Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents, and its real character lives in the crossing. This fully private tour leaves the monument trail behind for the neighbourhoods locals treasure, guided at a gracious, human pace by someone who calls this city home.

How do you cross between continents? By local ferry across the Bosphorus, one of the most beautiful ways to travel between the European and Asian sides, and a highlight of the day in itself.

What will you discover? You begin at the historic Beyazit book market on the European side, wander the colour of Tahtakale, choose between the Grand Bazaar and the aromatic Spice Market, admire the Iznik tiles of Rustem Pasha Mosque, then rise to a Galata rooftop for the view before sailing to the lively Asian-side quarter of Kadikoy.

What makes it off the beaten path? Rather than the headline monuments alone, we focus on how the city truly lives, from Beyazit and Galata to Pera and Kadikoy, at your own unhurried pace, private to your group.