bosphorus tour istanbul eminonu

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Istanbul Clues

Istanbul Tour Guide

Bosphorus Cruise Price, Schedule, Map (Updated 2024)

13 May 2024 by Serhat Engül

Bosphorus cruise is one of the most entertaining activities to do in Istanbul. While touring the Bosphorus, you can realize how Istanbul acts as a bridge between Asia and Europe. Because this hybrid culture was embodied in the structures on the Bosphorus coast.

During the Bosphorus cruise, you will see the historical palaces and mosques of Istanbul as well as the most expensive mansions. Reflecting both the historical and modern face of the city, the shores of the Bosphorus promise a lot for those who love to take pictures.

Table of Contents

Best Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul

In order to find the best Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul , you need to review the Bosphorus tours organized by Sehir Hatlari, Turyol and Dentur companies. The prices of these Bosphorus cruises are almost the same as each other. However, since each of them has different routes and times, you need to find the one that suits you best.

For example, the Sehir Hatlari ferries have a large deck, wide seats and a cafe inside. However, they only operate once or twice a day. For this reason, if you are going to combine your Bosphorus cruise with another activity, it may not be the appropriate option for you.

On the other hand, Turyol Bosphorus cruise boats are very compatible with flexible travel plans as they make tours every hour from 10:00 in the morning. Although these boats are smaller than the previous option, they still have a cafe inside.

The last option, the Dentur Bosphorus cruise , is a great option for those staying close to Taksim Square. Because Dentur’s boats depart from Kabatas. Kabatas is the last stop of Tram T1 arriving here from Istanbul Old City. The station is located right next to the Dolmabahce Palace .

If you want to make a Sunset cruise with a private yacht in Istanbul, you can make a reservation from this link . Or if you are looking for Dinner cruise options with dance shows, you can view them from this link .

Now, let’s examine each Bosphorus cruise under its own heading in the rest of the article. Thus, you can see the pros and cons of each and decide on the most suitable Bosphorus tour for you.

1. Sehir Hatlari Ferries

Sehir Hatlari ferries depart from Eminonu, the transportation hub of Istanbul Old City. Sehir Hatlari has 6-hour long and 2-hour short Bosphorus cruise options. While the 6-hour classic tour continues throughout the year, the 2-hour tour is organized only in summer.

Sehir Hatlari Long Bosphorus Cruise

Sehir Hatlari long Bosphorus cruise starts at 10:30, regardless of summer or winter, and lasts for 6 hours. The route of Sehir Hatlari ferries is longer than other Bosphorus tours. The tour starts from Historical Peninsula and continues until Anadolu Kavagi , which is the closest point on the Asian side to the Black Sea.

After leaving Eminonu, the ferry takes a 1.5-hour cruise on the Bosphorus and takes a 3-hour break after arriving at Anadolu Kavagi. (Between 12:00 and 15:00) This is a cozy town away from the crowds of Istanbul.

You can climb the Yoros Castle built by the Genoese and take beautiful pictures of the Bosphorus. The northern part of the Bosphorus is the only passage connecting the Black Sea to the open seas.

After visiting the castle, you can take a walk on the beach and enjoy the local architecture. It is also possible to have a nice lunch break at the fish restaurants by the sea.

The Sehir Hatlari ferry starts its return journey at 15:00 pm in the afternoon. The ferry follows the same route and returns to its starting point, the Old City, within 1.5 hours.

Sehir Hatlari Short Bosphorus Cruise

Sehir Hatlari has an alternative Bosphorus tour that is only held during the summer months. Sehir Hatlari short Bosphorus cruise is an activity that takes 2 hours. This excursion starts around 14:40 and returns after a 2-hour nonstop tour.

As an Istanbulite, I like the 2-hour tour of Sehir Hatlari the most. Because it covers more places compared to the 1.5 hour tours of Turyol and Dentur. Although this may seem insignificant at first glance, it allows you to see the northern shores of the Bosphorus.

I like to travel on Sehir Hatlari’s wide-deck and comfortable ferries with a decent cafe service. Also, since many Bosphorus cruises do not include the mansions in Yenikoy , the most beautiful houses on the Bosphorus cannot be seen.

The short 2-hour Bosphorus cruise can be a little difficult to fit into your travel plans, as it only takes place during the summer months and starts in the late afternoon. But if you have the time, I think this is the best.

Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Cruise Prices 2024

Sehir Hatlari long Bosphorus Cruise price is 120 Turkish Lira. On the other hand, the ticket price of the short Bosphorus tour is 65 TL. This post was last updated on May 13, 2024. I suggest you to check the prices once again on the official website of the company .

2. Turyol Bosphorus Cruise Boats

Turyol Bosphorus cruise boats organize tours every hour starting from 10:00 in the morning. In this sense, the most practical trips are made by Turyol, located in Eminonu.

Turyol pier is located only a five-minute walk from the Spice Bazaar , the symbol of Eminonu. Turyol ticket office is right next to the Galata Bridge , adjacent to nostalgic boats selling fish sandwiches.

Turyol boats set off from Eminonu and make a 1.5-hour trip. Leaving the Old City, the ship first crosses to the Asian Side and picks up passengers from Uskudar, and then returns to the European Side and starts the cruise.

The boat sails north along the European shores of the Bosphorus and turns from the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the middle of the Bosphorus. Following the Asian shores on the way back, the boat gives you the chance to see the sea shores of both sides.

The best thing about Turyol tour is that it is organized every hour and makes it easy to make itinerary. Even if you’re late due to a queue at a museum, crowds at a market, or traffic, you’ll catch the next boat.

Turyol Bosphorus Cruise Price 2024

Turyol Bosphorus Cruise price is 150 Turkish Lira. This article was updated on May 13, 2024. Before joining the tour, I recommend that you check the ticket price a second time on the official website of the Turyol . When you open the page, you will be asked to choose a destination, if you choose Eminonu Port, it will be the original trip starting from the Old City.

3. Dentur Bosphorus Cruise Boats

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise is the third option. The most beautiful part of Dentur is that it is very close to Kabatas. For visitors staying in Taksim Square, transportation is very easy. From Taksim Square you can come to Kabatas via Funicular F1 line and easily reach Dentur boats.

Dentur pier is very close to Dolmabahce Palace, so you can visit the palace first. Dentur’s biggest difference from Turyol is that it departs a little further. Since the tour starts from Kabatas and not from Eminonu, it goes further than Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and returns from Emirgan (beautiful neighborhood up the Bosphorus nearby Sabanci Museum )  The journey time is almost the same with Turyol.

Another feature of Dentur boats is that it stops in the Ottoman palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus. The boat stops at Emirgan on the European side and Kucuksu Pavillion (hunting palace of the Sultans) and Beylerbeyi Palace on the Asian side. If you want to visit these places, you can get off the boat and catch the next boat and return to the starting point of Kabatas.

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise Price 2024

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise price is 150 Turkish Lira for a 1 hour and 15 minute tour. These prices were last updated on May 13, 2024. You can check it once again at the official address of the company .

Dentur is the best Bosphorus tour in Istanbul for those who want to visit the palaces on the Asian side of Istanbul. Visits to Kucuksu Pavillion and Beylerbeyi Palace are both a cultural experience and the opportunity to eat and drink by the Bosphorus. The cafes of both museums have Bosphorus views and the food prices are reasonable.

4. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise allows you to take magnificent photos in Istanbul. You can enjoy the most romantic moments of the Bosphorus on the tour that starts when the sun sets.

If you want to join a sunset cruise tour on the Bosphorus with a luxury yacht, you can make a reservation from this link . This journey might be convenient for a small family or a couple.

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise Price 2024

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise price is around 35 USD per person as of 2024. Sunset tours are relatively expensive as they are limited to a small number of people and are made with private yachts. You can check the prices and make a reservation from the link above.

5. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

Bosphorus dinner cruise in Istanbul is a really fun activity. During this tour you can watch local dances and belly dancers. The best part of the Bosphorus dinner cruise is that you can see the palaces and other beautiful buildings on the Bosphorus with their colorful lights.

You can spend an unforgettable evening with beautiful music on the boat, local dances to entertain you and romantic scenery. If you want to join the recommended Bosphorus dinner cruise tour, you can make a reservation from this link . The tour is organized under the guarantee of GetYourGuide, an international company.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Price 2024

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise price is around 25 USD per person as of 2024. You can book an evening tour with dinner on the Bosphorus from the link I shared above and check the latest price. The tour I recommend is the most popular Bosphorus evening cruise in Istanbul.

Bosphorus Cruise Map for 2024

Bosphorus Cruise Map shows us the locations of Istanbul’s nostalgic ferries and tour boats. These sea transport vehicles allow us to travel between the European and Asian sides as well as take a Bosphorus cruise.

For example, piers 1, 2 and 5 on the map show tour boats making a Bosphorus cruise. Pier 1 belongs to the Turyol Boats . Pier number 2 belongs to Sehir Hatlari Ferries . Pier 5 belongs to Dentur Boats departing from Kabatas.

Pier 3 symbolizes the ferries departing from Eminonu (Old City) to Uskudar and Kadikoy on the Asian side. There are actually two separate piers here, but I thought a single figure would be enough for both.

Pier 6 symbolizes the ferries departing from Besiktas to Kadikoy and Uskudar. Piers 7 and 8 are located in Uskudar and Kadikoy, two touristic districts of the Asian Side. Ferries depart from both to Besiktas and Eminonu.

In summary, a Bosphorus cruise is among the best things to do in Istanbul . You can have this wonderful experience by choosing one of Sehir Hatlari, Turyol or Dentur companies.

You can also join special organizations such as a sunset cruise or an evening cruise with dinner. The photos you take during any activity on the Bosphorus will probably be among your best memories in Istanbul.

I would also recommend the article named Istanbul tourist map to get to know the touristic places of Istanbul. Or you can also review the Istanbul metro map article for public transportation in Istanbul.

About Serhat Engül

Hello explorer of Istanbul! This is Serhat Engul. I am a licensed TOUR GUIDE IN ISTANBUL. I offer PRIVATE HALF DAY TOUR which includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern and the Spice Bazaar. This is a fantastic option to see some of the ICONIC LANDMARKS in the whole of Istanbul and you’ll receive plenty of background information on each location to enlighten you. You may see the details of this tour on the HOMEPAGE of the blog. I wish you a wonderful trip!

Reader Interactions

31 August 2018 at 19:24

Thanks for all your posts! They have been very useful in planning my trip. Very big help in deciding a lot of things. Complemented very well my Tripadvisor and Lonely Planet research.

31 August 2018 at 19:44

Hello Ryan, thank you very much for your kind words. This is a good motivation for us. I Hope you will have great time in Istanbul.

13 May 2021 at 09:40

We are expected to arrive in Istanbul on 27th May and stay for 8 days. I’m glad to have gone through your blogs which will help me in making our trip enjoyable. Thanks for these very informative blogs. Ciao

13 May 2021 at 12:17

Hi Salahuddin, thank you for the feedback. It makes me very happy to see that these blogs really work for people. I wish you a good holiday in Istanbul.

27 September 2021 at 19:07

I am so glad to find your blog site with so many useful information for my trip next month. A quick question – are the ferries in normal operation now (any impacts from the Covid situation)?

27 September 2021 at 19:52

Hello, thank you for the feedback about the blog. Frankly, I haven’t participated in Bosphorus tours for a long time. However, when I review Turyol’s Bosphorus tour schedules, I see that the operations continue in the same way. The website of the state-run Sehir Hatlari is currently unavailable. But as far as I know it works too.

16 October 2021 at 05:29

Hello Serhat. I am planning to visit Istanbul with my family by end of November. How can we contact you to arrange some tours. Thank you

16 October 2021 at 22:08

Hello Said. You can send me an email from the contact page . It would also be helpful if you noted the exact days of the tours. Best regards, Serhat.

15 February 2022 at 15:39

I must say you have made planning around Turkey way easier. Wonderful description.

Thanks Sofia

15 February 2022 at 21:54

Hi Sofia, thank you. It makes me happy to see such reviews. It’s good to see that the time I spend on blogs is not in vain.

14 May 2022 at 10:54

Hello, this is a very informative website. Thank you for the in depth and extremely useful information. It has really helped me plan my trip.

14 May 2022 at 11:20

Hi Zehan, thank you very much for the feedback. Have a nice trip!

23 June 2022 at 13:27

Hi, hope you are well. Please let me know if there are any sunset cruises on Sehir Hatlari or Dentur.

23 June 2022 at 16:39

Hi Zehan, no, these companies do not organize sunset cruises on the Bosphorus.

20 November 2022 at 18:29

Hi, I wanted to know if any of these three companies have thier own dinner cruise. Or is it just offered by Get Your Guide?

21 November 2022 at 19:08

Hi Shyam, as dinner cruise is a special organization, it is held on ships designed for it. For this reason, the three companies in the top titles do not have dinner tours.

There are many companies in Istanbul that offer Bosphorus cruises with dinner. The most popular among them is the company I recommend.

They offer their services through GetYourGuide. If you want, you can make a reservation via the link I have provided.

19 January 2023 at 01:31

Thank you very much for your detailed explanation of Bosphorus cruises types, I found it very useful for planning my trip.

19 January 2023 at 13:05

Dear Liubov, thank you for your feedback on my article about Bosphorus tours. I am happy to see that the article is useful for those who will visit Istanbul.

5 February 2023 at 22:19

Big Thanks for writing this great guide..

7 February 2023 at 00:11

Dear Ali, thank you for the feedback on the post. I hope you will have a nice trip in Istanbul.

23 August 2023 at 20:02

Hello Serhat, I looked at the website of Sehir Hatlari ferries but I wasn’t able to see the possibility of buying tickets in advance online. Do you know if you can make a reservation for a cruise on a particular day online? Or do you just have to go to the ticket office in person in Istanbul? Many thanks!

25 August 2023 at 21:19

Dear Gary, Sehir Hatlari is a ferry company operating within Istanbul. I am not surprised that their online service is not working because Istanbulites do not reserve tickets for these ferries in advance.

Istanbulkart or one-time tickets are valid for all ferries of Sehir Hatlari that operate on both sides of the Bosphorus. On the other hand, online tickets must be purchased for IDO ferries going from Istanbul to other cities (for example, from Istanbul to Bursa).

My advice to you would be to buy your ticket for the Bosphorus cruise of Sehir Hatlari 30 minutes before the ferry departure from the box office. There is no such thing as running out of tickets for daily Bosphorus tours.

27 February 2024 at 19:30

Hello Serhat: Excellent guide. Re Turyol Ferries Bosphorus tour: Found it difficult to confirm on their website the following : *Hourly schedule in March ? *Just turn up @ the terminal purchase tickets ? *No online purchase facility ?

Regards Mitchell Reid

29 February 2024 at 23:43

Dear Mitchell, yes Turyol’s website is a bit outdated. Since the company’s working principles are very simple, you do not need to check the hours in advance or buy tickets online.

Turyol starts its Bosphorus cruises at 10:00 in the morning and there are boats every hour from then until the evening. I don’t think there will be a problem finding a seat. Tickets can be easily purchased from the box office before each trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Istanbul Travel Guide

Istanbul Clues travel guide is designed to introduce you to the history, museums, restaurants and culture of istanbul.

Private Tour Guide in Istanbul

Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul.

• Hagia Theodosia Church (Gul Mosque) in Istanbul
• Best Wine Shops & Bars in Istanbul (Updated 2024)
• The Church of the Holy Apostles (Istanbul) 2024
• 8 Best NIGHTCLUBS in Istanbul (Updated 2024)
• Kadir Has University (former Cibali Tobacco Factory)

Powered by Reborn Travel Agency

90-Minute-Every Hour Bosphorus Boat Tour From Eminonu in Istanbul

This page belongs to the 90-Minute-Every Hour Bosphorus Boat Tour From Eminonu in Istanbul: You will find more information about the tour deeply; what people think about the organization, how to join, what to visit during the tour. After you check the details of cruise, you can book the 90-Minute-Every Hour Bosphorus Boat Tour From Eminonu in Istanbul and enjoy your day.

Single Person Price of Standard Tour Class

90-Minute-Every Hour Bosphorus Boat Tour From Eminonu in Istanbul Details

Pick-up & drop-off details of this cruise pick-up & drop-off of 90-minute-every hour bosphorus boat tour from eminonu in istanbul, experience details of this cruise experience of 90-minute-every hour bosphorus boat tour from eminonu in istanbul, itinerary details of this cruise itinerary of 90-minute-every hour bosphorus boat tour from eminonu in istanbul, includes details of this cruise includes of 90-minute-every hour bosphorus boat tour from eminonu in istanbul, excludes details of this cruise excludes of 90-minute-every hour bosphorus boat tour from eminonu in istanbul, payment details of this cruise payment methods of 90-minute-every hour bosphorus boat tour from eminonu in istanbul.

You can make your booking for 90-Minute-Every Hour Bosphorus Boat Tour From Eminonu in Istanbul by using the following payment methods.

Cash: No In Advance Payment!. Book now, pay when you arrive.

Booking Form

Please select the age according to the departure date of the tour.

Recommended Bosphorus Tours in Istanbul

Bosphorus Boat Cruise Sightseeing Half Day Tour in Istanbul

Bosphorus Boat Cruise Sightseeing in Istanbul: It is one of the shortest Bosphorus tour that you may enjoy your discover...

Princes' Island Buyukada Full Day Tour in Istanbul

Princess Island is one of the excellent things to do in Istanbul in a day. It is also a chance for visitors to see the B...

Bosphorus Lunch Cruise in Istanbul

Bosphorus Lunch Cruise in Istanbul: Enjoy lunch during the bosphorus cruise and sightseeing, explore the natural beautie...

Bosphorus And Black Sea Cruise Plus Byzantine Heritage Full Day Tour in Istanbul

Bosphorus And Black Sea Cruise Plus Byzantine Heritage Full Day Tour in Istanbul: Experience the Bosphorus, Black Sea by...

Bosphorus Dinner Curises in Istanbul

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show in Istanbul

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: With dinner and Turkish night show on the Bosphorus by boat cruise is the best activity during the night in Istanbul between Asia and Europe. You may leave one of your night for Bosphorus Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul and have fun with you...

Orient House Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

Orient House Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul: With the Orient House Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul, You will be experience the night life and ottoman night show and belly dancer show in Istanbul.We know that you will ne a relaxing timi after you busy day while visiting the city of Istanbul....

Turna Tour Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

Turna Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul: With the Turna Cruise Bosphorus Dinner in Istanbul, You will be experience the night life and ottoman night show and belly dancer show in Istanbul.Have dinner between two continents and watch Turkish Folk team performances from different region of Turkey Da...

Pereme Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

Pereme Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul: With dinner and Turkish night show on the Bosphorus by boat cruise is the best activity during the night in Istanbul between Asia and Europe. You may leave one of your night for Bosphorus Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul and have fun with your fa...

Kaptan Nazmi Alev Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

Kaptan Nazmi Alev's Dinner Cruise: On the Bosphorus by boat cruise within the 49 metre long boat cruise, you will have fun after your day of sightseeing or walking in the city. It will be a chance to relax and have the apportunity of the fun during the your holiday in Istanbul.

Subscribe to Bosphorus Tours and receive notifications about our campaigns, enter your email address.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise 90-Minute Roundtrip with Audio Tour

All-Day-Long Valid - Skip the Line Tickets - Mobile Audio Guide - No Rush, No Stress, No Waiting and the Best Price for a Great Tour on Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Description

Best price, best route & best timeline for bosphorus.

This dreamlike roundtrip between Asia and Europe reveals Istanbul’s most beautiful sights reflecting its unique nature and culture while the famous breeze refreshing you. This flexible ticket saves you from all the pressure of catching a single departure and spares your valuable time for discovering Istanbul's landscape in perfect freedom!

No need for waiting, no need for validating or no meeting with operators! Welcome to Istanbul's most popular Bosphorus Cruise! Best Price, All-Day-Long Valid Flexiblity - Skip the Line Tickets - Audio Guide - No Rush, No Stress, No Waiting for a Great Tour on Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Highlights of the Bosphorus Cruise Tour: 

• A perfect route presents best views on Istanbul's dazzling palaces, fanciest houses, green hills and colossal bridges on the Bosphorus all at once
• Feel the flexibility fully with frequent departures and take the time that suits you best that day for this 90-Minute ride
• Enjoy the priority entrance that saves your precious time and take your seat as you wish indoors or outside
• With the  the Audioguide, listen to several important facts and interesting stories about the major sights if you wish on the way

What to see with the Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul?

Enjoying the magical Bosphorus is clearly a must for every Istanbul visitor. This classic is the best to do any time when you are in Istanbul. Whether for a great start, a refreshing break between busy days or even for a finish in style before your return flight as well... 

Here you can find the safest and shortest cut to get on the boat with the best price, most flexible timeline and most complete package with great options. 

This tour follows a perfectly measured route taking 90-minutes ending at the same central spot you started. This course presents you major landmarks including royal palaces, ages-old castles and most exclusive houses on the way. Simply, you will not miss any highlight from your list of things to see along the Bosphorus in Istanbul. 

There are many spectacular spots on this Bosphorus Tour starting with the glorious Dolmabahçe and Çiragan Palaces. The Ortakoy Mosque and the oldest Bosphorus Bridge are a certain highlight of your Istanbul trip. The Maiden Tower and the Rumeli Fortress looks like fallen from fairy tales. 

Prepare for wonderful opportunities for having best shots! You will get stunning pictures across the shores that are filled with magnificent scenes and natural beauties.

How do I get my tickets for Bosphorus Tour Cruise?

After your reservation, we will send you the reservation info. At the day of departure, you will receive the QR tickets that can be used digitally at turnstiles before the boat!

Location, Times and Tickets/Reservation info for the Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul

The tour starts out from Turyol Eminonu Bosphorus Station !

As of Summer 2022, the boats depart every hour between 10:00 and 19:00 (or even 20:00 especially weekends). 

Starting the Winter Season 2022, the final departures are set at 18:00. The first Bosphorus Cruise departure has not changed as it still moves at 10:00 each day. 

Once you make the purchase here, your ticket comes into your mail immediately. All you should do is showing your digital ticket on your screen at the station. Our team will be waiting for you with your name on their list!

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Departures for 2022

As of May 1st of 2022, the announced timeline for the Bosphorus Cruise Tours in Istanbul departs:

How to go to Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Pier?

The departure and arrival point is at Eminönü, across the historic Egyptian Spice Market and next to the Galata Bridge right in the middle of the Old Town. 

If you come with Tram, leave at Eminönü Station and cross to street towards the seaside. Then walk to the other side of the Galata Bridge. The Bosphorus Station is just behind the Fish Sandwich Boats. 

What is Bosphorus? What does Bosphorus mean?

Bosphorus is the name of the strait connecting the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. It is 32 kilometers long channel separating the European and Asian continents. Because of Bosphorus’ strategic location, the city and port attached to it have played an important role in the world history since the ancient times. 

The shores of Istanbul along Bosphorus were always garnished with beautiful flora as you may see natural parks over the surrounding hills today as well. Moreover, the impressive architecture displays many of spectacular faces of Istanbul as many houses, mansions and palaces pass by before you. 

