Bosphorus Tours
80 Reviews

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.
The Basics
As a major shipping and trade lane, the Bosphorus Strait has attracted empires for centuries, and their remains are visible along the coastline. Ottoman summer houses, the Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya), historical imperial gardens, and more are visible from the water. The Bosphorus draws people to its shores, and many take boats out on the water.
Many small-group and private tours of Istanbul include Bosphorus cruises. These boat rides typically include visits or views of Dolmabahce Palace, Anadolu Kavagi, Rumeli Fortress, Topkapi Palace, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bosphorus is a must-visit for history buffs and all first-time visitors to Istanbul.
- There are city-run public Bosphorus cruises as well as more intimate private Bosphorus cruises available. Some include lunch or dinner on board.
- In the summer, it’s popular to rent a boat for dining on the Bosphorus.
How to Get There
The Bosphorus Strait bisects the city, and there are many departure points for boat cruises. Popular ones are at Eminonu, Kabatas, Kadikoy, and Bebek, all of which are easily accessible by bus or taxi. Make sure to check where your departure point is before you set sail.
When to Get There
Bosphorus cruises are most popular during the warm summer months, though they run all year long. Often cruises set out in the afternoon or evening, depending on which option you choose. It’s good to arrive at least 15 minutes before your boat is scheduled to leave.
Mansions on the Bosphorus
The shores of the Bosphorus are lined with Ottoman-era mansions, many of which served as summer homes, palaces, or embassies. Kucuksu Palace is as ornate as Dolmabahce Palace, as is Ciragan Palace, which is currently a high-end hotel. The Kibrislilar Mansion, near Uskudar, is the widest on the Bosphorus, while Sadullah Pasha Yali is one of the older wooden Bosphorus mansions.
Address: Istanbul, Turkey
Admission Tickets (2)

Istanbul by Night: Turkish Dinner and Show
Immerse yourself in a wild evening of traditional dancing and music during a dinner and show in Istanbul. During a typical night in Istanbul you’ll see brightly lit mosques, but tonight savor Turkish fare and enjoy a show of rhythmic belly dancing and more!
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From
$65.00
From
$65.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
262 Tours and Activities to Experience Bosphorus
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Istanbul by Night: Turkish Dinner and Show
Immerse yourself in a wild evening of traditional dancing and music during a dinner and show in Istanbul. During a typical night in Istanbul you’ll see brightly lit mosques, but tonight savor Turkish fare and enjoy a show of rhythmic belly dancing and more!
…More
From
$65.00
From
$65.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Istanbul Welcome Card Premium
The city where east meets west, Istanbul has a lot to offer every kind of traveler, but this also means it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. With this package, make the most of Istanbul from day one with a city guide, local discounts and an evening sunset cruise. Enjoy your included tour of the Hagia Sophia with a guide familiar with this site's dynamic history.
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From
$69.33
From
$69.33

Bosphorus Full Day Tour: Bosphorus Cruise, Uskudar and Dolmabahce Palace
Cruise the stunning Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn and experience three of the best Istanbul sights on this adventure-filled full-day sightseeing tour. This tour takes you on a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait to savor spectacular sights of bridges, palaces, mosques and fortresses. Stop at Dolmabahçe Palace for a guided tour and explore the alluring scents and colors of the Spice Bazaar. Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque on top of Camlica Hill and capture wide views of the skyline. Plus, enjoy a delicious 3-course meal along the beautiful shoreline.
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From
$98.32
From
$98.32
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Tour
Prepare to be awed by Istanbul’s magnificent architecture, rich history, and eclectic bazaars as you discover the unmissable highlights of the Old City on this 1-, 2-, or 3-day private tour. Marvel over the glorious Hagia Sophia, learn how the Blue Mosque earned its famous nickname, and see the ancient Basilica Cistern. Tour Topkapi Palace to gain an insight into the lavish lifestyles of the Ottoman sultans and their harem, and browse the legendary Grand Bazaar, where you find everything from carpets to Turkish delight.
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From
$100.00
per group
From
$100.00
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

