• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Did you know that the Istanbul tour of your dreams exists? Yes, and it’s 100% personalized and created by your local host around your interests. Customize and see only the places that spark your interest. From classic landmarks to neighborhood walks - your wishes are our command!

Destination

Istanbul, Turkey

Category

City Highlight Tours

Duration

3 hours

Transport mode

Walking tour

Available languages

English, Español, العربية, Türkçe, Italiano, Português, Deutsch

Included

• Private guide
• All Withlocals tours are carbon neutral

Excluded

• Entrance tickets
• Tastings
• Transport
• All of the above can be arranged with your local host through a personalized offer

What you can expect

Choose your local

Get to know these 20 passionate locals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents. Choose your favorite, check their availability, and book to create an unforgettable adventure tailored to you.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at In front of Gallant Galata coffee shop - Istanbul to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. This Experience is YOURS!

   See the landmarks and places in Istanbul that you pick on a 100% personalized tour. Make this a one-of-a-kind experience that will satisfy your curiosity with the help of a local. All you have to do is tell them your preferences and interests

4. See THE Main Attractions

   What’s on your bucket list? Hop from landmark to landmark admiring them from the outside, and get recommendations from your local host on what’s the best way to enjoy them to the fullest

5. Off the Beaten Path

   What if there’s a way to see the city’s main attraction from a different angle? All of this while avoiding the touristy crowds? It’s possible with a local by your side!

6. Neighborhood Exploring

   Spend some time deep-diving into the neighborhoods of Istanbul; there’s plenty of treasures to discover! From history, architecture, and local hangout spots, what area would you like to visit?

7. Amazing City Views

   Find the best lookout places in the city where you can spot your favorite landmarks as well as enjoy breathtaking views of the city - a picture-perfect personalized tour

8. All of Istanbul

   Go on a full-day tour to see the highlights of the city. Pick the places, duration and let a local take you on a journey where you’ll cross the must-sees from Istanbul off your list

9. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Angela 🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Abdullah)

13 June 2025

My husband and I had a fabulous 4 hours with Abdullah as he showed us his city. We got an insight to the major sites plus some hidden treasures. It was fun , interesting and gave us a good introduction to Istanbul. Thankyou so much Happiness makes the world go round

Daniel🇧🇷 Brazil

(About local Emre)

9 June 2025

The tour we had with Emre was a real gem! He took us to places we would never have discovered by ourselves, in a really nice neighboorhood, where apparently he knew everyone :) Getting to know the city by its food and what locals really eat was amazing. Besides that, he gave us really valuable tips for sightseeing and for other restaurants and cafes. 10/10 experienceThe best experience in Istanbul!

Jody

(About local Mine )

4 June 2025

Mine was clearly knowledgeable especially historically and politically. It was very interesting to talk with her. She packed a lot into the 3 hours, teaching us history and architecture. She didn’t take in our comments or appear that interested in what we had to say. That would be an improvement area for her. All in all, we appreciated the tour. Mine

Nancy🇺🇸 United States

(About local Emir)

2 June 2025

Emir is truly a citizen of the world. Having lived in several countries, he brings an exceptional perspective to his tours. He has a depth of knowledge on history and it is obvious he loves both the subject and his city. We enjoyed his tour very much. Not least was the excellent baklava at the end.World Perspective

Kulvinder

(About local Deniz)

1 June 2025

A great tour guide with interesting stories of Istanbul. Had a high energy 3 hr tour which ticked all the boxes. Would highly recommendIstanbul with Deniz

Christina🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Emre)

28 May 2025

Mein Mann und ich hatten eine tolle Erlebnis Tour durch Istanbul. Emre empfing uns wie Freunde. Er ist ein ausgesprochen netter und warmherziger Mensch. Mit großer Begeisterung, kleinen Geschichten und persönlichen Erinnerungen zeigte er uns sein Istanbul. Ohne ihn hätten wir die Stadt nie so kennengelernt. Es war ein ganz besonderes Erlebnis was wir nicht vergessen werden. Ganz lieben Dank.City Tour mit Emre

Colette and Marc🇺🇸 United States

(About local Aysenur )

22 May 2025

We just spent 3 days exploring Istanbul with Aysenur. She is fantastic. Aysenur developed an initial plan for our 3 days together but was very willingly to modify our schedule based on our needs. Her knowledge of the history of Istanbul as well as the intersections of the many cultures of the area is amazing. Her love of history and her desire to share her vast knowledge is very apparent. We were very impressed by her continuing studies in a variety of fields - the mark of an excellent teacher. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our time with Aysenur. I am sure your experience will be as impressive as ours. 3 fantastic days with Aysenur in Istanbul.

