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Istanbul Carpet Shopping With Expert-Private Tour

Rug shopping with expert Ali

Learning about rugs

Visiting rug shop

Handmade vs Machine made

Learning about silk rugs

Handmade ceramics with Ali

Ceramic shopping with Ali

Revealing all the secrets

Vintage rugs-best value

Oversize rugs with expert Ali

Rug shopping experience

Only handmade rugs

Shopping hand made Kilims

Vintage rugs vs new rugs

Shopping rugs with Ali expert

Art of knotting

Authentic rug shop Grand Bazaar

Rug books written by Ali

Istanbul Carpet Shopping With Expert-Private Tour

Shopping

Joined 2020

Ali Y.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Istanbul

English

4 hours

Private tour (only you and Ali Y.)

Up to 15 people

I designed this private tour for serious buyers of authentic handmade Turkish rugs. I’ll take you to trusted wholesalers and nice shops where you can find nice, high-quality handmade rugs made of cotton, wool and coccoon silk and show you how to evaluate craftsmanship like a pro. I handle negotiations, guide you through safe payment options, and arrange worldwide shipping, making your rug shopping in Istanbul smooth, professional, and completely stress-free.

Itinerary

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

10:00 AM

Meeting Point

In front of McDonalds at Sultanahmet tour area ( Near the Grand Bazaar)

- Let's meet in front of McDonalds at Sultanahmet. - In front of Mc Donalds at Divanyolu caddesi No 15 Sultanahmet. The street where the tram passes in Sultanahmet. Coming by tram; get off at Sultanahmet and walk 3 minutes to the meeting point. Private hotel pick up and drop off with transportation available at an extra cost.. please contact.

10:00 AM

Meeting & Greeting

Meet your guide at the designated meeting point to discuss and plan your tour. Please share your interests and let your guide know what you would like to see and shop for.

10:20 AM

Grand Bazaar and Carpet shopping

Discover the magic of Istanbul’s most iconic marketplaces with an exclusive carpet shopping experience designed for curious travelers and serious collectors alike. Guided by a seasoned rug expert, you’ll explore hidden corners of the Grand Bazaar, learn how handmade Turkish carpets are crafted, understand the differences in quality and value, and visit trusted shops known only to insiders. This personalized tour ensures you shop with confidence, enjoy transparent pricing, and find the perfect piece to bring home.

12:30 PM

Shopping ceramics, leather coats, handbags etc

This curated tour also may take you to trusted shops and artisans specializing in intricately designed ceramics and tiles, premium leather products, including jackets and handbags, and vibrant bazaars brimming with spices, Turkish delight, and saffron. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, you'll learn about the craftsmanship, history, and unique qualities of each item while enjoying a stress-free shopping experience. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized to match your preferences for a truly personalized experience

Ending Point

Tour will end around the Grand Bazaar at around 14:00pm or a bit later if necessary

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 service fee for 4hrs

What‘s not included

Hotel pick up and drop off with transportation at an extra cost (let me know if necessary)

Gratuity

Tour Important Information

* This is a shopping-oriented tour designed for guests who wish to purchase handmade rugs and other quality items.

* Some walking is involved, especially inside bazaars; comfortable shoes are recommended.

* A hotel pick up and drop off with private transportation can be arranged at an additional cost.( If necessary-let me know)

* There are no mandatory purchases—buy only if you love something.

* Rug shipping options are available worldwide; please ask for details.

* If you have time limits, specific preferences (vintage, tribal, kilim, silk), or budget guidelines, please share them in advance.

* This tour is suitable for individuals, couples, and small groups.

* The tour takes place in busy areas, so keep personal belongings secure.

* Payment for the purchased rugs can be with all major credit cards but Visa and Mastercard are more popular.

* Please note this is not an eduacational tour..only for serious shoppers.

Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.. but the rug shops outisde the bazaar will be open

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.