Walking Tours Istanbul

Walking Tours Istanbul

Walking Tours Istanbul

Walking Tours Istanbul

The easiest way to explore Istanbul

Select Your Tour

4.5/5

Tip Based Free Group Tour

Start your Istanbul journey without risking your money. Join a tip-based group tour and only pay what you think the guide deserves.

Classic Private Tours in Istanbul

Stay classic, visit the must-see sites of Istanbul with the guidance of a professional. Explore Ottoman, Byzantine and Roman history with an experienced tour guide. 

Alternative Private Tours Istanbul

You’re done with classic routes? Explore lesser-known parts of Istanbul with a local guide who knows the streets.

Choose Your Favorite Walking Tour in Istanbul Below

Verified and Authorized Operator

Free Walking Tour Istanbul

4.6

€Tip Based

  • Free Booking
  • Instant Confirmation
  • No Card Information Required
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Live Tour Guide
  • Cancel Anytime

“Our guide was full of both information and humour! So glad we did the tour. Highly recommend it!” Phan, April 2024, Marseille [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

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Private Istanbul Old Town Classic Tour

4.6

Starting at

€170 per group

  • Customizable private tour
  • 6 hours long day tour
  • Covers most must-see sites in Old City of Istanbul
  • Optional hotel pick-up (via public transport)
  • Public transportation fees are covered
  • Tickets and food are not included

“A great guide!, with a lot of knowledge to share, a slow and calm tour. He tells you everything like a story and is so charming that you are not distracted for a moment. Enjoy his work without having learned it from a wheelbarrow and that is appreciated more than anything! Super recommended!”Oscar, Apr. 2024, Spain [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

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Taksim & Galata Classic Private Tour – Istanbul

4.6

Starting at

€170 per group

  • Customizable private tour
  • 5 hours long private tour
  • Covers most must-see sites in Taksim & Galata part of Istanbul
  • Optional hotel pick-up (via public transport)
  • Public transportation fees are covered
  • Tickets and food are not included

“It was a really nice tour. Our guide gave usany useful information.” Natalia, Mar. 2024, Germany [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

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Alternative Old Town Istanbul Private Tour

4.6

Starting at

€170 per group

  • Customizable private tour
  • 5 hours long private tour
  • Covers lesser-known parts of Old City of Istanbul
  • Optional hotel pick-up (via public transport)
  • Public transportation fees are covered
  • Tickets and food are not included

“It was a great tour. The guide ist very friendly and motivated. He provides lot’s of add.” David, April 2024, USA  [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

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Alternative Istanbul: Private Tour on the Asian Side

4.6

Starting at

€170 per group

  • Customizable private tour
  • 6 hours long private tour
  • Covers the Asian side of Istanbul which is less touristy
  • Optional hotel pick-up (via public transport)
  • Public transportation fees are covered
  • Amazing views of the Bosphorus throughout the entire tour
  • Tickets and food are not included

“Absolutely great time! Wonderful tour, great advice, and definitely worth the trip just to see all the great parts of the Asian side of the city. Absolute recommendation!” JA, Feb. 2024, Porto [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

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Free Walking Tour Istanbul

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Quickly discover and get the basics of all the must-see sites of the Old City of Istanbul. Get the necessary know-how of all the Old City from an insider before spending your money on activities you are not sure if you’d like. Then proceed to the world-famous Grand Bazaar and go through the maze of 2500 shops with a local guide.

“Our guide was full of both information and humour! So glad we did the tour. Highly recommend it!” Phan, April 2024, Marseille [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

  €Tip Based

Check Availability

  • Free Booking
  • Instant Confirmation
  • No Card Information Required
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Live Tour Guide
  • Cancel Anytime

Private Istanbul Old Town Classic Tour

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Explore the iconic landmarks of Istanbul’s Old City with our Classic Old Town Private Tour. This customizable 6-hour day tour covers the must-see sites, including the majestic Blue Mosque, the historic Hagia Sophia (with optional interior visit), and the impressive Topkapi Palace (optional entry available). Book now for an immersive journey through Istanbul’s rich history and culture!

“A great guide!, with a lot of knowledge to share, a slow and calm tour. He tells you everything like a story and is so charming that you are not distracted for a moment. Enjoy his work without having learned it from a wheelbarrow and that is appreciated more than anything! Super recommended!”Oscar, Apr. 2024, Spain [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

From   €170 per group

Check Availability

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Taksim & Galata Classic Private Tour – Istanbul

Reviews

Discover in the bustling energy of Taksim Square, where modernity meets tradition, before delving into the historic charm of the Galata district. Led by an expert guide, this private tour offers a personalized exploration of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local hotspots.

“It was a really nice tour. Our guide gave usany useful information.” Natalia, Mar. 2024, Germany [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

From   €170 per group

Check Availability

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Alternative Old Town Istanbul Private Tour

Reviews

Step off the beaten path and uncover the lesser-known gems of Istanbul with an Alternative Old Town Private Tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this exclusive tour invites you to explore the enchanting alleyways, historic neighborhoods, and hidden treasures of Istanbul’s Old Town. Delve into the city’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and traditions as you discover quirky cafes, vibrant street art, and charming local markets.

“It was a great tour. The guide ist very friendly and motivated. He provides lot’s of add.” David, April 2024, USA  [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

From   €170 per group

Check Availability

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Alternative Istanbul: Private Tour on the Asian Side

Reviews

Discover Istanbul’s hidden treasures with our Alternative Asian Side Private Tour. Explore the lesser-known delights of the Asian district on a 6-hour journey, including a scenic ferry ride to Üsküdar and a visit to Çengelköy for stunning Bosphorus views. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!

“Absolutely great time! Wonderful tour, great advice, and definitely worth the trip just to see all the great parts of the Asian side of the city. Absolute recommendation!” JA, Feb. 2024, Porto [Source: WalkingToursIstanbul]

From   €170 per group

Check Availability

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Why Book Walking Tours in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a mega city of 16 million residents, 39 districts and 964 neighborhoods. However, most of the historical sites are in the Fatih and Beyoglu district and are within walking distance. Trying to get around with a car or bus only makes things worse most of the time. Discovering this ancient city like ancient people did by walking is the easiest, most immersive and natural way possible. Most historical sites are right next to each other and walking from one place to another is very convenient. 

The streets are narrow and intense. Every street is packed with interesting things to look at, colorful apartment blocks, cafes, restaurants, mosques, fountains and other historical sites are all stacked like dominos. Taking your time to walk and admire each street will give you the most condensed Istanbul experience there is to experience.

Walking Tours Istanbul: Compare Your Options

Free Walking Tour Istanbul

4,6

2.5 Hours

€Tip Based

Private Istanbul Old Town Classic Tour

4,6

6 Hours

Starting at

€170 per group

Taksim & Galata Classic Private Tour – Istanbul

4,6

5 Hours

Starting at

€170 per group

Alternative Old Town Istanbul Private Tour

4,6

5 Hours

Starting at

€170 per group

Alternative Istanbul: Private Tour on the Asian Side

4,6

5 Hours

Starting at

€170 per group

Free Walking Tour Istanbul

reviews

Duration: 2.5 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Free Booking
  • Instant Confirmation
  • English-speaking Live Guide
  • No Card Information Required
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Live Tour Guide
  • Cancel Anytime

€Tip Based

Book Now!

Private Istanbul Old Town Classic Tour

reviews

Duration: 6 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Prices Starting

€170 per group

Book Now!

Taksim & Galata Classic Private Tour – Istanbul

reviews

Duration: 5 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Prices Starting

€170 per group

Book Now!

Alternative Old Town Istanbul Private Tour

reviews

Duration: 5 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

€170 per group

Book Now!

Alternative Istanbul: Private Tour on the Asian Side

reviews

Duration: 5 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Live Tour Guide
  • Private Tour
  • Instant Confirmation
  • WhatsApp Chat Support
  • Free Cancellation Until 24 Hours

Prices Starting

€170 per group

Book Now!

Customize Your Walking Tour Experience

Don’t like any of the tours we have? No problem. 

Contact us, and let’s start discussing your itinerary. We also provide customized private tours. We’ll assist you along the way and help create the most suitable private tour for your vacation. Our tours are primarily in English, however we do provide private tours in most other languages, including but not only limited to Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Russian, French, Italian, German and more. Contact us for a private tour in any other language than English. 

Plan Your Visit

Which Istanbul Walking Tour to Pick?

