Bosphorus: Tours and Guided Visits

The mighty Bosphorus strait creates the great continental divide between Europe and Asia and serves as a bridge between the ancient world and modern-day Turkey.

Embarking on a Bosphorus tour from Istanbul is akin to embarking on a journey through time, where one can witness the grandeur of Ottoman palaces, the graceful sweep of majestic bridges, and the timeless charm of quaint fishing villages.

A symphony of cultures and histories harmonizes on its picturesque shores and the Bosphorus strait unravels an enchanting tapestry, inviting explorers to immerse themselves in the rich offering of sights, sounds, and stories.

Scroll down for our complete guide on visiting the Bosphorus strait, one of the most fascinating destinations for sightseeing in Istanbul.

What are the most popular Bosphorus tours in Istanbul?

There is a myriad of options to choose from if you are looking for a Bosphorus boat tour ranging from quick sightseeing cruises to 3-hour dinner cruises.

Bosphorus sightseeing cruise

The most popular tour of the Bosphorus is a 1.5 to 2-hour cruise along the majestic river. Board an impressive yacht with comfortable seating and a large open deck from where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks decorating the skyline.

Icons like the Dolmabahce Palace, Ortaköy Mosque and the Hagia Sophia come into view as you glide across the strait with an audio guide keeping you informed in several languages. There is a bar on board where you can buy snacks and drinks and ample seating both inside the boat and on the sun deck.

Bosphorus cruise plus dinner and show

The Bosphorus is equally as impressive at night as it is by day and a dinner cruise is an excellent way to witness this beauty.

See the lights shimmer in the black mirrorlike surface of the river as you take a 3-hour dinner cruise filled with delicious food and lively entertainment. There are several menu options ranging from a basic menu with soft drinks to a VIP menu with alcoholic beverages and hotel transfers.

Bosphorus sunset boat tour

See the city transform from day into night as the sun lights up the horizon in bright shades of orange and gold. Live the high life on a luxury moto yacht that cruises along the Bosphorus for 2.5 hours to showcase all the showstopping sites of Istanbul at dusk.

Enjoy a fine selection of canapes, juice, coffee and tea, or purchase an alcoholic beverage on board to clink a glass at sunset.

Bosphorus tour with a stopover on the Asian side

Take a 2.5-hour Bosphorus tour that stops on the Asian side for a brief time to explore either side of the continental divide. You will see all the iconic landmarks along the river and stop to explore the lush Kanlica, the greenest area of eastern Istanbul.

Roam around and try some local yogurt before getting back on board and cruising back to the European side. You will be treated to some seasonal fruits, Turkish coffee and Turkish delight while you glide along, soaking in the stunning views.

Are there any combos available with Bosphorus tours in Istanbul?

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise plus Topkapı Palace Tickets or Hagia Sophia Tour

This combo tour allows you to see the best of Istanbul from the land and the water. Visit one of the city’s most renowned attractions with skip-the-line access at Topkapı Palace or a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia. Afterward, you can head to the Bosphorus and enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise to see these historic treasures from the river.

Which places will you visit?

A tour on the Bosphorus will give you unbeatable views of all the historical architectural and historical highlights of Istanbul. These are some of the monuments you can see while on your cruise:

Galata Tower

This iconic landmark in Istanbul commands attention with its cylindrical silhouette and panoramic views of the city. Originally built as a watchtower in the 14th century, it has served as an observatory and prison, and now stands as a popular tourist attraction in the Galata Disctrict.

Maiden's Tower

Located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus, the Maiden's Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi, is a captivating structure steeped in legends and romance.

With its distinctive red and white color scheme, this cylindrical tower has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, serving as a lighthouse, quarantine station, and even a tax collection point.

Topkapı Palace

Nestled within the heart of Istanbul, the Topkapı Palace stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Once serving as the royal residence and administrative center, this sprawling palace complex now welcomes visitors to explore its stunning courtyards, lavish chambers, and impressive collections of art and artifacts.

From the mesmerizing Harem section to the glittering treasures of the Treasury, the Topkapı Palace offers a glimpse into the imperial life and rich cultural heritage of Istanbul's past.

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a true masterpiece that effortlessly blends Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles. Originally built as a church in the 6th century, it later transformed into a mosque and now serves as a museum.

With its massive dome, towering minarets, and awe-inspiring mosaics, the Hagia Sophia is a true marvel that showcases the religious and cultural diversity of Istanbul throughout the centuries.

How much will you normally pay for Bosphorus tours in Istanbul?

A basic 2-hour tour of the Bosphorus costs as little as US$10 per person and includes an audio guide. Bosphorus dinner cruises also offer excellent value for money and for around US$30 per person, you can enjoy a 3-hour tour with a meal and entertainment.

A Bosphorus cruise that stops on the Asian side of Istanbul costs US$55 per person and includes light snacks. A romantic sunset tour on the Bosphorus costs around US$60 per person and includes a selection of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

A combo Bosphorus tour with a Hagia Sophia tour costs US$25 per person while a combo with Topkapı tickets costs US$65 per person.

What is included?

Basic tours of the Bosphorus only include an audio guide app. Sunset cruises, however, also include a selection of snacks and canapes and some non-alcoholic beverages. Both tours offer you the option to purchase other drinks from the bar.

There are several options when booking dinner cruises on the Bosphorus. You can either book a standard menu with soft drinks or alcoholic beverages or you can book a VIP menu with the same drink options. Furthermore, there is an option that also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for the most convenient option.

Combo tours include your entry fee to one other attraction too. Topkapı Palace entrance includes an audio guide while the option to visit the Hagia Sophia affords you a guide for an hour.

Where does they start?

There are various starting points for tours on the Bosphorus from Istanbul. When you book your ticket you will receive information on which dock you need to go to. Boat companies all have clear signage posted at the front with staff members waiting outside to welcome you on board.

How long do they last?

Bosphorus cruises last between 1.5 and 2 hours, enough time to see all the major landmarks on the city’s shores. Sunset cruises on the Bosphorus last 2.5 hours while dinner tours last 3 hours.

Are they wheelchair friendly?

Some Bosphorus tours in Istanbul are wheelchair friendly while others are not. Larger sightseeing cruises usually offer access for wheelchair users while smaller luxury yachts do not have facilities for people with mobility impairments.

What time of year should you take a Bosphorus tour in Istanbul?

The most popular time for a Bosphorus boat tour in Istanbul is from May to September when the weather is warm. If you prefer to avoid large crowds and the peak of the summer heat, it's advisable to plan your Bosphorus tour during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn).

If you're interested in attending specific cultural events and festivals, you might want to plan your Bosphorus tour accordingly. Check the city's event calendar to see if any festivals or celebrations coincide with your visit.

Are children allowed?

Bosphorus tours from Istanbul do not set a minimum age requirement, meaning all children are welcome to join. On some tours, children under 4 to 6 years old can join for free. Youths up to 11 years old usually pay half the price of a regular ticket.

Travel tips

• Book according to your personal preferences - if you want to capture beautiful views, a daytime tour is ideal and for a more atmospheric experience, opt for a sunset or evening tour.
• To ensure a good spot on the boat, arrive early at the designated meeting point.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, especially if you plan to explore the shores during the tour.
• Bring a light jacket or sweater as it can get breezy on the water, even during warmer months.
• Bring essentials such as water, snacks and any necessary medications you may need during the tour.
• Your tour guide will provide valuable information about the landmarks, history, and culture of the Bosphorus.