|

10 Private Istanbul Guides: fall in love with Istanbul in a day (2023)

The Art of Living in Turkey contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclaimers for more information.

Are you looking for a private Istanbul Guided tour? Look no further. Here are 10 of the best ones out there.

Checking out tours and guides can be overwhelming. I get it! After living in Istanbul, Turkey for years now I can still get overwhelmed.

I know Istanbul but not like the professional tour guides.

What I love most about a private tour is they can customize it to you but also they make sure you’re taken care of.

You don’t have to worry about language and getting ripped off, because they have your back.

If you want to avoid hours combing through lists of guides and tours, here are the 10 best ones! They are all pretty similar with a couple of exceptions.

They all have English-speaking tour guides and some even have other languages like Spanish, German, and more.

If you’re finally ready to start getting that trip together to visit Istanbul, this is a great way to see the highlights.

Let’s jump in and see if we can find you the perfect private tour.

4 Must-Have travel accessories for Touristy areas

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07PJM6LGV&Format= SL160 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=amazonbox0d 20&language=en USir?t=amazonbox0d 20&language=en US&l=li2&o=1&a=B07PJM6LGV
q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B08NDPK1ZY&Format= SL160 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=amazonbox0d 20&language=en USir?t=amazonbox0d 20&language=en US&l=li2&o=1&a=B08NDPK1ZY
q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B01M594B5K&Format= SL160 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=amazonbox0d 20&language=en USir?t=amazonbox0d 20&language=en US&l=li2&o=1&a=B01M594B5K
  • This external battery by Anker is the best. I used mine for years until I left it in another country. 🙈
  • A money belt is really great to have especially in crowded/touristy areas. This one has RFID blocking and a great price!
  • I know many women love wearing their hair down but I can’t stand it. This hat is great because of the hole for a ponytail!
  • I always travel with a refillable water bottle and this Epic water bottle is my go-to. It has a filter specifically for tap water.

10 Best Private Istanbul Guide

Exploring Istanbul can be an amazing experience, and the best way to do it is with a private guide.

Private guides are knowledgeable locals who will help you discover all the hidden gems of Istanbul that most tourists miss out on.

With their expert knowledge and insider tips, they’ll make sure your time in Turkey is unforgettable!

Here are 10 of the best private tours in Istanbul to help you get started on your journey.

Hagia Sophia on a clear sunny day.

1. Best of City – Full-Day Walking Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours |📍 LOCATION: European Side

Check Prices and Availability Now

Highlights: It offers an exclusive experience to explore all that Istanbul has to offer, including priority entrance to famous sites such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and more.

On this tour, you will be able to immerse yourself in Turkish culture while learning about its rich history through your guide’s expert knowledge and insider tips.

What’s Included:

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: No

Hotel Pickup: No

Cost: $149 for up to 20 people

Topkapi palace building with high arches and an intricate overhang

2. Istanbul Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  6 hours |📍 LOCATION: European Side

Check Prices and Availability Now

Highlights: The benefits of a private Istanbul tour are plentiful.

You get the chance to sightsee places like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

But you’ll also be able to explore the Hippodrome and experience the Grand Bazaar for a unique shopping experience.

With your professional tour guide’s detailed knowledge of the city and its history, you’ll get to learn more about Ottoman sultans as well as other cultural aspects that make Istanbul so special.

They do such a great job of adding personal touches to make it memorable for you.

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: Yes

Hotel Pickup: No

Cost: $105 per person

Hagia Sophia illustration

3. Full-day Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  7 hours |📍 LOCATION: European Side

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: Not only will you get to see some of the most amazing sights such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, but you will also get to explore the Hippodrome and experience the world’s oldest Bazaar for a unique shopping experience.

With your private guide’s expert knowledge and insider tips, you will get to learn more about Istanbul’s rich culture and history.

Plus, you’ll get to explore the city at your own pace without needing to rush from one attraction to another!

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: No

Hotel Pickup: Yes

Cost: $265 for up to 8 people

Private Fener Greek Secondary and High School - red brick building with gates and barbwires

4. Fener & Balat Private Tours

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours |📍 LOCATION: Fenar & Balat

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: This tour is a little different than the rest.

With their expert knowledge and insider tips, your private guide will show you all the hidden gems of Istanbul, including the Golden Horn, Balat District, Fener District, and more.

