Private Tour
Private & Guided Fener - Balat Walking Tour - Istanbul
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
This is a special tour including some of the most unique places in the city but also which are difficult to visit on your own. The tour will take you to the roots of historic Istanbul with visits to the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian monuments.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
Some sites, such as Fener Greek Orthodox College, can only be seen from the outside.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What To Expect
Suleymaniye Mosque
The Suleymaniye Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and built by the renowned Ottoman architect Sinan. Construction work began in 1550 and was completed in 1557. The mosque's design was inspired by the style of a Byzantine basilica, specifically the Hagia Sophia. This may have been a deliberate decision by the sultan to establish a sense of continuity and symbolic connection with the city's past.
Valens Aqueduct (Bozdogan Kemeri)
After visiting Suleymaniye Mosque, we will take a break for tea or coffee at Kadinlar Pazari, a lively square with authentic "buryan kebab" restaurants, situated under the shade of the Valens Aqueduct.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Donations
Coffee and/or Tea
Licences tour guide
Lunch
Gratuities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Private & Guided Fener - Balat Walking Tour - Istanbul
Pickup included
Reviews
13 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great!
Jacobslodge,,Sep 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great guided walking tour. Our guide was Yunus, he was very knowledgeable and took great care of us all. Lots of hills to walk up, so wear comfy shoes. The only thing was it felt rushed, we did not get very long to stop and take pictures in places. I would highly recommend doing this tour though.
Trustworthy, friendly and knowledgeable guide, highly recommended
Junchao S,,Dec 25, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent two days with Furkan, exploring the main historical sites like Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque etc as well as the Balat area. Furkan was friendly, trustworthy and very knowledgeable, not just about the sites but also the history and the people. He was extremely considerate and flexible, always choosing the best option depending on the situation. On top of that, he’s also an amazing photographer, taking great pictures for us and giving us expert advice on how to take better pictures. It was truly delightful to walk the streets of Istanbul with him and learn about this amazing city and country. We couldn’t ask for a better experience.
Worthwhile experience
Jumana D,,Aug 20, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00My husband and I are from NYC and we had an incredible experience exploring Istanbul with Furkan. He took us to some iconic spots, like the stunning Suleymaniye Mosque, where we felt like we had the place all to ourselves. Furkan's humorous storytelling was full of fascinating facts that really brought the history to life. He patiently answered all our questions and even accommodated a last-minute request to add an extra stop to Pierre Loti. What stood out the most was how he tailored the tour to our interests. We wanted to explore more of the Balat neighborhood, and Furkan knew exactly where to take us, including a few hidden gems including some beautiful Greek churches. His knowledge of the area was impressive, and he made sure to include a couple of extra spots that really made our day special. As big foodies, Furkan pointed us to some “parts unknown” local spots to try out after the tour. Plus, he even helped us navigate our way to the Asia side of Istanbul, making the entire experience seamless. If you’re looking for a personalized, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable tour, book this.
Fantastic private walking (and some driving!) tour of colorful, flavorful Fener-Balat
PatMagMar,,Nov 21, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00MUST do!! Magnificent tour, Magnificent Guide! Derya knows all the cultural, historic, food, and instagrammable spots in Fener-Barat area. She is very knowledgeable & kind (funny too). Van picked us up from our hotel, and she took care of us for hours. Tour combo walking and being driven between spots, at our own pace. Visited lesser known (and less crowded) beautiful mosques bought alive by her commentary; THE most important Orthodox church in the world; tea and walnut baklava under the aqueduct; tender fresh-of-out-of-the steam-oven juicy lamb sandwich at her secret spot; and every single instagram spot in Balat. Wow! When my husband didn't want to walk any more (2 knee replacements) she knew just the rest spot where he joyfully had tea and almond cake while she and I scooted around more picturesque spots. We have traveled all over the world - I can easily say #privateistanbulwalkingtours is THE best. Do yourself a favor - you and your family deserve this day while in Istanbul. P.S. She knows how to call cats to her.
Look no further- Furkan is IT!
Travelgirl333333 11,,Oct 18, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a one day private Istanbul walking tour with Furkan. What a GREAT experience. He met us promptly at our hotel. The tour included the major sites in the old town, the cisterns, some shopping in the bazar, a trip to some specially selected stores and an authentic lunch spot (yum). Furkan is very knowledgable and fun to talk to, and we appreciated the great insights into the history and culture of Istanbul. As an added bonus his wife (also a wonderful guide) joined us after lunch. Felt like we were sightseeing with good (and smart!) friends. A wonderful day, cannot recommend more.
A must do tour! Very unique.
Linhard H,,Oct 8, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent!! Derya was terrific!! Fantastic tour to see the real Istanbul away from the tourist traps. Saw a number of unique historical sites and traditional neighborhoods. Ate at a delicious family restaurant. Nice minibus between sites. Moderate walking involved. A must do!!
Fantastic tours and guides
223lubnaq,,Jul 25, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tours included historic Istanbul, Balat walking tour and a yacht excursion on the Bosporus. Everything was done professionally and very courteously. Our guides Furkan and Derya were not only amazing guides but kind people who did everything to ensure that we have a wonderful time. Thank you so much, Private Istanbul Walking Tours!
Perfect for a jet lagged solo traveler!
KathrynP W,,Dec 27, 2022
- Review from Viator
5.00I booked this tour to orient myself to Istanbul before my official tour started. I was picked up at my hotel in a nice van with the guide, Derya, and driven to the first site. This was great since I was totally jet lagged and didn't want to have to figure out how to get myself to a meeting point, which was the case with pretty much every other tour. The guide was very attentive, upbeat, and conversational, and she made sure we stopped at several neat cafes and restaurants to sample various foods. She took lots of great pictures of me, too!
Great local tour
Melinda F,,Oct 19, 2022
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome day! Derya was fun and knowledgeable. We really enjoyed this tour. Lots of walking and so much to see.
Glamours of Istanbul 💜
392rasham,,Jan 30, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Furkan is always the best !! I would do this tour over & over again. He is very tolerant and entertaining especially when kids are along, he can be funny & informative at the same time. He is an expert in showing the jewels of Istanbul and alongside with tasting the delicacies at every stop we make. We had a 3 day tour with him where we went all along exploring the asian & european side!! Not to forget he is a professional photographer!! Thanks Furkan for your efforts in making our trip a one to remember!!
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Operated by Private Istanbul Walking Tours