1

Free Group Tour

Book a free walking tour in Istanbul in two mins, no credit card information required, no cancellation fees, no refund fuss, book and cancel anytime. Get to know the basics of Istanbul with an experienced local tour guide who will summarize all the essential knowledge a local has about the Old City area – whether it is historical, practical or crucial.

Tip at the end of the tour depending on how satisfied you are with the experience. This way, you get to know us before booking a paid tour, and can later decide if you’d like to continue booking other tours from us, whether paid group tours or private tours. 

2

Classic Private Tour

If it is your first time in Istanbul, and you still haven’t seen any of the classics, the must-see, incredible historical monuments and landmarks of Istanbul, then start with a classic private tour.

With classic private tours, you’ll get a professional tour guide who will guide you through the most important historical sites of Istanbul such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar and much more. After a classic private tour, you can safely and proudly say “I have been to Istanbul”. 

3

Alternative Private Tour

Once you’re done visiting all the touristy, must-see historical sites of Istanbul, discover lesser-known, more residential neighborhoods of Istanbul where locals go to, and explore not just history, but also culture and modernity. Unveil the real face of Istanbul that locals see everyday.

4

Combine Two or All Options

You don’t have to pick one, you can pick two or all. In fact, our tours are designed in a way that they complete each other. Start with our tip-based free tour to understand Istanbul.

Once you understand what’s what and how things work, pick a customizable Classic Private Tour that fits your needs and finish all the essentials. If you still have time and interest, explore less touristy areas with an Alternative Private Tour.

Why Book a Walking Tour in Istanbul with us?

  • Evolving tour experience: Unlike most other sites that only offer free tours or only offer private tours, we offer them both. This way you can start without risking your hard-earned money, get to know us, then decide whether you’d like to book a private tour with us. 
  • Customizability: Our private tours are fully customizable. Unlike most tours online which has to include what the provider wants, we are flexible. If you have suggestions, preferences, we can adapt our tours to your liking. All you have to do is reach us out on our WhatsApp support chat before booking.
  • Language Availability: Our tours are primarily in English. However, if you prefer a private tour in any other language, just contact us from our WhatsApp support chat and let us arrange you a guide in another language. Note that in season (April to January), it might not be easy to find a tour guide in another language right away. If that’s your case, please reach us out 2 weeks in advance or more. 
  • Experience and Language Fluency: We don’t work with everyone, we pick only the best for our tours to give you the most ideal guidance experience. 

Some Scenes from Our Walking Tours Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

We’re posing in front of the world-famous Hagia Sophia, Turkey’s #1 historical site, built as a Cathedral almost 1500 years ago during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. of Byzantine Empire, converted to a mosque in 1453 by the order of Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror. 

Grand Bazaar

Strolling through the colorful streets of the world’s oldest shopping mall: The Grand Bazaar. Built in 1461 by the order of Fatih Sultan Mehmet, Grand Bazaar is one of the greatest and oldest bazaars in the world with close to 2500 shops. 

Tea Break

Chilling with the group, chatting about Turkey, Istanbul, culture, history and daily life while enjoying a cup of delicious Turkish tea.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Admiring the incredible Suleymaniye Mosque, the largest mosque built by the Ottomans. This beautiful mosque was built by the order of Suleyman the Magnificient, the longest ruling and one of the most powerful Ottoman Sultans. Will visit his and his wife Hurrem Sultan’s tomb later and watch the Bosphorus strait from the view point.

Plan Your Walking Tour in Istanbul Ahead

All of our Istanbul walking tours are available every day throughout the year. However, both our free tours and private tours have a limit, and might get full quickly in high season (April to November). It is essential to check and reserve a spot in advance. For private tours in English, typically one day in advance is enough time to find a tour guide (even if we are not available ourselves, we can find someone for you). For any other language expect English please contact minimum one week or more in advance.

High season of tourism starts with Easter (early April) and lasts until June, weather is perfect during these two months 12-20°C / 54-68°F. June-July-August is busy but not too busy. It gets 30-40°C / 86-104°F in summer and doesn’t rain much. September and October are the busiest months, but it is also when the weather is optimal, around 18-22°C / 64-71°F. 

November and December are typically 8-14°C / 46-57°F, rainy and humid but is less crowded. Christmas and New Years are busy until 6-7th of January, after that its low season until Easter in April. Winter is cold, typically around 0-10°C / 32-50°F.

