Bosphorus
Bosphorus
Bosphorus

Bosphorus Tours and Tickets

26,545 reviews
Free admission

The Bosphorus Strait defines Istanbul. It is the divide between Europe and Asia, and the main connection between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Dotted with parks and elaborate Ottoman mansions, including Dolmabahce Palace, and spanned by three intercontinental bridges, the Bosphorus is the veritable heart of the city.

  • Istanbul

Tours and Tickets to Experience Bosphorus

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What are people saying about Bosphorus

Timothy_S, Nov 2023
Relaxing and private cruise
Very relaxing and private cruise on the Bosphorus. Not rushed, beautiful views, very private setting for two couples. Highly recommend.
Derek_B, Nov 2023
Perfect way to see the highlights of Istanbul!
Amazing tour! Ali was the perfect guide for our action filled day. He was very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Our group had a wide range of ages and Ali was attentive to everyone's needs. Lunch was great, cruising the Bosphorus was great, and touring the city was the best.
Andres_B, Nov 2023
Obviously with something...
Obviously with something like this, a lot of the experience is left to the whims of nature, but we lucked out in having some wonderful views despite it being overcast earlier in the day. Nur and team did a great job at making us feel attended to and telling us about what we were seeing on our way up and down the Bosphorus. It was a very relaxing end to a long day of exploring Istanbul and I would do it again
Febrina_M, Nov 2023
Bosphorus tour
Nice trip that start before sunswt. So we could see Istanbul view during daylight and when it started to get dark. Very beatiful of city views from the bosphorus. Unfortunately the audio guide was only frol 1 loudspeaker, which is not clear and I cannot herlar most of the explanation.
People Also Ask
Q:How much does a Bosphorus tour cost?
A:The cost of a Bosphorus cruise tour will vary depending on the duration, inclusions, time of day, and the tour operator you choose. Daytime group tours average $15 to $30. Dinner cruises, which include a live show and hotel pickup, range from $30 to $80 per person.
Q:How long is a Bosphorus cruise tour?
A:The standard Bosphorus cruise averages two hours and covers the city’s top waterfront landmarks, such as Dolmabahce Palace and the Maiden’s Tower. Sightseeing tours may be longer if they include disembarkment at specific ports. Dinner cruises, which include live entertainment, last three to four hours, plus hotel pickup and drop-off time.
Q:What do you wear on a Bosphorus cruise?
A:As Bosphorus cruise views are best enjoyed from the open decks, it’s important to dress according to the weather. It is often quite windy during the tour, even in summer, so bring a long-sleeve shirt or light jacket. The boat’s interior offers shelter from inclement weather and comfortable temperatures.
Q:Do I need to book a Bosphorus cruise in advance?
A:It is not necessary to book a Bosphorus cruise in advance. However, a pre-booked tour can save you valuable vacation time. Tickets can be purchased on location from official tour providers or via the public ferry. Tourists should expect long lines in the high season (May to September).
Q:What do you see on a Bosphorus cruise?
A:Bosphorus cruises offer travelers exceptional, unobstructed views of numerous historical sites on both the European and Asian sides of the city. Highlights include Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress, the Bebek neighborhood, and the Bosphorus Bridge. The leisurely-paced ovular route ensures you’ll see every landmark regardless of where you sit.
Q:What is the best time of year to go on a Bosphorus cruise?
A:Spring and autumn are the best times to take a Bosphorus cruise to avoid large tourist crowds, ensuring optimal views of the waterfront landmarks. May to September are also ideal as there is a minimal chance of rain or snow. The shade and breeze offer a pleasant escape from the hot and humid summer weather.