You’ll also get to visit churches, synagogues, and mosques as well as explore the Byzantine city walls of Constantinople.

This tour is perfect if you have already seen the major stuff and you want to go a little deeper or you have limited time in Istanbul.

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: Walking Tour

Hotel Pickup: Pick Up at Galataport if ship details are provided

Cost: $243 for up to 2 people

four people drinking Turkish coffee with the Hagia Sophia in the background

5. Private Guided Istanbul Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours |📍 LOCATION: European Side

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: Private guided tours of Istanbul provide the perfect way to experience its many wonders on a personal level.

With a knowledgeable local tour guide leading your tour, you can access all the hidden gems that make Istanbul such a unique and amazing city.

Your guide will be able to take you to all the must-see sights in Istanbul, as well as make sure it is exactly what you want to see.

After meeting at your hotel, or other designated spot, craft your perfect tour in Istanbul.

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: Yes, walking tour

Hotel Pickup: Yes

Cost: $145 for up to 12 people

Galata tower viewed from a roof top close by

6. Private 7-hour Istanbul Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  7 hours |📍 LOCATION: European Side

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: The private 7-hour Istanbul Tour is the perfect way to experience the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.

With a professional guide, travelers can enjoy a private VIP tour of Istanbul in a luxurious vehicle, taking in all the sights including Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the oldest Bazaar in the world.

During your tour, you’ll be able to wander through the maze of shopping streets and take in the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.

Whether you’re looking for a day trip or on a short stay with a cruise, this tour is a great option to see all the highlights of Istanbul.

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: Yes

Lunch: No

Transportation: Yes

Hotel Pickup: No

Cost: $195 per person

Dolmabahce Palace gates. White gates with gold inlays.

7. Customizable Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours |📍 LOCATION: European Side

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: The ultimate tailor-made experience, this private one-day tour of Istanbul offers travelers the opportunity to explore the wonders of the city at their own pace.

With a professional guide and private transportation included in the package, you will be able to enjoy a flexible schedule that allows you to choose which locations you want to visit.

No matter your language preference, there is an experienced guide available who can provide insight into Turkey’s rich cultural heritage and history.

This tour provides convenience and comfort for those looking for an unforgettable exploration of Istanbul in just one day!

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: Yes, private transportation

Hotel Pickup: Yes

Cost: $414 for up to 4

a ferry boat in the distance on The bosphorus on a cloudy day

8. Classic City Tour & Bosphorus Cruise

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  7 hours |📍 LOCATION: Old City & Cruise

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: Experience the best of Istanbul’s Old City with a private tour!

With this tour, you can explore the city’s fascinating blend of Christian and Islamic influences at places like Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

Enjoy shopping at markets such as the world’s biggest Bazaar, Spice Market, and covered bazaars for spices, sweets, and souvenirs.

Plus take an optional cruise on the Bosphorus passing by the iconic suspension bridge (tickets not included).

All this in just 7 hours will pass quickly due to how enjoyable it is!

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No, but the restaurants they choose are great!

Transportation: No

Hotel Pickup: No

Cost:$265 for up to 8 people

street art of a man sitting and reading a book on the side of a building in Kadıköy

9. Istanbul Guided Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  7 hours |📍 LOCATION: Customizable

Check prices and availability now

Highlights:

This tour is one of the few that boasts full customization which means that you can see both the European and Asian sides of this unforgettable city.

With a private tour, you can make the most of your time in this amazing city.

From full-day tours to multi-day excursions with hotel pick-up included, there are plenty of options for any traveler looking for an incredible exploration of Istanbul.

With customizable itineraries and personalized experiences tailored to your interests, you’ll be able to explore all the top sights of Istanbul while enjoying a comfortable, convenient journey.

Plus, you’ll have access to knowledgeable local guides who will help you uncover hidden gems that only locals know about!

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: No

Hotel Pickup: Yes

Cost: $200 for up to 8 people

Istanbul in the Marmara Region in Turkey with a photo of the suyleman mosque from the bosphorus

10. Best of Istanbul

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  6 hours |📍 LOCATION: Multiple Options

Check prices and availability now

Highlights: The Best of Istanbul Tours offers travelers a unique and comprehensive experience to explore this vibrant city.

