In planning excursions for a July 2025 cruise (just completed), I identified a local Istanbul guide Metin Koca ([email protected]) in Rick Steve’s “Istanbul with Ephesus and Cappadocia”. I communicated with Metin several times both by phone and email prior to our trip. Another couple and my wife and I had two half days and one full day to spend in Istanbul prior to the beginning of the cruise. I wanted Metin to have an understanding of what our plans were on the “full-day” we had with him and the two half-days to ensure that there would be no duplication of sites and so he could make additional recommendations during our relatively brief visit in Istanbul.
Metin gave us recommendations for two excellent hotels in the old-town of Istanbul and suggested that we start out early to avoid the crowds and heat at the Hagia Sophia. Metin greeted us warmly there at 8:00 AM, where he had saved us a place in line since 7 AM. We then entered one of the world’s renowned houses of worship for Christians and then Muslims. Metin craftfully walked us through the incredible history of this architectural wonder, while pointing out both Muslim elements important to today’s worshipers and Christian elements of faith that have been allowed to remain out of consideration and compromise.
Then Metin guided us through the Topkapi Palace and its park-like surroundings, where we caught a glimpse of the 400-year history of the opulent lifestyle of sultans who resided here. With tours of the Basilica Cisterns, the Suleyman the Magnificent Mosque, Spice Bazaar and the Rustem Pasha Mosque, a thoroughly enjoyable day was complete.
We did not tour the Blue Mosque with Metin because of Friday prayers but included it in our itinerary the following half-day. It was located near the hotel Metin recommended.
Metin met every expectation that we could have possibly had for a professional guide. Throughout the tour, Metin took pride in making sure that we were comprehending the interesting and complex story of this great city and its place in the cultural and political history of the western world.
We highly recommend Metin Koca for your guide while in Istanbul for his knowledge, concise communication of complex historical events and professionalism.
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