Experience the best of
Istanbul with Withlocals

"We came to Istanbul with a specific goal in mind - learn how to create our wedding rings by ourselves with a help of an artist. We had zero experience that's why we got one prep workshop with a brass and one workshop with gold and engraving. Both of them were held in an authentic place with friendly atmosphere surrounded by patience and willingness to help by Ayfer and 'usta' Eren. We've learned step by step process of cutting, bending, welding, decorating and polishing our rings. As a result we have 7 brass rings with different patterns and 2 cherished golden rings. Even more these rings have a custom handmade engraving what makes them even more special, rare and unique. We're very grateful for Ayfer and highly recommend these workshops to have a great time and memorable results of your work."

"I actually did two photography tours with Kemal, and I loved them both. Kemal has connections and you may get lucky and see, experience, and take pictures of some workshops that are very rare, and near extinct on this tour, I was given some choices of what I would like to see. We went to the Grand Bazaar, Kemal knows and works with a lot of different shops, so he knows where to go and can help you experience things that most tourist will never see, like the location that provides tea to the shops, a jewelry repair shop, and multiple others. The we went to a place that processes silk from cocoons for Turkish rugs. This is a skill that few people even know anymore. We were able to see and photograph the whole process, and we even got to see a master silk weaver tying silk knots for a rug. Then we went to a place that was smelting bronze. That is also something that is quite rare, and extremely interesting to see and photograph. The melting point of the metal is over a thousand degrees, and wow, what a process to witness and capture on film. Kemal was so enjoyable, and such a good teacher. I am a newish photography hobbyists, and this workshop helped take me to the next level. Kemal was able to help with all of my camera questions, and explain a lot about what is needed to take a good picture. Every picture that he took was amazing, and he will help you capture your own amazing images. Best money ever spent trying to upgrade my photography skills."

"My jewelry workshop with Ayfer and a local jewelry usta was a one of a kind Istanbul experience. Going into the back alleys of the Grand Bazaar to a historical and cozy studio and spending a few hands on hours with a Bazaar jewelry master felt like a step into a world I never would have experienced otherwise. Ayfer was spot on with her communication and was gracious, friendly, and super informative. "

"Prior to the photography session with Kemal, I joined hunting photography trips with my Indonesian group of friends, but Kemal opened a totally new perspective for me. I learned a lot from him. The experience and the lesson i got, was totally worth it. Kemal was a great teacher and also a sweet kind-hearted new friend i found in Instanbul. Thank you a lot, Kemal. Keep in touch ! "

"I was a -10 Photgrapher but I think Kemal managed to get me up to a 0.5 in just 3 hours. He really knows his stuff and was generous with his time and knowledge although I'm probably the worst student he has ever encountered... I'm just as shy behind the camera as I am in front of it... But thanks to Kemal I feel I at least have a better idea of the concept of Photgraphy and managed to take a few decent photographs yesterday"

"You won’t regret this!!!"

"I spend very interesting hours with Kemal and enjoyed the tour a lot. Although i usually shoot photograph in auto mode and I`m really technically untalented Kemal was able to teach me the basics of photography. So on the end we have visit some interesting places and I have taken very nice pictures. I would recomend this tour to anyone, even those who like me is not a "professional photographer""

"Ibrahim was a fantastic host. He showed us around the Island, took us shopping and welcomed us into his home which had fantastic views across all of Istanbul. We cooked and talked all afternoon and ate some of the most delicious food we had during our time in Turkey. I cannot thank Ibrahim enough for his kindness and hospitality. Definitely recommend."

"I have no words to describe Ibrahim. He was amazing from the very beggining, helping me with all doubts to set it up. His house on the island has THE BEST view and the island itself is amazing, and really cool to visit. Reccomend to do as us and arrive a little earlier (he met us and showed some spots from the island btw :) Food is simply great, one of the best and things we can definitely replicate at home. I think I can only thank him for the amazing day. It was definitely super super nice"

"Kemal met me at 5:30am to make sure we would make it to a great spot to catch the sunrise over the Bosphorus. Then he took me to some great spots along the shore that I had not seen before. Before I arrived Kemal gave me advice on what gear to bring, asked what I was looking for and was flexible on timing and places. We finished up the tour at a small local market near the airport. Kemal has a great way with people and really helps you figure out how to interact and what spots are great for photos. I highly recommend his tour!"