Angie & Rachel🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Emir)

8 May 2025

Emir was a very accomplished guide, very knowledgeable & passionate about history & Istanbul. We saw lots of little gems that we wouldn’t have seen as a tourist & really enjoyed our tour. Great fun time with Emir

Cristina🇮🇹 Italy

(About local Lorena)

5 May 2025

Lorena is very gentle, she knows Istanbul very well and will suggest off touristic roads itineraries that really are worth the price. You will experience the real Istanbul and save a lot of time, off the tourists traps. So very advisable! She is more that fluent in Italian and English, and has an International background, having lived in many countries. TOP.10/10 very advisable

Ysabel

(About local Abdullah)

27 April 2025

Abdullah is an personable, knowledgeable guide, who knows everyone you need to know in the old part of the city. His stories, both of the places and the people were great and his tips on avoiding tourist traps were invaluable. Would certainly book again --but will reach out first so we can plan the best route and time of day to avoid crods.Uncovering Istanbul's secrets

57mf65pcrb🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Abdullah)

22 April 2025

Verena🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Emre)

21 April 2025

Emre ist ein phantastischer Guide, der uns die Köstlichkeiten Istanbuls gezeigt und gleichzeitig interessante Informationen zu den besuchten Stadtteilen geteilt hat. Wir empfehlen die Tour mit Emre als unverzichtbaren Teil eines jeden Istanbulbesuchs. Unverzichtbare Tour in Istanbul

Petra

(About local Emir)

21 April 2025

We are a three generation family and were for the first time in Istanbul. It was an amazing experience with Emir! He was able to respond to the different needs of the family. He showed us a colorful variety of culture, history, lifestyle and character of different parts of the city. We had delicious authentic lunch and the best Baclaca of the world. Emir is very friendly, warm hearted and full of humour. His knowledge is immense and he can share it in a very interesting way. We felt very safe and decided, to come again! We look forward to meet Emir again. Wonderful day in a wonderful city

Felix🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Esra)

15 April 2025

We enjoyed the tour with Esra a lot! She has a great knowledge and an exciting way to explain it! Great trip!

Rich🇺🇸 United States

(About local Emir)

13 April 2025

Emir was a wonderful tour guide, conversation partner, and welcoming committee for Istanbul. On a short visit, we wanted to more time enjoying and learning; less time looking for directions and reading online guides. Emir took us on a great tour of the area we stayed in, even in some miserable rain, working in a strategic sheltered spot or cafe as he could. If you have an interest in the history or the food of the area, Emir is the right guide for you. You can tell his knowledge comes from a true passion for it, and he welcomes questions of all types, and left us with great advice for the rest of our stay.A perfect welcome to the city

Timur

(About local Esra)

9 April 2025

Esra made Istanbul's history come alive for our group of 7 friends. First, she asked and listened to to what we wanted to see and the style of tour we wanted. Then she delivered and went beyond expectations. We came away awe-stricken by the beauty, intrigue and history of the Ottomans but not because of a boring history lesson, but rather a guide who made the tour like watching a movie or reading a good novel. Bravo and thank you!Esra- the Best Guide in Istanbul

Lillian🇺🇸 United States

(About local Gülce)

17 March 2025

We had an amazing custom tour in Istanbul with Gülce, and I can’t recommend her enough! She was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and made the entire experience enjoyable from start to finish. Throughout the tour, she provided fascinating insights about Istanbul’s history and culture, making every stop more meaningful. She also went above and beyond by giving us fantastic recommendations for additional sightseeing and dining, which will really helped us make the most of our time in the city. We ended the day with a Bosphorus cruise, a perfect way to take in the stunning views and reflect on everything we had learned. If you’re looking for a guide who is knowledgeable, personable, and truly passionate about Istanbul, Gülce is the perfect choice! Fantastic Tour with Gülce!

David🇪🇸 Spain

(About local Emre)

27 January 2025

We had a great time visiting the old sites of Istanbul with Emre. He was so knowledgable it was crazy. Any question we had, he had the answer for. And he's a super food lover and we went to a grill spot for lunch that was so good. And the kind of spot a tourist would have some difficulty due to not knowing what to order, but Emre handled it all and we had a feast!Fantastic private tour!

Melissa🇺🇸 United States

(About local Abdullah)

19 January 2025

Wandering Istanbul with such an interesting man- knows so much history and out of the way places. A highlight of our tripExcellent guide!