With professional guides and customizable itineraries tailored to your interests, you can be sure to get the most out of your visit.

Choose from a full-day tour to multi-day excursions with hotel pick-up included.

Plus, with access to knowledgeable local guides who will help you uncover hidden gems that only locals know about, you’ll be able to enjoy an unforgettable exploration of Istanbul in just one day!

This tour provides convenience and comfort for those looking for a truly special journey.

What’s Included

Private Tour: Yes

Entrance Fees: No

Lunch: No

Transportation: No

Hotel Pickup: Guide to meet you at Centrally located hotels

Cost: $250 for up to 8 people


I hope you found the perfect private tour for what you wanted to do! You can’t really go wrong with any of these.

As you stroll through the streets of Istanbul, soak in all of the intricacies of this amazing place, and enjoy the food and the smells of Turkish coffee.

This is just the first step to falling in love with Turkey…there is so much more than just Istanbul, though it is a great place to start! If you wanna stay longer, check out the week-long itinerary for Turkey.

FAQs about Istanbul Private Tours

How much does a private tour guide in Istanbul cost?

The cost depends on the tour you select but generally, a full day is somewhere between $100-$150 per person.

Do you actually need a Private Istanbul guide?

It really depends on your preferred style of seeing a new city. If you want local insights, I recommend a private Istanbul guide. If you love discovering on your own, have a blast and enjoy! Istanbul is easily walkable.

What is the best way to tour Istanbul?

If you are talking about the Sultanahmet area, walking is sufficient. Otherwise, you can use metros, ferries, and buses to get around. Google Maps does a great job of helping you get to where you need to go.

How many nights in Istanbul is enough?

Depends on how much you want to pack in. If you like to go, go, go style of vacationing, 3-4 nights is sufficient. If you prefer a bit more relaxed time, I would give yourself a week to make the most of your time.

How much do you tip a private tour guide in Turkey?

While tipping isn’t a thing like it is in America, it is customary to tip your tour guide $10-15 per person, per day. You can read more about tipping in Turkey here.

Can I wear shorts in Istanbul?

If you will visit a mosque you have to have on pants or something (not leggings) past your knees. Otherwise, roaming Istanbul in shorts is fine. Read more about how to dress when visiting Turkey.

Do I need a guide for Topkapi Palace?

Depends on how much you want to know. The history is pretty intense and long. If you like history, I definitely recommend you get a guide or a free audio guide at the least. If it isn’t your thing, enjoy walking around and checking it all out.

Do you have to dress modestly in Istanbul?

Istanbul is becoming more and more modern all the time. That being said, just because you can do something doesn’t mean it is the best. Read more about how to dress in Turkey.

How long can an American stay in Istanbul?

You can easily get an e-visa which means that you get 90 days within a 6-month period with multiple entries.

Which part of Istanbul is the best to stay in?

I personally love Kadikoy. It is more chill than the European side but still has a similar feel. Not to mention it also has some of the best food and lovely seasides. Plus it is just a short ferry ride to the other side.

Final thoughts on Istanbul Private Tours

If you’re planning a visit to Turkey and want to make the most of your experience, considering a local private tour of Istanbul is a fantastic idea.

These top 10 best Istanbul private guides offer similar options, including exploring the city’s iconic landmarks to delving into hidden gems and cultural insights.

Not only will you save time and avoid the hassles of navigating a new city, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture.

With customizable itineraries and knowledgeable local guides, you’re in for an unforgettable journey that will make your time in Istanbul truly special.

So, pick the day tour that suits your interests, and get ready to discover the wonders of this enchanting city.

Read more:

Turkey vacation basics

When I plan a trip these are the websites I use. Hope they help you plan your next adventure as well!

FLIGHTS: I am a huge fan of Kayak and WayAaway.

VISAS: You can use the free e-visa portal here but for a few extra dollars you can use iVisa and someone else will handle any issues that may come up.

E-SIM: When I traveled to SE Asia I discovered e-sims and I’m never going back. Airlo has been easy and cheap! Use code “SEP15” to get 15% off on one booking.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: I use TravelInsurance.com for my trips abroad.

CAR RENTAL: I have loved working with Discover Cars when I rent cars in country.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com.

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: You can browse GetYourGuide’s website to find just the tour you’re looking for!

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts