Private tour in Istanbul Mehmet D
4.8
(4) reviews
2 days
1
2 days
1
Mehmet D.
4.9
Guide rating
139
Reviews
Tours delivered
2 hrs
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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.
Day 1: Experience Istanbul's historical gems. Explore the majestic Topkapi Palace, the royal residence of the Ottoman sultans, including the mysterious Harem section. Admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque, which enchants visitors with its mesmerizing tilework. Discover the ancient Hippodrome, once a lively chariot racing arena. Step into Hagia Sophia, which was the largest church over 1000 years in the world till the construction of the St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Descend into the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir with impressive columns. Wrap up the day by wandering through the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant maze of shops. Day 2: Visit the Dolmabahce Palace, the European style royal residence of the Ottoman Empire. Enjoy a 1h 45m Bosphorus cruise with views of palaces and waterfront mansions. And then we'll visit the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, renowned for its exquisite Iznik tiles. No visit to Istanbul is complete without a stop at the Spice Bazaar, where you'll taste the best Turkish Delight.
Mehmet was the consummate professional guide. He is organized, punctual and helpful. Skipping lines, tickets in advance, knowing how to avoid crowds, overall fantastic guide. Got to see all the best parts of Istanbul. Great trip.
Mehmet was great! Excellent command of English. Got us through all of the sights without a wait, was very punctual, and flexible with whatever we wanted to do. Thank you for 2 wonderful days Mehmet!
Mehmet was the perfect choice for a tour guide in Istanbul. He organized a 2 day tour for us and adjusted the itinerary to suit our needs. He’s very knowledgeable about the history of Turkey. Mehmet is personable, friendly, professional and takes great pride in his caring for us during our tour. He took us to lunch at local restaurants to have a real Turkish experience. They were perfect. We are 100% pleased with Mehmet, the transportation he provided and the driver. We would use him again in Istanbul and will recommend him to anyone looking for the perfect guide in Istanbul.
Before even arriving, Mehmet was responsive and customer-focused. We had a large group (n=9) with wide age range (20-87). Based on this, I made multiple requests to customize our tour (eg size of our group, wheelchair rental, minibus with driver, as well as addition of sites not on the standard tour). Mehmet accommodated all our requests. Once we arrived in Istanbul, Mehmet sent a reminder the day before confirming meet up location. On the day of the tour, Mehmet arrived at our hotel ahead of time and immediately created a relaxed/fun atmosphere. He was attentive to each member of our group, especially looking after the two elder members, at times even pushing the wheelchair. Mehmet was an expert at improvising based on the circumstances. Throughout, he was patient despite multiple delays for bathroom breaks. He answered all our questions and shared lots of interesting facts throughout.
This is the recommended tour if you have 2-days in Istanbul. Day 1: - Topkapi Palace (closed on Tuesdays) with Harem - Blue Mosque (on Fridays can be visited in the afternoon) - Hippodrom - Hagia Sophia - Basilica Cistern - Grand Bazaar (closed on Sundays and holidays) Day 2: - Dolmabahce Palace (Closed on Mondays) - Bosphorus Tour (on public boat) (1:45 hours) - Rustem Pasha Mosque - Spice Bazaar BEST ITINERARY FOR THE CRUISE AND CITY TRIP TRAVELERS. There is dress code for the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Rustem Pasha Mosque. * Lunch/coffee break upon request. * The itinerary is flexible, for any changes please let me know. *I'm able to purchase tickets in advance to skip the lines. If you desire to use a credit card to purchase tickets the lines may be very long. ***Due to museum and site closures, the order of the tours may change. We might schedule Day 2 activities on Day 1 instead. ***Each day will last 7 hours.
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 with A/C (Mercedes) and separate driver. We can pick you up/drop you off at pier, your hotel or any location in Istanbul. ***Feel free to contact me if you want to be picked up/dropped off at airport
İstanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye
Hotel, Cruise Ship Port (Galataport)
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2 days
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2 days
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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 20% deposit!
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