Private tour in Istanbul Muzaffer E

Highlights of Istanbul with Bosphorus Tour - Full Day Private Experience

5.0

(3) reviews

-
Hours icon 8 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Muzaffer E.

5.0

Guide rating

25

Reviews

Tours delivered

25 hrs

Avg. response time

Welcome to Türkiye! I am a professional tourist guide based in Istanbul, passionate about sharing the rich history, culture, and daily life of my hometown and country. Whether you are interested in iconic landmarks, hidden gems, art, archaeology, religion, food, or local traditions, I would be delighted to help create a meaningful and memorable experience tailored to your interests. After graduating as valedictorian from the Department of Econometrics at Uludağ University and gaining several years of professional experience in the finance and foreign trade sectors in Türkiye, I moved to the United States. While pursuing a master’s degree in Economics at George Washington University, I was awarded two prestigious postgraduate scholarships by the University of Nottingham. I subsequently moved to the United Kingdom and earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Economics from the University of Nottingham. Upon returning to Istanbul, I began a master’s degree in Econometrics at Marmara University (thesis in progress) with the aim of pursuing a PhD in Econometrics. It was also during this period that I took my first steps toward a professional career in tourism. During nearly four years in Washington, D.C., I served as a volunteer translator for Turkish delegations and international students hosted by non-profit organizations supported by the U.S. government. I also volunteered as a cultural guide for Turkish delegations and international students during cultural tours that included visits to the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum complex. These experiences inspired me to present Istanbul—my hometown— and Türkiye to international visitors in an accurate and meaningful way. After returning to Türkiye, I completed the Tourist Guidance Program at Cappadocia University on a full scholarship. I also hold an Associate Degree in Cultural Heritage and Tourism and have been studying Art History at Istanbul Medeniyet University. I look forward to welcoming you to Istanbul and helping you discover Türkiye through its history, culture, people, and stories. Thank you for your time and interest. All the best, Muzaffer E. * Licensed Professional Nationwide Tourist Guide, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Republic of Türkiye. * An expert guide in Istanbul / Cappadocia / Ephesus, Kusadasi and on the Eastern Roman Empire / Gobekli Tepe and Upper Mesopotamia / the Seven Churches of Revelation. * Currently an Art History student at Istanbul Medeniyet University. * AA in Cultural Heritage and Tourism, Istanbul University. * AA in Tourist Guidance, Cappadocia University. * PGCert in Economics, The University of Nottingham (UoN), UK. * Master's Classes in Economics taken, George Washington University (GWU), USA. * BA in Econometrics, Uludag University. * Member of Istanbul Tourist Guides Guild. * Member of Türkiye Tourist Guides Association. ** All my tours are fully guaranteed, comply with the Laws enforced by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, and cooperated with an A-Class Travel Agency (A-3000) registered in Türkiye Travel Agencies Association. Thus, you will feel confident and safe during your journey with my guidance. *** Unfortunately, my tours are not appropriate for wheelchair use.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Muzaffer E.

Overview of your Istanbul tour

Istanbul boasts a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period, with evidence of settlement as early as 6000 BCE. Known as Byzantium in ancient times, it became Constantinople in 330 CE when Emperor Constantine the Great made it the capital of the Roman Empire. In 1453, it became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Renamed Istanbul in 1930, it became part of the modern Turkish Republic founded by Ataturk. Today, it blends its ancient heritage with modern influences and serves as a vibrant cultural and tourist hub bridging Europe and Asia. This 8-hour tour explores the city’s most iconic landmarks. Discover the magnificent Hagia Sophia and its stunning dome, admire the elegant Blue Mosque, and visit the mysterious Basilica Cistern. See the historic Hippodrome adorned with ancient monuments, explore the colorful Spice Bazaar, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. The tour also includes a scenic Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia.

Your Istanbul tour itinerary

- Meet at the agreed location (e. g. hotel, accommodation, cruise ship port, station, monument). - Walk or Take public transportation (i. e. tram, metro) to Sultanahmet Square. - Hagia Sophia (with the Upper Gallery) - Basilica Cistern - Hippodrome - Blue Mosque - Grand Bazaar * - Spice Bazaar - Bosphorus Tour on a public boat - Return back to the agreed location. * On Sundays, Grand Bazaar is closed and alternative authentic antique shops are visited. ** This is a full-day tour and there will be a lunch break in a local restaurant. Please, kindly note that this private tour can be customized according to your wishes and preferences.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

This is a walking tour. Please, wear comfortable shoes. If you stay in a walking distance to the sites in the itinerary, we do not need any transportation. We may take public transportation (i. e. tram, metro) if needed. Upon request, I can arrange a private van with a driver for you.

What's included
Private Guide
Other: Priority Access (Skip-the-line) for Admission Tickets
What's not included
Tickets: Admission Ticket Fees (per person in your group): - Hagia Sophia (30 Euro), - Basilica Cistern (2500 Turkish Liras), Bosphorus Tour (300 Turkish Liras). *** Important Notice: Please, have enough cash on you on the tour date for your admission tickets in order to skip the long ticket lines.
Food Drinks Snacks
Public Transportation
Other: Personal Expenses
Meeting location

İstanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye

Hotel / Accommodation, Cruise Ship Port, Metro or Tram Station, Monument.

  • You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
Other details
Tour categories
Architecture
History
Art And Culture
Boat
City Highlights
Off The Beaten Path
Tour reference number
1304664
Languages
English
Turkish
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
5.0

Traveller reviews for this private tour in Istanbul

3 reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who is this private tour in Istanbul best suited for?

This private tour in Istanbul is perfect for travellers who want to explore the city's rich history and iconic landmarks with a knowledgeable local guide. It's suitable for families, including kids, and those who prefer a moderate level of activity. The tour is also ideal for cruise ship passengers looking for a comprehensive shore excursion.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Istanbul be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

Is this private tour in Istanbul suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 8 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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