Private tour in Istanbul Mehmet D

Private Istanbul Odyssey: Unveiling History, Culture, and Beauty in 3 Days

5.0

(4) reviews

-
Hours icon 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
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 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-8 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

Mehmet D.

4.9

Guide rating

135

Reviews

Tours delivered

1 hrs

Avg. response time

With 39 years of experience as a tour guide (since 1986), I’ve had the pleasure of guiding over 12,000 tourists from all over the world. Although I’m quite new to the ToursByLocals platform, I’m excited to share my passion for Istanbul with you! As a local who has lived in this vibrant city since childhood, I truly believe it is my responsibility to offer you an authentic experience that will become a treasured memory. My goal is for you to leave Istanbul with unforgettable moments. Having traveled to over 100 countries myself, I understand the joys and challenges of exploring new places. I’m dynamic, adaptable, and always eager to help solve any challenges you might face along the way, ensuring you have a wonderful and stress-free time. Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you'd like to know more about the tours I offer! Officially licensed Tourist Guide by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. Member of the Association of Tourist Guide Chamber of Istanbul. All of my tours are fully guaranteed and comply with the laws of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, so you can feel confident and safe during your journey.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Mehmet D.

Overview of your Istanbul tour

Day 1: Old Town (Walking & Public Transportation) We experience Istanbul's historical gems in Old Town. We visit the most famous historical sites of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman era. Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar. Day 2: Religious Heritage (Private Van with A/C) We explore Istanbul’s religious heritage, visiting Suleymaniye Mosque and Chora Church, and touring historic Jewish, Christian, and Muslim districts. Then, we stroll through Istiklal Street and the Galata Neighborhood (old Italian district). We end with a 2-hour Bosphorus boat tour, admiring views from both sides of Istanbul. Day 3: Local Experience in Two Sides (Walking & Public Transportation) We experience the both sides of Istanbul. We start from Dolmabahce, the majestic modern palace. Then we take a public boat from European to Asian side to experience the heart of the Asian side, Kadikoy, where we can eat great street food. Then, we go back to Constantinople and visit the Spice Market

Recent Reviews

Allan B.United States
October 2025

Mehmet is an excellent guide, extremely knowledgeable and passionate about this city. I have no hesitation recommending him. If you want to learn about Istanbul.

Thomas H.United States
August 2025

Mehmet was very knowledgable and very flexible to our suggestions for change. We had a great time seeing Istanbul with him over 3 days.

Margrit R.
September 2024

Mehmet provided us with the best 3-day experience of Istanbul we could hope for. His knowledge of everything from history, culture, art, food, local politics to relevant movies is amazing! He was also very accommodating to our needs and changes of plans. Having private transportation was just icing on the cake. Thank you, Mehmet! Margrit and Richard

Rema D.Canada
July 2024

Our two families (4 adults and 3 teenagers) spent 3 days with Mehmet seeing many of the historical site in Istanbul. Mehmet did a great job managing our groups needs and interested. It was clear that Mehmet has a keen interest and deep knowledge of all the sites that was very much appreciated by our group.

Your Istanbul tour itinerary

Day 1: (Old Town) - Topkapi Palace (closed on Tuesdays) with Harem - Blue Mosque (on Fridays can be visited in the afternoon) - Hippodrome - Hagia Sophia - Basilica Cistern - Grand Bazaar (closed on Sundays) Day 2: (Religious Heritage) (BY PRIVATE VAN) - Suleymaniye Mosque - Chora Church (closed on Fridays) - Golden Horn - Balat Neighbourhood (Former Jewish District) - Fener Neighbourhood (Church of St. George: the main patriarchate of the Orthodox World) - Taksim - Istiklal Street - Galata Tower Neighborhood - Bosphorus Tour (on public boat) (1:30 hours) Day 3: - Dolmabahce Palace (Closed on Mondays) - Boat to European/Asian Side (25-min) - Kadikoy - Heart of the Asian Side (Great Street Food) - Orient Express Station - Spice Bazaar There is dress code for the Blue Mosque and Haghia Sophia. *I can purchase tickets in advance to skip lines. If you prefer using your credit card on-site, expect long waits. ***Museum closures may require swapping Day 1 and Day 2 activities. ***Each day will last 7 hours.

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: Private Transportation / Category: Van

Day 1: Walking and Public Transportation Day 2: Private Van with A/C (Mercedes) with separate driver. And a public boat tour Day 3: Walking and Public Transportation ***If you want to be picked up/dropped off by a private van with separate driver at the airport, pier, or any location in Istanbul, kindly inform me, and I'll notify you know about the updated prices. (For the first and third day) ***IF YOU WANT TO HAVE A PRIVATE VAN WITH SEPARATE DRIVER AT YOUR SERVICE ON DAY 1 AND 3 TOO, KINDLY LET ME KNOW.

What's included
Other: Private Van is at our service only on Day 2.
Private Guide
Private Transportation With Driver
What's not included
Other: Public Transportation: 40 TL per person (per ride)
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: Topkapi Palace: 2750TL (Harem is included), Basilica Cistern: 2250 TL, Dolmabahce Palace: 2750 TL(Fast Track), Hagia Sophia: 30 € (Euro), Public Boat Tour: 400 TL, Chora Church 20 €(Euro) Blue Mosque: Free of Charge
Meeting location

İstanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye

Hotel, Cruise Ship Port(Galataport)

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Boat
Religious Sites
History
City Highlights
Tour reference number
1161919
Languages
English
French
Turkish
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Istanbul best suited for?

This private tour in Istanbul is perfect for travellers who want to delve deep into the city's rich history, culture, and beauty over three days. It's ideal for those interested in exploring historical sites from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras, as well as experiencing the religious heritage and local life on both sides of Istanbul. The tour is also kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

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?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

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 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
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 3 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
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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