Marion🇳🇿 New Zealand

(About local Emir)

13 January 2025

We had a 3hr walking tour with Emir of Istanbul which was really 4 hrs as Emir was so interesting and so proud of his city. Emir was friendly, very knowledgeable and a great guide. We would give 11/10 if we could. We visited mosques, learnt about the Turkish culture and tried the local food. Would highly recommend for anyone. Emir was inspirational and today I booked French lessons to learn a 2nd language because of him. Anazing tour with Emir

Florian

(About local Emre)

5 January 2025

Emre hat mit uns eine Führung durch Istanbul gemacht und zwar hat er uns an für Touristen eher untypische Orte geführt, die sehr interessant waren und einen guten Einblick in das Leben vor Ort ermöglichten. Außerdem hat er einen guten Überblick für uns über Istanbul erstellt und welche Sehenswürdigkeiten wir in den nächsten Tagen noch besuchen sollten.Statfürung mit Emre

Sara🇮🇹 Italy

(About local Lorena)

2 January 2025

Ciao a tutti, abbiamo fatto un tour privato con Lorena che ci ha guidato alla scoperta di Istanbul facendoci scoprire anche cose inaspettate. Lorena è stata gentilissima e disponibilissima. Consiglio vivamente un tour con lei se vi trovate a Instanbul!Bellissima Esperienza

Alain🇺🇸 United States

(About local Emre)

1 January 2025

Had the pleasure of having Emre as our private guide in Istanbul, and he was absolutely fantastic. We requested a tour focusing on the less touristy parts of the city to immerse ourselves in Istanbul’s local culture and history, and Emre exceeded our expectations. His deep knowledge of the city’s history, combined with his engaging storytelling, brought the sites to life for us. Emre also went above and beyond by providing us with invaluable tips, including recommendations for hidden-gem restaurants and unique experiences for the rest of our stay. If you’re looking for a very good guide in Istanbul, Emre is the one. We couldn’t recommend him more highly!A Great Guide for an Authentic Experience

Giovanni🇮🇹 Italy

(About local Ahmet Can)

9 December 2024

Ahmet Can has been very professional and focused on what I was expecting from this experience and tailored something to exceed my expectations. I’m very satisfied by the tour !Great experience

Kate

(About local Gülce)

17 June 2025

We had a lovely visit to Istanbul with Gülce! She's a very knowledgeable and friendly guide and she made sure we got to see everything we wanted to cover in our short visit. Being able to skip the line for the basilica cistern was especially handy! Thanks for a lovely day Gülce!Lovely informative guide!

Kristiana

(About local Alp)

17 June 2025

My husband, Tom, and I had the absolute best experience with Alp on our Ten Tastes of Istanbul tour! Alp is such a fantastic host and he made sure that we experienced the most memorable local food in the best venues! We were so enjoying ourselves that Alp bought more than was expected, making sure that we got to taste all of his favourite dishes. Alp was so knowledgeable not just about the local food and venues, but about the history and culture of Istanbul which really added to the whole experience. I am so glad we took this tour and would HIGHLY recommend to anyone visiting Istanbul to do the same. I can't compare Alp to any other guides obviously but I can confirm that he was perfect for us and went above and beyond our expectation! Don't miss this experience. Thank you Alp - can't wait to see you next time! Kris.Do not miss this experience!!!!

Marc🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Alp)

16 June 2025

We booked the Street Art Tour with Alp but it was so much more. He showed us his favourite food spots in Kadikoy, we had a nice Coffee break and the street art was really special. A wonderful way to see a different side of Istanbul. If you are not only interested in historic sites this tour is a must do!Awesome tour with Alp

Sophie

(About local Emir)

16 June 2025

The tour with Emir was a delight. Communication and arranging meeting point was easy, and the tour was exactly what we wanted - getting more information about Istanbul and a tour around a different neighbourhood. Emir was relaxed, friendly and fun! He is very knowledgeable and told us many stories and key (and fun) facts about Istanbul and explained about key monuments and sites along the tour. Loved the tour along the street food area, and information about charcuterie, sweets, typical breakfasts, lunches etc, and where to go and not to go for a more authentic experience. Tour ended at a fabulous baklava place for coffee and...well, baklava! (best tasted ever). He also sent various links to other places to visit after the tour. Was great to have this tour with such a friendly local. Would highly recommend Emir!Fantastic tour with a delightful guide!

linda🇮🇪 Ireland

(About local Abdullah)

15 June 2025

My sister and I had a 4 hour city tour with Apo and it was superb. I’d explained in advance that we wanted a general orientation at a leisurely pace and that’s exactly what he provided. He steered us away from the crowds where possible and besides the famous sights he took us to pretty streets, shops and cafes we’d never have found on our own. He gave us recommendations for a rooftop restaurant and a delightful Hammam, even calling them to make bookings for us. The morning was filled with plenty of laughter and it actually felt like spending the day with a friend! We bumped into lots of people he knew along the way - clearly he has many friends - and no wonder. As he’s from Cappadocia and knowing that was our next stop, he organised our airport transfers, a private tour and a Turkish night for us, even and calling to check on how things were going! Now that’s what I call service! What a delightful person and such an amazing guide, extremely knowledgeable and never boring. I’d book him again in a heartbeat! Thank you Apo, you were one of the highlights of our trip.

George🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Kadir Celal)

15 June 2025

Kadir was an exceptional guide during our time in Istanbul. He was not only patient and knowledgeable but also generous with his insights and time. His thoughtful and considerate approach to the tour kept everyone in our family, including our 12-year-old, fully engaged and included. Kadir's expertise and attentiveness made the experience truly enjoyable for all of us.Informative and Entertaining

Peter🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Ahmet Can)

15 June 2025

My girlfriend and I wanted to see and learn about the great Mosques in Istanbul, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have chosen Ahmet to be our guide! He was on time, spoke perfect English and demonstrated excellent knowledge about the history. Next to that he took the time and also showed us the cistern basilisk! It was like we got a tour from one of our friends. Overall amazing experience, thanks again Ahmet!A friendly professor

ANDREW🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

(About local Esra)

15 June 2025

Esra was an excellent guide for our day in Istanbul. She is full of knowledge and was great at explaining the history of the city. She organised a great tour for us and also recommended a great hammam experience and excellent restaurants. The grand bazaar was something to be seen as well. We loved her bubbly and professional personality. Would highly recommend her for anyone visiting Istanbul. We hope yo be able to see another part of Turkey with her at some later stage. Thank you Esra. 🙏❤️Great guide!

Ravi🇸🇬 Singapore

(About local Abdullah)

15 June 2025

This was our first trip to Istanbul and we had just one day and wanted to make sure we saw the major sights of the city but also could experience some off the beaten track spots and get a sense of the local flavor. Apo was an outstanding guide in that regard. He listened carefully to what we wanted to do and then crafted a great itinerary. Apart from the major highlights, we saw a gem of a street with lovely bookshops behind the Suleimani Mosque, had lunch at a lovely little restaurant that was not on the usual tourist beat, and he helped us shop for a few things that we wanted to pick up. Apart from his knowledge of the city and customizing the itinerary to exactly what we wanted, we liked that he has a great sense of humor and was not only informative but was great company through the day. Thank you for an outstanding introduction to your beautiful city Apo, and I hope you were successful in using the “you are like the moonlight” line! 😀Excellent one day introduction to Istanbul

Louise

(About local Emir)

14 June 2025

Emir provided fascinating insights into Istanbul history and culture, also offering great food recommendations. Free quiz included!! Our family (from the UK, hence the review title!) loved the experience and it was an absolute pleasure to meet Emir. Lovely jubbly!

Michael🇺🇸 United States

(About local Emre)

13 June 2025

Emre gave us an absolutely amazing tour. He told wonderful stories about Istanbul, taught us about the culture, and was incredibly knowledgeable about the food. The tastings were fabulous. He was also very kind to our young kids and knew how to keep them engaged. Come HUNGRY! We skipped breakfast and met him at 11AM and spent most of the day walking around the city and eating. I would also recommend Emre as a general guide for anything Istanbul. Hire This Guide Immediately.

Rabia🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Ahmet Can)

12 June 2025

Ahmed knows so much about the history of Istanbul and loves speaking about it. He made our visit to Hagia Sophia and surrounding more fun and meaningful. Very knowledgable

Erica🇸🇬 Singapore

(About local Ahmet Can)

12 June 2025

Our family had an amazing morning with Ahmet. He taught us how to navigate the tram system, before giving us an eye-opening tour of the Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome. Ahmet showed us special nooks in the Hagia Sophia and shared tales of palace intrigue. The buildings come alive with his stories of historical figures. He brought us to archaeological gems hidden in plain sight. He is passionate about Istanbul's cultural heritage and he a true gem.Thanks for an educational and entertaining morning!A True Gem

Duprette

(About local Faruk )

12 June 2025

Faruk was engaging and easygoing and took his time explaining things to us. We never felt rushed and enjoyed learning about tradition and his wonderful story about his marriage proposal. We had an amazing time with him and my parents booked an extra tour with him.Tasting Sensation

Unknown

(About local Emre)

