Are there any hidden costs or forced shopping stops on your Istanbul tours?

No. Private Istanbul Walking Tours guarantees 100% transparent pricing with zero forced shopping stops, no carpet presentations, and no kickbacks. We respect your time and provide a completely pressure-free, premium experience.

Do you offer female tour guides in Istanbul and Turkey?

Yes. As a proud women-owned business, we offer expert, licensed female tour guides. This is a highly requested option for solo female travelers, women's groups, and families seeking a comfortable, safe, and insightful local perspective while visiting Turkey. Simply request a female guide when booking.

What is included in your private Turkey tours?

Our private tours are all-inclusive of the essential logistics. Your booking includes a licensed local expert guide, all skip-the-line entrance fees to historical sites, and premium services. There are no surprise fees on the day of your tour.

Are your walking tours suitable for seniors or travelers with mobility needs?

Absolutely. Because all of our tours are 100% private, we offer fully flexible pacing. We customize our routes to accommodate multi-generational families, seniors, and anyone with mobility concerns, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable day.

Do you operate as a Destination Management Company (DMC) for travel advisors?

Yes, we partner directly with luxury travel advisors from the US, Australia, and globally. We act as your boutique on-the-ground DMC in Turkey, offering commissionable rates, seamless VIP logistics, and white-labeled itineraries to ensure your high-net-worth clients receive flawless service.

What destinations do your private tours cover in Turkey?

We specialize in private, custom itineraries across Turkey's premier destinations. This includes in-depth Istanbul walking tours, Bosphorus yacht cruises, and luxury multi-day trips to Cappadocia, Ephesus, and the Turkish Riviera.

Can we visit mosques comfortably and respectfully?

Yes. Your guide will share simple etiquette guidance and keep the experience calm, respectful, and easy to navigate.

Do you accommodate dietary needs on food-focused routes?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, allergies, and preferences can be planned in advance.

Can you arrange a private Bosphorus yacht cruise?

Yes. We can arrange a private yacht cruise with optional beverages on board.

Can you help with a premium hamam reservation?

Yes. We recommend professional, high-standard hamams and can arrange reservations with clear guidance on what to expect.

Is Istanbul safe for gay and LGBTQ+ travelers?

Istanbul is a large, international city and many LGBTQ+ visitors travel here each year and enjoy an excellent experience. That said, like any major destination, it is smart to stay aware of your surroundings and follow current official travel guidance (especially around large public gatherings or demonstrations). Our role is to make the day feel easy: we guide with cultural fluency, discretion, and clear routing so you feel comfortable and respected throughout your time with us.

Are your private Istanbul tours LGBTQ+ friendly?

Yes - absolutely. We are an owner-operated boutique travel company, and we warmly welcome solo LGBTQ+ travelers, same-sex couples, and friends traveling together. Every experience is 100% private (only your party and your guide), with a polished, judgment-free approach and quiet discretion. Most tours are designed to run around 5 hours, and we can adjust timing to your pace.

Is it safe to show public affection in Istanbul?

In general, Turkey can be conservative about public displays of affection for all couples, regardless of orientation. Some neighborhoods feel more relaxed than others (for example Kadikoy and Karakoy), but it is still wise to be mindful of local norms depending on where you are. Your guide will help you navigate these nuances naturally from area to area, so you can enjoy the city without second-guessing.

How do you handle Turkish Bath (Hamam) experiences for same-sex couples?

Traditional hamams are typically gender-segregated, and expectations can vary by venue. We take the uncertainty out of it by recommending high-standard, professional hamams and arranging reservations in advance. We also brief you clearly on what to expect, and we can prioritize options that feel more private and straightforward (such as premium facilities and more discreet appointment times) depending on availability and your comfort level.

Private, LGBTQ-Friendly Istanbul Tours for Same-Sex Couples and LGBTQ+ Travelers

Feel fully at ease with a 100% private, discreet, and welcoming guide experience — thoughtfully paced, culturally fluent, and tailored to you. Most tours are designed to run around 5 hours, with flexible timing.

Travel should feel effortless, safe, and genuinely warm

When you are in a new country, comfort matters. Istanbul is vibrant and cosmopolitan, but the difference is having a local guide who is not only professional but also truly respectful, inclusive, and tuned in to what helps LGBTQ+ travelers relax.

Private Istanbul Walking Tours is an owner-operated boutique team delivering premium private touring for solo LGBTQ+ travelers, same-sex couples, and close friends. You will experience the city with ease, clarity, and confidence — without judgment, awkwardness, or unwanted attention.

Why LGBTQ+ travelers (and luxury advisors) choose us

Vetted, Ally Guides
We match you with an open-minded, respectful, licensed local expert focused on hospitality, storytelling, and your comfort.

