our stops was the Grand Bazaar where she also assisted in negotiating great prices. I returned to the airport satisfied and tired with plenty of time to make my flight. If you are looking for a custom tour where you can explore Istanbul without taking up an entire day, this is the tour for you!
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Greg
Oct 2025
Feruza was knowledgeable friendly and patient
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Paul
Sep 2025
Outstanding all around.
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Ana
Sep 2025
Ipek was a wonderful guide - she not only knew all kinds of interesting facts, she offered some historical context that made the information come alive. She also steered us right, away from lower value experiences toward more interesting ones. Plus she is super personable and enjoyable to spend time with. Thanks, Ipek!
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Eileen
Aug 2025
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
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