Istanbul
Half day in Istanbul with a local
Flexible Half-Day Discovery • 4 hours
5.0
(40)
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
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.
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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Philip
Aug 2025
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!
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Philip
Jun 2025
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!
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Mariza
Aug 2025
A private tour is the best. We had a very good experience. Feruza gave good information. We did no need to be waiting too long for other people and we can ask any questions anytime.
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Michael
Aug 2025
Tolga was a great guide. He was friendly and outgoing, and very knowledgeable about the history of Turkey and Istanbul. We had a fantastic meal and he explained all the local foods to us
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Thomas
Aug 2025
Knowledge Flexibility
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