Istanbul tours

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul, where continents meet and cultures mix, pulses with an energy that draws you in. Wandering its vibrant streets, the call to prayer mingles with the aroma of Turkish coffee, crafting an intoxicating atmosphere. Your guide on Istanbul tours will unravel this captivating city. Imagine a private tour through the Grand Bazaar's alleys, or skipping the line at Hagia Sophia. Walking tours unveil hidden courtyards and traditions, while culinary tours tempt with the city’s flavours. Let your guide turn your visit into a personal journey through time, revealing the secrets that make Istanbul unique. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Istanbul. Explore Istanbul your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Istanbul tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Istanbul for every interest, including: History tours: Start early to step into Hagia Sophia before peak queues, trace the Hippodrome, and compare tilework at the Blue Mosque with the mosaics of the Basilica Cistern and the Byzantine Great Palace area. With more time, add Topkapı Palace’s courtyards and a focused Grand Bazaar lane-for-lane walk to find specific artisan vaults. Boat tours: Take a private Bosphorus cruise from Kabataş or Karaköy, gliding past Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque, under the Bosphorus Bridge to the fortresses. Your skipper can pause near Küçüksu Pavilion for photos or continue to Anadolu Kavağı for grilled fish below Yoros Castle before you ferry or drive back. Food and Drink tours: Cross to Kadıköy’s market for olives, pickles, and spice tastings, grab tantuni or a warm simit, then sample baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu. In the evening, settle into a Beyoğlu meyhane for meze and rakı, or try thick Turkish coffee at Mandabatmaz and learn the basics of reading the grounds for fun. Getting around: You can walk much of Sultanahmet, and trams, metros, and ferries connect key neighbourhoods efficiently; traffic can be heavy across bridges. If you want smoother links between sites or a hotel pier pick-up for your cruise, ask your guide about chauffeured tours or a private vehicle. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Istanbul inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Istanbul on a private walking tour and dive into the city's vibrant neighborhoods with your local guide. No better way to experience the charm and depth of a city than having a true insider by your side, showing you the hidden gems and must-see spots. - Sultanahmet: Dive into history with iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Families and cultural tourists will love the rich tapestry of stories and stunning architecture. - Galata: Perfect for those seeking meaningful connections and artistic vibes. Stroll through streets lined with galleries, cafes, and the iconic Galata Tower offering panoramic city views. - Karaköy: A blend of old and new, ideal for multi-generational groups. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with trendy eateries, historic sites, and a vibrant nightlife. - Kadıköy: On the Asian side, this neighborhood offers a local feel with bustling markets and street food delights. Great for foodies and those wanting a taste of local daily life. - Beşiktaş: Known for its youthful energy and lively market scene. Families and groups will enjoy the waterfront views and numerous parks perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Day trip ideas from Istanbul When you’re ready to step beyond the city, plan a few easy day trips from Istanbul to nearby towns, islands, and the Black Sea coast, and shape your tour around food, history, art, or nature. Bursa: The first Ottoman capital gives you grand mosques, tiled tombs, and a busy silk market, plus famed Iskender kebap; if you like heritage and honest local food, the old bazaars, neighbourhood workshops, and thermal baths make a full, balanced day. Edirne: Close to the Bulgarian and Greek borders, you can see Sinan’s Selimiye Mosque, old stone bridges, and lively markets; architecture fans get clean lines and big domes, while food lovers go for flaky börek, almond paste, and grilled liver that locals favour. Princes’ Islands (Büyükada or Heybeliada): Car-free streets keep things calm, with bike rides, wooden mansions, shaded pine paths, and seafood by the water; if you want a slower pace, small beaches and quiet monasteries fit well, and your tour can focus on coast views and simple island bites. Şile and Ağva: On the Black Sea you’ll find a lighthouse, fishing harbours, river valleys, and long beaches; nature seekers can walk forest trails and take short boat rides, while casual photographers get soft light on rock coves and the Şile Castle. Iznik: A lakeside town ringed by Roman-Byzantine walls and Ottoman gates, known for tile studios that still produce classic patterns; if you enjoy low-key history, you can trace eras in a few blocks, visit small workshops, and watch sunset on the lakefront before heading back. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Istanbul most travellers miss.