Istanbul
Kickstart your trip to Istanbul
City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours
5.0
(25)
Kickstart your trip to Istanbul
This is the one where your host spills all their local secrets, and you ask all your questions!
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- Find your feet in Istanbul with one of our who will show you how to navigate through the city - from the metro to buses and trams, it all starts with figuring out your transport (including on foot, if that’s your style!)
- Take in some highlights on your experience, like the glittering mosaics at the Hagia Sophia Museum and be awe-inspired by its iconic dome
- Step back in time (not literally, unless you have a time machine?) to the 1600s, during the rule of Ahmed, with a trip to the historic Blue Mosque
- Wander through the bustling alleys of the Grand Bazaar as you get orientated in the city and learn about local life, and how to haggle for a bargain!
- Ask your host any questions you have about exploring Istanbul, what to visit and what to eat - they can’t wait to share their local tips with you
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
A private and personalized experience
3 hours with a Host
Start when you like (but an early start means you beat the mad crowds)
Meet-up at your accommodation (as long as it is in reasonable distance. Hooray!)
What’s not included
Food and drinks
Transport costs
Gratuities
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
Istanbul is a magical city alive with beauty, culture, and history. This is where empires once ruled! But if it’s been a while since you were in town or this is your first visit, joining one of our local Istanbul hosts to help you find your feet is the perfect way to get your trip off to a good start. Get oriented in the city streets and find your feet as you learn how to get around the city (there are tons of transport options available - from the metro to trams, taxis, and buses).
Spot some landmarks along the way, like the Blue Mosque, and soak up Istanbul’s beauty and history. From the bustling alleys of the Grand Bazaar to the vibrant Taksim district, there’s not a second to waste! And luckily, with a host to show you the ropes, not a second will be. You will be feeling right at home once they’ve shared their tips for where to eat, how to get around, and spilled a local secret or two.
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
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recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of this experience
Ruud
Jun 2025
We had the pleasure of joining a walking tour through the heart of Istanbul, and it was truly a memorable experience! Our guide Iper was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, weaving fascinating historical facts with local stories that brought each landmark to life. We visited iconic sites like the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. The pace was relaxed, allowing time for photos. Whether it’s your first time in Istanbul or you’ve been before, this walking tour is a fantastic way to experience the city’s unique blend of history, culture, and charm. Highly recommended!
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Louise
Jun 2025
Ruud
Jun 2025
Great experience & organization! Many thanks!
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Caleb
May 2025
Everything was so special, the history, guide & overall experience made it unforgettable
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Stephen
May 2025
Absolutely excellent tour and time spent in learning the history and culture of Istanbul and Turkey. Our guide dove in our our particular interests and adjusted the tour to meet our needs. We could not have been happier that he adjusted the tour to our specific priorities. We will use and recommend City Unscripted in the future
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Roni
Apr 2025
Excellent tour! Lots of information. Our guide İpek was so knowledgeable and fun! She treated us like family and knew all the best ways to get around old town.
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