Alternative cultural Istanbul experience

THE OTHER TOUR

Tired of the same old touristy stuff? You’ve come to the right place. We help you experience Istanbul the way she deserves!

At The Other Tour, we pride ourselves on offering a completely different way to experience Istanbul since we started in 2011. While most travel agencies stick to the usual tourist routes, we take you on a journey that’s far more immersive, personal, and comprehensive.

So, since 2011 our centerpiece product/itinerary is called The Other Tour which lends its name to our whole company and website. The Other Tour’s 2025 itinerary is exciting – read it here.

Stylistically, we go way beyond simply checking off the city’s historical highlights (although we do offer professional tour guides for exploring iconic spots like the Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace if that’s what you’re after). Our approach focuses on helping you connect with Istanbul’s vibrant local culture and uncovering the soul of this incredible city.

You’ll share a home-cooked meal with a local family, wander through bustling street markets, and even visit schools to interact with students. From cruising along the Bosphorus to relaxing in a traditional Turkish bath and ending the day with dinner, music, and dancing—every moment is designed to go deeper than what traditional tours offer.

Moreover, we also offer a wide range of tours, from standard sightseeing and guided historical tours to immersive cultural experiences and unique, off-the-beaten-path itineraries. Our offerings include everything from private Bosphorus cruises and Jewish heritage tours to birdwatching, rooftop tours, night cocktail bar-hopping, and even specialized academic tours, like exploring Istanbul’s ancient waterways.

If you’re looking for more than just landmarks, but a real connection to Istanbul and its people, The Other Tour is the experience for you.

Read our 2025 Itinerary here.

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Watch The Other Tour’s 2024 video

The Other Tour Istanbul

2025 Itinerary

Go beyond touristy hotspots to uncover Istanbul’s authentic soul. Explore vibrant neighborhoods, connect with locals, and experience the city’s cultural and social fabric through unique activities that showcase its true essence.

ARNAVUTKOY

We kick off at 9 AM, driving along the scenic Bosphorus to discover Arnavutköy and nearby neighborhoods, celebrated for their beauty and charm.

Bosphorus Cruise

On our private boat, we cruise past historic mansions along the Bosphorus. We disembark in Kanlıca to savor the area’s famous yogurt.

Asian Side

Crossing to the Asian side, we explore picturesque Kuzguncuk and enjoy a delightful homemade lunch in a local’s home.

Golden Horn

Back to the European side via ferry, we explore Balat and Fener’s vibrant streets and visit a local school to connect with the community.

Turkish Bath

Unwind with a traditional scrub and massage in a historic Turkish bath, a rejuvenating pause before the evening festivities.

Dinner & Dancing

The night unfolds at a lively Turkish tavern with dinner and dancing, or perhaps a magical dinner cruise—it’s always a surprise!

OUR SERVICES

With expert guides, curated itineraries, hotel recommendations, and seamless logistics, we ensure an authentic and hassle-free exploration of Turkey’s rich heritage.

The Other Tour offers personalized travel services in Istanbul and Türkiye, including custom private tours, cultural experiences, culinary adventures, and layover tours.

Common Questions

What
We Do

We reach beyond the surface and explore Istanbul and Turkey in a much deeper level than the usual.

In 2025, The Other Tour will continue to offer a unique and immersive experience. We will share a meal in the home of our founding family, explore hidden neighborhoods on both the European and Asian sides, and visit a local school to meet students and get a glimpse of daily life in Istanbul. The journey includes discovering vibrant street markets and cultural gems, and it all concludes with a Bosphorus cruise filled with music and laughter. Expect authentic connections and unexpected surprises you won’t find on a traditional tour.
 

Yes, we do! If you’re interested in Istanbul’s must-see attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, or Grand Bazaar, we offer professional guides who can bring the history and stories of these landmarks to life.

These tours can be done privately or in small groups, with flexibility tailored to your schedule.

Absolutely. We organize tours to Turkey’s most iconic destinations, including Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and more. From hot air balloon rides to ancient ruins, we can help you explore the best of Turkey.

Let us handle the logistics, including flights, transfers, accommodations, and guided tours.

Yes! Customization is at the heart of what we do. Whether you’re fascinated by Istanbul’s Byzantine heritage, want to explore its modern cocktail scene, or need a family-friendly adventure, we create personalized itineraries to suit your interests, pace, and needs.

Beyond tours, we provide a full range of travel services, including:

We aim to make your trip to Istanbul as seamless and memorable as possible.

 
 
2025

Istanbul Attractions

Hagia Sophia

25 Euros entrance

Built in 537 in Istanbul, this iconic structure served as a Byzantine cathedral, an Ottoman mosque, a museum, and is now a mosque again.

Blue Mosque

Free entrance

Completed in 1616, this Istanbul landmark is famed for its blue tiles, six towering minarets, spacious courtyard, and exquisite domed design.

Basilica Cistern

24 Euros entrance

Built in the 6th century, this underground marvel in Istanbul features 336 columns and an eerie, atmospheric beauty beneath the city.

Topkapi Palace

50 Euros entrance

Once the Ottoman Empire's seat, this Istanbul treasure showcases grand architecture, royal chambers, and priceless historical artifacts.

Grand Bazaar

Free entrance

Completed in 1616, this Istanbul landmark is famed for its blue tiles, six towering minarets, spacious courtyard, and exquisite domed design.

Dolmabahce Palace

33 Euros entrance

Built in the 19th century, this lavish Istanbul palace blends European styles with Ottoman grandeur, featuring stunning halls and a Bosphorus view.

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