Meet Local Guide Ugur in Istanbul

We’re joined today by local guide Uğur in Istanbul. Since 2012, Ugur has been guiding people all over Turkey, to Ankara, Cappadocia, Antalya, Ephesus, Troy - and of course on in depth day tours of his home city of Istanbul.

Why did you become a tour guide?

When I was still a student at college, I used to work in a hotel as a waiter. We used to have tour groups for lunch or dinner and I saw the guides introducing our history, food, culture, etc. I thought I could do this job, because I was able to speak two languages apart from Turkish (Spanish and English) and was also passionate about travel - just like these guests. So that’s how I became a guide! I see my job as not only showing travellers the main sites, but also to give them an insider experience, so they leave with a better understanding of life as a local in Istanbul.

Tell us one thing about Istanbul that makes it truly unique!

This city has a remarkable history: It’s divided between two continents and has been the capital of not one, not two, but three different empires.

What are three must-see places you recommend to visitors during a trip to Istanbul?Where do you think is a great place to go for a unique photo in Istanbul?

For a great photo, people in Istanbul should go to Galata Tower, which was a watch-out post for Genoeses Merchants back in the 1300s.

What surprises people about Istanbul?

When they find out that Istanbul is not the capital of Turkey but Ankara is. Everyone assumes it’s Istanbul! Especially because we were the capital of 3 different empires over many centuries.

What do you recommend doing if you have a special event to celebrate in Istanbul? (Like a birthday, or an anniversary…)

There are many beautiful restaurants, rooftops and hotels to host celebrations, which I’d be happy to recommend to you. But if the person is not looking for a restaurant, but something a little more unique, I would recommend to purchase some Turkish mezes (small plates of food) and rent a yacht for the evening and sail the Bosphorus or Çamlıca Hill. It will be an evening you won’t forget.

What’s your favourite day trip out of Istanbul?

My favourite day trip out of İstanbul would be Ephesus in İzmir area (500 kms to İstanbul) which was the fourth largest city in the ancient world. To do it as a single day trip requires a short, inexpensive flight, or you can take your time and do it over a couple days.

Planning a trip to Istanbul and beyond? Start a conversation with Uğur!