Our business is based on sincere relationships within our network of dedicated and passionate professionals. Creating the most memorable and carefree experience for our guests is always at the center of our attention.
Get to know us better by checking out the faces behind our exclusive and private city tours, wine tastings & other fantastic activities we offer here at Vines & Pearls.
Meet your Personal Hero Guide Ezel.
Ezel is knowledgeable and passionate about her city Istanbul. She is in love with reading novels, learning new things and exploring new places!
Take a short video walk with Ezel and explore one of the most romantic pearls of her city – Orient train station that inspired many great stories, the most famous of them – being Agatha Christie’s novel Murder on Orient Express.
Meet your Personal Hero Guide Ahmet.
Ahmet is a professional guide interested in the everchanging Istanbul, its cultural diversity, local kitchen, and unexplored corners of town.
Take a short video walk with Ahmet and explore the beautiful Ottoman pearl, away from the busy streets. Here you can savour delicious wines, enjoy historic monuments and absorb the rhythm of local life.
Meet your Personal Hero Guide Elvan.
Born, raised and lived in Istanbul all her life Elvan is a true Istanbulian. Elvan enjoys long walks, history and meaningful conversations. She is in love with her city’s past and historical significance.
Take a short video walk through one of Elvan’s favorite historical pearls – the underground cystern that tells stories of the very beginning of this historic city – Istanbul.
Meet your Personal Hero Sommelier Andrea!
Andrea is a true wine expert and a talented award-winning writer who has published a book on Turkish wines, called the Esential Guide to Turkish Wines. Andrea will happily host you in the city’s wineries and reveal all the secrets of the winemaking culture in Turkey.
Get to know Andrea and Turkish wines while watching her video story!
Ayşenur is a passionate guide with a deep love for art, history, and wine. With years of experience exploring Istanbul’s cultural treasures, she brings the city’s rich heritage to life through captivating storytelling. Whether leading you through historic landmarks or unveiling hidden artistic gems, her expertise ensures an immersive experience.
Beyond history, Ayşenur is also a WSET-certified wine expert, offering a unique perspective on Turkey’s winemaking traditions. From ancient viticulture to modern boutique wineries, she skillfully connects the past with the present, making each tour a journey of both knowledge and taste.
Join Ayşenur for an unforgettable experience where history, art, and fine wine come together in the heart of Istanbul.
Personal Hero Guide
Berivan is more than just a guide—she is a true storyteller who brings history, culture, and hidden pearls to life with passion and depth. With an incredible ability to weave tales from the past into the present, she transforms every tour into a journey of discovery, making you feel like a character in Istanbul’s unfolding story.
A natural-born explorer with a deep love for the city, Berivan takes you beyond the typical tourist paths, revealing forgotten stories, secret corners, and the soul of Istanbul. Her warmth, knowledge, and engaging narrative style make every experience unforgettable.
Join Berivan on a tour and let her lead you through history, culture, and the magic of Istanbul—one story at a time.
Meet your Personal Hero Guide Kadir.
Kadir is a happy explorer, passionate about cultures, and curious about different faiths, spiritual and cultural monuments.
Take a short video walk with Kadir and explore one of the most serene pearls of her city – the historical Sulemanye mosque. It’s truly breathtaking in its aesthetics and significance.
Meet your Personal Hero Chef Arzu.
Arzu is an ambitious female chef who goes through life in big brave steps. After fulfilling her dream and competing in the finals of one of the most prestigious national cooking show, she soon opened her dining room with the open kitchen, where she invites her guests to try and learn about her culinary masterpieces.
Sneak peak to Arzu’s kitchen while watching her video story!
Meet your Personal Hero Sommelier Lisa.
Lisa is originally from Ukraine and has worked in wine and culinary sector for years. She holds WSET4 Diploma that makes her one of the most qualified experts in Turkey.
Lisa is inviting you to the wine tastings, food pairings and culinary adventures in the different venues of Istanbul.
Meet your Personal Hero Guide Ayşem.
Ayşem is a professional guide who loves an active lifestyle full of the outdoors. Apart from a nature fan, she is also in love with good food and wine!
Ayşem will show you the best dining places and culinary gems of the city together with historical and cultural pearls!
Sinan is more than just a guide—he is a passionate culinary storyteller who takes you on a private Istanbul food tour filled with history, flavor, and unforgettable experiences. With a deep knowledge of Istanbul’s diverse food culture, he uncovers the hidden pearls of the city, from traditional Ottoman kitchens to the best local street food spots.
With Sinan, food is more than just a meal—it’s a journey through history and tradition. As you explore the vibrant markets, family-run restaurants, and historic food stalls, he shares the stories behind each dish, the cultural influences that shaped them, and the people who keep these traditions alive.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or simply looking for an authentic private Istanbul food tour, Sinan will guide you through the city’s most delicious and meaningful culinary experiences.
Cansu is an outstanding wine storyteller and culinary expert who will take you on an unforgettable journey through the vineyards and gourmet treasures of Urla. With a deep passion for wine and a background enriched by Wine Masters from top European universities, she unveils the secrets of this extraordinary wine region, blending history, taste, and culture into every experience.
From boutique wineries to hidden gastronomic gems, Cansu will introduce you to Urla’s finest wines and culinary pearls, sharing the artistry behind each bottle and the flavors that make this region unique. Her expertise, warmth, and insider knowledge ensure an experience that is both enriching and delightful.
For an unforgettable wine adventure in Urla, where every sip tells a story, Cansu is all you need.