12 June 2025

My wife Patricia and I booked a food tour with Emre during our visit to Istanbul commemorating the 30 anniversary of our marriage. Emre came highly recommended and he did not disappoint! He started with some simple bite sized samples of cheese and tea, explaining the cheese manufacturing industry in Turkey and how cheese is used in cuisine. Then we visited 10 food establishments and tried sweets like Turkish Delight (Lokum), doner kebab, wraps (durum) and lovely sesame encrusted simit bread among other local fare. Emre was so informative and patient answering our questions. His local knowledge of the history of the city and food / culture of Istanbul made the 3 hour tour with Emre really enjoyable. More than that, we made a new friend in Emre! We heartily recommend visiting Istanbul and experiencing her history and culture through a food tour. If you’re planning a visit, there’s nothing like having a knowledgeable and experienced guide to give literally a taste of life and history of Istanbul. Lovely experience of food in Istanbul

Mary Ann

(About local Emre)

12 June 2025

Emre was the most pleasant guide and made our experience fabulous. He immediately made us comfortable and our experience couldn’t have been better. The food was wonderful but so was the history and culture. I would recommend to again and again. Tasting Istanbul with a friend.

Charles🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Emre)

11 June 2025

Emre told us the stories and unique history behind the foods of Istanbul especially the wonderful cheeses as well as the food sellers in the market. I recommend booking Emre for a throughly enjoy tour of Istanbul,A food lovers guide to Istanbul

Chloe🇺🇸 United States

(About local Abdullah)

11 June 2025

My daughter had a 7hr layover in Istanbul. Abdullah was nice enough to meet her early in the morning, and he showed her amazing parts of Istanbul. She really learned a lot, and she said that Abdullah had terrific knowledge and energy. She was safe and happy being with him. Highly recommend Abdullah - he rocks!Awesome experience

Lynne🇺🇸 United States

(About local Emre)

11 June 2025

Emre was an absolute joy to spend the morning with in Istanbul. He took us off the beaten path through some charming neighborhoods away from all the hustle and bustle. He is incredibly knowledgeable and customized the tour to meet our needs. We enjoyed his laid-back personality and all the tastes of the local culture. This was definitely a highlight of our stay! I highly recommend Emre.Amazing food tour with local guide Emre

Stephanie

(About local Emre)

9 June 2025

Our group of 6 had an excellent tour with Emre. We visited a part of the city we did not know. He also catered for vegetarian. He is knowledgeable and fun to listen to. I can thoroughly recommend Emre ! Excellent fun food tour !

Unknown

(About local Alp)

9 June 2025

We really enjoyed Alp’s food tour. In writing this after two weeks in Turkey I can honestly say the best food we had was with him! He was able to add his background in arts to the street art in the Kadikoy area. Thank you alp for your observation of the vegan in our group and The Great tour!Excellent knowledge and kind personality!

Michel

(About local Abdullah)

9 June 2025

What we wanted was a tour through Istanbul off the beaten paths. Apo gave us exactly what we asked for and more. With stories about how to acsend to the heavens in every way. Mytholocial heavens, Religions, cultural heavens, food heaven, and drink heavens we have seen and done it all with Apo, whos knowledge seems to be as endless as heaven itself. Apo is a charming, witty and overall a great guy. Thank you Apo, see you soon.Stairway to Heaven

Chris🇿🇦 South Africa

(About local Lorena)

9 June 2025

We booked Lorena at the last minute—with just one day's notice—but still had a fantastic experience! She quickly got a sense of who we were and what our interests were. Despite the unique situation of it being a religious holiday in Turkey (Eid al-Adha), when many shops and restaurants were closed, Lorena remained calm and professional. She adapted seamlessly, showing us some of the city's cultural and heritage highlights instead of the planned culinary stops that were unavailable. Even after the tour, Lorena continued to add value by recommending some of her favorite local restaurants. Thank you, Lorena!Lorena Serena!

Reshma

(About local Faruk )

9 June 2025

We had a great time sampling delicious food with Faruk. He modified the agenda based on our feedback and preferences. He was easy to communicate with and was very responsive to requests and texts. Highly recommend! Fun evening in Istanbul

Mike

(About local muhammed)

8 June 2025

I was only able to spend a few hours with Muhammad but I can’t recommend him highly enough. Lots of insight. He got me to go over to the Asian side of the city and a ride on the ferry. Thank you. Made it special…and a lovely guy!Muhammed was awesome

Alessandra🇧🇷 Brazil

(About local Lorena)

8 June 2025

Decidimos fazer o tour gastronômico em Kadikoy porque queríamos sair do circuito turístico da cidade. E a Lorena, além de nos apresentar várias opções gastronômicas diferentes nos mostrou um lado da cidade que só quem mora em Istanbul conhece. Foi uma tarde muito agradável e especial! Recomendamos 1000% esse tour! Descobrindo uma outra Istanbul!!