Istanbul Private Tour Guide

$280,00
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Time: 09:00 - 18:00
Tour Type: Private Tour

Enjoy an 8-hour private tour guide service in Istanbul, tailored to your preferences. Explore iconic landmarks or hidden gems at your own pace with an expert local guide

Secure your booking with a 20% deposit per tour.
Pay the remaining balance in cash on the day of the tour.

Service Details

Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul, a city where East meets West and ancient history blends seamlessly with modern charm.

Led by a knowledgeable and passionate local guide, this tour takes you to Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Hagia Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Spice Market, and uncover hidden gems in the historic neighborhoods of Sultanahmet and Galata.

Learn fascinating stories about the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman past, its architectural wonders, and its cultural heritage. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate mosaics of the Basilica Cistern, enjoying panoramic views from the Galata Tower, or tasting authentic Turkish delights, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

With a personalized touch and insights tailored to your interests, this Istanbul Tour Guide experience ensures you see the city through the eyes of a local, making your visit truly unique. Discover Istanbul with a personalized 8-hour private tour guide service, offering the flexibility to customize your itinerary based on your interests.

You’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, dive into specific areas of interest, and enjoy a truly bespoke experience.

This private service is perfect for families, solo travelers, or small groups seeking a unique and intimate journey through Istanbul. From ancient sites to modern marvels, your adventure is in your hands—crafted with the expertise and passion of your dedicated guide.

Tour Highlights

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Mosque), Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower, Bosphorus, Istiklal Street, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, Istanbul Modern Art Museum, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar

Why Book This Service

  • Personalized Experience: Enjoy a fully customizable tour designed around your interests, giving you the freedom to explore Istanbul at your own pace.
  • Expert Guidance: Benefit from the insights and expertise of a licensed private tour guide who will share fascinating stories and local knowledge.
  • Flexible Itinerary: Tailor your day to include iconic landmarks, hidden gems, or unique experiences that suit your preferences.
  • Comprehensive Service: With up to 8 hours of dedicated guide service, you’ll have plenty of time to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture and history.
  • Stress-Free Planning: Free tour customization support ensures your itinerary is carefully crafted to make the most of your time in this incredible city.
  • Unforgettable Memories: Discover Istanbul in a way that is uniquely yours, creating lasting memories of one of the world’s most captivating cities.

What's Included

Full day licensed tour guide service

Please Note

  • This tour includes up to 8 hours of private licensed tour guide service. Additional hours can be arranged upon request at an extra charge.
  • Transportation, entrance fees, meals, and personal expenses are not included in the tour price. These can be arranged separately if needed.
  • The itinerary is fully customizable; please share your preferences in advance to allow for proper planning.
  • Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour may involve moderate walking.
  • Please inform us in advance of any special requirements, such as accessibility needs or dietary restrictions.
  • Tours start and end at a pre-arranged meeting point, such as your hotel or a central location.

Meeting Point

Your hotel or specified meeting point

Cancellation Details

Booking can be cancelled up to 3 day(s) before the tour start.

15 reviews for Istanbul Private Tour Guide
4.9
Based on 15 reviews
5 star
93
93%
4 star
6
6%
3 star
0%
2 star
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1 star
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Tour Pictures from Travelers

Image #1 from Hagen W.B
Image #2 from Hagen W.B
Image #3 from Hagen W.B
Image #4 from Hagen W.B
Image #5 from Hagen W.B
Image #1 from Hagen W.B

Hagen W.B

We booked the tour directly. We actually didn’t know how the process would work. We paid the deposit and received a confirmation email. Just a day before the tour started, we got a WhatsApp message from our tour guide Ozgen. He contacted us and asked about our preferences, and together we created an itinerary! It was amazing. He explained all the details and answered all our questions. We took the tram from our hotel to the Old City. He used his card for the tram, and it cost a very small fee, like 25-30 Turkish Lira. The tram ride to the Old City was about 10-15 minutes — our stop was Findikzade, and we got off at Sultanahmet stop. We first visited the Blue Mosque, spent around 30 minutes there, and then visited Hagia Sophia, which is right opposite the mosque. After that, we walked to Topkapi Palace, located behind Hagia Sophia. Ozgen helped us buy the tickets and skip all the queues! We felt like the mayor of the city :) After Topkapi Palace, he suggested walking the back way to see the Archaeological Museum and Gulhane Park. We stopped for lunch at a cozy street restaurant. There are many places around where you can enjoy a nice meal. Then we walked just 2 minutes to the Basilica Cistern, spent about 30-45 minutes there, and finally walked around 5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar, our last stop of the tour. We took the tram back to the hotel, which was perfect because we avoided all the traffic jams. It was the smoothest tour I’ve ever joined in my life, even in such a crowded and busy city. Highly SUGGESTED! Special thanks to my friend Ozgen who did his best for us.

