Your Istanbul
from the very first moment

Private experiences with a local host matched to your interests - designed to help you find what matters most & make more of your time in Istanbul.

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Browse our premium experiences based on your interests.

Kickstart your trip to Istanbul First Day Essentials
Istanbul

Kickstart your trip to Istanbul

5 (57)
3 hours
From   $96.17   per person
See details

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

First Day Essentials
Istanbul

Istanbul trip planning video call

5 (90)
30-90 minutes
From   $29.5   per person
See details

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

Snapshot
Your Istanbul Kickstart: A Personalized 2-Hour Experience First Day Essentials
Istanbul

Your Istanbul Kickstart: A Personalized 2-Hour Experience

5 (89)
2 hours
From   $70.21   per person
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A relaxed two-hour introduction to the city—get your bearings, discover local spots, and start exploring with confidence.

Explore
Istanbul Your Way: A Personalized 4-Hour Exploration Icons & Secrets
Istanbul

Istanbul Your Way: A Personalized 4-Hour Exploration

5 (52)
4 hours
From   $122.13   per person
See details

A four-hour private walk tailored to your pace and interests, blending imperial landmarks, sacred spaces, and quieter old-city streets.

Full day in Istanbul with a local Icons & Secrets
Istanbul

Full day in Istanbul with a local

4.9 (39)
8 hours
From   $225.97   per person
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The Bosphorus Strait, a meyhane tavern, and some good old market haggling.

Must see Istanbul with a local Icons & Secrets
Istanbul

Must see Istanbul with a local

5 (64)
8 hours
From   $225.97   per person
See details

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

Eat like a local in Istanbul The Culinary Scene
Istanbul

Eat like a local in Istanbul

5 (41)
3 hours
From   $131.57   per person
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Baklava dripping in honey, flaky pastries and the best kebab in the city.

A night in Istanbul with a local The Culinary Scene
Istanbul

A night in Istanbul with a local

5 (61)
4 hours
From   $134.52   per person
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Jewel-hued lanterns, billowing shisha smoke, and Lion’s Milk.

Shopping Istanbul’s markets & bazaars Stories & Culture
Istanbul

Shopping Istanbul’s markets & bazaars

5 (32)
3 hours
From   $96.17   per person
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Yeşilköy, Kapali Çarşi and perhaps a market whose name you can pronounce first time.

Istanbul’s history: where Europe meets Asia Stories & Culture
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.

Escape the airport: see Istanbul on your layover Beyond the City
Istanbul

Escape the airport: see Istanbul on your layover

5 (35)
5 hours
From   $210.04   per person
See details

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

How Personalization Works

Every experience is private and tailored to you. Here’s how it works.

Choose a flexible experience

Whether it’s the must-sees or the unexpected, your day is designed around what matters to you.

Tell us what you’re into

Love food? Culture? Quiet streets? We’ll shape the day around what you’re curious to discover.

Meet your host and shape your day

Our hosts share stories, not scripts; it’s like exploring a city with someone who truly lives it.

5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor

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!

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English

Hi, I’m Ipek

Istanbul
5.0 (47)

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!

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Turkish

Hi, I’m Burak

Istanbul
5.0 (42)

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.

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Turkish

Hi, I’m Emi̇r

Istanbul
5.0 (28)

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!

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish

Hi, I’m Tim

Istanbul
5.0 (2)

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.

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Turkish
  • Indonesian

Hi, I’m özlem

Istanbul
5.0 (2)

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.

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Turkish
  • Indonesian

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!

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Turkish

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.

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English

Hi, I’m Ahmet

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!

Visit Host Profile

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

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Arabic
  • Turkish
A cheerful moment with vivid colors and laughter in Seoul.
Strolling through Seoul's historic hanok village under a bright blue sky.
Sharing smiles and tradition over tea in a cozy Seoul café.
A spontaneous moment captured while exploring Dublin's green spaces.
Smiles shared while discovering authentic Korean flavors together.
A quiet moment outside a traditional Korean room in Seoul.
Traditional hanboks bring vibrant colors to the palace courtyard scene.
Joyful faces amidst Seoul's dazzling displays of tradition.
Discovering peaceful corners in the heart of Seoul.
Smiles abound while discovering London's charming secrets together.

Don't Take Our Word For It

Here's what happens when the right host meets the right traveler.

