During our recent visit to Istanbul (November 2024), we had the absolute pleasure of being guided by Mr. Kamit, who made our experience both memorable and enriching. From start to finish, his personable, patient, and helpful nature stood out, making us feel completely at ease and well taken care of throughout the tour.
Mr. Kamit took us to a Turkish rug store where we learnt some fascinating things about Turkish rugs, highlighting their world-renowned craftsmanship, intricate designs, vibrant colours, and cultural significance - a unique learning experience and appreciation for those beautiful handmade treasures.
He guided us through some of Istanbul’s most iconic spots. We passed the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church (Iron Church) in the Balat district along the Golden Horn. We also walked down İstiklal street. We admired the architectural beauty of the New Mosque (Yeni Camii) in Eminönü and explored the vibrant Mısır Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar). The Spice Bazaar was undoubtedly the highlight of the tour, where we stocked up on oil-based perfumes, spices, and nuts. I particularly loved the roasted pistachios - if only I had bought more!
What truly set Mr. Kamit apart was his kindness and thoughtfulness. He graciously offered to carry our heavy shopping bags from the bazaar, to the car. When I felt unwell towards the end of the tour, he went out of his way to get me a bottle of water, to help keep me alive - literally!
Mr. Kamit is not just a knowledgeable guide, he ensured his guests had the best experience possible. I would not hesitate to contact him again for future tours when I return to Turkey. Thank you, Mr. Kamit, for our wonderful...
Read moreI asked our hotel what they suggested us to do given that, for our first time in instanbul, we had less than a day to see as much as we could . Fate stepped in and connected us with our private tour guide, Orchune, who did just that.
He picked us up at our hotel, and guided us to an unforgettable day through the lovely city of Sulthanamet. We walked though the winding streets and enjoyed the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi, the Basilica Cistern Museum and the grand Bazaar. He was extremely knowledgeable about the rich history of the country. He presented the city through his passionate story telling with such an appreciation for his culture that you became in awe of what Turkey has gone through over its vast history. We skipped the lines at all the locations, which allowed us to be efficient throughout the day. He had a knack of balancing sharing his vast information and yet giving us the opportunity to explore some of hot spots on our own, while waiting for us outside the establishments. It seemed like he knew everyone we came across, making the experience that much more impressive. We were even able to experience taking the tram and got to finish off our day with a ferry ride olong the bosphorus!!
All in all, because of Orchune, we left Istanbul, not only tired, but also with the desire to come back because of how beautifully he presented the city to us. Hoping you can be as lucky as we were to have him as...
Read moreWe had the pleasure of experiencing an incredible guided tour of Istanbul, by Orchun Kamit, our guide and I must say, it was unforgettable. The guide was not only deeply knowledgeable about Istanbul’s rich history and culture but also passionate about showcasing the city’s hidden gems.
The guide provided fascinating insights into iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Their storytelling brought Istanbul's vibrant history to life, from the Byzantine to the Ottoman eras.
We explored local food markets, savored authentic Turkish cuisine, and even stopped for a Turkish coffee brewed the traditional way. The guide’s recommendations for lunch food were spot on. Orchun took us to the Grand Bazar and helped us negotiate with local vendors.
This guided tour is perfect for anyone looking to dive deep into Istanbul’s culture, history, and cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone looking to explore beyond the touristy spots, this service provides exceptional value and unforgettable memories.
Would highly recommend it to anyone...
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