How to chose which Bosphorus Cruise Tour is best for you?

There are factors that affect the exact experience through the Bosphorus and the efficiency of your entire program.

• Location : According to the location of your hotel or the visits you make in Istanbul, there are alternatives that would help you to save time and energy. This page provides you a departure from the heart of the Old Town where you can reach by walking from Galata, Eminonu, Egyptian Spice Market, Topkapi Palace etc in 2 to 15 minnutes. But, in case of looking the nearest departure from the monumenal sites like Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque or Topkpai Palace again, there is one boat that provide a guide pick-up tight from the these must-see areas. This is where yu can find the relevant link: BOSPHORUS CRUISE TOUR FROM HAGIA SOPHIA . This one is also lasting longer than any other cruise tour in Istanbul. In addition, there is another company starting from a location nearby Dolmabahce Palace too where you can go for the ticket windows and buy tickets as well. If you are staying on the Asia side, Kadıköy Pier is your option to buy from the windows in the ferry station. 
• Departure Times : As Istanbul is a giant metropolitan city on ancient foundations, it is not easy to go around the old town where the majorty of the things to see. So, being perfectly on time is not easy while moving between impressive monuments in Istanbul. There is a great advantage as the ticket you could book here on this page gives you a great flexibility from mornign hours to evening times (10:00 - 20:00 in summer time). The Bosphorus cruise boats from Hiagia Sophia and Blue Mosque is departing 2 oe 3 times in a day (mostly 12:00, 15:30 and 18:00 in high season). 

FAQ about Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise 

Where does the Bosphorus Tour starts in Istanbul? The pier where the boats depart is right at the heart of the old town. The station is just across the famous Egyptian Spice Market in Eminonu, which is one of the highlights of Istanbul.

When should I be at the Bosphorus Pier? Our Bosphorus Cruise round-trips start periodically with the highest frequency. So, you do not have to be bound to a specific time. 

Do I wait for the ticket Bosphorus Cruise Tour? Once you book here, you can use the priority entrance. You may just show your digital ticket to our team at the pier, who will have your names in their list.

Which specific places can one see during this Bosphorus Cruise Route? First of all, the natural beauty stuns our guests and then the royal palaces (Dolmabahce, Ciragan and Beylerbeyi) remarks the historical glory. Then the unique Maiden’s Tower and the medieval castle of Rumeli Fortress fascinate the viewer. These are only a few of landmarks…

What is the ideal duration for a Bosphrous Trip? Although there are even 60-minute-long ones, best sights along the Bosphorus requires at least 90 minutes on both European and Asian shores of Istanbul. 

Question & Answers

Where does the Bosphorus Tour starts in Istanbul?

The pier where the boats depart is right at the heart of the old town. The station is just across the famous Egyptian Spice Market in Eminonu, which is one of the highlights of Istanbul.

When should I be at the Bosphorus Pier?

Our Bosphorus Cruise round-trips start periodically with the highest frequency. So, you do not have to be bound to a specific time. 

Do I wait for the ticket Bosphorus Cruise Tour?

Once you book here, you can use the priority entrance. You may just show your digital ticket to our team at the pier, who will have your names in their list.

Which specific places can one see during this Bosphorus Cruise Route?

First of all, the natural beauty stuns our guests and then the royal palaces (Dolmabahce, Ciragan and Beylerbeyi) remarks the historical glory. Then the unique Maiden’s Tower and the medieval castle of Rumeli Fortress fascinate the viewer. These are only a few of landmarks…

What is the ideal duration for a Bosphrous Trip?

Although there are even 60-minute-long ones, best sights along the Bosphorus requires at least 90 minutes on both European and Asian shores of Istanbul. 

Featured Products

Select Reservation Time

• What You Get
• How It Works
• Guidebook & Subway Map
• TriPass Standard
• TriPass Premium
• Build Your Own Pass
• TriPass Lite
• View All Attractions, Services & Discounts
• FAQ & CONTACT
• MANAGE YOUR PASS

• USE YOUR TRIPASS

Bosphorus Cruise 90-Minute Roundtrip

Dream like roundtrip between Asia and Europe reveals Istanbul’s most beautiful sights with unique nature and culture while the famous breeze refreshing you.

This dreamlike roundtrip between Asia and Europe reveals Istanbul’s most beautiful sights reflecting its unique nature and culture while the famous breeze refreshing you.

Highlights Of The Bosphorus Tour:  A perfect route presents best views on Istanbul's dazzling palaces, fanciest houses, green hills and colossal bridges on the Bosphorus all at once Feel the flexibility fully with frequent departures and take the time that suits you best that day for this 90-Minute ride Enjoy the priority entrance that saves your precious time and take your seat as you wish indoors or outside Opt for the Audioguide and listen to several important facts and interesting stories about the major sights if you wish on the way What To See With The Bosphorus Cruise In Istanbul? Enjoying the magical Bosphorus is clearly a must for every Istanbul visitor. This classic is the best to do any time when you are in Istanbul. Whether for a great start, a refreshing break between busy days or even for a finish in style before your return flight as well...

Here you can find the safest and shortest cut to get on the boat with the best price, most flexible timeline and most complete package with great options.

This tour follows a perfectly measured route taking 90-minutes ending at the same central spot you started. This course presents you major landmarks including royal palaces, ages-old castles and most exclusive houses on the way. Simply, you will not miss any highlight from your list of things to see along the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

There are many spectacular spots on this Bosphorus Tour starting with the glorious Dolmabahçe and Çiragan Palaces. The Ortakoy Mosque and the oldest Bosphorus Bridge are a certain highlight of your Istanbul trip. The Maiden Tower and the Rumeli Fortress looks like fallen from fairy tales.

Prepare for wonderful opportunities for having best shots! You will get stunning pictures across the shores that are filled with magnificent scenes and natural beauties.

Location, Times And Tickets/Reservation Info For The Bosphorus Tours The tour starts out from Turyol Eminonu Bosphorus Station !

Once you make the purchase here, your ticket comes into your mail immediately. All you should do is showing your digital ticket on your screen at the station. Our team will be waiting for you!

How To Go To Bosphorus Cruise Pier In Istanbul? The departure and arrival point is at Eminönü, across the historic Egyptian Spice Market and next to the Galata Bridge right in the middle of the Old Town.

If you come with Tram, leave at Eminönü Station and cross to street towards the seaside. Then walk to the other side of the Galata Bridge. The Bosphorus Station is just behind the Fish Sandwich Boats.

What Is Bosphorus? What Does Bosphorus Mean? Bosphorus is the name of the strait connecting the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. It is 32 kilometers long channel separating the European and Asian continents. Because of Bosphorus’ strategic location, the city and port attached to it have played an important role in the world history since the ancient times.

The shores of Istanbul along Bosphorus were always garnished with beautiful flora as you may see natural parks over the surrounding hills today as well. Moreover, the impressive architecture displays many of spectacular faces of Istanbul as many houses, mansions and palaces pass by before you.

Better Price with TriPass

Avoid paying the €15 entrance fee.

Click "BUY TICKETS ONLY" to only get this attraction/service or click "BUY PASS" to purchase "All-Inclusive TriPass"

• Reservation is required! You must make a reservation at least 1 hours in advance.
• Meeting point: Turyol Eminonu Bosphorus Station .
• Tours and Tickets is the provider. Partner WhatsApp Line: +90 850 307 77 43
• The boats depart every hour between 10:00 and 19:00
• Please be ready at the meeting point 10-15 minutes earlier before your tour hour.
• No refunds after the reservation. 
• If you do not attend the attraction/tour at the reservation time, you lose your right for the attraction/tour.

FAQ About Bosphorus Tours 

• Where does the Bosphorus Tour starts in Istanbul? The pier where the boats depart is right at the heart of the old town. Turyol Ferry station is just across the famous Egyptian Spice Market in Eminonu, which is one of the highlights of Istanbul.
• When should I be at the Turyol Bosphorus Pier? Our Bosphorus Cruise round-trips start periodically with the highest frequency. So, you do not have to be bound to a specific time.
• Do I wait for the ticket Bosphorus Cruise Tour? Once you book here, you can use the priority entrance. You may just show your digital ticket to our team at the pier, who will have your names in their list.
• Which specific places I can see during this Bosphorus Cruise Route? First of all, the natural beauty stuns our guests and then the royal palaces (Dolmabahce, Ciragan and Beylerbeyi) remarks the historical glory. Then the unique Maiden’s Tower and the medieval castle of Rumeli Fortress fascinate the viewer. These are only a few of landmarks…

is Better Price with TriPass

Person (6+)

Child (3-6)

• Istanbul Attractions
• About Bosphorus Cruise
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Evening Cruises
• Lunch Cruises
• Yacht Tours
• Top Sights To See
• Plan Your Visit
• Basilica Cistern Tickets
• Hagia Sophia Tickets
• Topkapi Palace Tickets
• Dolmabahçe Palace Tickets
• Blue Mosque Tickets
• Galata Tower Tickets
• Princes' Islands Tours
• Turkish Bath & Hammam Experience Tickets
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tickets
• Grand Bazaar
• Istanbul Aquarium
• Maiden's Tower
• Istanbul Airport transfers
• Pierre Loti Hill Tickets
• Whirling Dervishes Show Tickets
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Things to do
• Festivals and Events
• Bosphorus Cruise Tickets

Select Your Experience

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Show

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Admire the beauty of Istanbul from the comfort of your VIP private table close to the stage on this 3-hour cruise along the Bosphorus with entertainment and dinner.
• Spot iconic Byzantine & Ottoman Empire attractions such as the medieval Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, and Bosphorus Bridge.
• Indulge in a 4-course Turkish meal and sip on unlimited soft drinks as you gaze out at the picturesque city, lit up in the golden light of the setting sun.
• Dance to the tunes of an onboard DJ, watch belly dancing, and dervish dance, seated in VIP for prime seating by the stage with private, reserved tables without mixing with other guests!
• Enjoy pick-up and drop-off in an AC coach and/or unlimited alcoholic beverages by upgrading your ticket.
• 3-hour Bosphorus cruise
• 4-course Turkish dinner
• Live entertainment and DJ
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Free Wi-Fi on board
• Unlimited alcoholic beverages (optional)
• Round-trip hotel transfers from centrally located hotels (optional)
• Transport by air-conditioned coach (optional)
• Imported drinks
• Duration: 3 hours
• Start Point & End Point: Kabatas Pier
• What will you see: Galata Tower | Dolmabahce Palace | Ciragan Palace| Ortaköy Mosque | Bosphorus Bridge | Beylerbeyi Palace | Üsküdar | Maiden Tower | Topkapi Palace | Hagia Sophia | Seaside Villas
• Board your cruise at Boss4.net Kabataş Bosphorus Tour Point
• Address: Ömer Avni, Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. 36/A, 34440 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye.
• Get Directions to the Boarding Point
• Tip: The best time to go on a Bosphorus Cruise is between April and September. During this period, the weather is pleasant and the humidity is bearable.
• This experience is weather-dependent. An alternative date or a full refund is provided if the activity is canceled due to inclement weather.
• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility
• Dietary needs such as vegetarian, pescetarian, and halal can be accommodated.
• Languages spoken on board are English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Dutch, and Russian.

• Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise
• Sail over the waters of the Bosphorus Strait and brace yourself for some mesmerizing sights you’ll savor.
• Wonder at the views of waterfront palaces, mansions, and mosques, other than Istanbul’s stunning skyline.
• An expert tour guide will offer live commentary along the way, as you gaze at the opulent Dolmabahce Palace.
• Nibble on snacks, cookies, baklava, and fresh seasonal fruits, and sip on a beverage of your choice.
• 2-hr Bosphorus daytime cruise
• Live commentary
• Soft drinks, bottled water, tea & coffee
• 2-hr Bosphorus sunset cruise (optional)
• Tip: The best period for a Bosphorus Cruise typically falls between April and September, varying based on your preferred type of cruise experience.

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise with Audio Guide

• Escape the city traffic and set sail on this 90-minute boat ride that shows you the best sights along the Bosphorus Strait.
• At the pier, a Marine Officer will meet and greet you and give you an overview of the things you will be seeing.
• You will also be given a handy map of the Bosphorus to help you identify the best spots along the way and an informative audio guide that is available in 8 languages.
• Glance over at Istanbul’s most beautiful attractions including Topkapi Palace, Golden Horn, Ortaköy Mosque.
• Take photographs as you pass under the legendary Bosphorus Bridge that connects Europe and Asia.
• 90-minute Bosphorus cruise
• Audio guide available in 8 languages
• Food and drinks
• Duration : 90 minutes
• Start Point & End Point : Kabatas Pier
• What you'll see : Galata Tower | Dolmabahce Palace | Ciragan Palace| Ortaköy Mosque | Bosphorus Bridge | Beylerbeyi Palace | Üsküdar | Maiden Tower | Topkapi Palace | Hagia Sophia | Seaside Villas
• Board your cruise at Dentur Avrasya Pier.
• Don’t forget to bring along your headphones to listen to the audio tour.
• The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese.
• Please note: There is limited internet at the pier so please download the app before the tour.
• The app does not require internet once it has been downloaded but ensure you have activated GPS.
• These tickets are valid for 3 days from the date of purchase.

Istanbul Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Bosphorus Cruise Guided Tour & Tickets

• Ideal for history lovers and explorers, this Istanbul tour offers guided insights, skip-the-line access, and self-paced exploration of the city’s cultural gems.
• Marvel at the Blue Mosque's breathtaking Ottoman architecture, an architectural masterpiece adorned with over 20,000 handmade tiles.
• Skip the line for the mysterious Basilica Cistern. With an audio guide, dive deep into the ancient marvel's history in its atmospheric chambers.
• Roam the vibrant streets of the Old City Sultanahmet, soaking in its rich history with a knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide.
• Choose your preferred Bosphorus Cruise departure, with an enchanting sunset option that paints Istanbul in golden hues, an experience like no other.
• Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
• Guided tour of Basilica Cistern
• Audio guide in English, German, Italian, Spanish & French (for the Basilica Cistern tour)
• Guided tour of Old City
• Guided tour of Blue Mosque
• 2-hour Bosphorus cruise or sunset cruise (between April to October)
• Skip the security lines at Blue Mosque or Basilica Cistern
• Tour guide on the Bosphorus cruise
• Tip: Don't miss sampling lesser-known Turkish delights like lokum and sekerpare alongside the classic baklava.
• Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for mobility issues.
• Strict dress code to visit Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia: Women should not wear knee-length shorts, skirts, or clothing with exposed shoulders or chests. Hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men should not wear knee-length shorts or clothing with exposed shoulders. If needed, scarves (€1) and body covers (€3) are available at the entrance.
• The Blue Mosque has a security check that may take 30 minutes in the low season and up to 60 minutes in the high season. During this time, your guide will enrich the wait with fascinating stories and insights about Istanbul.
• The Bosphorus cruise departs daily at 12pm and 3pm year-round. Enjoy an extra sunset departure at 6pm from April to October.
• If you can't make the Bosphorus Cruise the same day, you can use the tickets the next day.

2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul

• Experience luxury with a 2-hour private yacht rental with up to 10 people, and cruise along the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul.
• Enhance your experience by adding round-trip hotel transfers in a Mercedes Vito or a delectable onboard meal.
• Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and snacks as you sail past the picturesque Ortakoy Mosque and the cross-continental Bosphorus Bridge. Upgrade to include alcoholic drinks.
• Sit back and relax in the seating lounge or put on your sunscreen for some sunbathing on the open deck.
• Come across the stunning architecture of Dolmabahce Palace, reflecting the opulence of the Ottoman Empire and the 15th-century Rumeli Fortress featuring imposing stone walls, towers, and battlements.
• 2-hour private luxury yacht rental for up to 10 people
• Round-trip hotel transfers in a luxury vehicle (optional)
• Complimentary drinks & snacks
• Breakfast, lunch, or dinner (optional)
• Alcoholic beverages (optional)
• Tip: Time your cruise to coincide with the sunset to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting warm hues across the Bosphorus.
• Complimentary drinks & snacks include soft drinks, tea, coffee, cookies, chips, nuts, and fruits.
• Facilities: Wi-Fi, Pram/stroller Accessibility.
• Pets and guide dogs are allowed on board.
• Bring along your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
• If the main yacht is busy, you will be offered another yacht of the same quality.

Bosphorus & Black Sea 2-Course Lunch Cruise with Swimming Opportunity

• Experience an unparalleled blend of history and nature on this 4.5-hour Bosphorus & Black Sea cruise, complete with a refreshing swim.
• Savour a delicious Turkish meal with a fresh fruit platter, soft drinks or tea and coffee to enhance your sailing experience with a delightful culinary journey.
• Added perks include hotel pick-ups and an informative onboard English and Spanish-speaking guide.
• Sail past the architectural marvels of Istanbul, from the grandiose Ottoman-era mansions to the iconic Galata Tower and Bosphorus Bridge.
• Enjoy a stroll around the lush hills and medieval ruins of Anadolu Kavagi, a sleepy fishing village with ruined castles, fortifications and ancient temples.
• 4.5-hour cruise on the Bosphorus Strait
• Expert English & Spanish-speaking guide onboard
• Hotel pick-up from central Istanbul
• 2-course lunch
• Soft drinks, tea & coffee
• Fruit platter
• Tip: While in Anadolu Kavagi, try the local seafood delicacies. The town is famous for its fresh fish!
• Click here to view the menu.
• Vegetarian options are available upon request (before the cruise).

Istanbul Top Museums 3-Day Pass: Guided Tour + Entry Tickets & Free Bosphorus Cruise

• Enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul’s best iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over 2 or 3 days .
• Learn about the illustrious history of each of these landmarks from your expert English-speaking guide.
• Gain valuable insights about the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from your guide before you enter.
• Explore Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern while listening to interesting stories through an audio guide app available in 8 languages.
• Sail away on a relaxing 90-minute cruise of the Bosphorus Waterway as you admire the architectural beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective.
• 60-min Topkapi Palace tour with skip-the-line entry
• 30-min Basilica Cistern tour with skip-the-line entry
• 60-min Hagia Sophia tour with entry
• 90-min Blue Mosque tour with entry
• 90-min Bosphorus Cruise ticket
• English-speaking guide for all attractions
• Audio app in 10 languages
• Hagia Sophia Mosque

Blue Mosque

Topkapi palace.

• Basilica Cistern
• Tip: Topkapi Palace's ground floor has the best Instagram potential. You get to photograph the stunning interiors and beautiful ceilings.
• The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish.
• Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
• For Hagia Sophia, Women are required to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. Their hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders. If you don't have a scarf or covering, it can be purchased at the entrance, at your own expense.
• With this admission ticket (except for Hagia Sophia), you will skip the ticket line, but not the security line. During high season, the security check could take up to 30 minutes.
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for pets.
• Your guide will show you the way to each attraction, then you can set your own pace for exploring.

Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions

• Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days !
• With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
• A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
• For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!
• Choice of 2/4/9 of Istanbul's top attractions
• Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace
• Cruises: Bosphorus cruise, Dinner cruise on Bosphorus with Turkish drinks and food
• Tours: Asian side walking tour, Blue Mosque tour,
• Access to hop on hop off bus tour
• Activities: Dervish Ceremony, Turkish bath & Hamam
• 5-ride transportation card
• Digital guide book
• City, tram & metro map
• There is no reservation needed for any activity except the Bosphorus Dinner cruise.
• Each pass is valid for 7 consecutive days including the first day of use.
• You can visit multiple attractions in a day but you can only visit each attraction once with this pass.
• You do have skip-the-line access but you will still need to go through security.
• You’ll receive an email shortly afterward with your tickets after you've picked a pass of your choice.
• If you're someone who likes a physical pass, you can print the PDF or show the PDF at the attraction so they scan your QR ticket.
• For the all-inclusive pass, you will also receive all your tickets.
• You can change the chosen attractions as many times as you want, or you can cancel the pass free of charge up to 1 day before the service date.

What customers have to say about Bosphorus cruises

Bosphorus cruises | sailing istanbul’s historic waterway.

If you’re looking to explore Istanbul in a truly unforgettable way, consider a Bosphorus cruise. The Bosphorus Strait has been a crucial waterway since ancient times and has shaped the history and growth of the city for centuries. You will cruise past several of its most prominent historical landmarks and waterfront neighbourhoods. You will also experience the enchanting sight of this beautiful city from the water — whether it is during the daytime, at sunset, or lit up at night.

Read on to learn more about Bosphorus cruises, the different types of cruises you can take, timings, and other information for a smooth sail.

Navigate your Bosphorus cruise guide

Why go on a bosphorus cruise, know before you book your bosphorus cruise tickets, types of bosphorus cruises, which bosphorus cruise is best for you, find your best bosphorus cruise match here, what is the bosphorus strait, bosphorus strait cruise map, your guide to checking in & boarding bosphorus cruises, plan your bosphorus cruise experience, top istanbul landmarks to see on a bosphorus cruise, frequently asked questions about bosphorus cruises.

Breathtaking scenery

The Bosphorus Strait has shaped Istanbul’s history as a vital waterway for centuries. Go on a Bosphorus cruise, witness the stunning beauty of the cityscape on the European and Asian sides, and get a unique perspective on its historical landmarks.

A culinary journey

Savour Istanbul’s finest seafood and local delicacies while your eyes feast on its architectural gems along the waterfront. A Bosphorus lunch or dinner cruise is an excellent way to combine sightseeing with the best of traditional Turkish cuisine.

A luxurious yacht tour

Enjoy the Bosphorus Strait from the luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere of a yacht. Whether it’s a sightseeing tour or a romantic evening, a Bosphorus yacht tour is an unforgettable experience and creates lasting memories.

Immersive cultural experience

Sail along the Bosphorus Strait and immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich history and culture. Enjoy traditional Turkish music, live entertainment, and folk performances like belly dancing and dervish dances.

Serene atmosphere of Princes' Islands

Escape Istanbul's chaos at the car-free Princes' Islands for serene relaxation and rejuvenation amidst tranquil surroundings.

• Bosphorus sightseeing cruises are versatile and one of the best ways to see most of Istanbul’s majestic historical landmarks - with an added unique perspective from the waters of the Bosphorus Strait. You can choose between boat tours, which are conducted on larger 2- and 3-storey cruise vessels, and yacht tours , which are more exclusive and accommodate smaller numbers of guests.
• Want to enjoy food and drinks on your cruise? Enhance your sightseeing experience by opting for a lunch or dinner cruise on the Bosphorus . Enjoy authentic Turkish delicacies and live entertainment as you sail past the city’s most prominent attractions on the shores of the Bosphorus.
• Choose your Bosphorus cruise depending on how long you want to spend on your boat tour . Sightseeing cruises are typically between 1 hour 10 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes long. Yacht tours generally last around 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes. Dinner cruises are 3 hours long and include a sumptuous meal along with on-board entertainment, folk performances, or a DJ. Lunch cruises can last anywhere between 2 hours to full-day cruises, such as the 4 hours and 30 minutes-long Bosphorus & Black Sea 2-Course Lunch Cruise with Swimming Opportunity .
• A great way to pick the perfect cruise is by considering the tourist attractions located in the vicinity of the boarding point. By choosing a cruise that starts from Istanbul’s Old City area, you can also visit historical landmarks like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. Kabatas Pier is located near Dolmabahce Palace, Galata Tower, as well as Taksim Square, with its restaurants, museums, and shopping areas.
• There’s a cruise for every budget. Daytime or sunset sightseeing cruises and round trip tickets to the Princes’ Islands start from €12. Mid-range options such as the dinner cruises range between €22 and €45, and include gourmet dining and live entertainment. For a more exclusive experience, choose one of the luxury yacht cruises , which typically start at €50. A private yacht rental with luxury amenities costs around €300.
• If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and take a short yet relaxing break, consider Princes’ Islands tours . This archipelago of 9 islands, located in the Sea of Marmara, is entirely free of motorised traffic and can be explored by cycle, battery-powered electric vehicles, or on foot. Accessible by a quick ferry ride from Istanbul, these idyllic islands are steeped in history and natural beauty.