100% Private by Design
No mixed groups. No unpredictable dynamics. Just you and the people you travel with.

No Shopping Pressure, Ever
We do not accept store kickbacks. No rug showrooms. No forced stops.

Discreet, Calm, and Protective
Your guide is your cultural bridge — helping you navigate neighborhoods, mosques, and bazaars smoothly and respectfully, with smart pacing and thoughtful routing.

Premium Logistics
Clear meeting points, reliable communication, and well-timed touring that avoids avoidable bottlenecks where possible.

Guest note

“As a same-sex couple traveling from the US, we were a little anxious about navigating Turkey. Booking here was the best decision we made. Our guide was warm, respectful, and incredibly knowledgeable — and we felt completely comfortable the entire time.”
– [David B.], USA

Curated private experiences for LGBTQ+ guests

Whether you want iconic history, neighborhood culture, food experiences, or a private moment on the water, we design a seamless itinerary around your comfort and style.

Below are popular starting points — and everything can be customized.

Option 1: Imperial Icons + Modern Istanbul

A refined contrast between Istanbul’s legendary landmarks and its contemporary, cosmopolitan side.

Old City (smart-timed)
Visit Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with a guide who helps you move through traditional spaces confidently and respectfully, without stress.

Grand Bazaar (no pressure)
Explore historic courtyards and artisan corners — browsing only if you want to.

Karakoy + Galata area
Finish in one of Istanbul’s most stylish districts for cafes, modern city scenes, and a relaxed neighborhood walk with curated tastings if you would like.

Option 2: Topkapi + Asian Side Energy

Ottoman grandeur followed by Istanbul’s most relaxed, creative, and local-feeling neighborhoods.

Topkapi Palace
Discover the residence of the Ottoman sultans with clear storytelling and unhurried pacing.

Grand Bazaar (optional)
A brief, stress-free pass through the atmosphere for photos and context — shopping only by request.

Ferry to the Asian side
Cross the Bosphorus by public ferry and explore Kadikoy — known for its secular, artistic, food-forward energy. Markets, street food, independent shops, and a very “local Istanbul” feel.

Option 3: Absolute Privacy on the Bosphorus (Private Yacht Cruise)

A romantic, discreet experience designed for couples who want space, beauty, and calm.

The experience
Step aboard a premium private motor yacht for an elegant cruise along the Bosphorus.

The sights
European and Asian shorelines, waterfront palaces, historic fortresses, and iconic mansions.

The vibe
A quiet, intimate setting — perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, proposals, or simply celebrating your time together.

Optional onboard touches (if you want): Turkish wine or champagne.

Optional Add-On: Premium Turkish Bath (Hamam), Handled With Care

Many travelers want a traditional hamam experience — and we understand that gender-segregated spaces can feel uncertain or intimidating for some LGBTQ+ guests.

We remove the guesswork by recommending high-standard, professional hamams and arranging reservations where you can expect dignity, discretion, and excellent hospitality. You arrive knowing exactly what to expect, with clear guidance from us in advance.

Helpful Notes

Typical pacing: Most private experiences are designed to run around 5 hours, and timing can be adjusted.
Private only: You will never be placed in a group.
Discreet by default: Calm, professional guidance with privacy and comfort in mind.
No shopping pressure: No forced stops, no commissions, no kickbacks.
Food needs respected: Vegetarian, vegan, allergies, and preferences planned carefully.

Request a Custom Itinerary

Istanbul is a large, international city and many LGBTQ+ visitors travel here each year and enjoy an excellent experience. That said, like any major destination, it is smart to stay aware of your surroundings and follow current official travel guidance (especially around large public gatherings or demonstrations). Our role is to make the day feel easy: we guide with cultural fluency, discretion, and clear routing so you feel comfortable and respected throughout your time with us.
Yes — absolutely. We are an owner-operated boutique travel company, and we warmly welcome solo LGBTQ+ travelers, same-sex couples, and friends traveling together. Every experience is 100% private (only your party and your guide), with a polished, judgment-free approach and quiet discretion. Most tours are designed to run around 5 hours, and we can adjust timing to your pace.
In general, Turkey can be conservative about public displays of affection for all couples, regardless of orientation. Some neighborhoods feel more relaxed than others (for example Kadikoy and Karakoy), but it is still wise to be mindful of local norms depending on where you are. Your guide will help you navigate these nuances naturally from area to area, so you can enjoy the city without second-guessing.
Yes. Your guide will share simple etiquette guidance and keep the experience calm, respectful, and easy to navigate.
Yes. We recommend professional, high-standard hamams and can arrange reservations with clear guidance on what to expect.
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, allergies, and preferences can be planned in advance.
Yes. We can arrange a private yacht cruise with optional beverages on board.