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!
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.
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.
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.
Explore Topkapi Palace & Surroundings with a Local
1515 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!
Diana was a fabulous guide. The whole tour was all about quality. Quality goods, quality vendors and a very knowledgeable quality guide in Diana. I would highly recommend Diana as she made a potential chaotic day into an easy relaxing enjoyable day!!!
The Antique Gems of Istanbul Tour
Sharan
About local
Diana: Curation with Care & Comfort.
This tour with Diana isn't about she wants to show us, instead it is centred around what we had wished to do.
As a personal shopper with several decades of experience, having treaded across the multifarious shops in Istanbul's back alleys and the labyrinthine market streets, Diana presented to us true value. Nestled among the sea of fakes and counterfeited products which are in abundance, especially at the Grand Bazaar, Diana's selection of outlets showcased the depth of Turkiye's artistic beauty. From Ceramics to Bathware and from Carpets to Fabrics, Diana guided us to find products of the highest quality, based on our requirements to suit our budget.
To simply put it, we would've been lost both literally and figuratively, in the multitude of stores, unable to spot fake from original and not knowing where to go, if not for Diana's presence.
But this alone isn't what sets her apart. Irrespective of rains and inclement weather, Diana chose to meet us at the hotel instead of a designated pickup spot, explained to us in detail the essence of this tour and that she wasn't bound by any timelines since shopping didn't and couldn't work with the stresses of deadlines and irrespective of it becoming late and well past her your time, chose to walk us to our Hamam in Sultanahmet more than a mile away from our shopping zone, even holding our arms to ensure that we didn't slip and arms.
On a cold windy rainy day in Istanbul, Diana's tour was filled with warmth and it was perfect icing on the last day of our ten day trip.
The Antique Gems of Istanbul Tour
Joel
About local
Thank you, Diana
The Antique Gems of Istanbul Tour
Karen
About local
A memorable walk through Galata.
As a photographer on my first trip to Istanbul I wanted to make sure that I saw the city but also that I had the opportunity to explore areas that tourists wouldn't normally go. I enjoy street photography, but knew I had lots to learn, so I was thrilled to be able to enlist someone as skilled as Kemal as my guide for a half day. He led me up and down the side streets of Galata and gave me fantastic pointers on what watch for, what to do, and how to set myself up for solid street images. I learned lots that I was able to put into use through the remainder of my stay in Istanbul.
In this day and age when everyone seems to be about their Instagram shot, it was great to meet someone who cares about old school photography and is willing to share both his technical skills and his knowledge of the city. Beyond that, Kemal was personable and had a good sense of humor. I'd highly recommend him to anyone, including single women who might be nervous about going out alone with their camera.
