Does anyone have any recommendations on a good guide for Istanbul? My in-laws are heading there as part of a cruise and are looking for a little help in seeing the sights. There were a couple of posts on this topic back in 2004. Thanks in advance for any help.

Try Kagan Kosagan kosagan@yahoo.com. Friends of mine recently booked a private full day tour through Kagan and received Hale as their guide. They liked her so much, they decided to book a second full day with her.

Thanks Tony.

Hi DanM, It would be good if you had mentioned the things that you need a guide on like the places to stay, sights to visit or places to eat at....there are many things that go with guide.

Istanbul caters well for the culture loving visitor, offering a wealth of attractions reflecting its rich heritage. A vast number of mosques and other historic buildings jostle for travellers' attentions, while it is easy to waste a day wandering around the many bazaars and public areas.

The TopKapi Palace dominates the city and visitors can easily spend an entire day of their stay exploring the huge building. People are advised to get there early as the attraction inevitably becomes crowded, with the infamous Harem particularly popular. Built shortly after 1453, the palace was home to a series of Sultans during the Ottoman Empire as well as the Imperial Council Chamber, Imperial Treasury, Sacred Safekeeping Rooms and Tower of Justice, all of which are open to visitors.

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