Sightseeing

Sightseeing cruises offer a unique perspective on Istanbul’s historical and cultural significance. Take a daytime cruise to get unparalleled views of its iconic landmarks lining the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. Or opt for an evening cruise and see the city lit by the golden hue of the setting sun.

• Bosphorus boat tours & sightseeing cruises
• Bosphorus sunset & evening cruises

Experience a delightful blend of scenic views and gourmet dining with lunch and dinner cruises. Sail along Istanbul’s iconic waterway while savouring delicious Turkish cuisine and soaking in the rich cultural heritage. Or enjoy a delectable dinner and lively entertainment while gliding along the shimmering waters, taking in Istanbul’s illuminated landmarks.

• Bosphorus lunch cruises
• Bosphorus dinner cruises

Yacht tours

Experience luxury and exclusivity on a yacht tour of the Bosphorus Strait. Soak in the mesmerizing sights of Istanbul’s skyline and historical landmarks while cruising in style along the majestic waterway. Explore its European and Asian sides, and indulge in snacks and coffee as you admire the sights during the time or at sunset.

• Bosphorus yacht tours

If you are budget-conscious

Go for: Sightseeing cruises or combo tickets Duration: From 1 hr 10 minutes to 6 hrs, depending on the ticket Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

• Sail along the Bosphorus Strait and spot Istanbul's iconic landmarks while listening to an audio guide available in over 10 languages. 
• If you book a combo ticket, you can visit one of Istanbul’s top monuments like Dolmabahce Palace or Hagia Sophia along with your Bosphorus cruise. 

Recommended tours:

• Bosphorus Daytime or Sunset sightseeing cruise
• Combo: Dolmabahce Palace Guided Tour + Bosphorus cruise tickets

If you want a culinary experience with your sightseeing

Go for: Dinner cruises with live entertainment Duration: 3 hrs to 3 hrs 30 mins depending on the ticket Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

• Enjoy a 3-course Turkish dinner on a private table with unlimited soft drinks and a live DJ on board. You can also go on a 2-hour luxury cruise on a private rental boat along the Bosphorus Strait. 
• If you upgrade your ticket, you can also enjoy hotel transfers in an AC coach. 
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Live Show
• 2-hour Bosphorus luxury private yacht rental in Istanbul

If you want a luxury experience

Go for: Luxury yacht cruises Duration: Flexible Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

• With Bosphorus luxury cruises, you can go on a 2-hour sail on the Bosphorus Strait while enjoying live commentary, Turkish snacks and beverages. 
• You can also opt for a 2-hour cruise on the Bosphorus Strait on an exclusive private rental luxury yacht.
• 2-hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul

If you want to experience Istanbul at sunset

Go for: Sunset or evening cruises Duration: From 1 hr 30 mins to 2 hrs 30 mins, depending on the ticket Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

• Take a sunset cruise and experience the magic of Istanbul as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the city's iconic skyline.
• Opt for a luxury yacht cruise and savour Turkish snacks and beverages as you sail past the city's historical monuments and prominent landmarks. 

The Bosphorus Strait is a natural waterway in Turkey that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. It serves as a natural boundary between the continents of Europe and Asia, making it a pivotal geographical and cultural landmark.

The strait stretches approximately 31 km (19 miles) in length and varies in width from 700 to 3,700 metres. Its strategic importance has made it a crucial route for maritime trade and transportation throughout history, shaping the region's economy, politics, and culture.

Straddling the Bosphorus Strait, the city of Istanbul has flourished since the 7th century BCE as the region's foremost economic, cultural, and trade hub.

Bosphorus cruises begin from many convenient boarding points on Istanbul’s European shore of the Bosphorus Strait. Strategically located in the city’s hotspots, they allow you to easily explore the local neighbourhoods, tourist attractions, eateries, and shopping areas.

Dentur Avrasya Kabataş İskelesi (Kabatas Pier)

Kabataş Pier is located in the vibrant Kabataş district, which is home to many cafes, restaurants, and shops. Nearby landmarks: Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square Closest stop: Kabataş Tramvay istasyonu tram station

BUDO Eminonu Pier

Located in the picturesque waterfront area of the historic Fatih district, BUDO Eminönü Pier provides panoramic views of the Golden Horn. Nearby landmarks: Galata Bridge, New Mosque, Spice Bazaar Closest stop: Sirkeci İstasyonu tram station

Topkapı Cafe, outside Topkapı Palace

This meeting point is located in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, which is a vibrant hub for museums, art galleries, and historical and architectural landmarks. Nearby landmarks: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Closest stop: Sultanahmet bus stop

Bosphorus Pier, outside Dolmabahçe Palace

This pier is situated in Istanbul’s culturally diverse Beşiktaş district, which is famous for its lively, bustling streets and culinary scene. Nearby landmarks: Dolmabahce Palace, Çırağan Palace, Taksim Square Closest stop: Dolmabahce Palace bus stop

Bosphorus Yachts

This boarding point is located in the Aşıyan quarter, characterized by lush greenery, parks, and wooded areas. It is a popular destination for leisurely walks and picnics. Nearby landmarks: Rumeli fortress, Aşiyan Museum, Aşiyan Asri Cemetery Closest stop: Aşıyan inclined railway station (metro’s underground funicular route)

Gazete Market

The Gazete Market kiosk is a popular meeting point for tours and tourism excursions. Located in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, it is surrounded by some of Istanbul’s oldest historical attractions. Nearby landmarks: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Closest stop: Sultanahmet bus stop

General timings: Cruise timings depend on the ticket chosen. Full-day tours start by 9am, morning sightseeing cruises typically start by 10am, afternoon sightseeing cruises start by 12pm, and evening sightseeing cruises begin between 3pm and 5pm.

Boarding points: Bosphorus sightseeing cruises depart from various boarding points depending on the ticket chosen, including Kabataş Pier, Dentur Avrasya Kabataş, BUDO Eminonu Pier, and Bosphorus Pier outside Dolmabahce Palace.

Inclusions: Inclusions depend on the ticket, but most Bosphorus sightseeing cruises come with a complimentary audio guide.

Top sights to see: Hagia Sophia | Topkapi Palace | Blue Mosque | Dolmabahce Palace | Galata Tower | Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi ) | Bosphorus Bridge

General timings: Bosphorus lunch cruises are available on all days of the week. They can begin between 9.30am and 12.30pm, and end between 3.30pm and 5pm.

Boarding points: The boarding point depends on the experience chosen, but they typically depart from the Kabatas Pier or the Bosphorus Pier outside Dolmabahce Palace.

Food & beverages: Guests are treated to a sumptuous 2-course Turkish meal. Depending on the experience chosen, some cruises may offer Turkish tea and coffee, a fresh fruit platter, and complimentary snacks and soft drinks.

Inclusions: A lunch cruise typically includes a professional tour guide during the tour and hotel transfers if you are in central Istanbul.

General timings: Sunset and evening cruises generally start between 2pm and 5pm.

Boarding points: These cruises depart from various boarding points depending on the experience, including Kabatas Pier, Dentur Avrasya Kabataş, and Bosphorus Yachts at Beşiktaş.

Inclusions: These cruises typically feature complimentary Turkish snacks & beverages and live commentary. Some cruises may offer an audio guide. Additionally, you can upgrade your tickets to include meals, alcoholic beverages, or round trip hotel transfers.

General timings: Bosphorus Dinner Cruises are available throughout the year, and depending on your ticket, the departure is between 8:30 PM and 9 PM.

Boarding points: Most Bosphorus dinner cruises depart from Kabatas Pier.

Menu: A dinner cruise typically includes a 3-course Turkish meal with authentic local cuisine and complimentary drinks (you can pick between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink packages).

Inclusions: Live entertainment including performances featuring belly dancing, traditional folk music, and a live DJ; and hotel transfers if you are located in central Istanbul.

General timings: Yacht tour timings depend on the ticket chosen. Daytime tours start by 10.30am, afternoon tours begin around 2pm, private yacht rentals are from 3pm onwards, while sunset yacht tours begin by 3.30pm.

Boarding points: Bosphorus yacht tours generally depart from Kabataş (Ş.Hatları) or Bosphorus Yachts in Beşiktaş.

Inclusions: Depending on the ticket chosen, yacht tours include complimentary Turkish snacks & beverages, live commentary, alcoholic beverages, round trip hotel transfers, and meals along with the sightseeing experience.

Boat type: Luxury yachts with deluxe amenities and the capacity to accommodate between 15 to 30 guests, making it the perfect choice for small group cruises.

• Spring (April & May) & Autumn (September to November): The off-peak season months in spring and autumn are ideal for taking a Bosphorus cruise. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 25°C, and the crowds are smaller, offering a more relaxed experience.
• Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Istanbul. Its clear skies and sunny weather, with low chances of rain, are perfect for enjoying the city from a cruise vessel. However, be prepared for higher temperatures, large tourist crowds, and higher prices.

Istanbul's landmarks and experiences typically see more visitors on weekends. To avoid crowds, have a relaxed sailing experience, and fully appreciate the city's beauty, take your cruise on weekdays.

• Daytime: The morning or afternoon hours offer great opportunities to see Istanbul's iconic historical landmarks from the water and capture amazing photographs.
• Sunset: The sunset hours bathe the city in golden light and make the waters of the Bosphorus Strait shimmer with orange and pink hues, creating a stunning panorama.
• Night: At night, the city's skyline offers a mesmerizing tableau, lit up against the backdrop of the dark sky and reflected in the waters of the Bosphorus Strait.

• Check ticket information:  Different cruises have different timings and boarding points. Ensure that you check all the details thoroughly before booking your tickets so that you can choose the best experience that fits your itinerary and requirements.
• Arrive early:  Arrive at the boarding point 15-30 minutes before departure so that you can secure your seats and don't have to rush.
• Carry ID: For most cruises, guests have to show ID to be allowed onboard, s ensure that you carry a valid photo ID for a quick check-in.
• Photography:  Make sure to carry your camera to capture the stunning vistas of Istanbul from the boat.

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Istanbul, stands as an architectural marvel and symbol of Byzantine grandeur. Built in the 6th century, originally a church, then a mosque, a museum, and a mosque again, its rich history and stunning design captivate visitors worldwide.

Topkapi Palace is a testament to the opulence and power of the Ottoman Empire. Constructed in the mid-15th century, this historic complex was once home to Sultans and features exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and priceless treasures.

The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most prominent historical monuments gracing Istanbul's skyline. Its iconic six minarets and stunning blue tilework draw visitors to marvel at its beauty and grandeur.

Bosphorus Bridge

The Bosphorus Bridge, a symbol of modern Istanbul, spans the strait, connecting Europe and Asia. Its iconic silhouette and strategic importance as a key transportation artery underscore its role in linking the continents.

Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace, with its picturesque waterfront views of the Bosphorus, is a testament to 19th-century Ottoman grandeur. Its resplendent architecture and interiors reflect imperial opulence, making it one of the city's most prominent cultural landmarks.

Galata Tower

Galata Tower, a historic landmark in Istanbul, offers panoramic views of the city's skyline. Dating back to the medieval era, it holds historical, architectural, and cultural significance, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi)

Set on a small islet in the Bosphorus Strait, the Maiden's Tower is a distinctive sight in Istanbul. With a history steeped in legends and mysteries, this enchanting structure invites visitors to uncover its secrets while offering stunning views of the city.

Ortaköy Mosque

Ortaköy Mosque, situated on the Bosphorus waterfront, is a striking example of Ottoman Baroque architecture. Its elegant design and scenic location make it a distinctive feature of the cityscape.

Beylerbeyi Palace

Located on the Asian coast of the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a fusion of Ottoman and European architectural styles. Its ornate walls enclose opulent interiors, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Ottoman rulers and making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts.

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge

Named after the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge spans the Bosporus Strait in Istanbul and connects the European and Asian sides of the city. With its distinct silhouette, it is an iconic landmark of Istanbul's skyline.

Küçüksu Palace

Constructed in the 19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdulmecid I, Küçüksu Palace served as a summer retreat for sultans and dignitaries of the late Ottoman Empire. Its location on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus Strait made it ideal as a royal hunting lodge and for short getaways.

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress is a historical stronghold situated on the European shore of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul. Constructed by Sultan Mehmed II in 1452, it served as a strategic fortification during the Ottoman Empire's conquest of Constantinople. Today, it is one of the city's most prominent historical landmarks that can be seen on a Bosphorus cruise.

Anatolian Fortress

The Anatolian Fortress, also known as Anadoluhisarı, is a medieval fortress located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Built by Sultan Bayezid I in 1395, it served as a defensive structure guarding the Anatolian side of the city against naval attacks from the north.

Ciragan Palace

Çırağan Palace is a former 19th-century Ottoman palace that has now been converted into a luxury hotel. Constructed in the Neo-Baroque style, it features lavish architecture, grand halls, marble columns, ornate decorations, and lush gardens. It was renowned for its opulence and served as a symbol of the wealth and power of the Ottoman Empire.

There are many Bosphorus cruise options to choose from. You can opt for sightseeing cruises, dining cruises, which include a sumptuous lunch or dinner, and yacht tours, where you can sail on the Bosphorus Strait in a luxury yacht and soak in the sights of the city.

The duration of a Bosphorus cruise depends on the type of experience you choose. Sightseeing cruises are typically between 1 hour and 2 hours long, while yacht tours last for approximately 2 hours. Cruises that include a meal are typically around 3 hours long. There are also longer cruises lasting about 4 to 6 hours or even the full day.

Most Bosphorus sightseeing cruises do include an audio guide in multiple languages. Depending on the experience chosen, other types of cruises such as yacht tours may also include an audio guide or a professional guide as part of the tour.

Bosphorus cruises depart from various boarding points in Istanbul. The most common one is Kabatas Pier, but cruises also start from the BUDO Eminonu Pier, the Bosphorus pier outside Dolmabahce Palace, and Bosphorus Yachts in Beşiktaş. Please check your ticket for more information and details.

Bosphorus sightseeing cruises are ideal for families as they provide a unique way to explore Istanbul as well as being an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, you can also opt for combo tickets where you can combine a Bosphorus with a visit to one or more of Istanbul's top historical attractions, making it a cost-effective option.

Bosphorus dinner cruises are perfect for couples as they offer a romantic experience. You can enjoy delicious traditional food and drinks, accompanied by live entertainment as you see the city come to life around you.

Depending on the experience chosen, you may be able to cancel your booking 24 hours in advance and get a refund. However, not all cruises allow cancellation. We recommend that you check the cancellation policy when booking.

Bosphorus cruises that include meals typically offer non-vegetarian options. In case you have any dietary requirements or restrictions, please check with the cruise operator to know if they can be accommodated.

Bosphorus cruises are a fantastic experience to have no matter when you visit Istanbul. Daytime cruises offer some of the best views of the city's historical landmarks, ensuring you will capture stunning photographs. If you go on an evening cruise, you will be able to see the city in the golden light of the setting sun. Dinner cruises are a great opportunity to experience a slice of Istanbul's culture with on-board folk performances, and you also get to see the city lit up at night.

This depends solely on the cruise chosen. However, typically, children aged under 4 can go for free, while those aged 4-15 can avail of discounts on Bosphorus cruise tickets, provided they have a valid ID.

Bosphorus cruises are available throughout the year. The timings depend on the type of cruise and experience chosen, but they typically start from 9am onwards. Sightseeing cruises are available throughout the day until around 5pm, while lunch cruises start between 9.30am and 12pm. Sunset cruises start between 2pm and 5pm, while dinner cruises usually begin between 8.30pm and 9pm.

Yes, you can go on a Bosphorus cruise at any time of the year. However, the starting times or schedules of the cruise might change depending on the season.

Many of Istanbul's most prominent landmarks are located along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait and can be seen from your cruise boat, such as Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Maiden's Tower, Rumeli fortress, and many more.

About Bosphorus Cruises

Bosphorus Evening Cruises

Bosphorus Dinner Cruises

+90 507 198 14 46

• [email protected]

From 10:30 am to 13:00

Morning Bosphorus Cruise

€50 per person.

From 14:00 am to 16:30

Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise

1 Hour Before the Official Sunset time. 2,5 Hrs. Cruise on a Luxury Yacht

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

€60 per person.

From 12:00 am to 17:00

Bosphorus Lunch Cruise

€80 per person.

From 09:00 am to 18:00

Full-Day Classic Istanbul Tour

€100 per person.

Bosphorus Cruises

Small group bosphorus cruises by velena travel.

Let yourself be guided on an in-depth sightseeing cruises of Istanbul and discover the city's symbolic monuments from another angle on a small sized yacht cruise.

Accompanied by a guide, relive the exceptional moments that have shaped Istanbul's destiny through the centuries. We run outstanding small group luxury yacht cruises on the Bosphorus, for an exhilarating experience.

Morning Bosphorus Cruise with Stopover On The Asian Side

2.5-hours bosphorus cruise on a luxury yacht: from 10.30 am to 13.00.

A visit to Istanbul isn't complete without a Bosphorus cruise, so why not start your day on this morning Bosphorus cruise! Join us and enjoy the best views of Istanbul on board our 25-meters luxury yacht.

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht

Explore the best of Istanbul from the water. Enjoy a 2.5-hour luxury yacht charter all around the Bosphorus. See the palaces, mosques, and seaside villas located on each side of the Bosphorus. Throughout your Bosphorus Sunset Cruise, our tour guide will share interesting facts and many captivating stories about Istanbul and the Bosphorus. (you will love them!)

Simply imagine a cruise on which you can see and enjoy the city of Istanbul at three different times of the day; Daytime, sunset time, and nighttime. The sunset cruise hours are arranged to make you have a unique and memorable experience.

Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise with Stopover On The Asian Side

2.5-hours bosphorus cruise on a luxury yacht: from 14.00 to 16.30.

Explore the Bosphorus in a relaxed, informative and fun way with the elegance that it deserves. Set sail on this epic journey between Europe and Asia on Istanbul's beautiful Bosphorus Strait. Along your ride, you will see wonders of both East and West sailing through this lovely waterway separating Europe and Asia, accompanied by a multilingual guide. Stopover on the Asian side and explore Kanlica, which stands in defiance of time, is one of the most beautiful districts in Istanbul.

Travel & Adventure

Sed convallis sit amet leo quis feugiat. Nunc interdum mollis facilisis. feugi Donec id the urna aliquet, suscipit turpis ut Donec id urna aliquet, suscipit turpis ut, facilisis purus.Sed convallis sit amet leo quis .

VELENA TRAVEL

The Leading Bosphorus Cruise Company for Quality Seeking Travelers in Istanbul

Velena Travel is Istanbul's foremost Bosphorus sightseeing Cruise company. With over 20 years of experience and an unrivaled range of top-quality Bosphorus Cruises, we provide small group and private yacht cruises for travelers seeking quality at affordable prices. Velena Travel, with its Sunset Bosphorus luxury yacht and other high-quality private boats, offers impeccable service on Bosphorus Tours. You can trust this exclusive tour company to provide high-quality experiences, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Best Price Guarantee

Safe and secure website

No hidden costs

Established in 2006

Proud member of TURSAB

Award Winning

25 Destination

See Istanbul and the Bosphorus by dusk and enjoy the stunning Istanbul landmarks as the sun sets and the city lights come to life. Witness the enchantment of Istanbul with a 2.5-Hour evening cruise along the beautiful Bosphorus!

Come aboard an elegant luxury yacht for a beautiful cruise along the Bosphorus Strait where you can enjoy sightseeing at the most beautiful time of day-sunset in Istanbul. Coast along as you spot out Ortakoy, Bebek, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden's Tower and Bosphorus Bridges, all with a drink of choice in your hand.

Luxury Yacht Cruise

MORNING BOSPHORUS CRUISE

With stopover on the asian side.

During your 2 hours and 30 min Bosphorus sightseeing cruise, you'll be free to wander between decks to capture the best shots of Istanbul's attractions. Our experienced guide will illustrate the history of what you see during the cruise; Bosphorus has a storied past, and our guides know the fun facts you can't find in a tourist handbook. See why this is one of the best Istanbul city sightseeing cruises. Book now and enjoy your adventure with us!

All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

Make the most of an evening in Istanbul with a sparkling 3.5 hours dinner cruise experience on the Bosphorus Strait.

Turkish Nigh Shows Performances

Along Bosphorus Dinner Cruise a number of spectacular dance performances and music will accompany to your dinner.

What to Expect

Begin your 3.5-hours Bosphorus dinner cruise with either a coach pickup from your hotel or join your guide at the port.

Istanbul Lunch Cruise On The Bosphorus

Extended bosphorus cruise up to the black sea, 4.5-hour bosphorus and the black sea cruise with lunch.

Step aboard a cruise in Istanbul for a few hours to see the sights along the coast of the Bosphorus, all the way to the Black Sea. As you travel, sit down for a 2-course lunch accompanied by soft drinks and coffee or tea. You'll get great photo ops of the sights from the water, and stop in the fishing village of Anadolu Kavagi to visit the ancient fortress there.

Satisfied clients

Reasonable price, best destination, positive reviews, afternoon bosphorus cruise.

Istanbul Layover Tour

Got a minimum 6-hour layover in Istanbul? Leave the airport in a private vehicle, immerse yourself in this dynamic city and spend the day at your leisure, before enjoying a stress-free return in time to catch your onward flight. Enjoy two holidays in one with a private Istanbul Layover Tour. Your Istanbul Layover Tour can be 100% personalised for your time, interests and needs.

Available 24 hours everyday

Available 24 hours everyday.

Flexible & personalized

Flexible & personalized.

You are new to Istanbul

We will show you the highlights.

Private & clean vehicle

Family - Friendly

Sagittis, audantium sem eveniet lacus pede porttitor aenean.

The Perfect Istanbul Layover Experience

An Istanbul Layover Tour offers the perfect opportunity to experience the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, even with limited time.

€150.00 Per Person

Explore Istanbul and Enjoy a Luxurious Overnight Stay on a Yacht

Overnight Stay and Bosphorus Yacht Cruise: A Luxurious Experience During Your Long Layover in Istanbul.

Maximize Your Time with a Bosphorus Yacht Cruise

A long layover in Istanbul presents the perfect opportunity to experience the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, even in a short period.

