You might arrive in Istanbul with a list: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, perhaps the Basilica Cistern. But the places on that list are only part of your visit.
Perhaps you also want a proper Turkish breakfast, time to explore the Asian side, or help choosing a handmade rug for your home. You may be traveling with children, returning after many years, or spending a few days in the city before a cruise.
These details are where we begin.
At Private Istanbul Walking Tours, we arrange private tours around the people traveling—their interests, available time, and the way they enjoy discovering a place.
The people planning your trip also guide
We are a fully licensed, owner-operated boutique travel company based in Istanbul, co-owned by a woman and founded by two licensed professional guides.
Our co-owners, Furkan and Derya, remain active guides. Alongside our local team, they bring practical experience to the planning: how much to include, when a visit deserves more time, and which experiences suit the people joining us.
Before suggesting a program, we ask questions. Have you visited Istanbul before? What interests your children? Would you enjoy a detailed museum visit, or prefer more time in neighborhoods and markets? Are there dietary requirements or mobility concerns we should consider?
Your answers help us suggest a visit you will enjoy.
History one day, food and neighborhoods the next
For a first visit, a private Old City tour introduces Istanbul through its architecture, history, and the lives connected to its landmarks. Different programs include different museum visits, so you can choose the combination that interests you.
With two or three days, there is room to explore another side of the city.
Our signature Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour – Taste of Istanbul begins with Turkish breakfast in Karakoy, followed by baklava and coffee, before a public ferry takes us to Kadikoy. Markets, street food, and Turkish home-style dishes or kebabs introduce the city through what people eat.
Food tastings, non-alcoholic beverages, and ferry tickets are included. Your guide is private to your party; the ferry is part of everyday Istanbul life.
Another day might take you through Fener and Balat, across the two continents, or onto the Bosphorus aboard a private yacht. We discuss the combination before you book.
Shopping deserves its own time
A rug, a piece of jewelry, or handmade ceramics may become one of the most personal reminders of your trip.
Our shopping assistance gives you time to compare pieces, ask questions, and consider your choices. We plan the visits around your interests, whether you are looking for something particular or would appreciate guidance.
Shopping takes place only when requested. There is no obligation to buy, and we receive no commissions or kickbacks from your purchases. Our private guiding fee is agreed beforehand; purchases and optional transportation are separate.
Already have a hotel or other travel plans?
Many guests book their own accommodation. We can arrange private tours around your hotel, a conference, or the days before or after your cruise at Galataport Istanbul.
Families, couples, friends, and solo travelers are welcome. A licensed female guide can be requested, subject to availability.
Travel advisors can also work directly with our team to arrange private experiences for their clients.
Beyond Istanbul
Our name began with walking tours in Istanbul. Today, we also arrange custom-made journeys through Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Gallipoli.
Hotels, domestic flights, private transfers, licensed guiding, and selected experiences can be brought together in one itinerary. We discuss the pace and accommodation with you, including how much time you would like to leave free.
Throughout our work, we support local businesses and make donations to the TEMA Foundation on behalf of our guests.
Tell us what brings you to Turkey
You do not need a finished itinerary before contacting us.
Send your dates, the number of travelers, and what you would enjoy. Mention any children, dietary requirements, mobility concerns, or reservations already made. For a longer journey, include your preferred hotel style and approximate budget.
We will review your plans personally and discuss the arrangements with you.
Explore our private Istanbul tours or contact our team to begin.
info@privateistanbulwalkingtours.com
WhatsApp: +90 537 741 00 62
