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.
Alternative Istanbul: Street Art Tour on the Asian Side
105 reviews
3 hours | art & culture tours | Istanbul
Want to escape the touristy crowds and mingle with the locals? Follow me to Yeldeğirmeni neighborhood of Kadıköy! Step into Istanbul's Asian side to discover this hip district and get ready to walk among the cool street art. On this private tour, you can absorb all the artistic vibes of 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.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and explore the peaceful island life on a bicycle adventure through beautiful pine forests and 19th-century historic mansions. Together with your local insider, you can discover the best gems outside the city, while getting local insights!
Kadikoy is the place to be! Explore one of the hippest neighborhoods in Istanbul and discover it bite by bite. Go to up & coming places and try one of the best Turkish dürüm kebap (wraps), street food in a hipster little pop-up restaurant, and a nice beer or cocktail in a local hip bar.
Alp, was a great guide. We arrived in Istanbul and met with Alp after dropping our bags at the hotel. Alp, showed us the city area, shared the history all around us, suggested places to eat, enjoy and visit. We would suggest that anyone spend time with Alp he is great!
Withlocals City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
Ariane
About local
22 May 2025
Another Istanbul experience
Oguz took us to several mosques and he took the time to explain a lot of history. We walked through Fener and Balat. Very interesting.
We walked through the market and had lunch in a very local place, which was very nice!
We had a great day!
Seven Hills of Istanbul ( City Walls-Balat and Fener )
Sara
About local
2 May 2025
A great way to start our stay in Istanbul!
We booked the Introduction to Istanbul tour with Emir for the first morning of our stay and we are so glad we did. Emir was a fantastic host, welcoming and full of knowledge! He provided us with lots of tips for how to make the most of time in Istanbul and some great foodie recommendations.
Withlocals City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
Cindy
About local
28 April 2025
Well worthwhile
Alp was the perfect tour guide. Despite much of the route being disrupted due to the marathon- he adapted his itinerary. Many interesting facts and great restaurant recommendations- thank you Alp.
Withlocals City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
Amanda
About local
17 April 2025
Walking and talking with a local
Deniz is a great human being who knows so much about Istanbul. We went through all sorts of areas ending up in the Asian side enjoying a very different part of this vibrant and friendly city. We had a great tea/coffee break. Deniz answered all sorts of questions and as others said made lots of great suggestions.
Withlocals City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
Pete
About local
Alternative Istanbul
We loved our tour with with Alp. It was just what we wanted. He knows so much about the street art and the history of the district.
If you are interested in street art I recommend Alp wholeheartedly.
Alternative Istanbul: Street Art Tour on the Asian Side
Florence and Andrew
About local
Wealth of knowledge.
Emir was the best I could want.
I ask a lot of questions and he knew the answer or quickly found it.
He was able to tie in our previous knowledge and experience and incorporate into the tour.
When I go back to Istanbul, I'll 💯 go with Emir and I'd recommend him to anyone.
Withlocals City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
Adnan
About local
Get the real feel of the city!
Oğuz has charted an excellent walking route through the city. It takes you through the inner streets. You see the rich history, culture and real day to day life of this vibrant city. He's very knowledgeable and engaging. Highly recommended.
Seven Hills of Istanbul ( City Walls-Balat and Fener )
Olive
About local
Excellent guide
We spent approximately 5 hrs with Hakan on a flight layover. He cheerfully greeted us at an ungodly hr of 6:00am and showed us an area that we had never explored in Istanbul. He was very knowledgeable and accommodating. His driver was also very good. It was interesting exploring the city in the early morning as it was coming alive. I would highly recommend his services.
Withlocals City Kickstart Tour: Istanbul
Nick
About local
Great!
Safiye was great, we really enjoyed our tour, and visited lots of places that we would not have done without her! Thanks Safiye!