Luxury Bosphorus Yacht: Turn Your Layover Into an Epic Experience

Here's why an overnight yacht stay and Bosphorus cruise will transform your long layover in Istanbul into a remarkable journey.

Shore Excursions From Istanbul (Galataport) Cruise Port

Istanbul shore excursions.

Explore, discover and entertain yourself with the experts of Velena Travel during your visit in Istanbul. "Velena Travel Shore Excursions in Istanbul" provides scenic and cultural personal access to the Istanbul highlights such as Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace and at the same time allows you to experience the local flavor, the heritage and the customs.

$150.00 /Person

Istanbul bosphorus dinner cruise and turkish night shows, cruise hours: 20:30 to 23:45.

Bosphorus night cruise with dinner, drinks and great Turkish night shows. Spend a memorable evening cruising along the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy spectacular views of Istanbul at night and the sights along the waterway, a delicious 3-course dinner, free local drinks, and a diverse program of traditional entertainment on board.

Choose Tour Offer

We offer daily scheduled small group cruises on the Bosphorus; Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, Long Circle Bosphorus and Black Sea Cruise with Lunch, Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruises.

Discover Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Experience istanbul like never before: join our 'istanbul walking tour' and bosphorus sunset cruise.

Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul, a city where ancient history and vibrant culture intertwine against a backdrop of stunning architecture and the mesmerizing waters of the Bosphorus. This meticulously curated tour invites you to discover Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich and diverse heritage.

€75.00 /Person

Tour Hours: 09:00 am to 19:00

Multicultural Heritage Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Exploring the rich tapestry: a multicultural heritage tour of istanbul with bosphorus sunset cruise.

The Multicultural Heritage Tour of Istanbul itinerary that covers the city's less known, less visited iconic and historically significant attractions such as Galata Tower, City Walls, Yedikule Dungeons, Pierre Loti Hill, Fener and Balat districts.

€150.00 /Person

Tour Hours: 09:00 am to 13:00

Dolmabahce Palace Tour and Bosphorus Yacht Cruise

Dolmabahce palace, bezmi alem mosque tour and bosphorus yacht cruise with asian side stopover.

Learn about Istanbul's history as you explore the opulent Dolmabahce Palace with an expert guide. Enjoy Istanbul with a relaxing Bosphorus Yacht Cruise, see the higlights of city from the water and stop for a short visit in Kanlica Village.

€120.00 /Person

Starting Time: Two hours before the official sunset time

Dolmabahce Palace Tour And Sunset Cruise On Luxury Yacht: Discover The Splendor Of Istanbul

Discover the majesty of istanbul: dolmabahce palace tour and sunset cruise on luxury yacht guided.

Experience the grandeur of Istanbul with our exclusive "Dolmabahce Palace Tour and Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht." This tour promises a perfect blend of history, architecture, and enchanting sea views, designed to offer a memorable journey through Istanbul's cultural heritage.

Starting Time: 20:30

Enchanting Nights: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Experience

Unforgettable evenings await: bosphorus dinner cruise with dining, dancing, and discovery.

Experience the magic of Istanbul with an unforgettable Bosphorus Dinner Cruise. As the sun sets, step aboard a luxurious yacht and prepare for an evening of dining, dancing, and discovery. Enjoy a delectable multi-course meal featuring Turkish and international cuisine, accompanied by live music and traditional dance performances. Sail along the Bosphorus Strait, marveling at the illuminated skyline and historic landmarks. The Bosphorus Dinner Cruise offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and serene relaxation, creating a truly memorable night. Book the istanbul dinner cruise now to embark on this fascinating journey in the heart of Istanbul and create lasting memories.

Tour Hours: 09:00 am to 18:00

Marvels of Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus and the Black Sea Cruise

Combine visits to some of Istanbul's top sights such as Galata Tower, Pierre Loti Hill, Cable Car, Ancient City Walls, Dolmabahce Palace, and a delicious lunch cruise on the Bosphorus that goes all the way up to the Black Sea on a single day tour.

Tour Hours: 09:00 am to 16:00

Full Day Istanbul Old City Tour Istanbul City Tour

See the sights of Istanbul on an 8-hour tour with inclusive lunch. Admire the former church and mosque of the Hagia Sophia, see the site of Bzyantine sports at the Roman Hippodrome, explore the alleys of the Grand Bazzar, and much more.

€100.00 Per Person

All in One Day Istanbul Istanbul City Tour  |  Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Combine a trip to both Istanbul's greatest sites including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and a luxury yacht cruise on the Bosphorus in one day. When you finish exploring the old city of Istanbul, the next thing is to take a magical journey on the Bosphorus.

€160.00 Per Person

Sunset dinner cruise on the bosphorus istanbul, bosphorus sunset dinner cruise, 4-hour sunset cruise with dinner..

Catch the Istanbul skyline at sunset during the most beautiful time of the year, and join us for a fun, laid-back, 4-hour sunset cruise with dinner. Sail past the modern landmarks of Besiktas, Arnavutkoy, and Bebek areas, and continue as far as the monumental Haydarpasha Train Station where the sunset can be seen the best. By the time darkness falls, dinner gives way to a great DJ performing tunes from tradational Turkish songsand present, along with other popular music. Although dancing is encouraged during and after the dinner if you prefer you can sit back and simply enjoy the music and floodlit sights. The cruise ends at the original starting point.

Which tour should I join?

When planning a trip, one of the most exciting yet challenging decisions is choosing the right tour. With countless options available, from cultural excursions to adventurous activities, finding the perfect fit can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to explore new places, understanding the variety of tours available can help you make an informed choice. In this guide, we'll explore key factors to consider and provide tips to help you decide which tour best suits your interests and travel style.

Experience The Magic Of A Bosphorus Cruise At Night

Join our sunset cruise for unforgettable moments.

Imagine sailing through the heart of Istanbul as the city transitions from day to night, the skyline illuminated by the soft glow of the setting sun and the twinkling city lights. A Bosphorus Cruise at Night, particularly our exclusive Sunset Cruise, offers a breathtaking and unparalleled experience that truly captures the essence of this magnificent city.

Latest Velena Travel Blog

Bosphorus blog time.

Elevate Your Istanbul Layover: Experience the City's Splendor on a Private Bosphorus Yacht Cruise

Istanbul Layover Tour From Galataport Cruise Terminal

Unique Views With Bosphorus Cruise Boat And Bosphorus Cruise Black Sea

Planning A Bosphorus Cruise In Istanbul

Discover The Elegance Of The Bosphorus With A Private Yacht Cruise

Dive Into The Enchantment Of Istanbul: Experience The Magic With A Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Enchanting Elegance: Palaces Along The Bosphorus And The Allure Of Its Yalis

Experience the Glowing Charms of The Top 10 Istanbul Dinner Cruises as they Sail Along the Breathtaking Bosphorus at Sunset!

Sail Into Serenity With Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise On A Luxury Yacht

Where History Meets Flavor: Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul Turkish Night Show by Dinner: Unveiling the Magic of Turkish Culture and Dance

Captivating Istanbul: Unforgettable Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht

A Fantastic Bosphorus Breakfast Cruise Istanbul on a Luxury Yacht.

Istanbul Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Tours With Velena Travel

Why should i take the bosphorus cruise on a luxury yacht.

Unparalleled Luxury Experience: A Bosphorus cruise on a luxury yacht offers an unmatched level of comfort, elegance, and personalized service. Indulge in the epitome of luxury as you sail along the iconic waterway.

Exclusive Views: Experience Istanbul's breathtaking skyline and iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point. With a luxury yacht cruise, you'll enjoy unobstructed views of historic palaces, majestic bridges, and bustling waterfronts.

Privacy and Intimacy: Unlike crowded tourist boats, a luxury yacht provides an intimate setting for you and your companions to enjoy the beauty of the Bosphorus in privacy. It's the perfect option for couples seeking a romantic getaway or families and friends celebrating special occasions.

Customized Itineraries: Tailor your Bosphorus cruise experience to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a leisurely sightseeing tour, a sunset cocktail cruise, or a private dinner cruise, luxury yacht charters offer customizable itineraries to fulfill your desires.

World-Class Amenities: Luxury yachts are equipped with top-of-the-line amenities to enhance your cruising experience. From spacious decks and luxurious cabins to gourmet dining options and onboard entertainment, every aspect of your journey is designed for your comfort and enjoyment.

Professional Crew and Service: Sit back, relax, and let the professional crew take care of your every need. From experienced captains navigating the waters to attentive staff catering to your requests, you'll receive unparalleled service throughout your cruise.

Memorable Celebrations: Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or corporate event, a Bosphorus cruise on a luxury yacht provides an unforgettable setting for any celebration. Create lifelong memories as you toast to special moments against the backdrop of Istanbul's stunning skyline.

Photographic Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of Istanbul's landmarks and scenic beauty from the deck of your luxury yacht. The ever-changing panorama of the Bosphorus offers endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture Instagram-worthy moments.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich history and culture as you sail past centuries-old mosques, palaces, and neighborhoods lining the Bosphorus. Learn about the city's fascinating heritage from knowledgeable guides onboard.

Ultimate Relaxation: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the Bosphorus. Whether you choose to bask in the sun on deck, enjoy a spa treatment, or sip champagne under the stars, a luxury yacht cruise offers the ultimate relaxation experience. Unique yacht bosphorus istanbul trio.

Embark on a journey of luxury and discovery with a Bosphorus cruise on a luxury yacht, where every moment is a testament to elegance, comfort, and unparalleled beauty.

Bosphorus Cruise Timeline

Bosphorus cruise timings: plan your perfect trip [blog].

What is the best time of day to take a Bosphorus cruise? [BLOG]

Istanbul Old City Tour: A Unique Journey Where You Will Hear the Echoes of the Past [BLOG]

Experience the Magic with Best Sunset Cruise Istanbul - Where Dreams Meet the Bosphorus [BLOG]

Understanding Bosphorus Cruise Costs: What to Expect Based on Your Budget [BLOG]

An Amazing Experience in Istanbul: Lunch Cruise on the Bosphorus [BLOG]

Experience the Magic with the Best Dinner Cruise in Istanbul [BLOG]

Discover the Enchanting Charm of Istanbul: Unforgettable Bosphorus Cruise Experiences [BLOG]

Istanbul Dinner Cruise Entertainment: Dazzling Performances on the Bosphorus [BLOG]

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: An Enchanting Evening of Turkish Night Shows [BLOG]

The cultural significance of the bosphorus cruise [blog].

Private Sunset Cruise Istanbul; With a Luxury Yacht Experience at Sunset Bosphorus Boat

Enjoying a Sunset Cruise Istanbul on the Sunset Bosphorus Boat with Velena Travel

Istanbul Skyline and Dinner Cruise Delight with Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul for A Once In A Lifetime Experience

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise; Nice way to experience the city without walking after a long day

What Bosphorus Cruise Tour to Take in Istanbul?

Full-day bosphorus cruise, evening bosphorus sunset cruise, half-day bosphorus cruise, private bosphorus cruise, bosphorus dinner cruise with traditional entertainment.

Discover the beauty of Istanbul with Velena Travel 's private bosphorus cruise , an exclusive experience tailored to your desires. Sail through the heart of the city, where Europe meets Asia, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the majestic Hagia Sophia, the elegant Dolmabahce Palace, and the stunning Bosphorus Bridge. Our private Bosphorus cruise offers the perfect setting for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a romantic evening, hosting a business event, or enjoying a family outing.

Popular Tour Package

Duis rutrum nisl urna. Maecenas vel libero faucibus nisi venenatis hendrerit a id lectus. Suspendissendt blandit interdum. Sed pellentesque at nunc eget consectetur.

2 Day & 1 night

Etiam placerat dictum consequat an Pellentesque habitant morbi.

$39.00 per person.

4 Day & 3 night

varius condimentum consequat frin Aenean pretium risus eu.

$66.00 per person.

8 Day & 7 night

Praesent sed elit mi. In risus nullaam efficitur non elementum eget.

$98.00 per person.

2 Day & 2 night

Sed ultricies sapien arcu, sed cong feugiat sapien dignissim id.

$29.00 per person.

3 Day & 2 night

Pellentesque habitant morbi malesua tristique senectus et netus et.

$88.00 per person.

San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars & fog.

$67.00 per person, explore top destination.

Duis rutrum nisl urna. Maecenas vel libero faucibus nisi venenatis hendrerit a id lectus. Suspendissendt blandit interdum. Sed pellentesque at nunc eget consectetur..

Subscribe Our Newsletter

Sign up to receive the best offers on promotion and coupons. Don’t worry! It’s not Spam

Awesome Tour

New destinations, years experience, best mountains, choose holiday offer.

5 Day & 6 night

$79.00 Per Person

$91.00 per person, $49.00 per person, $78.00 per person, $71.00 per person, travel gallery.

What Our Client Say About Us

Duis rutrum nisl urna. Maecenas vel libero this faucibus nisi venenatis hendrerit a id lectus.P Suspendissendt molestie turpis nec laciniane vehicula volutpat purus.

Lilyan Danclark

Marvin McKinney

Charlotte Sophia

Brooklyn Simmons

Latest news.

Mauris commodo massa vel diamnat feugiat sagittis Nunc maxim.

In tristique ultrices odio quis gravida. Pellentesque euismod.

consequat lacus libero et leo Viva ac sapien dui ultrices bibendum.

Cruise with Velena Travel

With daily cruise departures from Eminonu and Kabatas Piers, guests are offered two ways hotel and boat transfers included and a dedicated reception area, easy access to boats, making your experience with us a smooth-running one.

Customer Support

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Our Certificates
• Partners and References
• lunchcruiseistanbul.com
• istanbulbosphorustours.com
• sunsetcruiseistanbul.com
• turkeygoldentours.com
• istanbulnightshows.com
• istanbulwhirlingdervishes.com
• dancesofcolours.com
• sunsetbosphorus.com

Recommended Istanbul Tours & Cruise

• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise in Istanbul
• Istanbul Lunch Cruise on the Bosphorus
• Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show
• Istanbul Bosphorus Boat Cruise
• Istanbul Istanbul Princes Islands Cruise Tour
• Istanbul Old City Tour
• +90 554 797 26 46
• Cankurtaran Mh. Keresteci Hakki Sk. No:20/A 34122 Fatih-Istanbul

Copyright 2022 Velena Travel

• Terms & Condition

Introduction

• 2024 Itinerary
• Classic Itinerary
• Attractions
• Neighborhoods
• Turkey Tours
• Destinations
• Mediterranean
• Made-to-order Travel Planning
• Hire a tour guide
• Private Tours
• Culinary Tours
• Layover Tours
• Unique Activities
• Event Planning
• Family Time
• Vacation Booking
• Airport Transfers
• Flight Tickets
• All our services
• Best of Istanbul
• Documentary
• Turkish Music

Bosphorus Cruise – Exploring Istanbul’s Waters

Journey through the heart of this magnificent city, table of contents.

The Bosphorus Strait , the shimmering vein of water bisecting the city of Istanbul , has always been a witness to history and a bridge between cultures. Its banks are adorned with regal palaces, quaint wooden ‘yalis’ (waterside villas), and modern architectures that narrate the tale of a city cradled between two continents.

What is Bosphorus?

The Bosphorus is a narrow, natural strait and an internationally significant waterway located in northwestern Turkey . It forms part of the continental boundary between Europe and Asia , and divides Turkey by separating Anatolia from Thrace. The Bosphorus connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara , and, by extension via the Dardanelles , the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas.

What is a Bosphorus cruise?

A Bosphorus cruise refers to a boat tour that navigates through this strait. These cruises offer a unique way to see Istanbul from a different perspective. They typically provide scenic views of the city’s skyline, historic sites, palaces, and forts.

Cruises can vary in length, from short tours to longer excursions, and often include opportunities to see landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace , the Maiden’s Tower , and the Bosphorus bridges that link Europe and Asia.

It’s a popular activity for tourists and locals alike, providing a relaxing and picturesque way to experience the beauty and history of Istanbul .

Moreover, cruising on the Bosphorus is not merely a sightseeing expedition; it’s a voyage through the heart of Istanbul , where every ripple in the water tells stories of empires past and the confluence of civilizations .

With routes stretching from Eminönü to Anadolu Kavağı , public ferries provide a laid-back cruise experience. As you glide along the water, you’ll witness the grandeur of Dolmabahçe Palace , the medieval fortress of Rumeli Hisarı , and the serene beauty of Yıldız Park , among others. The fare is wallet-friendly, and the schedule runs from morning till evening, making it a flexible option for anyone wishing to behold Istanbul from a different perspective.

There are several public ferry lines in Istanbul that offer Bosphorus tours, among which the most economical and efficient ones are the Short Circle Bosphorus Tour and the Long Bosphorus Tour.

• Short Circle Bosphorus Tour : This is a round-trip that operates every day from the Eminonu Pier at 14:40 pm, making stops at Uskudar and Ortakoy Piers before returning to Eminonu Pier at 16:35 pm. The tour is priced at 65 TL per person, providing a quick yet thorough glimpse of the Bosphorus, showcasing the palaces, mosques, and historical mansions on both the European and Asian shores.

Download the PDF for 2023-2024 winter season’s timetable and all other information.

• Long Bosphorus Tour : For those with more time to spare, the Long Bosphorus Tour is a full-day trip that departs from Eminonu Pier at 10:35 am daily. This tour cruises along the Bosphorus and makes stops at various piers including Besiktas, Kanlica, Yenikoy, Sariyer, Rumeli Kavagi, and Anadolu Kavagi. At Anadolu Kavagi Pier, passengers have the opportunity to disembark and explore the village for three hours before the return journey, which gets back to Eminönü Pier at 16:35 pm. The current price for adults is 120 TL for a double way trip and 72 TL for a one way trip

• Rumeli Kavagi – Eminonu Line : Operated on weekdays, this line offers up to 12 voyages in each direction between Eminonu and Sarıyer, with a journey time of about one hour. The line stops at several piers on the European shore of the Bosphorus, such as Besiktas, Arnavutköy , Bebek, Emirgan, Kanlica, Yenikoy, Sariyer, and Rumeli Kavagi, with a fare of 19 TL per person. This is our personal favorite!

All these tours provide a splendid opportunity to relish the panoramic views of the city from the sea, with the backdrop of historical edifices and natural landscapes enhancing the experience.

To partake in these public ferry tours, you need to have an Istanbul Kart, a smart card usable for all public transportation and shopping payments in Istanbul . Istanbul Karts can be purchased from kiosks or vending machines near ferry piers or metro stations for 70 TL (as of November 2023) , which then needs to be loaded with credit for use. They can also be applied for online, easing the process for both locals and tourists alike.

For more information on schedules and departure times, the official website of Şehir Hatları is a useful resource.

Water Taxi Service

The water taxi service operated by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality is a more utilitarian yet equally scenic way to traverse the Bosphorus . These water taxis are a speedy and convenient mode of transport, offering a less touristic but equally captivating view of the city from the water.

Explore Istanbul’s Bosphorus with ease using the İBB Deniz Taksi app , available for iOS . This user-friendly app lets you schedule sea taxi rides, offering a swift, comfortable, and unique way to navigate the city’s waters.

You can view ride costs in advance, ensuring transparency in pricing. The service, which charges per mile, provides flexibility in choosing departure and arrival points , with an option for shared journeys to reduce costs. Ideal for avoiding traffic and enjoying scenic views, the İBB Deniz Taksi app transforms sea travel into a delightful and efficient experience.

Whether you’re in a hurry or prefer a less crowded voyage, water taxis are a great option to consider.

Guided Half-Day and Full-Day Tours

For those seeking a more enriched and educational journey across the Bosphorus , guided half-day or full-day tours are available. These tours often come with expert guides who unravel the historical, architectural, and cultural plethora of Istanbul as you sail past its iconic landmarks. Whether it’s a brief stop at the picturesque village of Anadolu Kavağı or a guided visit to the majestic Beylerbeyi Palace , the added insights provided by a knowledgeable guide enhance the cruising experience manifold.

Bosphorus & Black Sea

Embark on an 8-hour Bosphorus and Black Sea cruise , complete with professional guidance, meals, and a rich itinerary. Dive into the enchanting neighborhoods of Istanbul , marvel at historic palaces, and unwind on scenic beaches, all while enjoying inclusive services like lunch and round-trip hotel transfers. Note that alcoholic drinks and tips are excluded. Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Bosphorus , where you can immerse in both European and Asian vibes. Relish in a swimming break at the Black Sea during your tour, which runs daily, thanks to our recommended partner, IBO Tours .

Specialized Bosphorus Cruise Companies

Aside from public and guided tours, there are dedicated Bosphorus cruise companies like bosphorustour.com or bosphoruscruise.com that offer curated cruising experiences on the strait. With their private boats, these companies provide a variety of cruises ranging from short jaunts to longer explorations, often accompanied by onboard amenities and services.

The tranquil morning cruises or the enchanting sunset cruises are popular choices among tourists and locals alike, making for a memorable voyage through the historic waters.

Private Bosphorus Cruises by The Other Tour

At The Other Tour , we take the Bosphorus cruise experience a notch higher. Our private Bosphorus cruises are tailored to offer a unique, intimate exploration of this beautiful strait. Amidst the gentle waves, we engage our guests in cultural dialogues, local interactions, and a closer look at Istanbul ’s heritage from the water. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about immersing oneself in the rhythm of the city, feeling the pulse of Istanbul through its waters.

Sunset Cruises on the Bosphorus

Dinner Cruises

A dinner cruise on the Bosphorus, like the ones offered by mirayistanbul.com , is a delightful blend of culinary and visual feast. As you sail through the illuminated cityscape under the starlit sky, savoring a spread of delectable Turkish cuisine, the experience is nothing short of magical. Dinner cruises provide a romantic or celebratory ambiance, perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy a serene evening amidst the ancient and modern silhouettes of Istanbul.

The Bosphorus Strait is a captivating spectacle, its waters narrating the tales of Istanbul ’s glorious past and dynamic present. Whether you choose a public ferry, a guided tour, a private cruise, or a dinner cruise, each journey on the Bosphorus is a unique experience. And for those seeking a more intimate and culturally enriching cruising adventure, The Other Tour awaits to take you on a voyage that transcends the ordinary.

Virtual Bosphorus Cruise

If you can’t make it there physically, maybe this will hold you over for the time being 🙂

Related Posts

Best Vegan Spots in Istanbul

Istanbul's vegan scene has grown significantly over the past few years, making it easier than ever to find delicious vegan food throughout the city. Whether you're looking for traditional Turkish dishes with...

Maiden’s Tower

Discover Istanbul's iconic Maiden’s Tower, a historic landmark on the Bosphorus. Enjoy breathtaking views and uncover its amazing history.

Unveiling the Princes’ Islands

These islands stand ready to offer a tranquil refuge, a serene interlude from the city's vibrancy, at a moment's notice.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey in 2024?

Since the earthquake that shook the nation in February 4th 2023, there's fear as to whether it's actually safe to travel to Turkey in 2024?

The Other Tour Itinerary

Hi! do you recommend a sunset cruise in january? is it too cold? do they provide heaters or blankets?thanks.

Hey Jamie, sorry about my late response – I missed your comment somehow.

