Private tour in Istanbul Cem B
4.9
(15) reviews
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Cem B.
4.9
Guide rating
113
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Tours delivered
20 hrs
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Now that you’re reading my profile, you are very close to discovering the real Istanbul. I’m a licensed professional tourist guide, born and raised in Istanbul and still living in the Old City, where my family has been based for four generations. Guiding is not only my profession—it’s my life’s passion. I want my guests to leave Istanbul with rich knowledge, heartfelt memories, and delicious flavors that will stay on their palate for a long time. Exploring Istanbul with me means more than checking off the main sights. You will experience the city through its history, culture, local lifestyle, and hidden corners—from grand imperial landmarks to authentic neighborhoods where daily life continues just as it has for centuries. What makes my tours special is the combination of my background: I’m not only a historian guide, but also a chef guide. I hold a Master’s degree in Gastronomy and Culinary Arts, which allows me to introduce you to Turkish and Ottoman cuisine in a deeper and more meaningful way. I don’t simply “take you to eat”—I explain the stories, ingredients, traditions, and techniques behind what you taste. During our time together, I’ll bring you to the best places to try real Turkish food—from legendary street flavors to carefully selected restaurants, depending on your taste and expectations. If you stay longer in Istanbul, I will also gladly recommend personalized options for the rest of your trip (local favorites, fine dining, hidden gems, vegetarian-friendly, and more). For active travelers and sports lovers, I also offer bike tours that let you cover more ground in a fun and immersive way. As a cycling coach, I can adapt the pace and route to your level. And thanks to my training in athletic nutrition, I can also share practical tips for staying energized while exploring the city. At the end of an exciting day, you can reward yourself with an unforgettable Turkish bath (hamam) experience—and if you still have energy, Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife is waiting. I’d be happy to design the perfect day (or multi-day itinerary) for you. Welcome to Istanbul! Ora che state leggendo il mio profilo, siete davvero vicini a scoprire Istanbul. Sono una guida turistica professionista abilitata, nato e cresciuto a Istanbul e vivo tuttora nella Città Vecchia, dove la mia famiglia risiede da quattro generazioni. Guidare i viaggiatori non è soltanto il mio lavoro, ma la mia più grande passione: desidero che i miei ospiti lascino Istanbul con nuove conoscenze, ricordi emozionanti e sapori autentici che resteranno a lungo nel loro palato. Visitando Istanbul con me, non vi limiterete a vedere i principali monumenti: scoprirete anche la storia, la cultura e la vita quotidiana di questa città straordinaria. Dal fascino dell’antica Costantinopoli ai quartieri più caratteristici e genuini, costruiremo insieme un’esperienza su misura, lontana dai classici itinerari turistici. Ciò che rende speciali i miei tour è la combinazione del mio percorso: oltre ad essere una guida con una solida preparazione storica, sono anche una chef guide. Ho infatti conseguito un Master in Gastronomia e Arti Culinarie, e questo mi permette di raccontarvi la cucina turca e ottomana in modo approfondito: ingredienti, tecniche, tradizioni e storie che si nascondono dietro ogni sapore. Durante i tour vi porterò nei migliori posti per assaggiare la vera cucina turca, dallo street food più iconico ai ristoranti selezionati in base ai vostri gusti e alle vostre aspettative. Se resterete più giorni in città, sarò felice di consigliarvi anche altri locali e ristoranti perfetti per voi (tradizionali, moderni, fine dining, opzioni vegetariane e molto altro). Per chi ama lo sport e vuole vedere molto in poco tempo, organizzo anche tour in bicicletta: sono un cycling coach e posso adattare percorso e ritmo al vostro livello. Inoltre, avendo seguito una formazione in nutrizione sportiva, posso condividere anche suggerimenti pratici per mantenere energia e benessere durante il viaggio. Al termine di una giornata intensa e piacevole, potrete concedervi la giusta ricompensa con un autentico bagno turco (hamam)—e, se avrete ancora energie, la vibrante notte di Istanbul vi aspetta. Sarà un piacere accompagnarvi alla scoperta della mia città.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Cem B.
Istanbul Deluxe is a full-day sightseeing tour (approx. 7 hours) of the city by car. You will be picked up from your accomodations (hotel or apartment located in city center) and guided to discover all the best Istanbul has to offer. Besides visiting the most beautiful and iconic monuments, you will have the chance to gain an insight into Istanbul's daily life, seeing some aspects of the city which tourists normally miss. In an unforgettable day, you will learn a lot about the history, culture, and traditions of ancient and present-day Istanbul. Thanks to the privilege of the car, you will enjoy great comfort and full flexibility throughout the tour. The tour program will be tailor-made to fit your specific needs and wishes.
This is only a suggested itinerary, please note that the tour program can be tailor-made to suit your specific needs and wishes. Tour highlights (in the visiting order) include: - Hippodrome - Blue Mosque (cannot be visited on Friday before 3 p. m. ) - Topkapi Palace (closed on Tuesday) - Hagia Sophia (closed on Monday) - Basilica Cistern - Grand Bazaar (closed on Sunday)
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.
Private van and driver with AC Important Note : Due to local restrictions, cars are not allowed inside the Sultanahmet area, driver will drop us at the point which is allowed for cars and we'll continue the tour by walk. For the classic tour on Sultanahmet area we can use the car only for the transfers between your hotel (or port) with the entrance of touristic area. The walking distance between the monuments about 2 miles. If your hotel is located in Sultanahmet area you don't need to have a car.
İstanbul, İstanbul, 34433, Türkiye
The meeting location was selected as Galataport but I have a flexibility to change the meeting point provided that it is located in city center.
15 reviews
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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!
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