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Private tour in Istanbul Dilek O
Hidden Istanbul Grand Bazaar Rooftop Tour
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5 hours
1
Tour date
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5 hours
1
Dilek O.
4.9
Guide rating
258
Reviews
Tours delivered
12 hrs
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Hi everyone, My name is Dilek, a national-licensed tour guide. I am 40 years old and have been guiding for 12 years. My husband is from Mexico as a Mexican Turkish family and with our two young kids we live in Istanbul. When I don't work I spend most of my time outdoor with my family, enjoying Istanbul as much as we can. We go out, try to discover new restaurants, new museums, art galleries, children's activities. I am qualified in the knowledge of Turkish history, mythology, archaeology, history of religion, and history of art. I speak English and Spanish. Following my university graduation, I lived in England for 5 years where I continued my education studying Travel and Tourism at Greenwich School of Management. After I lived a short time in Guatemala, Cuba to learn Spanish. On my tour I would like to show you architectural styles, historical fun facts, famous historical monuments, tell you about the people's life in Istanbul, how we spend our days, where do people go to eat, what we eat, where we shop, what we listen, the best places to eat, drink and party. As your local guide, I am flexible to your wishes and needs. Making it interesting and enjoyable for you is my wish. With all of my years of experience in the travel industry, I hope to help you make the most of your time in beautiful Istanbul by taking a tour with me. I very much look forward to meeting you all! Tourist Guide Licence approved by Ministry of Turkey. In accordance with the recent amendments of laws regarding tour guiding in Turkey, the guides are not allowed to directly sell tours. So, please note that the tours quaranteed here are to be by means of an officialy registered A Class Tourism & Travel Agency. I am not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle or i can arrange for a separate car and driver
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Dilek O.
An Istanbul Experience from Underground to the Sky
Overview of your Istanbul tour
Step into the shadows of history with an exclusive, 5-hour journey designed for those who seek the extraordinary. This isn't just a sightseeing trip; it’s a dramatic narrative arc that takes you from the silent depths of Byzantine cisterns to the soaring heights of the Grand Bazaar’s private rooftops. Discover the "Hidden Istanbul" that remains invisible to the average traveler. We begin in the serene halls of a Mimar Sinan masterpiece, uncovering sacred relics far from the tourist throngs. You’ll then descend into an ancient underground world before ascending for the tour’s crown jewel: exclusive access to the Grand Bazaar roof. Walk where James Bond once raced, capture the iconic "sea of domes" panorama, and feel the pulse of centuries-old craftsmanship beneath your feet. We conclude at the majestic Süleymaniye, where the city’s skyline was first envisioned. Led by a local expert, this premium experience offers a rare sense of privilege and a deep connection to Istanbul’s soul.
Your Istanbul tour itinerary
Stop 1: Sokullu Mehmet Paşa Mosque A hidden gem, this Mimar Sinan masterpiece features Iznik tiles and sacred Hacerü’l-Esved fragments. It is a sanctuary of peace away from the crowds. Stop 2: Underground Cistern We descend beneath a local shop to explore a 6th-century cistern. This "Underground Istanbul" site offers a cool, atmospheric contrast to the bustling streets. Stop 3: Grand Bazaar Rooftop The tour’s climax. Gain rare entry to the labyrinthine rooftops of the world's oldest mall. Hear of fire-watchers, see Skyfall filming locations, and enjoy a private panoramic ritual. Stop 4: Büyük Valide Han Visit the courtyard of this 17th-century caravanserai. Hear tales of Kösem Sultan and the Persian merchants who turned this site into a trade hub, anchoring Istanbul’s vanishing culture. Stop 5: Süleymaniye & Spice Market A short walk leads us to Sinan’s Süleymaniye Mosque for a breathtaking silhouette. We conclude at the vibrant Spice Market, where the Silk Road scents bring our story to a close.
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Transport details
Type: Walking
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What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
50a Şehit Mehmetpaşa Ykş., İstanbul, İstanbul, 34122, Türkiye
You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
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Languages
English
Spanish
TurkishActivity level
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5 hours
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Tour date
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5 hours
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.