Yeah, January can be a little nippy but they do usually have heaters and blankets. Have you done a sunset cruise while you were here? And if so, what did you think?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Exploring Istanbul’s Asian Side

The mystery of turkish language, top 5 bookshops in istanbul, bosphorus cross continental swim.

We take you beyond the ordinary, crafting immersive experiences that reveal the true essence of this captivating land. Born and raised in Istanbul, our passionate team shares insider secrets and authentic encounters. We design unique itineraries that blend iconic highlights with off-the-beaten-path wonders.

Recent Posts

Exploring Rumeli Fortress

Email address:

Discover the real extent of Istanbul with The Other Tour. Our unique and personalized tours connect you with locals, like sharing a home-cooked meal at mom's house. Experience the warmth of Turkish culture firsthand. Plus, as a full-service travel agency, we offer an extensive range of services in Istanbul and throughout Turkey.

• Hagia Sophia
• Basilica Cistern
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapı Palace
• Dolmabahce Palace
• Galata Tower
• Spice Bazaar
• Grand Bazaar

© 2024 The Other Tour - Powered by Eren Nergiz Travel Agency .

• The Bosphorus
• Daily City Tours
• Hotel Selection
• Corporate Group Tours
• TOP 5 ISTANBUL
• Turkish Food
• Istanbul Videos
• All Categories

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Istanbul Travel Blog

An Insider's Guide to Istanbul

BOSPHORUS CRUISE Prices in Istanbul [Updated 2024]

25 May 2024 by Serhat Engul

Those who visit Istanbul for the first time, primarily visit the historical monuments around Sultanahmet. However, it is not enough to see why Istanbul is such an important place in history. It is essential to take a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul in order to comprehend how large the city is.

The most important settlement of Istanbul during the Roman and Byzantine periods was the Historical Peninsula. Separated from the rest of Istanbul by the Bosphorus and Golden Horn, Historical Peninsula was the imperial capital of Constantinople.

The Ottomans captured the city in 1453. Historical Peninsula still remained the center of life for many years. In Galata, on the other side of the Golden Horn, there were Genoese and Venetians, the Latin trade colonies.

However, with the development of international trade in the 1800s, today’s districts such as Beyoglu and Besiktas started to grow. The Sultan moved from the traditional Topkapi Palace to the modern Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus.

Many mosques, mansions and palaces were built on the shores of the Bosphorus. The best examples of baroque and neo-classical architecture that marked the last period of the Ottoman Empire are on the shores of the Bosphorus.

If you want to see the traces of this architectural transformation, you can take a Bosphorus boat tour. The best photos you will take in Istanbul will probably be the ones you will take during the Bosphorus cruise.

Table of Contents

Bosphorus Cruise Prices in Istanbul 2024

You basically have three options to join the best Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul. One of them is the official company Sehir Hatlari. The other two are Turyol and Dentur. Each company has its own pricing, schedule and route. In this article, you can find the Bosphorus cruise prices in Istanbul as updated in 2024.

Sehir Hatlari and Turyol ‘s piers are located in Eminonu neighborhood on the Old City side of Galata Bridge. This location is also next to the Spice Bazaar . For someone staying in Istanbul Old City (Beyazit, Sultanahmet, Sirkeci), it is very easy to reach Eminonu, where the tours start.

For someone staying in Taksim Square or Besiktas, it will be easy to reach Kabatas, where Dentur is located. You can reach Kabatas from Taksim Square by Funicular F1, and from Besiktas by bus or taxi. Dentur pier in Kabatas is just walking distance from Dolmabahce Palace.

For those who want a different experience, I will suggest two alternative Bosphorus tours towards the end of the article. The first one is the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise featuring local dances and Turkish cuisine and if that’s what you’re looking for, you can book this activity here .

The second is the Bosphorus Sunset Cruise , which gives you romantic moments in Istanbul when the sun goes down and if you want to enjoy the Bosphorus like this, you can make a reservation right here .

1. Sehir Hatlari Public Ferry Price 2024

Sehir Hatlari is an official company that organizes a Bosphorus cruise with public ferries. It has a fixed schedule that has not changed for many years. There are two different tour options in this category, depending on the length of the activity.

The LONG Bosphorus cruise, which is available all year round, promises a 6-hour sightseeing experience. On the other hand, there is another 2-hour program called SHORT Bosphorus cruise in summer.

Sehir Hatlari (Public Ferry) Bosphorus cruise prices are between 65 TL and 120 TL in 2024. For example, the cost of the long Bosphorus tour, which promises a 6-hour trip, is only 120 Turkish Liras. The price of the short Bosphorus tour is only 65 Turkish Liras. These prices were last updated on May 25, 2024.

Long Bosphorus Cruise by Sehir Hatlari

The long Bosphorus cruise organized by Sehir Hatlari departs from Eminonu every day at 10:35. Two and sometimes three-storey nostalgic ferries serve for the Bosphorus tour. The fact that the ferries have a very large deck and many seating places makes Sehir Hatlari stand out from its competitors. Sehir Hatlari public ferries offer the best Bosphorus tour in Istanbul in terms of comfort.

After leaving Eminonu, the Sehir Hatlari ferry goes north without stopping for 1.5 hours. Meanwhile, you can photograph the palaces, mosques and historical mansions on the European shores of the Bosphorus.

The Sehir Hatlari ferry reaches Anadolu Kavagi , the closest place to the Black Sea coast of the Bosphorus, after 1.5 hours. In this small town there is a three-hour break that starts at 12:00 and ends at 3:00 pm.

In a 3-hour break, you can go to Yoros Castle, which was built by the Genoese in the Byzantine period. The castle allows you to fit both the Bosphorus and the Black Sea views into the same frame. You can eat fresh fish at local restaurants in Anadolu Kavagi.

After the break is over, the return journey starts at 15:00. This time, the Sehir Hatlari ferry returns from the Asian shores of the Bosphorus. Thus, you will have the chance to see the structures on the other side of the Bosphorus.

At 16:30, the boat trip on the Bosphorus ends where it started. After getting off the ferry in Eminonu, you can visit the Spice Bazaar in the Old City or cross the Taksim side from Galata Bridge .

Short Bosphorus Cruise by Sehir Hatlari

The short Bosphorus cruise organized by Sehir Hatlari is only available in summer. The tour starts at 14:35 from Eminonu. Departing from the Istanbul Old City, the ferry goes to the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, the second bridge on the Bosphorus. After this point, the ferry returns to Eminonu, where it started again at the end of the 2-hour journey.

2. Turyol Bosphorus Cruise Price 2024

Turyol Bosphorus Cruise is the most practical option. Turyol‘s pier is located very close to the Spice Bazaar, the popular tourist center of Istanbul. If you cross the underpass across the Spice Bazaar, you can easily find Turyol Pier on the sea side. The ticket office box is right next to the boats selling fish sandwiches.

Turyol Bosphorus tour starts from Eminonu and stops at Uskudar to pick up more passengers on the Asian side. The cruise boat then follows the European shores of the Bosphorus and proceeds in the north direction until the bridge. The boat makes the u-turn from the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge , the second bridge on the Bosphorus, this time allows you to see the Asian shores of the Bosphorus.

The journey lasts one and a half hours and ends at Eminonu, where it started. The best thing about Turyol Bosphorus Cruise is that they depart from Eminonu every hour. So you don’t have to adjust your daily schedule for the Bosphorus cruise. You can catch one of the boats that depart every hour.

The Turyol Bosphorus cruise price is 150 TL in 2024 and the tour takes approximately 1.5 hours. Turyol boats are a bit more expensive than the public ferry considering the time of the trip. However, it provides a flexible travel opportunity due to the Bosphorus tour every hour. This was last updated on May 25, 2024.

3. Dentur Bosphorus Cruise Price 2024

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise is the third option. The most beautiful part of Dentur is that it is very close to Kabatas. For visitors staying in Taksim Square, transportation is very easy. From Taksim Square you can come to Kabatas via Funicular F1 line and easily reach Dentur boats.

Dentur pier is very close to Dolmabahce Palace, so you can visit the palace first. Dentur’s biggest difference from Turyol is that it departs a little further. Since the tour starts from Kabatas and not from Eminonu, it goes further than Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and returns from Emirgan (beautiful neighborhood up the Bosphorus nearby Sabanci Museum)  The journey time is almost the same with Turyol.

Another feature of Dentur boats is that it stops in the Ottoman palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus. The boat stops at Emirgan on the European side and Kucuksu Pavillion (hunting palace of the Sultans) and Beylerbeyi Palace on the Asian side. If you want to visit these places, you can get off the boat and catch the next boat and return to the starting point of Kabatas.

Dentur Bosphorus cruise price is 150 Lira for 2024 and the tour takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Dentur is the best Bosphorus cruise tour in Istanbul for those who want to visit the palaces on the Asian side of Istanbul. The ticket price was last updated on May 25, 2024.

Visits to Kucuksu Pavillion and Beylerbeyi Palace are both a cultural experience and the opportunity to eat and drink by the Bosphorus. The cafes of both museums have Bosphorus views.

4. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Price 2024

Bosphorus dinner cruise in Istanbul is a really fun activity. During this tour you can watch local dances and belly dancers. The best part of the dinner cruise is that you can see the palaces and other beautiful buildings on the Bosphorus with their colorful lights.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise price in Istanbul is 800 Turkish Lira (approximately 25 USD) in 2024. Prices may vary depending on season. You can book the best-selling dinner cruise on the Bosphorus from this link here . Information about ticket prices was last updated on May 25, 2024.

The activity takes approximately 4 hours and you can leave the boat at a point close to your hotel on the Bosphorus shore. Because it stops at approximately 20 different piers on the Bosphorus.

A dinner cruise on the Bosphorus is one of the most fun things to do for families in Istanbul. You can spend an unforgettable evening with beautiful music on the boat, local dances to entertain you and romantic scenery.

5. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise Price 2024

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise allows you to take magnificent photos in Istanbul. You can enjoy the most romantic moments of the Bosphorus on the tour that starts when the sun sets.

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise price in Istanbul is 1100 TL (approximately 35 USD) in 2024. Prices may vary depending on season. You can book the best-selling sunset cruise on the Bosphorus through this link here . Information about ticket prices was last updated on May 25, 2024.

The sunset cruise on the Bosphorus with a luxury yacht takes approximately 2.5 hours, and during this tour you can take the most beautiful photos that will remain as memories from your Istanbul trip.

In summary, a Bosphorus cruise is among the best things to do in Istanbul . You can have this wonderful experience by choosing one of Sehir Hatlari, Turyol or Dentur companies.

You can also join special organizations such as a sunset tour on the Bosphorus or an evening tour with dinner. The photos you take during any activity on the Bosphorus will probably be among your best memories in Istanbul.

About Serhat Engul

Hello, I'm Serhat Engul. I am a licensed tour guide living in Istanbul. I designed this blog to give general information to visitors to Istanbul. If you want to go on a private guided tour of Istanbul with me, you can check my references from the ABOUT section and write to me via the CONTACT page.

Reader Interactions

27 August 2023 at 05:39

Doesn’t the Sehir Hatlari long Bosphorous cruise make several stops going north, including Sariyer? Various blogs have suggested getting off at Sariyer for a one way cruise. Eating lunch and taking a bus back to Taksim.

27 August 2023 at 09:39

Hi David, yes Sehir Hatlari’s long Bosphorus cruise stops at several points to the north and one of them is Sariyer.

Someone who takes the Bosphorus ferry from Eminonu at 10:35 can get off the ferry at 12:05 in Sariyer. You can visit the Sadberk Hanim Museum and take a lunch break in Sariyer.

If it were me, I would go to Bebek on the way back and walk to Ortakoy from there. Do not miss the most beautiful walking route of the Bosphorus shores. Then you can easily go to Taksim Square from Ortakoy.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Istanbul Travel Blog is designed to introduce you to the history, museums, restaurants and culture of istanbul.

Private Tour Guide in Istanbul

Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul.

• Half-Day Tours in Istanbul [by Local Tour Guide 2024]
• Istanbul Tourist Map as PDF files [Free Download 2024]
• Istanbul Metro & Tram Map PDF [Free Download 2024]
• ISTANBUL MOSQUES Opening Hours (Updated 2024)
• FENER BALAT Walking Tour (with Private Guide) 2024

Powered by Reborn Travel

Bosphorus Cruise & Eminonu Tour in Istanbul

Kids Number(2-7):

• Tour Description
• Tour Reviews

Cruise on the Bosphorus and Eminonu Tour

Set among two continents and many cultures, at the crossroad of civilizations, ancient roads, and spiritual beliefs, Istanbul is a city that will amaze even the most avid travelers. There is something to see and do for everyone.

At first, a lifetime seems to not suffice in order to discover all the wonders and treasures of this magnificent city . Come and dive into a unique experience of cultural discovery , filled with the touch of the Orient. Like in the old stories and legends, there are 1001 things to do and see in Istanbul . This Istanbul tour of discovery will take you through some of the most interesting sights of the city and give you the chance to see the city differently, from the sea . This morning tour is the perfect start for a perfect day in Istanbul.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

• Egyptian Bazaar
• Cruise on the Bosphorus

Our professional tour guide will come to pick you up from your hotel in Istanbul about 08:30. He will give you a brief information about sights that you will visit today. You will be transferred by luxury touristic vehicles .

Our first stop will be the Rustem Pasha Mosque . You will take information about the mosque while you are visiting. Our second stop will be the Egyptian Bazaar (known as Spice Market or Misir Carsisi). You can find almost everything in the Egyptian Bazaar. Then you will be transferred to the cruise boat in Eminonu. While you are sailing through to the Bosphorus , you will be informed by our tour guide .

Cruise on the Bosphorus will be the end of our Istanbul tour. You will be transferred back to your hotel about 12:00.

Professional English speaking guide. Transportation with A/C. All transportation fees & tickets

Departure Time: 08:30 Returning Time: 12:00

Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Market)

Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul Tour Package – 9 Days

Istanbul Tour Package – 7 Days

Istanbul Tour Package – 8 Days

Princes’ Island Tour in Istanbul

Bosphorus Cruise & Cable Car Tour

Eating Tour in Istanbul

• Terms & Conditions

• icon Kocamustafapasa Mahallesi, Kocamustafapasa Caddesi No: 107 Fatih / Istanbul / TURKEY
• icon +90 212 518 6821
• icon [email protected]

A leader in the online travel marketplace, IstanbulTrips.com contains large amounts of Istanbul Day Tours , and many different tours from Istanbul to other cities in Turkey. You can use IstanbulTrips to sort options only day tours in Istanbul or tours from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Gallipoli, Antalya and more destinations in Turkey. Also, IstanbulTrips give you a chance to customize your travel package in real-time as you choose the accommodations, tours type and other travel arrangements in Istanbul and Turkey. IstanbulTrips.com is proud to offer you a large variety of all tours in Istanbul and package tours in Istanbul. With its large selection of tours, you are able to find what you need during your Istanbul Trips and also, you can make your own itinerary by contacting our well-experienced travel consultants. If you want to know what to do in Istanbul, check our all well organized Daily Tours in Istanbul or if you want to travel in Turkey , we will be glad to assist you with Turkey Package Tour arrangements.

© 2017 Istanbul Trips. All Rights Reserved.

Remember Me

Confirm Password

Forgotten Password?

Username or Email

Pin It on Pinterest

Istanbul Insider

Istanbul travel guide and advice by locals.

What Bosphorus Cruise Tour to Take in Istanbul?

Last updated: July 16, 2024

A cruise on the Bosphorus is probably the most overlooked Istanbul tourist attraction. Understandable, with such an abundance of historical sightseeing spots in Istanbul and too little time to squeeze them all into your short holiday. But take my advice and set a few hours aside to take an unforgettable Bosphorus tour. Certainly if you’re in town between May and September. You won’t regret it — at least if you follow these simple guidelines.

1. Private Bosphorus Tours

Private Bosphorus cruises  are great value for your money if you do them with reputable and trustworthy companies such as Zoe Yacht. Check out my review of a private Bosphorus cruise I took.

Unfortunately, there are also a lot of less trustworthy options. I see these scenes unfold almost every day: poorly informed tourists willing to take a Bosphorus tour, walking on the docks of Eminönü in search of a Bosphorus cruise. Such companies can spot this kind of behavior from a mile away and offer them a seat on their Bosphorus cruise boat. But please, don’t get tempted by the offer these ‘hustlers’ make. Their tours are overpriced (double and more), shorter, and often on boats that can barely be called seaworthy. Moreover, there is nothing private about a boat you share with 50 to 100 or more strangers.

2. Şehir Hatları Offers the No-Nonsense Bosphorus Tours

Şehir Hatları is Istanbul’s official ferry company. It offers three great Bosphorus tours: Short Circle Bosphorus Cruise, Full Bosphorus Cruise, and the Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night. Unfortunately, the availability of these tours changes according to the season. So do keep on reading and check out the respective links for the most up-to-date departure times. Insider tip: sit outside on the left-hand side of the ship for the best views.

The Şehir Hatları Bosphorus lines sales offices are located on the left docks of Eminönü when coming off the Galata Bridge.

Scenic River Cruise Tours on the Bosphorus

2.1 short circle bosphorus cruise ( kısa boğaz turu ).

First up is the non-stop Short Circle Bosphorus tour. This one is great for people who are pressed for time but don’t want to miss a genuine Bosphorus experience. This tour is available twice a day in summer (June 16 th until September 18 th ), and once a day during the low season. The cruise takes you from Eminönü to Istinye (well past the second bridge that is), and back.

The ferry leaves the Eminönü docks at 14:40 ( and at 16:45 on holidays in summer) , arrives at Ortaköy around 15:10 ( and 17:15 respectively) to pick up more people, and then continues its two-hour non-stop tour. The price per person for non-Turkish citizens is 260 (free for children until 6 years old). For the latest updates, check the official timetable .

2.2 Full Bosphorus Cruise ( Uzun Boğaz Turu )

The Full Bosphorus Tour offers a great Bosphorus experience and will take several hours in total. This cruise will take you from Eminönü all the way to the Black Sea, and back. Each way takes about two hours since the ferry also makes 5 short stops to let people on and off. You must get off the ferry at around 12:30 in Anadolu Kavağı , the last harbor before the Black Sea. This two-hour break gives you the opportunity to grab a (late) lunch in one of the town’s fish restaurants located on the shore and/or visit the fortress.

Non-Turkish citizens pay 480 TL per person (children until 6 go free). The ferry does one complete tour a day. You can board the ferry in Eminönü (10:35) or Beşiktaş (10:50) on the European side, and Üsküdar (11:05) on the Asian side. Do check the official schedule with the latest timetables .

On board, you can use digital guides explaining over 70 points of interest along the way, in 10 different languages (Turkish, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Persian, and Arabic). The price for a round trip is 65 TL, 32,5 TL for children under the age of 12.

2.3 Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night ( Mehtap Gezi )

It offers the exact same tour as the regular Full Bosphorus Tour, but you get to see Istanbul at night! The ferry leaves before dusk providing great Istanbul sunset views. It again stops in Anadolu Kavağı for a bit over two hours so people can enjoy dinner in the fish restaurants at the shore. Around 22:30 the ferry departs again for a moonlight cruise on the Bosphorus — a unique experience!

Unfortunately, the Full Bosphorus Tour by Night on the Ferry is only available on Saturdays in July and August. The price per person for non-Turkish citizens is 560 TL (free for children age 6 and younger you better buy your tickets in time.

3. Turyol and Dentur

Turyol and Dentur are two private companies that also offer a two-hour Bosphorus tour, similar to the one by Şehir Hatları. The good news is that they have several departures a day. The bad news is that they are more expensive and a bit shoter.

The Turyol Bosphorus tour sales booth is located on the righthand docks of Eminönü when coming off the Galata Bridge, past the fish & bread sellers. During the high season, ferries depart hourly starting 10:00. Last departure time is 20:00 on weekdays, and 21:00 during the weekend. The Bosphorus tour takes about 90 minutes, and costs 200 TL.

The Dentur Bosphorus tour dock and sales booth are located in Kabataş. The ferries depart every hour with the first departure at 12:45 and the last one at 17:45. The trip takes 1h45 and costs 250TL.

Always check the respective websites for the latest schedules and prices.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission to keep the site ad-free . I only recommend products and companies I use or have used.

Further Recommended Reading

• Why and How Should You Visit the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul?
• Is the Asian Side of Istanbul Worth Visiting
• Bebek, Istanbul’s Trendy Village along the Bosphorus

July 26, 2024 at 11:01 pm

Hello! My husband and I are going to Istanbul this Sept 22-Oct1. I wanted to do the Şehir Hatları full bosphorus boat tour, however the website is not opening up or working at all. I have tried in different browsers and from different webpages that have links to Şehir Hatları official website. How can I book a boat tour if website isn’t opening for me at all? Thank you for any advice!

Erlend says

July 27, 2024 at 10:36 pm

For the Sehir Hatlari boat tour, you don’t really need to make reservations. When you’re in Istanbul, just go to the pier and buy your tickets (a few days ahead) and you’ll be fine.

August 1, 2024 at 10:52 pm

Hello! The Turyol cruise where has the ending?

August 2, 2024 at 11:47 pm

It’s a tour, so it drops you off where you board it.

JOE Aca. says

July 25, 2024 at 8:21 am

hello Erlend ~ Thank you for your very helpful travel guidance. We’ll be taking our first trip to Turkey in early November this year!

With regard to a Full-Day Bosphorus cruise, what are the significant differences between the reasonably-priced (13 Euros) Şehir Hatları Full-Day cruise; and the FAR more expensive (110 Euros) Full-Day cruise I see offered online by services such as Velena Travel???

Also, do you have a favorite Istanbul Food Tour to recommend? 🙂

July 25, 2024 at 9:03 am

Doe you have a link where I can have a look at the one from Velena Travel?

Erla Dalipi says

July 24, 2024 at 1:07 pm

In October I am looking for a Full Bosphorus Cruise from Eminonu.

I need the timetable and the prices because the links do not open.

You can help?

July 25, 2024 at 9:02 am

The timetable for wintertime will only be announced by the end of September. Please remind me around that time to have a look for you.

felipe says

July 15, 2024 at 8:18 pm

In August I am looking for a short Bosphorus ferry tour from Eminonu.

I need the timetable.

July 16, 2024 at 10:18 pm

It’s exactly as in the article.

prabhath says

June 13, 2024 at 3:39 pm

the full bosphorous tour is 480 lira now, it might be 120 for only turkish citizens

June 16, 2024 at 11:24 am

You’re right, they started making a differences between local and foreign. Thanks for sharing.

May 15, 2024 at 9:03 pm

Thank you for useful information.

I have a question: with which of these companies we could visit Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)? I mean that we would like to stop there.

May 18, 2024 at 9:54 am

None. You can reach the Maiden Tower with their own shuttle service (payable) from the end of Galataport.

Mahmud says

March 27, 2024 at 5:17 pm

Hi, thank you for this valuable information. I have a question, we are planning to visit 7-11 April during Eid. Are the tours still open? If I want to view sunset plus night instanbul view then which tour you suggest please? Thanks in advance 👍

March 27, 2024 at 7:13 pm

Hi, the tours will be operational, but for winter schedule still. The sunset tour offered by Sehir Hatlari will not be available as it only runs in the summer months.

