Bosphorus Cruise Experience in Istanbul

The Bosphorus is the strait that separates Istanbul’s European side from its Asian counterpart, whilst simultaneously connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. One of the finest ways to admire both shores of the city is by taking a cruise along this body of water, which offers truly spectacular views.

The strait stretches approximately 30 km in length, with its width varying from 700 metres at its narrowest points to nearly 4 km where it opens into the Black Sea. Numerous companies organise ferry tours, yacht excursions and full-scale cruises that allow you to sail across the sparkling waters of the strait and experience the city from an entirely different perspective.

Bosphorus Cruises

The most common type of Bosphorus cruise is a daytime ferry tour that allows you to view the city’s most iconic landmarks, often accompanied by audio guide commentary. Beyond this, numerous other options are available, varying according to your schedule and budget.

Some companies offer hop-on–hop-off tours, which allow you to disembark at various intermediate stops, visit sites of interest and board a subsequent service. This makes it possible to reach small villages and lesser-known attractions beyond the usual tourist trail. One particularly popular tour, especially during summer, is the sunset cruise, when you can enjoy spectacular views of the city.

Other operators organise full-scale cruises lasting several hours, complete with dinner on board, traditional dance performances and stunning views of Istanbul’s illuminated skyline in the evening. You also have the option to hire a private yacht, ideal if you’re travelling with family or friends, allowing you to enjoy the cruise (whether half or full day) with complete privacy and flexibility.

Best-selling Bosphorus Cruise

Of the many Istanbul cruises available, the following is the best-selling and one of the most competitively priced. It’s certainly our recommendation if you want a guaranteed excellent experience.

Evening Cruises with Dinner

An evening cruise remains the most thrilling way to see Istanbul: the illuminated monuments possess an entirely different charm as they stand silhouetted against the darkness of the strait. Should you prefer it, opt for a package that includes dinner and perhaps a Turkish performance.

Daytime Cruises

More affordable than evening options, daytime Bosphorus cruises are equally captivating, particularly on sunny days.

What to See During a Cruise

Along the shores of the Bosphorus, you can admire some of Istanbul’s finest palaces, including the Dolmabahçe Palace and Beylerbeyi Palace.

Western Shore

The Bosphorus’s western shore is Istanbul’s European side, abundant with luxurious noble residences, picturesque villages, waterfront promenades and characteristic corners awaiting discovery.

In Karaköy, you can admire the Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque, something of a miniature version of the Hagia Sophia, complete with tilework, gardens and fountains.

The Nusretiye Mosque is also particularly noteworthy, featuring Rococo styling: behind the mosque you’ll find small establishments where locals play tavla (backgammon), drink tea and immerse themselves in an authentically Turkish atmosphere.

In the Beşiktaş neighbourhood, you’ll find the Dolmabahçe Palace, which is also accessible by water.

The charming Ortaköy district, overlooking the sea, has become one of Istanbul’s most vibrant neighbourhoods in recent years: the pedestrianised waterfront square is one of the city’s most romantic and most photographed spots, especially at sunset, when it glows with orange hues. Don’t miss the White Mosque with its soaring lines contrasting with the modern bridge behind it, and enjoy delicious fresh fish at any of the numerous waterfront restaurants.

Asian Shore

The Bosphorus’s Asian shore, the coast of Istanbul’s Asian side, has captivated travellers and writers from around the world for centuries: far less visited than the western shore, this bank is rich with highlights and undiscovered corners, away from mass tourism and instead immersed in the daily life of people accustomed to crossing the city by ferry.

In the Üsküdar district, you’ll find several mosques designed by the architect Sinan: the Iskele Mosque, right at the pier, commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent for his daughter Mihrimah; the Semsi Paşa Mosque, with its medrese facing the sea; the Atik Valide Mosque, splendid with its tree-lined avenues, shaded fountains and domes; and the Çinili Mosque and hamam, entirely decorated with Iznik tiles.

Then there’s the breathtaking Beylerbeyi Palace: less ostentatious than Dolmabahçe, it remains a true marble masterpiece overlooking the sea, surrounded by a magnificent terraced garden abundant with aromatic herbs that the sultan adored, all encompassed by spectacular Bosphorus views.

Excursion to the Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands archipelago, known as “Adalar” in Turkish, lies in the Sea of Marmara, off Istanbul’s coast, and is accessible by ferry. Comprising numerous islands, with Büyükada (Grand Island), Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada being the largest, these islands are renowned for their natural beauty, breathtaking scenery, historic architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Many visitors come to these islands to escape Istanbul’s hustle and bustle, exploring ancient churches, Victorian-style buildings and enjoying a relaxed ambiance. You can easily book a ferry from Istanbul: it’s a popular day-trip option offering a pleasant and picturesque experience.