Suleymaniye Mosque courtyard

Suleymaniye mosque view

Galata tower

Traditional food restaurant

Tour transportation

Doner kebap for lunch

Private tour with Ali

Fener -Balat

Galata bridge

Spice Bazaar

Testi kebap for lunch

Kebap lunch

Suleymaniye Mosque visiting

Private tour guide Ali

Private tour

At a cafe

Hidden Gems in Istanbul Tour

Car Tour (driver & guide)

Joined 2020

Ali Y.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Istanbul

English

6 hours

Private tour (only you and Ali Y.)

Up to 10 people

Explore Istanbul’s lesser-known treasures and vibrant neighborhoods with this specially curated private tour with TOUR MINIVAN. Delve into the city’s hidden gems, blending history, culture, and local flavors for an unforgettable experience. Suleymaniye Mosque; Golden Horn Fener-Balat area; Istiklal Street and Lunch at a Local Restaurant. This tour offers a perfect mix of history, local culture, and authentic experiences, making it ideal to experience beyond the main tourist sites. Customizable!

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

10:00 AM

Meeting Point

Your hotel

- Guests will be picked up in their hotels in the city center

10:30 AM

Suleymaniye Mosque

Your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for a comfortable journey in a deluxe minivan.

Suleymaniye Mosque: Begin your day at the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan and a serene oasis away from the crowds. Learn about its history and admire stunning views of the Golden Horn from its courtyard.

11:40 AM

Golden Horn Fener-Balat

Fener-Balat Neighborhoods: Wander through the colorful streets of Fener and Balat, historic neighborhoods brimming with charm. See vibrant houses, historic churches, and hidden cafes as your guide shares stories of Istanbul's multicultural heritage.

01:00 PM

Istiklal Street -Pera area and Galata

Stroll Through Istiklal Street and Pera: Head to the lively Istiklal Street and Pera district, home to boutique shops, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks like the St. Anthony of Padua Church. Feel the energy of one of Istanbul's most iconic areas.

02:00 PM

Lunch

Kebab Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy an authentic Turkish kebab lunch at a renowned restaurant, savoring the flavors of Istanbul’s rich culinary traditions.

03:00 PM

Spice Bazaar

Visit the Spice Bazaar: Conclude your tour with a visit to the Spice Bazaar. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market, filled with aromatic spices, Turkish delights, and unique souvenirs.

Ending Point

Tour will end at the Spice Bazaar or at your hotel

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

* Guide fee

* Hotel pick-up

* Private transportation ( Mercedes Vito or Sprinter)

* Professional driver

* Gasoline, toll and parking fees

What‘s not included

* Entrance tickets (if any)

* Lunch

* Personal expenses

Tour Important Information

* The itinerary is flexible and can be customized to match your preferences for a truly personalized experience.

What Makes This Tour Special?

* Expert Guidance

* Iconic Landmarks

* Flexible Itinerary

* Cultural Insights

Shopping Opportunities in the Spice Bazaar; Turkish Delight, Saffron, Organic herbs, Spices etc

Additional Perks:

* Flexible Start Time: Begin at 10 AM or adjust to suit your schedule.

* Discover the city's charm beyond its museums and mosques.

* Customizable Experience: Adapt the tour based on your preferences, ensuring a memorable visit.

Important message from the supplier

I am quite flexible to work with, so please feel free to contact me for any last-minute bookings. I will confirm your request based on my availability. All of my tours are fully customizable according to your interests. We can focus on shopping, food, museums, or simply explore the city on foot.

I am based in Istanbul, but I also organize tours in Cappadocia and Ephesus. I can personally guide your tours if my travel expenses are covered.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2020

Ali Y.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Ali Y.

Born and raised in Istanbul...%100 Turkish.. I am a licensed tour guide and travel expert. As the founder of Ali's Protravel & Tours, I’m passionate about creating unforgettable cultural and personalized tours across Istanbul and Turkey. I’m also a rug enthusiast and the author of Buying Oriental Rugs - Revealing All the Secrets. Helping guests find their dream rug through my trusted local connections is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Beyond tours, I love exploring politics, religious history, good food, and traveling. When not working, you’ll find me at the gym (balancing my love for baklava) or photographing flowers in city parks.