(1) (0)
Image #2 from Hagen W.B

Hagen W.B

We booked the tour directly. We actually didn’t know how the process would work. We paid the deposit and received a confirmation email. Just a day before the tour started, we got a WhatsApp message from our tour guide Ozgen. He contacted us and asked about our preferences, and together we created an itinerary! It was amazing. He explained all the details and answered all our questions. We took the tram from our hotel to the Old City. He used his card for the tram, and it cost a very small fee, like 25-30 Turkish Lira. The tram ride to the Old City was about 10-15 minutes — our stop was Findikzade, and we got off at Sultanahmet stop. We first visited the Blue Mosque, spent around 30 minutes there, and then visited Hagia Sophia, which is right opposite the mosque. After that, we walked to Topkapi Palace, located behind Hagia Sophia. Ozgen helped us buy the tickets and skip all the queues! We felt like the mayor of the city :) After Topkapi Palace, he suggested walking the back way to see the Archaeological Museum and Gulhane Park. We stopped for lunch at a cozy street restaurant. There are many places around where you can enjoy a nice meal. Then we walked just 2 minutes to the Basilica Cistern, spent about 30-45 minutes there, and finally walked around 5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar, our last stop of the tour. We took the tram back to the hotel, which was perfect because we avoided all the traffic jams. It was the smoothest tour I’ve ever joined in my life, even in such a crowded and busy city. Highly SUGGESTED! Special thanks to my friend Ozgen who did his best for us.

(1) (0)
Image #3 from Hagen W.B

Hagen W.B

We booked the tour directly. We actually didn’t know how the process would work. We paid the deposit and received a confirmation email. Just a day before the tour started, we got a WhatsApp message from our tour guide Ozgen. He contacted us and asked about our preferences, and together we created an itinerary! It was amazing. He explained all the details and answered all our questions. We took the tram from our hotel to the Old City. He used his card for the tram, and it cost a very small fee, like 25-30 Turkish Lira. The tram ride to the Old City was about 10-15 minutes — our stop was Findikzade, and we got off at Sultanahmet stop. We first visited the Blue Mosque, spent around 30 minutes there, and then visited Hagia Sophia, which is right opposite the mosque. After that, we walked to Topkapi Palace, located behind Hagia Sophia. Ozgen helped us buy the tickets and skip all the queues! We felt like the mayor of the city :) After Topkapi Palace, he suggested walking the back way to see the Archaeological Museum and Gulhane Park. We stopped for lunch at a cozy street restaurant. There are many places around where you can enjoy a nice meal. Then we walked just 2 minutes to the Basilica Cistern, spent about 30-45 minutes there, and finally walked around 5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar, our last stop of the tour. We took the tram back to the hotel, which was perfect because we avoided all the traffic jams. It was the smoothest tour I’ve ever joined in my life, even in such a crowded and busy city. Highly SUGGESTED! Special thanks to my friend Ozgen who did his best for us.

(1) (0)
Image #4 from Hagen W.B

Hagen W.B

We booked the tour directly. We actually didn’t know how the process would work. We paid the deposit and received a confirmation email. Just a day before the tour started, we got a WhatsApp message from our tour guide Ozgen. He contacted us and asked about our preferences, and together we created an itinerary! It was amazing. He explained all the details and answered all our questions. We took the tram from our hotel to the Old City. He used his card for the tram, and it cost a very small fee, like 25-30 Turkish Lira. The tram ride to the Old City was about 10-15 minutes — our stop was Findikzade, and we got off at Sultanahmet stop. We first visited the Blue Mosque, spent around 30 minutes there, and then visited Hagia Sophia, which is right opposite the mosque. After that, we walked to Topkapi Palace, located behind Hagia Sophia. Ozgen helped us buy the tickets and skip all the queues! We felt like the mayor of the city :) After Topkapi Palace, he suggested walking the back way to see the Archaeological Museum and Gulhane Park. We stopped for lunch at a cozy street restaurant. There are many places around where you can enjoy a nice meal. Then we walked just 2 minutes to the Basilica Cistern, spent about 30-45 minutes there, and finally walked around 5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar, our last stop of the tour. We took the tram back to the hotel, which was perfect because we avoided all the traffic jams. It was the smoothest tour I’ve ever joined in my life, even in such a crowded and busy city. Highly SUGGESTED! Special thanks to my friend Ozgen who did his best for us.

(1) (0)
Image #5 from Hagen W.B

Hagen W.B

We booked the tour directly. We actually didn’t know how the process would work. We paid the deposit and received a confirmation email. Just a day before the tour started, we got a WhatsApp message from our tour guide Ozgen. He contacted us and asked about our preferences, and together we created an itinerary! It was amazing. He explained all the details and answered all our questions. We took the tram from our hotel to the Old City. He used his card for the tram, and it cost a very small fee, like 25-30 Turkish Lira. The tram ride to the Old City was about 10-15 minutes — our stop was Findikzade, and we got off at Sultanahmet stop. We first visited the Blue Mosque, spent around 30 minutes there, and then visited Hagia Sophia, which is right opposite the mosque. After that, we walked to Topkapi Palace, located behind Hagia Sophia. Ozgen helped us buy the tickets and skip all the queues! We felt like the mayor of the city :) After Topkapi Palace, he suggested walking the back way to see the Archaeological Museum and Gulhane Park. We stopped for lunch at a cozy street restaurant. There are many places around where you can enjoy a nice meal. Then we walked just 2 minutes to the Basilica Cistern, spent about 30-45 minutes there, and finally walked around 5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar, our last stop of the tour. We took the tram back to the hotel, which was perfect because we avoided all the traffic jams. It was the smoothest tour I’ve ever joined in my life, even in such a crowded and busy city. Highly SUGGESTED! Special thanks to my friend Ozgen who did his best for us.

(1) (0)
Image #6 from Alan Pollard

Alan Pollard

I always tell my friends if you’re visiting istanbul for the first time this is what you should do. Hire a tour guide who knows the city best!.You’ll fall in love with the city after seeing these places. Ozgen has amazing fluent language and easy-going to make your tour programme.

(0) (0)
Image #7 from Alan Pollard

Alan Pollard

I always tell my friends if you’re visiting istanbul for the first time this is what you should do. Hire a tour guide who knows the city best!.You’ll fall in love with the city after seeing these places. Ozgen has amazing fluent language and easy-going to make your tour programme.

(0) (0)
Image #8 from Alan Pollard

Alan Pollard

I always tell my friends if you’re visiting istanbul for the first time this is what you should do. Hire a tour guide who knows the city best!.You’ll fall in love with the city after seeing these places. Ozgen has amazing fluent language and easy-going to make your tour programme.

(0) (0)
Image #9 from Alan Pollard

Alan Pollard

I always tell my friends if you’re visiting istanbul for the first time this is what you should do. Hire a tour guide who knows the city best!.You’ll fall in love with the city after seeing these places. Ozgen has amazing fluent language and easy-going to make your tour programme.

(0) (0)
Image #10 from Lynn Evans

Lynn Evans

What I loved about this tour with Ozgen was the balance. We visited iconic places like Dolmabahce Palace and Hagia Sophia, but also spent time walking in local markets and having Turkish coffee. It didn’t feel rushed, and Ozgen made the whole city come alive with his stories.

(0) (0)
Image #11 from Eva

Eva

If you’re thinking of booking Ozgen just do it. He knows the city like the back of his hand and makes history sound interesting not like reading from a textbook plus the boat ride at the end is the best way to relax.

(0) (0)
Image #12 from Katherine Bennett

Katherine Bennett

i did a similar tour 3 years ago and honestly it saves so much time having a guide explain everything instead of trying to figure it out yourself also skipping the long ticket lines at topkapi is a big plus

(0) (0)
Image #13 from Katherine Bennett

Katherine Bennett

i did a similar tour 3 years ago and honestly it saves so much time having a guide explain everything instead of trying to figure it out yourself also skipping the long ticket lines at topkapi is a big plus

(0) (0)
Image #14 from Katherine Bennett

Katherine Bennett

i did a similar tour 3 years ago and honestly it saves so much time having a guide explain everything instead of trying to figure it out yourself also skipping the long ticket lines at topkapi is a big plus

(0) (0)
Image #15 from Katherine Bennett

Katherine Bennett

i did a similar tour 3 years ago and honestly it saves so much time having a guide explain everything instead of trying to figure it out yourself also skipping the long ticket lines at topkapi is a big plus

(0) (0)
Image #16 from Simon D.

Simon D.

We spent a full day exploring Istanbul with Ozgen, and honestly, it was the best decision. He’s a licensed guide who knows not only the Old City but also places like Dolmabahce Palace, Camlica Hill, and the Asian side. It felt like seeing the famous highlights and the real neighborhoods where locals live.

(0) (0)
Image #17 from Simon D.

Simon D.

We spent a full day exploring Istanbul with Ozgen, and honestly, it was the best decision. He’s a licensed guide who knows not only the Old City but also places like Dolmabahce Palace, Camlica Hill, and the Asian side. It felt like seeing the famous highlights and the real neighborhoods where locals live.

(0) (0)
Image #18 from Simon D.

Simon D.

We spent a full day exploring Istanbul with Ozgen, and honestly, it was the best decision. He’s a licensed guide who knows not only the Old City but also places like Dolmabahce Palace, Camlica Hill, and the Asian side. It felt like seeing the famous highlights and the real neighborhoods where locals live.

(0) (0)
Image #19 from Simon D.

Simon D.

We spent a full day exploring Istanbul with Ozgen, and honestly, it was the best decision. He’s a licensed guide who knows not only the Old City but also places like Dolmabahce Palace, Camlica Hill, and the Asian side. It felt like seeing the famous highlights and the real neighborhoods where locals live.

(0) (0)
Image #20 from Simon D.

Simon D.

We spent a full day exploring Istanbul with Ozgen, and honestly, it was the best decision. He’s a licensed guide who knows not only the Old City but also places like Dolmabahce Palace, Camlica Hill, and the Asian side. It felt like seeing the famous highlights and the real neighborhoods where locals live.

(0) (0)
Image #21 from Steven W.

Steven W.

Wow this is basically the must-see istanbul trip all packed into one day love that it includes both the old city and the bosphorus

(0) (0)
Image #1 from Hagen W.B
Image #2 from Hagen W.B
Image #3 from Hagen W.B
Image #4 from Hagen W.B
Image #5 from Hagen W.B
Image #6 from Alan Pollard
Image #7 from Alan Pollard
Image #8 from Alan Pollard
Image #9 from Alan Pollard
Image #10 from Lynn Evans
Image #11 from Eva
Image #12 from Katherine Bennett
Image #13 from Katherine Bennett
Image #14 from Katherine Bennett
Image #15 from Katherine Bennett
Image #16 from Simon D.
Image #17 from Simon D.
Image #18 from Simon D.
Image #19 from Simon D.
Image #20 from Simon D.
Image #21 from Steven W.
1-10 of 15 reviews

  1. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    We booked the tour directly. We actually didn’t know how the process would work. We paid the deposit and received a confirmation email. Just a day before the tour started, we got a WhatsApp message from our tour guide Ozgen. He contacted us and asked about our preferences, and together we created an itinerary! It was amazing. He explained all the details and answered all our questions.

    We took the tram from our hotel to the Old City. He used his card for the tram, and it cost a very small fee, like 25-30 Turkish Lira. The tram ride to the Old City was about 10-15 minutes — our stop was Findikzade, and we got off at Sultanahmet stop.

    We first visited the Blue Mosque, spent around 30 minutes there, and then visited Hagia Sophia, which is right opposite the mosque. After that, we walked to Topkapi Palace, located behind Hagia Sophia.

    Ozgen helped us buy the tickets and skip all the queues! We felt like the mayor of the city 🙂

    After Topkapi Palace, he suggested walking the back way to see the Archaeological Museum and Gulhane Park. We stopped for lunch at a cozy street restaurant. There are many places around where you can enjoy a nice meal.

    Then we walked just 2 minutes to the Basilica Cistern, spent about 30-45 minutes there, and finally walked around 5 minutes to the Grand Bazaar, our last stop of the tour.

    We took the tram back to the hotel, which was perfect because we avoided all the traffic jams.

    It was the smoothest tour I’ve ever joined in my life, even in such a crowded and busy city.

    Highly SUGGESTED! Special thanks to my friend Ozgen who did his best for us.

    Tour Host Reply: Thank you so much for your kind and detailed review! It was truly my pleasure to guide you through Istanbul and help you experience the city in a smooth and enjoyable way. I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour and felt comfortable exploring even in the busy streets of the Old City. I always try to personalize each tour according to my guests' interests, and it's great to know that our itinerary worked perfectly for you. Using public transportation like the tram is one of the easiest ways to avoid traffic and travel like a local, and I’m glad you enjoyed that part of the experience too. I hope to welcome you again for more hidden gems and unforgettable moments in Turkey. Wishing you all the best in your future travels!
    Image #1 from Hagen W.B
    Image #2 from Hagen W.B
    Image #3 from Hagen W.B
    Image #4 from Hagen W.B
    Image #5 from Hagen W.B
    (1) (0)

  2. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    Ozgen was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, making the rich history of Istanbul come alive. We explored Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar at a perfect pace. His local insights and hidden gems made this experience unforgettable. Highly recommend him to anyone visiting Istanbul for the first time!

    Tour Host Reply: Hi Dear Isaac, It was a pleasure guiding you through Istanbul's beautiful history. I’m happy to hear you enjoyed your time visiting Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Wishing you wonderful travels ahead, and I hope to welcome you back to Turkey someday! Ozgen
    (1) (0)

  3. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    I always tell my friends if you’re visiting istanbul for the first time this is what you should do. Hire a tour guide who knows the city best!.You’ll fall in love with the city after seeing these places. Ozgen has amazing fluent language and easy-going to make your tour programme.

    Image #1 from Alan Pollard
    Image #2 from Alan Pollard
    Image #3 from Alan Pollard
    Image #4 from Alan Pollard
    (0) (0)

  4. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    What I loved about this tour with Ozgen was the balance. We visited iconic places like Dolmabahce Palace and Hagia Sophia, but also spent time walking in local markets and having Turkish coffee. It didn’t feel rushed, and Ozgen made the whole city come alive with his stories.

    Image #1 from Lynn Evans
    (0) (0)

  5. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    If you’re thinking of booking Ozgen just do it. He knows the city like the back of his hand and makes history sound interesting not like reading from a textbook plus the boat ride at the end is the best way to relax.

    Image #1 from Eva
    (0) (0)

  6. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    Ozgen showed us Istanbul from a local’s perspective. Of course, we saw Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, but what made the day special was visiting places like the Spice Market. He’s super knowledgeable and passionate about the whole city, not just the touristy parts.

    (0) (0)

  7. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    We had ozgen as our guide and honestly he made the whole day so fun and easy to follow he explained every little detail without making it boring and showed us hidden corners we’d never find alone i wish we could book him for next day but he wasnt available

    (0) (0)

  8. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    Istanbul is a huge and beautiful city, and Ozgen helped us discover both sides of it — from the palaces and mosques to the quieter neighborhoods on the Asian side. we took Marmay tram. He’s a licensed guide who really knows his stuff and made sure we didn’t miss the small details that make this city so special.

    (0) (0)

  9. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    If you want to feel the real Istanbul, this tour is for you. We crossed continents, explored hidden streets, and of course saw the major landmarks. Ozgen made it fun and easy to understand the history and culture.

    (0) (0)

  10. Experience :
    Operation :
    Knowledge :

    i did a similar tour 3 years ago and honestly it saves so much time having a guide explain everything instead of trying to figure it out yourself also skipping the long ticket lines at topkapi is a big plus

    Image #1 from Katherine Bennett
    Image #2 from Katherine Bennett
    Image #3 from Katherine Bennett
    Image #4 from Katherine Bennett
    (0) (0)
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