To get to our meeting point for free walking tours, the Obelisk of Theodosius, use Tram Line T1 and get off at Sultanahmet station and walk 5 mins. Your guide will be waiting with a GREEN flag in from of the Obelisk with Egyptian hieroglyphs on it. 

If you are coming with a taxi/cab, which we don’t recommend because most of the Old City area is closed to traffic and you’ll have to walk more than you’d if you would come with the tram, but if you do, tell the taxi drive to leave you close to “Sultanahmet Meydanı”or“Sultanahmet At Meydanı”.

Our group tours are outdoors, and are not suitable for our guests with wheelchair or walking disabilities. If you have a physical disability that would make it difficult to go with the flow of the rest of the group, please contact us for a private tour. 

All of our tours are either partially or entirely outdoors. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly before you arrive at the meeting point. If there is a mosque included in the tour, both men and women must dress modestly to enter. This means both men and women should wear clothes that cover shoulders, chest, back, legs below the knee, and women should also cover their hair with a shawl or hoodie before entering a mosque. 

Most public toilets are paid in Turkey and require a small amount of cash. Also, if you’re joining our free tours, your guide will expect tips in cash at the end of the tour. Make sure you prepare the amount you’d like to give in advance. The unspoken international expectation between guides in all platforms is 10€ or 10$ or whatever is the equivalent in Turkish lira on the day of the tour, per person (so for ex if you are a group of 4 people, the expected minimum tip will be 40$ or 40€). 

FAQ: Walking Tours Istanbul

Some of the key attractions that are included in our Istanbul walking tours are, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and the Hippodrome Square. Note that the places included in free walking tours are outside visit only.

A typical Istanbul walking tour is usually around 2 to 3 hours. Our free walking tour in Istanbul lasts 2.5 hours, and our private tours lasts about 5-6 hours. Private walking tours can last half or full day depending on the customized itinerary. 

Our activities are outdoors, on the streets, and can be challenging for those who have walking difficulties or physical disabilities. Our Istanbul walking tours are not suitable for babies and infants that are in a stroller, invalid guests in wheelchairs or walking supports, or those who have any other condition that hinders them from catching up with the moderate walking pace of the group. As long as you can walk without assistance, consciously and by yourself at a moderate pace, all of our tours are suitable for you. 

Our free and paid group tours are primarily in English. However, we do offer private tours in Istanbul in other languages. For private walking tours in Istanbul in English, contact us at least one day in advance, for any other language, contact us minimum 1-2 weeks in advance. 

Unfortunately no. Our free walking tours do not include entrance of any site that is paid, and our private tours leave that decision to you. Since our private tours are fully customizable and you’ll be the only one in that tour, it is up to you to decide whether or not to pay the ticket price to enter or skip a certain museum. Another reason why we don’t include ticket price in our private tour pricing is because we have a fix price up to 8 people in a closed group. Since we don’t know if you’ll be travelling alone or with 4 or 6 or more people, we can’t include the ticket prices in our fixed private group price. Good news is, most places in our tours are free entry and if you decide not to enter any paid museum, you don’t get less tour time. Your guide will compensate for that time by prolonging the time you spend on other attractions or by adding new sites to visit with your approval.

Mosque visits require certain dress codes. Both men and women must dress modestly to enter. This means both men and women should wear clothes that cover shoulders, chest, back, legs below the knee, and women should also cover their hair with a shawl or hoodie before entering a mosque.

April, May, first half of June, September, October, first half of November. This is when the weather is optimal. It is also when it is the busiest, but in our private walking tours, we have skip-the-line privilege entry to certain places like the Basilica Cistern and the Topkapi Palace. This does not apply to free entry places like the Blue Mosque.

None of our tours cover food expenses, however we might stop for a cup of Turkish tea on a free tour depending on the mood of the group, and on a private tour, you’re the boss. You can decide to have a lunch break or coffee break during a private tour. After all, it’s your private tour, if you are tired and want to have a break, simply inform your tour guide and they’ll arrange a place for you. 

Yes, absolutely. That’s why we also provide customized private tours in Istanbul. Contact us and let us design the most ideal tour program for your needs. 

We don’t exactly implement any specific safety measures, as Istanbul walking tours happen in public places, everybody is responsible for their own safety and belongings. However, that being said, we of course tell you when to cross or not to cross the street, warn you if you go the wrong way, etc.