January 18, 2024 at 4:55 pm

Hi! Thank you for the article. It really helps a lot! quick question, do you know different Bosphorus tours an Bosphorus lines? is it the same ferry or not? i’m planning a short tour because i only want to Ortakoy and explore a little bit more there, but unfortunately they don’t stop at the Ortakoy right? So, if it i’s the same, i wil go woth Bosphorus lines only. Thank you for your help.

January 18, 2024 at 8:37 pm

Not sure what you would like to do: – do you want to go from Eminönü to Ortaköy and explore the area while the ship continues its tour – do you want to go from Eminönü to Ortaköy, explore the area for a short time, boatrd the ship again and continue the Bosphorus tour (spoiler: no such tour exists) – do you want to go from to Ortaköy and explore the area, and go back to where you came from

Barry Lewis says

November 23, 2023 at 11:14 pm

Am I correct that the Full Bosphorus Cruise (Uzun Boğaz Turu) is NOT available during the month of March (we’ll plan to be there around March 7 to March 14).

Barry Lewis

November 24, 2023 at 5:06 pm

No, there is one. It leaves in Eminönü at 10:35 and will be back by 16:40 with a 2,5 hour stop at the furthest point. Keep in mind that it can still be very cold in March, so you’ll probably sit inside the whole time.

Nadine says

March 13, 2024 at 11:53 am

Hello wl be there in April after 12 ..would love to do the cruise ..is there a long one with several stops? Wl be staying in Taksim .can you please advise.thx

March 14, 2024 at 7:03 pm

Hi Nadine, do you mean after 12 as in after 12 April 2024 or after 12 as in any day in April but after noon?

November 1, 2023 at 1:16 pm

Very helpful information thank you. Are these tours guided, ie does a guide provide a narrative on route?

November 4, 2023 at 11:33 am

No, they are not.

October 31, 2023 at 11:08 pm

Thank you for this information. Extremely helpful. Do you know what time the short tour departs in the inter season? (2 November 2023). I have checked the schedule and cannot seem to work it out.

Thanks in advance.

November 1, 2023 at 12:32 am

They’re currently in winter mode, which means that the short tour departs daily from Eminönü at 14:40.

Waldemar Kowalski says

September 22, 2023 at 5:32 am

Thank you for the invaluable information and your detail in representing Turkey and Istanbul!

The current tariffs (according to https://www.sehirhatlari.istanbul/en/price-list/bosphorus-tours-78 ) are 120 TL round trip for the long tour, 65 for the short tour, and 130 for the moonlight tour.

We are looking forward to using a LOT of your information

September 22, 2023 at 11:30 am

Hi, thanks for sharing. I’ll adjust the price … a never-ending story I’m afraid with the current inflation.

Carl Shinoda says

January 17, 2024 at 3:11 am

Thank you for your amazing article. It’s very helpful. One thing i wish to find out is, you mentioned there is a digital guide on board the long tour which cost 65TL. Is it a device they provide with earphone set or an app to download off our phones? If neither one, what is it?

January 17, 2024 at 7:25 pm

I’m guessing it’s an app these days.

September 16, 2023 at 12:23 am

do you know if there is a Boat tour leaving from Karaköy?

September 16, 2023 at 1:39 pm

No, no Bosphorus tours from Karaköy.

September 11, 2023 at 11:28 pm

Hi. Is their a sunset cruise ( preferably non/dinner)that leaves from and returns to Kadikoy

September 11, 2023 at 11:31 pm

When do you plan to go?

Brett Jones says

July 22, 2023 at 12:46 pm

Can you tell me which pier in Kadiköy the night cruise leaves from on Saturdays? The website says it’s the ‘old’ station – but not being from Istanbul I have no idea which one that is! Thanks!

July 22, 2023 at 6:56 pm

Hi Brett, just go to the Kadiköy piers and ask there where the mehtap Bogaz turu picks up passengers. They often change, so it’s hard to tell where it is now. Just make sure you’re 20 min earlier.

June 19, 2023 at 5:32 pm

Hello, We are in Istanbul right now. Just a quick update – the Turyol 90 min. tour is now 100 liras. Thanks for the suggestions. Hoping to catch a Sehir Hatlari full tour this week.

June 19, 2023 at 10:58 pm

Thanks, enjoy!

April 5, 2023 at 5:55 pm

Are all boats and crews the same? Do they have similar amounts of guests?

April 5, 2023 at 5:58 pm

Not sure that I understand your question. I review different companies and different lines on this page. Different companies of course have different boats and crews. And the crew for the short and long tour also differ.

carolyn haywood says

March 23, 2023 at 6:49 pm

Hi we dock in instanbul from 9 till 6 on a cruise and we want to do a trip on the Bosphorus, what would you recommend? We will be there june. Thanks

March 23, 2023 at 7:04 pm

I assume you’ll be there from 9 am till 6pm?

Jenny Jiang says

March 7, 2023 at 1:21 am

Hi, thanks for your article, very helpful. I’ve booked 4 days trip to Istanbul from March 8-12 (this week!), planning to do the Full Bosphorus Tour. What is the Şehir Hatları schedule in March? Can I still take the long Bosphorus tour from Eminönü at 10:35 and be back at Eminönü at around 16:40? Will it be okay to buy a ticket on the day before departure, at this time of the year? Many thanks. Jenny

March 7, 2023 at 11:04 am

The winter schedule is still in effect in March, so the timing is correct. In March, buying a ticket on the same dayshould be ok. Have fun.

November 20, 2022 at 2:39 pm

Your articles are very helpful and I am glad I came across it.

I am travelling to Istanbul with my parents next week and was planning to do the long bosphorus tour, we are staying in Cihangir. My question is – would you still advise the tour as it is November and the weather might be not the best. And do we buy the tickets from sehir hatlari the same morning?

Thank you for helping all the vacationers to plan their Istanbul holidays.

November 20, 2022 at 6:47 pm

Personally, I wouldn’t do the long cruise in winter. Part of the charm is sitting on deck, in the sun, which is obviously not possible in winter. Moreover, the main sightseeing spots (80%) are also covered by the short tour. Yes, buy tickets from their sales booth, the same day should be ok in winter.

October 29, 2022 at 7:55 am

Hi! Does the long cruise take place in November? Are there only outdoor locations on the ship? How to get to the ferry station from Pendik? Can I buy tickets online? If not, can I buy them immediately before the trip?

October 29, 2022 at 2:30 pm

Yes, there is one trip a day in winter, leaves at 10:35 and back around 16:40 with a long break at the furthest point. Seats indoor and outdoor. Tickets from the Şehir Hatları Bosphorus Tours booth at the Eminönü docks. It’s low season, so I would expect yes, but go in time.

Melanie Putra says

October 23, 2022 at 8:50 pm

I’m researching Sehir Hatlari’s short Bosphorus tour (2 hours) for my December trip. I know it departs Eminonu at 2:40pm. I am a bit confused though when I look at Hatlari’s schedule which shows: Departure from Eminonu: 2.40pm Departure from Üsküdar: 2.55pm Arrival at Ortakoy: 3.10pm This one way trip is only half hour. 1. Does this mean the ship continues on further after Ortakoy, perhaps half hour more, only then turns around to return to Eminonu? I’m just counting the timing… If it turns around at Ortakoy and heads back to Eminonu, the whole trip would only be 1 hour, not 2… 2. If this is the case, is the scenery further up after Ortakoy worth it? Or should I disembark at Ortakoy to check out Ortakoy then catch a bus to Taksim (I plan to visit Istiklal Caddesi after the cruise). Just wondering whether Ortakoy is a better option than continuing with the cruise? I heard the traffic between Ortakoy & Kabatas is horrible though.. Maybe still better to do the 2 hours cruise then catch T1 from Eminonu to Kabatas…?

October 24, 2022 at 8:09 am

The tour takes between 90 min and w hours, so don’t get off at Ortaköy and enjoy the ride until you’re back in Eminönü. From there, as you suggested, take the T1 to Kabatas followed by the F2 to Taksim.

February 6, 2023 at 11:56 am

How to buy the ticket? I’m in Turkey currently and planned to take the short tours

February 6, 2023 at 7:05 pm

As it says in the article, on the Eminönü docks, look for the Bosphorus Tour sales booth by Şehir Hatlari.

JOHN EV says

October 14, 2023 at 5:20 am

Our family will be in Istanbul on the 1st and 2nd January. Do the short 2 hour trips take place on these days? Many thanks. John EV

October 16, 2023 at 9:59 pm

Normally yes. In case not the 1st then certainly the second.

Sai Orias says

September 28, 2022 at 1:59 pm

Thank you for the wonderful article about the cruise.

I would like to try it once I arrive at Istanbul. I will be staying at the Asian Side. My question is, when I arrive at Uskudar dock what name should I look for to book this cruise at the same amount you posted? I wanted to try riding the full cruise, also is it okay to bring food and water during the cruise?

Looking forward for my stay in Istanbul. I will be going there alone and I am excited!

September 28, 2022 at 5:45 pm

Look for the name Şehir Hatları, and if there are multiple dock pavilions, look for Bosphorus lines. Sure you can bring food and (non-alcoholic) beverages along, but keep in mind that for the full cruise you’ll stop for quite a while at the farthest point.

Nishat says

September 23, 2022 at 9:20 pm

The nonstop short bosphorous tour – Will they halt at Ortakoy for an hour or so? Or we won’t have time to get down from the ferry? I really would explore Ortakoy a bit along with the bosphorous tour.

September 24, 2022 at 9:10 am

It will briefly stop there to let people board, but that won’t even be 5 minutes. So the answer is, no, it’s non-stop.

Mary M says

September 13, 2022 at 11:40 pm

We would like a round trip ferry ride from Emenonu to Anadolu Kavagi on Tuesday, September 20. Is this route served every day? What company do I use? Where can I purchase the tickets? Same day at the pier ticket? or advance ticket? Thanks, Mary

September 14, 2022 at 8:44 am

The current schedule runs until September 18. I’ll let you know as soon as the winter schedule is published.

Mary Warpeha says

September 19, 2022 at 3:22 am

Hi. We are in Istanbul and really want to cruise. Can you send an update on the schedule for Tuesday, September 20? Much appreciated.

September 19, 2022 at 9:45 am

The new Şehir Hatları schedule came out today, and you can still take the long Bosphorus tour from Eminönü at 10:35 and be back at Eminönü at around 16:40. You can also take the short tour starting at 14:40. You can find the sales booth and dock right from the Galata Bridge when facing the Galata Tower. It says Bosphorus Lines. Enjoy!

Haruethai says

September 2, 2022 at 5:27 pm

Hi, thanks for a wonderful Istanbul article Does the Sehir Hatlari has hourly short cruises like Turyol and Dentor. Are these 3 companies equally good and are the routes the same. I have very limited time in Istanbul, if not Sehir Hatlari which of this two would you suggest me to take. Because their frequencies are more and I can plan my day better. Thanks

September 2, 2022 at 6:24 pm

As I write in the post, Sehir Hatlari only has 2 short tours, while the others have multiple. I suggest going with Sehir Hatlari if their timetable suits you, if not, Turyol because you stay in Eminönü.

August 28, 2022 at 11:49 pm

Hello Erlend, We like to take the short Bosphorus Cruise on October. What is the name of the office at the Eminou dock? Can we buy tickets inside the office on the day of the cruise? We are just afraid of all these touts outside the office and all over the docks? Thanks so much.

August 29, 2022 at 11:10 am

Assuming that you want to take the one by Şehir Hatları, it’s just called Eminönü 2 Iskelesi / Pier – Boğaz Hattı / Bosphorus Line by Şehir Hatları. Yes, you can buy the day itself. If you have the time, maybe stop by in the morning already.

July 14, 2022 at 6:07 pm

Hi Erland We have just moved to Istanbul and are living it! My daughter is visiting at the moment and we want to show her the most we can via a Bosphorous tour as she is 7 months pregnant and don’t want her trudging around for hours. Is it best to get the ferry from Eminönü?

Love your tips many thanks Colin

July 14, 2022 at 10:50 pm

Yes, unless you want a private (and rather expensive) Bosphorus tour, the Eminönü pier is your best bet. You can go with the Şehir Hatları (cheapest but only once a day) or with Turyol (every hour I guess). Enjoy.

Colin Weaver says

July 15, 2022 at 9:44 am

Many thanks, we are going to take the Eminönü ferry today.

July 26, 2022 at 9:42 pm

On Thursday we will make our way to Emenonu via the tram. Where in Emenonu is the piers/docs? Will we need to take a taxi or it’s a walking distance?

July 26, 2022 at 9:58 pm

You can’t miss. Literally, when you get off the tramway, you’ll see the docks.

July 13, 2022 at 7:13 am

Hello. We plan to travel in Europe in august 20, 2022 , and we have a 15 h layover in Instanbul.we will arrive sunday around 4pm , can we still get the Bosphorus free tour from the airport? is it still on for sundays this tour? I dont mind if its the short one or the long tour. Thank you!!

July 14, 2022 at 9:18 am

This service is called Touristanbul . Do you fly with Turkish Airlines? You can find out all the information whether you’r eligible for Touristanbul .

June 6, 2022 at 1:47 pm

Hey erlend.

It will be my birthday tomorrow and I wanted to do something special. I was at eminönu the last few days and the prices were about 60 tl but without food or anything. People outside are trying to sell the Bosporus tour with dinner for 35 Euro per person… I don’t get that sorry. Can you help me?

June 6, 2022 at 3:11 pm

Not sure what you’re not getting. Just a short tour (1,5 hours) without food on a big ferry is indeed about 60TL. If you want a longer cruise with food or a small more private vessel with less people snacks and drinks, of course you need to pay more.

Here are two popular activities you may have a look at: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht and Istanbul: Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table

May 10, 2022 at 5:15 pm

Hi Erlend, First of all – Thank you very much for these useful information! I will be in Istanbul – for the first time – for the last May weekend, arriving Wednesday afternoon and leaving Sunday noon. So, three full days and some few hours. I love boat tours and exploring places, I am thinking to take the “Full Bosphorus Cruise”. Of course I am debating if it is “worth” to spend one full day for it, out of just three days of my first time in Istanbul, or if I should just take one of the shorter cruises and have the other half day to visit other places in Istanbul. But that’s up to personal preferences, I know. Still your opinion is very welcome! 😀

But, what I am trying to figure out as well is – so, we arrive on Wednesday afternoon, I thought for Thursday we would stay and explore the city for “getting a first overview”, including Hagia Sophia, etc. and on Friday going on the Full Bosphorus Cruise. Or is there any advantage in doing the Bosphorus Cruise on Thursday? I mean, if there will be, out of your knowledge, much more people using the boat on Fridays and you would recommend the Boat cruise on Thursday? (We are staying in Sultanahmet)

Thank you very much & sunny regards, Marie

May 10, 2022 at 7:35 pm

If you’re only in Istanbul for 3 days and it’s your first visit, I would definitely go for the shorter cruise and have extra time to visit the top attractions. There is no real preference for a day, just see what day best fits in your plan and/or pick the sunniest day.

Have a nice time.

May 12, 2022 at 12:36 pm

Hi Erlend, Thank you very much! I might come back to you and ask another touristy question 😀 Oh, here comes the first one: As we arrive on a Wednesday around 3 PM (arrival at airport), what would you recommend for this evening – that doesn’t involve too much sightseeing & walking, as we will be tired probably. Drop our stuff in the hotel in Sultanahmet and make our way to the Galata Tower, to spend the evening there and for a nice view of the city for a “first impression”? Or maybe just stay in Sultanahmet. Don’t know, what makes “sense”. Thanks a million! Marie

May 12, 2022 at 6:35 pm

It will all depend a bit on traffic I guess. Let’s say out of the airport and on the road by 17:00, which is rush hour. Assume to be at hotel by 19:00. So yes, not a bad idea, and maybe have a bit nearby.

May 13, 2022 at 8:20 pm

Great, thank you so much Erlend! 🙂 All the best, Marie

Jose Monte says

April 25, 2022 at 2:22 pm

Can you please give me step by step instructions to go from our hotel at the Pullman Istanbul Hotel, Yenibosna Merkez, Mahallesi, 1. Asena Sk. No:15, 34295 Bahçelievler/İstanbul which is very neat Attaturk Airport but outside the city center to Sultanahmet or the Bosphorus Ferry tour terminal in Eminonu Pier. I would like to take public transport but I would not mind taking taxi to the nearest public transport terminal from our hotel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

April 25, 2022 at 6:33 pm

It’s not an easy connection. If I were you I would take a taxi to the T1 tramway stop in Zeytinburnu in the direction of Eminönü or Kabatas. This tramway passes the Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet and has a stop at the ferry docks in Eminönü.

April 26, 2022 at 8:34 am

Thank you Erlend. I googled Zeytinburnu and it looks easier and safer to catch a taxi back to our hotel at night. Does the Tram runs at midnight ?

April 27, 2022 at 6:35 pm

The operating hours were in the link I shared in the previous reply. But yes, outside operating hours, a taxi back is your best/only option. I would stay clear of buses, it’s not that comfortable and can be pretty confusing for tourists.

April 5, 2022 at 5:31 pm

Hi I’ll be going to Istanbul in June / early July hopefully, we want to go on the sunset cruise, on one of the days we’ll be visiting the Dolmabahce Palace and we were thinking off doing the sunset cruise the same day. Where is the best place to purchase the sunset cruise near Dolmabahce Palace or can we purchase before and get onto a boat near the Dolmabahce Palace?

Many thanks, Umar

April 5, 2022 at 11:00 pm

The season hasn’t started for the sunset cruise, so it’s hard to predict on what the schedule will be this year. Normally this trip is available during the months July and August. You can buy tickets upfront from the sales booth on the docks in Eminönü. Chances are you can board in Beşiktaş, but you won’t know for sure until the summer schedule is released. If not, no need to worry, only a 10 minute walk from Dolmabahçe you can take the T1 tram from Kabataş to the Eminönü .

April 8, 2022 at 1:10 am

Thank you so much for the reply so helpful. Do you know when the summer schedule is released? And where I can find it please?

April 9, 2022 at 3:58 pm

Hi Umar, I think around May. Here’s the link . Currently you see only two tours, as soon as the sunset tour is back available, it’ll appear there too.

April 11, 2022 at 1:33 pm

Thank you once again that’s very useful. Just a couple more questions before I stop bothering you lol:

1. You mentioned I can buy tickets upfront from the sales booth on the docks in Eminönü, can we buy tickets a few days before the cruise or do we have to purchase on the day? I’m just wondering if we’re passing by the docks in Eminönü then we may buy before if we can.

2. Which company do we need to book with? is it Sehir Haltari? Do they have ticket booths on the docks in Eminönü?

Thanks, Umar

April 11, 2022 at 3:45 pm

1. Yes, normally you can 2. Yes, Şehir Hatları

June 21, 2022 at 4:02 am

Is the sunset tour now available?

June 21, 2022 at 5:22 pm

Yes, it is. It leaves from Eminönü at 18:25 , but I suggest to be there earlier to make sure you have (a good) seat and buy your tickets in the morning if you can.

January 29, 2022 at 7:57 pm

Hey, thabk you so much for the article! I’ve read all the comments and have two questions left: for the long bosphorus tour you mentioned the audio guides, where can we get one? Is it on the boat itself? And secondly: you mentioned the ticket office, is it really an office or machines? Because we walked past the dock today and I could find a real office. Thank you so much

January 30, 2022 at 2:44 pm

In winter there are no long Bosphorus tours, only short ones. The audio guide you normally get on the vessel itself. It’s a real office. If you are on the docks, and look at The Galata Tower on the other side of the Golden Horn, it’s about 150 meters right from the bridge.

Have a nice stay.

Nadia Shehzad says

June 15, 2022 at 9:57 am

Is a night cruise available on June 25, 2022? If night cruise on 25 June is not available from you, which other affordable and reliable company is recommended? Please help me as there are so many scams. Just a decent evening/night cruise for a family in budget?

June 16, 2022 at 9:27 am

The one from Şehir Hatları will not be available. In order to recommmend you one, can you please specify the amount of people, private or not, vessel size, budget (in EUR or USD), and whether you want just the cruise or also want to eat something (and have a belly dance show)?

June 18, 2022 at 12:33 am

Hi Erlend We are 3 adults and 1 child (11 year) and 1 child (5 years old). We are fine with anything nice, private or not, food or without food, with or without night show. Budget would be 20-40 per head. We can do two separate types if they are within 25$/person, one day for sunset and another day for night/ music. Or a single one having sunset+a bit of night, max 40$/person.

Thank you very much

June 18, 2022 at 6:50 pm

Ok, when will you be in Istanbul? The reason I ask is because the state run ferry normally has a Bosphorus sunset cruise in summer, which may be announced soon?

June 21, 2022 at 5:29 pm

You can now take the Sehir Hatlari Sunset cruise for 52 TL per person. It leaves daily from the Eminönü pier at 18:25. Better buy your tickets upfront to make sure you have a seat.

Annisa Amelia says

August 4, 2021 at 2:07 pm

Hello hart! Thank you for the information, I wanted to ask you about the short trip of the bosphorus where can I buy the ticket ? In the locker in eminonu or I can use istanbulkart? Thanks a lot!

August 4, 2021 at 5:19 pm

It’s safer to go to the booth in Eminönü and buy the ticket upfront. It may not be too crowded this year, but better be safe than sorry.

Have a nice day.

May 18, 2021 at 11:11 pm

Hi – such a helpful blog! We are considering visiting Istanbul for New Years. Do you think any cruises will be running in the winter? Would it still be worth visiting one of the Princes’ Islands in the winter? I know winter means less crowds, but hoping things are still open, despite colder temperatures and COVID.

May 19, 2021 at 9:17 pm

Thanks a lot. As you mentioned, it all depends on the weather. For instance, last winter it was still 17 in the shade in December. On the flip side, it may freeze and even snow. Cruises still run in winter, but of course less frequently. Sitting outside because of the cold and/or precipitation may be less appealing. Visiting the islands is still a good idea, and something locals do on Sundays to escape the busy city life and get some fresh air. As for COVID, it’s hard to predict. I do know that the government just signed a deal for 90 million Pfizer vaccines, so let’s hope they can distribute them quickly.

February 22, 2020 at 11:48 pm

Hi there. I’m sure this must have been asked before. But please reply me. So the long tour starts at 10:35 and reaches ANADOLU at 12:25 And return from there to Eminonu is at 15:00 again. So between that time, are there places close by to have lunch ? Do they leave exactly at 15:00 or before time ?

February 23, 2020 at 2:33 pm

Yes, there will be restaurants at the port where you can eat, and the ferry doesn’t leave until 15:00. I suggest to play safe and be aboard minimum 10 minutes ahead of time though.

Sharwaaz Hassan says

January 28, 2020 at 12:13 am

Hope you’re well. I am so confused I really hope you can help me.

I’ll be visiting Istanbul in April Insha-Allah and I’d like to visit the Asian side as 1 activity on one day and I’d also like to take a Full Bosphorous Cruise by Night as a different activity…

Firstly, Where exactly do I get the ferry if I wanted to get from the European side to the Asian side for a day outing on the Asian side?

