Welcome to Istanbul! Want to know the best places to eat? Cool events in town? Which places to go to and which to avoid? Or simply get some help to navigate the city? Book this private tour with a local and get the perfect introduction to Istanbul to start your city trip on the right foot.
Want to see the best of Istanbul? We got you covered. But as you can expect from a Withlocals experience, the real excitement is its hidden gems. Join your favorite local and get a feeling of the city's real vibe on a tour that has it all, so you can say: I experienced the real Istanbul!
You’ve probably heard that Istanbul is well-known for Hagia Sophia, but do you know the stories and origin behind it? Or how much influence it has on the locals daily life? On this private city tour, you are in for a cultural treat!
Ready to taste the best food in Istanbul? Satisfy your cravings for local food and culture with highlights along the way, together with a foodie host. Enjoy 10 delicious and typical tastings that range from sweet to savory as well as drinks on a tasty food tour in Istanbul.
As the sun sets, Istanbul lights up, the heat of the day fades, and the tourist crowds start to thin out. This is the time to enjoy the city at its atmospheric best on a private tour with a local! Take in glittering highlights and the local ambiance that only the evening brings out in Istanbul.
Ready to get creative? Be part of a fun jewelry workshop taught by a friendly local “usta”. Step into his studio for a perfect hands-on experience that will teach you how to create and design your own accessories through different techniques.
Go off the beaten path on a journey full of hidden gems! Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover tranquil green spaces, local neighborhoods with a lively atmosphere, and a bazaar filled with interesting handicrafts, Turkish products, and textiles.
Mezes are one of the favorite eating traditions in Istanbul, want to learn how to prepare them? Join me on a private cooking workshop where you'll learn how to prepare delicious Turkish appetizers. Eat what you cook, enjoy some drinks and have a good time!
Famous for its relaxing baths, what better place than Istanbul to enjoy a calming spa experience? Let your worries wash away as you enjoy three delightful spa treatments. Plus take some time to unwind in the sauna and on the belly stone. You’ll leave revitalized and ready to continue exploring.
Explore Topkapi Palace & Surroundings with a Local
1514 reviews
3 hours | art & culture tours | Istanbul
A quick visit to the Topkapi Palace is not enough. There are other spots worth checking out outside this attraction, and your local host knows exactly where. Combine your visit to the Topkapi Palace with a touch of hidden gems and an easy access to this famous attraction, and you are set for a good time!
Hands down, Ayşenur is the best guide I have ever had! She customized my tour perfectly. Her friendly, fun and engaging approach made her extensive knowledge range even more palatable. Thank you so much for an amazing tour and I look forward to next. (There will absolutely be a next time!)
A Magical Evening in Istanbul: City Tour
Marina
About local
16 February 2025
Terrific
Our 3 hour tour with Neslihan was amazing: we laughed a lot, seen a lot, learnt a lot and ended up with a list of recommendations for the rest of our trip. Neslihan loves the city and it’s infectious! She knows it’s history and culture and shares her knowledge in a light and engaging way: surprised just how much we’ve learnt whilst having fun! Could not recommend Neslihan highly enough.
Highlights & Hidden Gems of Istanbul
Ann
About local
1 February 2025
I honestly don’t know where to start. Dilek was amazing and it was like I was learning about the city from a friend. Her communication, from the moment I set up the tour until the moment I met her was fabulous. We chatted and got to know each other. She arranged for me to have transportation and it was the best decision! Dilek’s in depth knowledge of Istanbul is second to none, and we had wonderful conversations wandering the cobblestone streets lined with cafes and restaurants. We were able to see the Hagia Sofia, Cisterns, Spice Market, old city, new city, galata port, and so much more! I fell in love with Istanbul in large part because of Dilek. I didn’t just have a tour. I explored an amazing city with a friend, and made memories that will last me forever.
Highlights & Hidden Gems of Istanbul
Melina
About local
19 January 2025
Explored Istanbul with the best guide
My experience has been seamless and customised according to my requirements. I had a long transit between my flights and booked this experience to see the main sites around Istanbul. Gülce organised the best transfer.
Gülce was very friendly and kind which made my experience enjoyable. She even showed me some extra places like the Grand Bazaar and we had dinner at a nice restaurant by the Bosphorus which had the most delicious dishes. She knew how to time the visits well and advised on the best way to navigate through Istanbul traffic. Unfortunately the weather was really cold and windy, but I will be back again and enjoy Istanbul better next time. Thanks a lot Gülce for everything.
