I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Best of Istanbul Tour with Guided Istanbul Tours, and I am delighted to share my exceptional experience. Emre, our tour guide, played a pivotal role in making this tour truly unforgettable.
From the moment we embarked on our journey, Emre's extensive knowledge of Istanbul's rich history shone through. His ability to recall names, dates, and significant events was nothing short of remarkable. Each historical site we visited came alive with vivid details and captivating stories, thanks to Emre's skillful narration.
One of the aspects that stood out the most was Emre's friendly demeanor. His warm and approachable nature instantly put me at ease, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the tour. It was evident that Emre genuinely cared about my experience and went above and beyond to ensure that I had a memorable time.
Emre's passion for Istanbul's heritage was truly infectious. As we explored iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, Emre's enthusiasm and deep respect for these historical treasures were palpable. He effortlessly transported us back in time, allowing us to appreciate the significance of each site in a profound way.
Moreover, Emre's ability to customize the tour to my interests and preferences was commendable. He took the time to listen to questions and tailored his explanations to provide insightful and relevant information. Whether it was delving into the architectural intricacies of a mosque or sharing anecdotes about the city's vibrant culture, Emre's versatility as a guide was evident.
The Best of Istanbul Tour was not just about visiting famous landmarks; it was an immersive and enriching experience. Emre's expertise extended beyond the usual tourist spots, as he introduced me to hidden gems and lesser-known corners of the city. These off-the-beaten-path locations added a unique dimension to the tour and allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul's diverse history.
In addition to his historical knowledge, Emre's logistical skills were impeccable. He expertly navigated the bustling streets of Istanbul, ensuring that we made the most of our time without feeling rushed. His attention to detail and well-planned itinerary made the entire tour seamless and enjoyable.
I wholeheartedly recommend Guided Istanbul Tours and specifically the Best of Istanbul Tour with Emre. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking a memorable travel experience, this tour is an absolute must. Emre's exceptional guiding skills, friendly demeanor, and passion for Istanbul's heritage make him an outstanding tour guide.
I am already looking forward to my next visit to Istanbul, and without a doubt, I will engage Guided Istanbul Tours again. Emre's expertise and the captivating experience he provided have left an indelible mark on my journey. Thank you, Emre, and Guided Istanbul Tours, for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Istanbul!
Best regards, Geoff -...
Read moreReview for Fatma, Our Guide in Istanbul ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently had the pleasure of exploring some of Istanbul's most iconic sites, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, with our extraordinary guide, Fatma. Her knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm for Istanbul's rich history made our experience truly unforgettable. From the moment we met Fatma, she exuded warmth and professionalism. Her deep understanding of the intricate histories of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque brought these magnificent structures to life. Fatma's storytelling skills are remarkable; she effortlessly wove together historical facts and captivating anecdotes that made each location resonate on a personal level. I particularly appreciated her insights into the architectural significance and cultural context of these landmarks, which deepened my appreciation of their beauty. At Topkapi Palace, Fatma guided us through the stunning courtyards and opulent rooms with grace and expertise. She shared fascinating details about the Ottoman Empire and the daily life of its sultans, making us feel like we were stepping back in time. Her passion for her city and its history was evident in every word she spoke. Additionally, Fatma was attentive to our needs, always ensuring we were comfortable and engaged throughout the tour. Her friendly demeanor and willingness to answer questions created an inviting atmosphere, making our group feel more like friends than tourists. I highly recommend Fatma to anyone looking to explore Istanbul. She is not only a knowledgeable guide but also a genuinely kind person who makes every moment enjoyable. Thank you, Fatma, for a remarkable experience in this...
Read moreWe had a two day private walking tour of Istanbul. It was a comprehensive trip including all of the world famous sites in Istanbul. There was a lot of walking necessary to see the many sites but the trip also included riding public transportation and cruising in a ferry up and back on the Bosphorus River which divides Europe and Asia as well as the old and new cities. It is not difficult walking but we did average over 10,000 steps per day and many of the walkways and stairs were uneven as you would expect in a city up to 2,000 years old in some places. Our guide Hasan was excellent. He has been a guide for almost 20 years and was very knowledgeable about the city, its history and building architecture. My wife and I are seniors and Hasan was very accommodating of our physical capabilities. We highly recommend Hasan and his tour company. I should say that a one day tour will see the world famous sites of Istanbul but we thought the extra time from the two day tour gave us a much better flavor and understanding of this world class city. I should also point out that as noted in the tour promotion materials entrance fees and transportation costs are extra fees and not included in the base tour booking price. These amounted to ~ $300 per couple over the two days. The agency can get skip the line tickets which save a lot of time but you will have to reimburse in cash - either dollars, euros, or Lyre. So plan your cash accordingly but there are ATM’s everywhere in the city. Those costs are in addition to whatever tips you...
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