I’ve been told to walk down Istiklal Street and at the end of Istiklal Street I can get a ferry at Karakoy port on the European side, is this correct?

Is it also true that if i took the ferry from Karakoy on the European side, I will get off at Kadikoy port on the Asian side and this ferry ride should take about 15mins from Karakoy to Kadikoy…..

However, in saying this I’ve been told that coming back from the Asian side, I get on at Kadikoy port but it doesn’t drop you at Karakoy, if it doesn’t drop you at Karikoy on the European side then where does it drop you on the European side?

How much should a ferry ride cost on an IstanbulKart?

Secondly, I would also like to do a Full Bosphorous Cruise by Night. Where do I get the tickets for this cruise?

Do I have to book in advance or can I turn up on the day at Sehir Hatlati offices to book for that night?

Where are the Sehir Hatlati offices located?

How much will a Full Bosphorous Cruise by Night cost in Turkish Lira please and can I pay in Turkish Lira by cash?

How long does this cruise take?

Are there free transfers provided from hotel to boat and back to hotel after the Cruise?

I know that I’ve asked many questions, but I will great appreciate if you can be as detailed as possible in your reply please because I want to get this right. Feel free to explain it to me like you would explain it to a 5yr old 🤣🤣🤣

Thanking you in advance

January 28, 2020 at 9:38 am

To get to the Asian side, and assuming you’ll want to go to Kadıköy, you can take a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy. Mind you that Karaköy is not located at the end of Istiklal Caddesi. You’ll still have to take Tünel (a funicular) to reach Karaköy. Alternatively, again from Taksim, you can take the other funicular to Kabataş and then take the tramway to Eminönü (which also passes Karaköy). Maybe have a look at this Istanbul Transportation map . The trip takes indeed about 15 min. If you take the Kadıköy-Karaköy ferry it will drop you off at Karaköy.

In April there is no full Bosphorus cruise by night organized by Şehir Hatları. But you can find many advertisements of such cruises organized by private companies on this site. Do read the details of such cruises to see if they match your expectations, and read the comments written by people who have take the cruise. It’s safe to book them online.

Hope this helps.

January 24, 2020 at 3:53 pm

Hello. Thanks for the article. Are there any multi-day cruises from Istanbul? We need a company that accepts children, in August.

January 25, 2020 at 12:31 pm

The Bosphorus Cruise as they call it is of course not a real cruise. For multi-day cruises you should contact established cruise companies. There is a nice cruise port in Istanbul. I read this year 65 cruise ships would enter Istanbul. Good luck.

January 20, 2020 at 5:07 pm

It’s a pleasure reading your article. Thank you so much for all the informations you have provided, we will be in istanbul in mid april for 4 days. We would like to take a Bosphorous cruise but we are more interested in taking a 2 to 3 hrs cruise, apart from 2.30 pm cruise is there any other cruise. We will be staying in Sultanhamet area and would prefer to start the cruise and ends at Eminomu. Are there any cruise that departs late in the evening without dinner provided that cruises for 2 to 3 hrs. We don’t prefer taking a private cruise. Thanks.

January 20, 2020 at 6:41 pm

The only non-private company providing Bosphorus tours is Şehir Hatları, with the tour you know. There are lots of different private tours (with and without) dinner. You can find them in the ads on the page. Make sure to read through the comments of others to make sure if it suits your needs. You may also want to check out Turyol , another private company.

Hop this helps.

Mohammad Iqbal says

January 17, 2020 at 5:12 am

Hi the schedule you shared for the full bhosphorus tour above in the article have one departure and one return cruise so it will start at 10:35 from first stop and reach the last stop at 12:25, then for the return, they will start at 15:00 which means we have to stay at the last stop for more then 2 hours? is there any option that we have continuous cruise like we reach at the last stop and after some time we start our journey back?

Is there only two long bhosphorous cruises for the day?

January 18, 2020 at 3:10 pm

Hi Mohammad,

Since it’s winter currently, they only operate one boat and only do one run. In summer the frequency is higher, so you can opt for an earlier return. If you want a continuous tour to the Black Sea and back, then I’m afraid that you’ll have to look for private companies and Bosphorus Tours. Keep in mind that they will be more expensive.

Milica says

December 30, 2019 at 4:16 pm

Are Şehir Hatları tours (either short or long) available during winter time? Their timetable looks the same way as this summer when I did a tour, but I was wondering if you have any closer information, as we would like to take the tour again these days.

Thank you 🙂

December 31, 2019 at 6:00 pm

It does look similar, but it has actually been updated. You’ll see that the long tour only has one trip up and down, where in summer there are a few more. So, to answer your question, yes the info is up to date.

November 28, 2019 at 11:19 am

Hi, my family and I will arrive Istanbul on the 2nd week of December, and from your post, the schedule changes seasonally. So I am worried about the schedule for Short Bosphorus Tour as we want to ride the cruise from Ortakoy. 1)Is the cruise still available during Winter season/ December? 2)How to find out their schedule for Short Bosphorus Cruise? Thank you

November 28, 2019 at 5:59 pm

Yes, the short Bosphorus tour continues during winter. Here you can find the schedule .

October 24, 2019 at 10:47 am

Hi there, great article! I have a couple of questions if you don’t mind:

What is the difference between the scenic River cruise for EUR20 and the full bosphorus for TL25? I ask this because of the substantial difference in price.

October 24, 2019 at 6:24 pm

The full Bosphorus cruise for 25 TL is a regular public transportation ferry taking you all the way to the last dock before the Black Sea, and back. It briefly stops at all the docks along the way to let people on and off. The 25 TL just lets you on the ship, no drink nor food included.

The Scenic River cruise, among many others on this page, are privately owned cruises that advertise here. Their offers MAY include equally long or shorter cruises, normally don’t have extra stops, can have daytime, sunset or night timeframes, food and drinks, entertainment on board, etc. each program is different, and so are their prices. I recommend you read the details and go over comments left by others.

Muhammad Siddiqui says

October 2, 2019 at 10:16 pm

Is this correct link for Bosphorus cruise? https://www.ido.com.tr/

do they pick up from Yotel at IST?

October 3, 2019 at 7:57 pm

Hi Muhammad,

No, that is the wrong link. Here are the links for the public Bosphorus tours and a private Bosphorus cruise which I took myself. Hotel pickup is only available on some tours, and certainly not for public tours.

September 21, 2019 at 6:50 am

HI, Thank you so much for all the help. It really helps us all. I have few questions:

1) I am coming there in first week of november. Is it usually busy during that time?

2) I will be there on Nov 1st (Friday Evening) to Nov 6th (Wednesday Morning). I know you mentioned the cruise doesn’t work on saturday! Would you recommend me taking the Sunday, Monday or Tuesday cruise?

3) I am planning on taking the full day cruise from Sehir Hatlari in Eminono, what is the small fish town called where the cruise stop for lunch? Any restaurants there you would recommend?

4) What time is the return cruise? What happens if we miss the last cruise?

5) Do you know where i should buy the tickets for princes island ferry? How much will it cost? I read online and people said the only place worth visiting on princes island is Buyukada. Or are there any other islands you recommend us going to. Any information about the princes ferry would be appreciated.

One day we are planning on doing bosporos tour, next day go to the princes island, third day visit mosque, museums and grand bazaar. We will still have one full day left, what do you recommend us to do. Something you would highly recommend someone doing when they visit istanbul. Doesn’t matter even if its 2-3hrs drive, i will rent a car and take my family.

Thank you so much for all the help with this forum.

September 23, 2019 at 8:54 am

1. It shouldn’t be too busy, it’s low season. 2. The cruises work every day, just the sunset cruise doesn’t. So you can take it any day you want. 3. It’s the very last stop, Anadolu Kavağı. Can’t really recommend one. Just don’t be overwhelmed by the waiters trying to lure you in, take your time to check them all out first, and then pick the one that pleases you most. 4. You can find the Şehir Hatları timetable for the full Bosporus cruise here . If you miss the only return ferry, the you’re left with a very expensive taxi ride back. 5. Just go to the Şehir Hatları offices on the docks of Eminönü and look for their Bosporus or Boğaz sales office. If you’re pressed for time, yes, focus on Büyükada . 6. Are Dolmabahçe Palace, Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern on your list already?

September 9, 2019 at 8:27 pm

Is there any non stop cruise?

I am looking for something that takes 1 to 2 hours maximum? Could I buy the tickets at the boat port? How much it cost?

September 10, 2019 at 9:54 am

The short tour only stops twice to pick up passengers. If you really want non stop tours you’ll have to take a look at private Bosphorus tours . For the tours by Şehir Hatları you can buy tickets at the pier, for other tours you better buy online.

Peter P says

September 3, 2019 at 1:23 pm

Hello, thanks for your detailed article on the cruises and it helps a lot. My group are planning to do a short cruise, however we have a few questions:

1) We are a bit confused on the information from Sehir Hatlari’s website. Does the short cruises only depart once a day from Eminonu/ Uskudar/ Ortakoy? The Turkish version says it departs once a day, but the English website seems to be saying there would 2 departures per day.

2) We are planning to take on the short cruise from Ortakoy, would we be able to finish the cruise at Eminonu? Or we have to get off the ferry at Ortakoy if we were onboard there?

3) Would we miss anything good if we were onboard from Ortakoy for the short cruise?

Thanks so much and looking forward to hearing from you.

September 3, 2019 at 10:33 pm

1. There is only one tour a day. The top row are the departure times, the bottom row are the arrival times. 2. Yes, you can start in Ortaköy and get off at Eminönü. 3. You’ll only see the shore between those two points only once. If it fit your itinerary by boarding in Ortakoy, then I wouldn’t change it.

Sahana says

August 27, 2019 at 6:44 pm

Hi Erlend, Could you please share the google map location of the place where we can buy the tickets for Bosphorus tour. EMINONU area is pretty wide.

August 27, 2019 at 7:07 pm

Here you go: Şehir Hatları Bosphorus Cruises

Ahmad Mahairi says

August 25, 2019 at 10:23 pm

I am currently at Istanbul and I am planning to take the full cruze, I am also planning to visit Dolma bahçet saray and Rumli Hisarı at the same day. Would that be possible ? If so, shall I book the 1:30 trip or the 10:30 one? Is there a way to stop at a ferry station close to beşiktaş or Rumli Hisarı in the way back instead of waiting to get off at Eminonu?

August 26, 2019 at 8:29 am

I would first go to Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Hisari, and take the cruise at 13:35 from Eminönü or at 13:50 from Beşiktaş. You’ll be at 15:25 at the last stop. Before you get off the ship, ask what time the last boat embarks so you don’t miss it. On the way back you can get off at Beşiktaş or Eminönü, that’s up to you.

Have a good time.

August 23, 2019 at 6:22 pm

I will be in Istanbul in September for 3 full days, sunday – Tuesday (flying out Wednesday morning). We really wanted to do a sunset cruise, what is the best company to use and how much are we expecting for two adults? I don’t even mind dinner with the sunset cruise.

And thank you so much for taking your time to do this, great work 🙂

August 25, 2019 at 3:09 pm

Best is obviously a private cruise , but if you’re only a party of two it might be a bit too expensive. Cheapest is the one offered by Şehir Hatları, but it only runs on Saturdays in high season. If neither are an option, I suggest you take a look at all the other Bosphorus tour suggestions , with or without dinner. Please do take the amount of stars and reviews into consideration to make a wise decision.

Mustafa says

August 13, 2019 at 12:59 am

Went on Saturday for a night cruise with Şehir Hatları but the office was closed and I was told that Şehir Hatları has only one cruise on Saturday but that’s in the morning (or maybe they said afternoon..can’t recall). So we took the BigBus tour (they share the same booth with Şehir Hatları. The cost originally was 400 TL for 4 adults but after some negotiations it went down to 350 TL. It was very good. Not crowded at all. It was close to the evening so we started with a day light and also managed to see the sunset and Istanbul in night lights. Tour was with commentary at points of interest. Food drinks onboard are expensive. Bring your own snacks.

August 13, 2019 at 8:25 am

Hi Mustafa,

It’s correct that Şehir Hatları only has the sunset cruise on a Saturday. Maybe you were too late to catch it (it’s at Eminönü at 18:25) or it already sold out earlier in the day. Glad to hear that the other cruise worked out for you.

Jaco Havenga says

August 7, 2019 at 5:06 pm

Hi, thanks for your very informative articles. Me and my wife are visiting Istanbul from Sept 8th to 13 Sept. Would you suggest booking any tours or we rather do our own thing. Its like all the operators use the reason for booking with them is to skip long queues. In terms of the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus cruise (Full Cruise), when disembark at the last harbor for lunch is the ferry waiting or do you catch a different one back. And is this cruise cover all the important sites along the river or are there other cruises as well.

August 8, 2019 at 8:34 am

There are often long queues, but that’s most of the time to buy tickets. You can avoid that buy buying the museum pass or buy buying these skip the line guided tours. The latter also have the advantage that these are mostly guided tours. You can buy those online, you’ll find their ads on my site. And last but not least, you can buy a complete package with Istanbul Tourist Pass . I always used to go in with a book in hand, but I recently enjoyed the added value of a guide.

As for the cruise, it depends a bit on the day, but normally it’s the same ferry. Please safe, and take the 10:35 ferry to the last stop in the morning, and ask there when the return ferries depart. There is always a return ferry at 15:00, but the second one is either at 17:00 or 18:00, depending on the day.

John Fitzgerald says

July 30, 2019 at 11:01 pm

Is it reasonable to target the 1:30 departure from Eminonu with an arrival at Ataturk scheduled for 11:20? I don’t have any concept of the time needed to get through immigration and the taxi ride to the dock. Since we won’t buy the ticket until we are at the dock, the only question is whether it is reasonable to plan for that? Thanks.

July 31, 2019 at 8:42 am

First of all, you probably will not fly on Atatürk, because Atatürk Airport has been closed down a few months ago . You’ll now land at the new Istanbul Airport. Typically it takes just over one hour to get out of the airport, and depending on the means of transportation you choose and amount of traffic, it’ll take one to two hours to reach the city center. Assuming you’ll want to check in at your hotel first to at least drop your luggage, I think it’s very unlikely you’ll make it to the docks on time.

Hope this helps give you an idea.

July 14, 2019 at 10:12 pm

Hey, I went on a Bosphorus cruise tour from Ortaköy, Beşiktaş. The one that costed 25 TL and lasted around an hour. It said “ Bogaz turlari” where we took the boat from. Is there any way to find out who was working on the boat/ cruise that we were on? Meaning the ones selling snacks, tea and so on. Thank you

July 15, 2019 at 8:35 am

I’m afraid that would be very difficult.

Sorry I can’t help you for that.

July 14, 2019 at 5:30 pm

First of all your post helped alot to understand the Bosphrous Tour Thanks for that.

My question is what i am seeing in the schedule provided by Şehir Hatları that

Full Bosphorus Cruise is departing from EMINONU and we also have ticketing office located on the left docks of EMINONU. So its a win win you go to EMINONU get the ticket and enjoy the cruise. Ok.

Now the issue is for Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night we’ll take the tickets from docks of EMINONU but the cruise is departing from BOSTANCI according to ” http://en.sehirhatlari.istanbul/en/timetable/sunset-cruises-415.html ” this link. What is that??? Are you getting my point?

2) Second thing is you said ” For the tours organized by Şehir Hatları you can only buy tickets the same day. You can go in the morning to get tickets for the evening though ”

Then what if i wanna go in the morning as i am seeing the schedule for Full Bosphorus Cruise the morning cruise will depart from EMINONU at 10:35. Will i easily get the ticket if i reach at the ticket office at lets say 9:30 or 10:00 ? I mean is it really hard to get the ticket or you can easily get the ticket if you reach an hour before departing the Cruise?

July 15, 2019 at 8:33 am

The boat starts it’s trip in Bostancı, then sails to Kadiköy and picks up people there, then sails to Eminönü where you’ll get on the boat, etc.

Yes, you can buy your tickets in the morning to make sure the boat isn’t sold out by the evening.

Rumana says

June 16, 2019 at 6:16 am

Hi I am right now in Istanbul with my husband and two toddlers for a week. Can you please suggest me what we can do in Istanbul for around three days and for the remaining days we wish to explore places around Istanbul. Thank you

June 16, 2019 at 4:48 pm

Have you had a look at the articles 15 things to do in Istanbul and fun activities with kids ?

June 10, 2019 at 3:09 pm

Thank you so much, Erlend, for the details!

One more question – may I use Istanbulkart for the Long Bosphorus Cruise? Or the cost of the cruises are not included?

Thanks again!

June 11, 2019 at 1:09 pm

No, you can’t use your Istanbul Kart.

Camilo says

June 7, 2019 at 12:14 pm

I will arrive in Istanbul next Friday for in the afternoon at 6PM. I will be there until Saturday at 8 AM, as I checked, my only option to visit something typical in Istanbul is the Bosphorus Cruise by Night (Mehtap Gezi). Or do you suggest me another plan?

1. What time start the cruise at night? 2. How much is it? 3. Where I could buy the ticket? 4. How long is the cruise?

Thanks in advance for your help.

June 7, 2019 at 10:42 pm

If you land at 6 PM, I’m afraid you won’t make it in time. I suggest you have a nice dinner overlooking or by the Bosphorus.

June 6, 2019 at 6:30 pm

Hello! I have read your articles and they are very useful. tank uou for your effort and time to write them! I have a few questions on the cruises a tourist can take:

1. For long Bosphorus Cruise, I found on googlemaps more names for the docks, such as: Eminonu Pier / Eminönü İskelesi and Terminal Feribot Eminönü (Ş.Hatları; Üsküdar & Boğaz). Could you, please, help me with the correct one where I should go to buy tickets and embark?

2. I want to take a cruise on the Golden Horn, too. On Sehir Hatlari website I found a departure point from Karakoy (ferry coming from Uksudar and stopping to Eyup). On the other hand, I found info that there is a ferry going to Eyup from Eminonu Halic Iskelesi (this is the name I found on googlemaps). I don„t know if this is still available in 2019. Is it possible to help me with correct and updated info?

3. Istanbulkart. It is clear it can be used by up to 5 people. When they all use it first time, they will have a discount fare (around 2,60 TL instead of 5TL, as it is a standard ticket). At the first transfer, all of them get discounts?

Thank you in advance for your help, Dana

June 6, 2019 at 11:10 pm

1. The Şehir Hatları docks are on the right side of the Galata Bridge with your back to Eminönü and looking at the Galata Tower. It should write Boğaz Turları and the brand name, Şehir Hatları.

2. The one you found starting in Üsküdar and ending at Eyüp is the official Golden Horn line (Haliç Hattı). Keep in mind that Karaköy is only just across the bridge from Eminönü, a very enjoyable walk.

3. No, only the first one of all people on the same card will get the discount. Personally, I don’t recommend more than three people on one card.

Kedar Dixit says

June 3, 2019 at 11:39 am

Is it worth buying Istanbul tourist pass or venture on your own?

June 3, 2019 at 7:33 pm

Unless you plan to do all they offer in the time frame you picked, I think you’re better of on your own.

Helen Pourouna says

May 15, 2019 at 7:11 pm

Can you buy tickets for full boat cruise on the day of the cruise for the morning cruise. So in other words can you just turn up to ticket office and buy a ticket for the cruise

May 16, 2019 at 11:45 pm

Yes, you can.

vivien barton says

April 25, 2019 at 9:11 am

What is the exact location of your office/ticket office? I don’t want to go on a different company, how do I find your ticket counter?

April 25, 2019 at 10:33 pm

I’m not a travel agent, so I don’t have an office. I just share my Istanbul experiences and advice to help tourists make the most out of it.

April 24, 2019 at 10:08 am

How can i buy advance ticket for long bosphorus cruise or ensure that tickets are not totally sold for the day?

April 24, 2019 at 9:40 pm

For the tours organized by Şehir Hatları you can only buy tickets the same day. You can go in the morning to get tickets for the evening though.

April 21, 2019 at 3:39 pm

Hey, can you bring whatever you want to the cruise? (drinks, food, and the like) are the prices on board reasonable?

April 22, 2019 at 9:50 pm

On the public cruise boats you can bring your own drinks and some snacks. Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages may not be allowed.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About Contact Frequently Asked Questions Sitemap

Popular Attractions

Hagia Sophia Topkapi Palace & Harem Dolmabahçe Palace Bosphorus Tour Whirling Dervishes

Travel Tips

Accommodation & Locations Airport Transportation Istanbul Kart , Museum Pass , Tourist Pass Public Transportation Taxi’s in Istanbul

Privacy Overview

• Things to Do Guide
• Top 10 Attractions
• Shopping Master Guide
• Top Shopping Malls
• Grand Bazaar (Kapalicarsi)
• Egyptian Spice Market
• Historical Bazaars & Markets
• Top Street Markets
• Dining Master Guide
• Best Restaurants
• Michelin-starred Restaurants
• Best Kebab Restaurants
• Best Meat & Steak Restaurants
• Best Ottoman Cuisine Restaurants
• Best Seafood Restaurants
• Best Italian Restaurants
• Best Japanese Restaurants
• Best Sushi Restaurants & Bars
• Best Veggie Restaurants
• Best Bosphorus Restaurants
• Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet
• Best Restaurants in Taksim
• Best Restaurants in Karakoy
• Best Restaurants in Besiktas
• Best Restaurants in Sisli
• Best Restaurants in Fatih
• Best Restaurants in Sariyer
• Best Restaurants in Kadikoy
• Breakfast & Brunch
• Best Street Food
• Turkish Coffee
• Nightlife Master Guide
• Best Pub Crawl
• Best Rooftop Rest. & Bars
• Best Irish Pubs
• Best Wine Houses
• Best Night Clubs
• Theme Parks
• Families & Kids
• Bosphorus Cruises
• Turkish Bath – Hammam
• Best Beaches
• Cruise Ship Passengers
• Istanbul on a Budget
• Bosphorus Strait
• Best of Bosphorus Cruises
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
• Best Cruise Companies
• Which Cruise to Take?
• Cruise Prices
• Bosphorus Cruise with Kids
• Private Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
• Princes’ Islands Yacht Cruise
• Tips for Booking
• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Basilica Cistern
• Dolmabahce Palace
• Galata Tower
• Maiden’s Tower
• Whirling Dervishes Show
• Rhythm of the Dance Show
• Istanbul MegaPass
• Istanbul Tourist Pass
• Istanbul E-Pass
• Istanbul Museum Pass
• Best English Guided Tours
• Best Sightseeing Tours
• Best Attraction Tickets
• Top 15 Bosphorus Cruises
• City Sightseeing Bus
• Best City Walking Tours
• Istanbul Aquarium
• Miniaturk Museum
• Sea Life Aquarium
• Madame Tussauds Wax
• Must do day trips
• Cappadocia from Istanbul
• Pamukkale from Istanbul
• Ephesus from Istanbul
• Gobeklitepe from Istanbul
• Places to See Guide
• One Day Itinerary
• 3-Days Itinerary
• Top 10 Sights
• Best Views of the City
• Instagrammable Places
• Top Hidden Gems
• Top Museums
• Palaces & Pavilions
• Towers & Fortresses
• Fountains & Cisterns
• Squares & Streets
• Parks & Gardens
• Hair Transplant
• Best Dental Clinics
• Dental Implants
• Dental Veneers
• Hollywood Smile
• Plastic Surgery Aesthetics
• Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)
• All Breast Aesthetics
• Breast Augmentation
• Breast Lift
• Breast Reduction
• Facelift & Necklift
• Eyelid Surgery
• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
• Mommy Makeover
• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
• Laser, Vaser Liposuction
• Post-Bariatric Body Lifting
• Bariatric Surgery
• Gastric Balloon
• Gastric Botox
• Sleeve Gastrectomy
• Botox & Fillers
• Stem Cell Treatment
• PRP Treatment
• Beauty Centers & Care
• Laser Hair Removal
• IVF & Fertility
• Aesthetic Gynecology
• Hymenoplasty
• Labiaplasty
• Urology Treatments
• Laser Eye Surgery
• Where to Stay Master Guide
• Top Luxury Istanbul Hotels
• Top Sultanahmet hotels
• Top Taksim Hotels
• Top Galata & Karakoy Hotels
• Top Besiktas Hotels
• Top Kadikoy Hotels
• Top Hostels Backpackers
• Hotels Near Galata Tower
• Hotels near New Istanbul Airport
• Hotels near Sabiha Gokcen Airport
• Istanbul in a Nutshell
• Top Reasons to Visit
• Best Time to Visit
• Cost of Visit
• Hours & Admissions
• Istanbul by Months
• Top Festivals & Events
• Top Event Venues
• Public Holidays
• New Year’s Eve
• Istanbul during Ramadan
• Public Transportation
• IstanbulKart (Public Transport)
• Istanbul Taxi Guide
• Car Rentals
• Galataport (Cruise Port)
• Luggage Storage Service
• New Istanbul Airpt. (IST)
• Sabiha Gokcen Airpt. (SAW)
• Airport Transfers
• Istanbul Airport to City Center
• Sabiha G. Airport to City Center
• HAVAIST Airport Shuttles
• WiFi, Internet & Phones
• Accessible Istanbul
• Moving to Istanbul

Istanbul’s public ferries (inner city lines) are in high use with the locals. And we don’t recommend you take them for a Bosphorus sightseeing tour. You’ll face a huge crowd of locals at the piers , especially at the rush hours.