C
Cheri 17 May 2026

Just enough info-culture, history, politics, economy, geography- as it applied to our walking tour seeing the blue mosque, hippodrome, and Topkapi Palace. Emir is kind, respectful, and has a great sense of humor too.

G
Gregory 16 May 2026

Another great tour! Very knowledgeable guide who brought us through the city, gave us lots of insight into Türkiye, and took us on a true food tour where we got to try local foods we wouldn’t have found without her! Even catered the tour to shops we had said we wanted to go to and helped us to find things that Google couldn’t!

G
Gregory 16 May 2026

Ozlem was a great guide! She showed us so many places we wouldn’t have found on a list or on Google. Ozlem guided us through Istanbul with her local and expert knowledge of the city and we got to meet a lot of locals and have special experiences with vendors that just wouldn’t have happened without her. A truly unique experience that we’re grateful to have had!

H
Henry 9 May 2026

Our tour was with Burak Gulcan. What a fabulous time we had with him! We travel frequently and I can say he was one of the best tours guides we ever had. We went to the Asia side of Istanbul where he explained the different foods and spices in the local markets. He was able to have the local merchants give a sample of their various foods. We were never rushed and he took his time to explain origin of the food and how its relevant to the Turkish culture today. At dinner we sampled a variety of different types of food, all of which was delicious. Burak was so accommodating to make sure we understood the Turkish experience our tour ran over the scheduled end time. I high recommend this tour and Burak.

M
Mary 29 April 2026

You get to visit some pretty interesting parts of the Grand Bazaar that most people wouldn't take a look at. Part of the tour was also taking photographs of those hidden areas and being introduced to some of the people working in the bazaar.

D
Debra 25 April 2026

Burak is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Turkey. He spoke English incredibly well. His guidance through the major sites was informative and enjoyable. He also took us to a few lesser known places that were extremely interesting. Even though our time with him was up, he went out of his way to take us to a local restaurant and help us order. Thank you so much for such a great day Burak!

R
Ricardo 20 April 2026

Five stars are simply not enough for the extraordinary tour experience we had in Istanbul! We were on a long layover and decided to make the most of our time in this legendary city. When our flight delays caused us to arrive late for our appointment, she handled the situation with complete grace and professionalism, adjusting the itinerary without missing a beat. Right away, we knew we were in excellent hands. Her depth of knowledge about Istanbul was impressive, but what truly set her apart was her ability to read her audience. She quickly gauged what we already knew and built upon it, enriching our existing understanding of the city's iconic sites rather than simply repeating facts we had already encountered. Every explanation felt crafted specifically for us — engaging, layered, and deeply insightful.

J
Joseph 12 April 2026

Our day with Tim in Istanbul was fantastic!

Real Stories, Real Connections

Beautiful memory

Beautiful memory

Beautiful memory

Beautiful memory

Tugba_Kurti_Istanbul_BR-1267458343

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Smiling faces amidst the ancient columns of Istanbul's past.

Smiling faces amidst the ancient columns of Istanbul's past.

Sharing smiles on a cool day in vibrant Istanbul.

Sharing smiles on a cool day in vibrant Istanbul.

Smiles all around at an iconic mosque in Istanbul.

Smiles all around at an iconic mosque in Istanbul.

Evening lights softly illuminate a bustling Istanbul riverside walkway.

Evening lights softly illuminate a bustling Istanbul riverside walkway.

Admiring vibrant modern art along Istanbul's scenic waterfront.

Admiring vibrant modern art along Istanbul's scenic waterfront.

Chandeliers illuminate the intricate details of Istanbul's stunning architecture.

Chandeliers illuminate the intricate details of Istanbul's stunning architecture.

Amidst white tulips, a lone pink flower catches the eye.

Amidst white tulips, a lone pink flower catches the eye.

FAQs

Your questions, answered

Are experiences the same as tours?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

Will I be able to speak to my host beforehand?

Yes. After we match you with your host, we’ll introduce you so you can chat about the plan and make any tweaks before the day.

How do you match me with a host?

We ask a few questions. After you book, you’ll fill out a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll then match you with the best local host to design your experience.

Can I request specific places or types of stops?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can I mix different themes in one experience?

Yes! You can blend food, culture, history, neighborhoods, or even a bit of nightlife if time allows. Just share your interests in the questionnaire, and your host will build the day around them.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?

Yes. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your experience date—no questions asked.
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