We recommend you take the Bosphorus tours lines of the Public ferries (see below) for sightseeing.

Note: If you want a touristic Bosphorus cruise, than we recommend you to take the boats which will be less crowded and very popular with the tourists. You can check them on our Bosphorus cruise ideas page.

If you’re taking a ferry trip and need a place to store your luggage while you’re out exploring, Bounce, the luggage storage network, offers convenient storage locations near the major ferry ports. With Bounce , you can securely store your bags and enjoy your time exploring without the burden of carrying your luggage.

What to Expect?

A big part of Istanbul’s beauty is its ferries that cross the Bosphorus. They also make going from East to West fun. You should never just want to get from one place to another on the Bosphorus, though.

Some of the most beautiful things to do are to feed seagulls simit, drink tea and look out at the strait, and daydream while seeing the silhouette of the Historic Peninsula and the Bosphorus’s beautiful sites.

The Bosphorus is a sign of movement, fun, history, tradition, and rebirth. It is a peaceful spot in the middle of Istanbul’s busy life.

No Regrets Booking Advice

Bosphorus rides by public ferries, domestic trips.

* This is not a proper Boshorus Cruise, it is the common sea transportation in between the districts of Istanbul and used with the locals.

* This can be an option for a quick cruise in the Bosphorus.

* Price vary from one way 7,67 TL to 12 TL according to the distance travelled.

* You’ll need IstanbulKart to pay.

Inner Istanbul Ferry Lines: Kadikoy – Eminonu ; Karakoy – Kadikoy ; Uskudar – Eminonu; Kadikoy – Besiktas ; Golden Horn Line ; Bostanci – Karakoy – Kabatas

Bosphorus Ferry Lines: Sariyer – Anadolu Kavagi – Rumeli Kavagi ; Kucuksu – Besıktas – Kabatas ; Cengelkoy – Istınye ; Kadikoy – Sariyer ; Anadolu Kavağı – Uskudar ; Uskudar – Ortakoy ; Rumeli Kavagi – Eminonu ; Istinye – Cubuklu ; Kucuksu – Istinye

Princes’ Islands Ferry Lines: Kabatas – Eminonu – Kadikoy – Adalar ; Bostanci – Adalar (Princes’ Islands) ; Besiktas – Kınalıada – Burgazada ; Besiktas – Heybeliada – Büyükada ; Bostanci – Adalar (Princes’ Islands) ; Eminonu – Kadikoy – Adalar (Princes’ Islands)

Check sehirhatlari.istanbul  for all above routes, timetables and prices.

Bosphorus Tours

Bosphorus Tours by Public Ferries are divided into two lines that include; Short Circle Bosphorus Tour and Long Circle Bosphorus Tour .

Notice: Due to pandemic, Bosphorus tours by public ferries are temporarily cancelled.

Short Circle Bosphorus Tour (2 hours)

* This is a round-trip that operates every day from the Eminonu Pier at 14.35 pm. and goes for Uskudar and Ortakoy Piers in order.

* And comes back from Ortakoy and Uskudar Piers to Eminonu Pier at 16.35.

Duration:  2 hours

Ticket Price: round-trip 32 TL (adults), 16 TL (children under 12).

Long Circle Bosphorus Tour (6 hours)

* This a round-trip that operates every day from the Eminonu Pier at 10.35 am. and goes for Besiktas, Uskudar, Kanlica, Sariyer, Rumelikavagi and Anadolu Kavagi Piers in order.

* Ferry arrives to Anadolu Kavagi Pier about 12.25 pm. and gives a break here until 15.00 pm. You’ll have free time for strolling around the neighborhood, and have a lunch.

* Ferry leaves the Anadolu Kavagi Pier following at 15:00 pm. and following the Rumelikavagi, Sariyer, Kanlica, Uskudar and Besiktas Piers in order, finally ends the tour at Eminonu Pier at 16:40 pm.

Duration: 6  hours

Ticket Price: round-trip 65 TL – one way 39 TL (adults), round-trip 32,50 TL – one way 16 TL (children under 12)

Share post:

• TRANSPORTATION

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Insider Advice: Kickstart your Istanbul adventure with MegaPass , E-Pass or Tourist Pass . These passes provide free access to top attractions with around 70% savings .

Most Popular Now

45 Things to do this autumn in Istanbul 2024 to fall for

Bosphorus cruise istanbul | cost ▷ top 10+ boat tours in 2024, whirling dervishes show istanbul (2024 sema guide with tickets), top best istanbul city walking tours – insider guide + faqs, 15 must do day trips from istanbul in 2024 with travel tips, best turkish bath & hamams in istanbul for 2024, prices.

Tourist Passes

Istanbul MegaPass: Is It Worth It? Save & Skip the Lines

Istanbul tourist pass® review: is it worth it insider tips, istanbul e-pass (worth it how to’s fares, insider tips).

Health & Beauty

TOP 10 Hair Transplant Clinics in Istanbul, Turkey ▷ Best Options

Rhinoplasty in turkey, istanbul | cost ▷ top 10 surgeons 2024, dental implants in turkey, istanbul | cost ▷ top 10 dental clinics, bariatric surgery in turkey, istanbul | cost + top surgeons 2024, botox & fillers in istanbul, turkey: best clinics with 2024 prices, best beauty centers, salons & beauty treatments in istanbul 2024, best spas and wellness centers in istanbul (2024 relaxing guide).

Top Tours & Tickets

/* inline tdc_css att - generated by TagDiv Composer */ .tdi_128{ padding-top:30px !important; padding-bottom:30px !important; justify-content:center !important; text-align:center !important; position:relative; } .tdi_128_rand_style{ background-color:#fdbe03 !important; } /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ .tds-title-simplified{ margin: 0; transform: translateZ(0); }.tds-title-simplified > .td-element-style{ z-index: -1; }.tds_title_simplified_line:after{ content: ''; position: relative; display: block; background-color: var(--td_theme_color, #4db2ec); transition: all 0.2s ease; }body .tdi_129{ text-align: center; }body .tdi_129:after{ margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; }.tdi_129:after{ width: 500px; height: 2px; margin-top: 14px; } Istanbul MegaPass ▷ Save & Skip the Lines

Three pass options to discover the best of istanbul skip the ticket lines, save time and money with the megapass classic , premium , & deluxe - valid 7 days, visit the attractions with your skip the ticket lines whenever you want. no reservation needed for any activity, related reading read more, istanbul on a budget: top 13 money saving tips on your trip, 5 best areas to explore in istanbul for first time visitors, one day in istanbul: local expert help with no regrets, istanbul taxi guide (2024 fares, costs, apps, airport trips, tips), how to get istanbulkart how to obtain-load credit, istanbul city card, mentioned in.

GQ Magazine - Forbes

Follow us on social media

• Sightseeing
• Food & Drink
• Tours & Tickets
• Areas & Districts
• Where to Stay?
• Entertainment & Nightlife
• Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
• Turkish Bath

+90 544 842 8668 - travel guides +90 530 870 5790 - medical guides (Mon – Fri 9am – 6pm)

[email protected]

Istanbeautiful is a travel guide, plus medical tourism platform founded in 2009. With our team and fellows of Istanbul locals, expats and world travelers, we aim to provide up-to-date, quality info and advice for your trip to our city Istanbul. We partner with simply the best daily excursions, tour providers, as well as clinics and doctors in the city. Our motto is “Your Go-See-Do-Heal Advisor”. Find out quality, affordability, and personalized care in Istanbul, Turkey with our guides.

Istanbul worldwide

© 2009-2024 Istanbul Travel & Medical Tourism Guide | All Rights Reserved.

• Privacy & Cookie Policy
• Accessibility

The 7 Best Ways to Cruise the Bosphorus in 2024

Are you looking for the best way to experience Istanbul’s magnificent Bosphorus Strait? This handcrafted guide to the best Bosphorus cruise tours was tailor-made just for you!

Welcome to  Istanbul , the heart of Turkey and a city full of history, culture, and breathtaking views. If you’re seeking to explore the magnificent city of Istanbul from a different perspective, then you’re in for a treat.

The Bosphorus Strait  is the heart of Istanbul, dividing the city into two continents—Asia and Europe. With its stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural richness, a Bosphorus cruise tour is a must-try experience for every traveler.

Lori and I are thrilled to introduce you to what we believe are the best choices for embarking on this journey of a lifetime in 2024, in our detailed guide covering tours to suit every budget.

Read on for the full scoop, including helpful first-hand tips for making your day trip truly unforgettable.

Can’t wait to dive in? Here’s a quick look at our top tour selections to jump-start your travel planning!

• Our Top Pick Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht  (2.5 hrs)
• Full Day Bosphorus Strait + Black Sea Day Cruise  (10 hrs)
• Food Tour Taste of Two Continents Tour + Bosphorus  (6-7 hrs)
• City Tour Istanbul Must-See Tour + Bosphorus Cruise  (8-9 hrs)
• Private Cruise Private Bosphorus Cruise on Luxury Yacht  (2 hrs)
• Plus helpful tips for quicker tours and budget tours on the public ferry.

Still undecided? Keep reading for helpful information on our these top-rated tours, plus all sorts of travel tips for making the most of this bucket list experience.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we might receive a commission (at no added cost to you). Thanks for supporting independent, ad-free blogs !

Why Cruise the Bosphorus?

Visitors come from across the globe to experience a bucket list cruise like none other, spanning continents and millennia.

The Bosphorus is a scenic and historic waterway separating Europe and Asia, as well as the historic heart of the ancient city of Istanbul.

The Strait stretches 17 nautical miles from the Sea of Marmara in the south, to the Black Sea in the north.

In addition to its natural beauty, the strait is acclaimed for its concentration of Byzantine and Ottoman historic sites, as well as the breathtaking views of the city of Istanbul.

There are now three enormous bridges spanning the Bosphorus strait connecting the continents of Europe and Asia – the 15 July Martyrs Bridge (1973), Fatih Sultan Mehmet (1988), and Yavuz Sultan Selim (2016).

Simply put, cruising the Bosphorus Strait is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime!

Top-Rated Bosphorus Cruise Tours to Book Online in 2024

From two-hour private luxury and sunset cruises to full day experiences for a range of budgets, Lori and I have included a range of options for every type of travel style and budget.

1. Luxury Sunset Cruise

Our Top Pick for 2024

Add a splash of style and romance to your Bosphorus cruise with this 2.5-hour Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht . Our #1 pick offers an unforgettable sunset tour with onboard guide and complimentary drinks and canapés.

• 2.5-hour cruise on luxury yacht
• Drinks & canapés included
• Small group tour
• Onboard guide
• Tour by Bosphorus Cruise Tours Istanbul
• From US$67 per passenger

Book Now Viator | TripAdvisor

2. Bosphorus + Black Sea Cruise

Full Day Comprehensive Cruise

Looking for the ultimate Bosphorus day trip with time spent in the Black Sea as well? This 10-hour Bosphorus Strait AND Black Sea Day Cruise is our top pick for seeing it all!

Includes delicious Mediterranean lunch, onboard guide, and stops at Rumeli Fortress, Ortakoy, Kucuksu Pavilion, Buyuk Mecidiye Cami.

• Full-day 10-hour tour of the Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea
• Lunch included
• Group tour (40 max)
• Tour by IBO Cruise
• From US$191 per passenger

3. Taste of Two Continents Tour

Best Tour for Foodies

Discover the flavors and delicacies of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul in this one-of-a-kind 6.5-hour Istanbul Food Tour with Bosphorus cruise , a perfect day trip for foodies and those looking to venture beyond Istanbul’s most touristed areas.

• 6 to 7-hour tour, crossing the Bosphorus twice by ferry
• Multiple tastings at 9 eateries
• Small group tour (10 max)
• Tour by Yummy Istanbul
• From US$125 per traveler

Istanbul Must-See Tour

Best City + Bosphorus Combo Tour

Experience the best of Istanbul in this 8.5-hour Istanbul Must-See Tour and Bosphorus cruise . Join your expert guide on this small group tour to discover Istanbul’s top attractions. Explore Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Market before topping it all off with a 90-minute guided tour of the Bosphorus Strait by public ferry.

• 8 to 9-hour city tour with guided public ferry cruise on the Bosphorus
• Small group tour (15 max)
• Tour by Lütfullah FINDIKOĞLU
• From US$55 per traveler

Looking for a Private Tour?  Check out this 7-hour Istanbul Classics Private Tour with Bosphorus Cruise .

5. Private Luxury Yacht Cruise

Tour the Bosphorus in Style

Cruise the Bosphorus in style with this 2-hour Private Luxury Yacht Cruise on the Bosphorus . This this private luxury yacht tour has room for up to 10 passengers—perfect for families, couples, and groups celebrating a special occasion or travelers who simply want to enjoy their Istanbul experience in luxury and seclusion.

• 2-hour Bosphorus cruise on private luxury yacht
• Private Tour
• Tour by Tour Book Turkey
• From US$506 per group (up to 10)

Book Online Viator | TripAdvisor

6. Turyol + Dentur Bosphorus Cruises

Best Quick Tours

Turyol and Dentur are two private companies that offer some of the most popular two-hour Bosphorus tours in Istanbul. If you’re not looking for a luxury or DIY option and want more flexibility in your travel plans, this might be the way to go.

Both companies offer regular departures throughout the day and cover the top attractions along the route.

• 2-hour Bosphorus cruises
• Regular departures throughout the morning and afternoon
• Tours by Turyol and Dentur
• From 150 TL (US$5) per passenger

More Info Turyol.com | Denturavrasya.com

7. Sehir Hatlari Cruise

Best Budget / Shoestring Tours

There are numerous options for doing a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul. But if you’re on a shoestring budget or just like to travel in a more independent fashion, the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Tour service is worth considering.

Sehir Hatlari offers three Bosphorus Tour services: Long Tour (Full Circle), Short Tour (Short Circle), and Moonlight Tour (seasonal).

Keep reading for our detailed guide on how to take the the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Cruise, plus tips and what to expect.

DIY Bosphorus Cruise: All You Need to Know

The Sehir Hatlari ferry line offers a Bosphorus tour at a very reasonable price. But taking the public ferry tour isn’t as straight forward as doing a Bosphorus cruise private tour.

Here, Lori and I tell you exactly how to take the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus tour and offer first-hand tips for getting the most out of your time on the water.

Bosphorus Tour vs. Public Ferry

Sehir Hatlari runs two different types of services: Inner-city/domestic public ferry service mostly geared to commuters and locals getting around the region, and the Bosphorus Long Tour, Short Tour, and Moonlight Tour services aimed at tourists.

Unless you want to compete for space with Istanbul’s millions of commuters (and see very little in the process), you’re far better off taking the Sehir Hatlari service clearly marked as “Bosphorus Tours”.

For those who like to figure out the details themselves, aren’t fussy about seating, and are willing to devote the better part of a day to the experience, we think the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Tour can’t be beat for the price.

Services & Rates

There are three Bosphorus Tour ferry options:  Long Bosphorus Tour (6 hours) ,  Short Bosphorus Tour (2 hours) , and seasonal Moonlight Tour , which operates during the summer months.

Up until recently the Long Bosphorus Tour was known as the “Full Circle”, and the Short Bosphorus Tour was known as the “Short Circle”. This guide will use the new terminology moving forward.

Current Sehir Hatlari ticket prices as of January 2024

Admission is free for children under the age of 6 for all cruises.

Where to Buy Tickets & Board

To take the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Tour service, head to the Galata bridge.

From the Eminonu (Old City) side, don’t cross the bridge, but walk to the right of it and follow the signs for Sehir Hatlari.

The office is adjacent to the Red Hop-on Hop-off Bus ticket office.

We heard that the ticket office opened at 10am. We arrived 30 minutes beforehand and there was already a line (midweek in August).

They opened a bit early and we managed to snag a window seat on the port-side since the ferry hugs the left-hand shore (Europe on the way out, and Asia for most of the return trip).

However, we quickly realized the outside benches at the stern (back)  of the ferry might just be the best seats on the boat on a nice day, which is where we ultimately ended up.

🔥 HOT TIP 🔥

Be sure to grab an audio guide at the ticket booth when you buy your tickets.

It adds excellent context to the cruise and tells you a bit about the many highlights along the route.

Bosphorus Cruise Tour Itinerary

No matter which Bosphorus cruise you take, the idea is very much the same. The boat leaves Eminonu on the Golden Horn and travels north along the Bosphorus Strait hugging the left bank (Europe side).

At some point depending on which service you’ve chosen, the boat will then cross the Bosphorus, hugging the right bank (Asia side), before making its way back to Eminonu.

We opted for the Full Circle / Long Tour , which takes about six hours round trip including a couple of hours in the middle to enjoy the northernmost stop at Anadolu Kavagi village.

There are a number of good restaurants, shops, and other amenities in Anadolu Kavagi for those who are taking the Long Tour. Our boat had a small snack bar and restrooms, but a lot of passengers brought their own snacks.

Here’s a further breakdown of the Long Tour itinerary so you can get an idea of what to expect.

Most Bosphorus cruises leave Eminonu on the Golden Horn, right in the heart of the city. Leaving the Old City, the tour passes a number of historic sights and points of interest.

As mentioned above, Lori and I rented an audio guide that was available at the ticket booth, which offered information about various points of interest along the way. If you opt for a tour through a private company, you’ll like have a guide to narrate the cruise for you.

Here are just a few of the many highlights you’ll see along the way:

Dolmabahçe Palace (Sultan’s Palace), now a museum.

Ortaköy Mosque , built in 1856.

The First Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge) was completed in 1973, and as the name might imply, was the first bridge to connect Europe and Asia.

Rumeli Fortress , built by the Ottomans in 1452.

After about 90 minutes on the water (including a few stops along the way) the tour reaches its farthest stop north: the village of Anadolu Kavagi .

Our tour docked here for a few hours—more than enough time to grab lunch, do a little hike, and poke around the small village.

From the ferry pier, you can hike up to Yoros Kalesi (Yoros Castle) , a small fortification with a commanding view of the Bosphorus and the shores of the Black Sea.

Getting around Anadolu Kavagi and finding the path to Yoros Fort can be a bit confusing. So, we’ve included a map to help you find your way around.

Looking north, we were also able to spot the Third Bosphorus Bridge spanning Europe and Asia, and the Black Sea , beyond.

There are a number of restaurants and cafes near the pier and throughout the village, but we opted for Yoros Cafe near the fort, which came highly recommended and offered a stunning view of our route (not to be confused with Yoros Kale Kafe).

We were not disappointed with the food or the scenery.

The village was interesting enough to take a walkabout, but we were glad we took the extra time to hike up to Yoros Castle and have lunch with a view. We were able to comfortably achieve all of this in the layover time.

On the cruise back to Emononu pier in Istanbul, we hugged the Asia side with a few quick stops to let local passengers on and off.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we were pretty impressed with the amenities offered by a public ferry company for the price. We found the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Cruise to be clean and well-organized, certainly for the cost of admission.

Lori and I particularly enjoyed riding along with a mix of people—locals and tourists—which was a fun part of the experience for us.

We also felt that the amount of time (six hours round trip with a few hours stop for lunch) was perfect for us as well, particularly since we had absolutely nothing else planned for today.

Visiting Istanbul, Turkey? Read Next

• Istanbul with Kids: Top Things to Do + See
• Istanbul City Walls Self-Guided Walking Tour

Explore More Boat Tours & Experiences

• 8 Reasons to Visit Xochimilco Floating Gardens in CDMX
• The Best Halong Bay Cruises for Every Budget
• Floating Village of Kompong Phluk (Siem Reap)
• Taking the Slow Boat from Thailand to Luang Prabang
• Taking the Night Ferry from Chumphon to Koh Tao

Featured Image Credit: Alp Ancel / Unsplash

5 thoughts on “The 7 Best Ways to Cruise the Bosphorus in 2024”

Thank you so much for this information. We will be doing Turkey round about 20th September and the Bosphorus is on our list. We will take advantage of the cheapest cruise.

Hi Carol, We took the public ferry tour in late Feb 2023. The boat is heated indoors with large, upholstered benches. Nothing fancy but quite comfortable. There was even an area with wooden toys for the children.

The windows are large, maybe not the clearest, but we certainly were happy with our views… plus the outdoor areas on the back of the boat were protected from the wind. Highly recommend.

Thanks for this, but I wish you had included a picture of the inside seating. Would it be warm enough in the winter and can you see well outside?

Hi Carol, wish we had a picture of inside seating to share. It was a gorgeous August day when these pics were taken and we felt quite fortunate to snag an outdoor seat. We did pass through the inside a few times and it seemed pretty well-protected from the wind (glass windows, etc.).

Great post guys ! Thank you for all that nice info !

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Walking from Karakoy to Eminonu with Simit and Soda on Galata Bridge

Walking from Galata Bridge in Karakoy to Eminonu while enjoying a simit and soda is a delightful way to explore Istanbul's vibrant waterfront.