90-Minute Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise, Free Refreshment and Audio Guide App
Join one of the best Bosphorus boat tours in Istanbul and admire the cosmopolitan city from a completely different perspective while enjoying the beautiful views of the Orient and the Occident at the same time.
Your Istanbul Welcome Card Marine Officer will welcome you at the pier and help you on the boat, hand you over our Bosphorus tour plan and explain you what will see on the boat tour.
Bosphorus Boat Tour
The Bosphorus is 32km long, separates Europe from Asia and connects the Marmara Sea to the Black Sea. Cruise along the Bosphorus between Asia and Europe and discover Istanbul tourist attractions, magnificent palaces, ancient castles, and other historical sites, as well as fine seaside residences and the Bosphorus bridge. Furthermore, you will have a glance at the spectacular pieces of authentic civic architecture on the European and Asian coast.
Our boat is departing hourly, if you should miss your departure time you can join the next departing boat.
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From
$12.29
From
$12.29
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Istanbul Shore Excursion: Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul Egyptian Bazaar
Discover Istanbul's best highlights in one day on this 3.5-hour guided shore excursion. After docking, you’ll promptly meet your friendly expert guide and set off to explore this historic city by coach. Tour the world-famous Spice Bazaar, then sail the calm waters of the Bosphorus River where you will have great photo opportunities with the Rumeli Hisarı Fortress, Dolmabahçe Palace and grand mosques as your backdrop. Along the way, your guide will illuminate the sites with information about the history and significance of each. Choose from a morning or afternoon tour. When the tour is over, head back to your ship for a worry-free, on-time departure.
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From
$45.00
From
$45.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
Discover one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, on this full-day guided sightseeing tour of Istanbul. Get around in comfort and style with a Mercedes minivan, and beeline with your guide to the Spice Bazaar, a historic market full of the smells and colors of Turkey. Stroll the old corridors of Dolmabahçe Palace, the final place that Ottoman emperors occupied. Then, cruise down the Bosphorus Strait, taking in the sights of the Asian and European sides. This tour is limited to 12 people to ensure a quality experience.
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From
$88.00
From
$88.00
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul
Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner as straddle two continents on a 4-hour dinner cruise in Istanbul.The leisurely nighttime route along the Bosphorus takes you past the most iconic landmarks of both the Asian and European sides of the city. While you dine, enjoy live belly dancing, folk dancing, and whirling dervish performances. Afterwards, you’re free to join in the dancing.
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From
$35.00
From
$35.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar
Cruise along the landmark lined waters of the Bosphorus Strait and stroll through the entrancing Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar during this 3.5-hour guided tour in Istanbul. On this tour, you will discover the bazaar’s abundant spices such as cardamom, mint, cinnamon, and have free time to explore on your own. Then, learn about Istanbul’s history from your expert guide as you set course for a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. Aboard the ship, enjoy glimpses of famous Istanbul monuments like the impressive Rumeli Hisari Fortress and Dolmabahçe Palace.
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From
$45.00
From
$45.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Book your evening cruise on the Bosphorus ahead of time; this must-do activity sells out quickly. Step on board the boat for views of Istanbul's top landmarks—including the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and the Blue Mosque—lit up for the night. Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner with drinks, followed by entertainment.
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From
$35.40
From
$35.40
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Private Bosphorus Boat Tour
Private Tour In the Bosphorus strait which draw the border between Europe and Asia
Passing under the magnificent bosphorus bridge where you will have the chance to take some unforgettable photos
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From
$124.55
per group
From
$124.55
per group

Istanbul City Tour with Bosphorus Strait Sightseeing Cruise
Gaze over land and sea on this guided Istanbul city tour with a Bosphorus Strait sightseeing cruise. Aboard a comfy coach, discover the lively neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, and drive along the Golden Horn for spectacular views. With your expert guide experience the vibrant Spice Bazaar and then board a charming sightseeing cruise to traverse the Bosphorus viewing highlights like the Bosphorus Bridge and Rumeli Fortress.
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From
$43.02
From
$43.02
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show from Istanbul
Make the most of an evening in Istanbul with a sparkling 5-hour dinner cruise experience on the Bosphorus Strait. Admire spectacular views of Istanbul’s beautifully illuminated palaces, mosques and Bosphorus bridges, and enjoy a delicious 3-course dinner with select drinks. Glittering entertainment from belly dancers, whirling dervishes and other artistes is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off. Upgrade to an unlimited alcoholic drinks package if you wish.
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From
$43.02
From
$43.02
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise Tour, Golden Horn Coach Tour and Cable Car Ride
See Istanbul from three different vantage points on this tour, including a sightseeing cruise, panoramic tour and cable car ride. Take a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus and admire top Istanbul attractions such as the Bosphorus Bridge and Rumeli Fortress from the water. Then, take a coach drive around the Golden Horn districts to see the former Jewish quarter, old city walls, iron-built St Stephens and other lesser-known treasures. Lastly, catch the cable car up Pierre Loti Hill to witness the stellar city views from its hilltop cafe.
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From
$43.02
From
$43.02
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Private Tour: Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul's Egyptian Bazaar
Experience the Spice Bazaar and a Bosphorus cruise during this private guided tour in Istanbul. Explore the lively bazaars of Istanbul and discover their fascinating history with the full attention of your private guide. Plus, you will cruise the famous Bosphorus Straight to see stunning mosques and bridges spanning two continents along the historic waters.
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From
$80.00
Price varies by group size
From
$80.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul
Combine a visit to some of Istanbul's highlights with a cruise on the Bosphorus in a single day. Morning and afternoon tours are available; the morning includes the Egyptian Spice Bazaar and Rumeli Fortress; the afternoon includes the Golden Horn, Balat, the Rumeli Fortress, and others. Along the way, listen to engaging narration by your guide.
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From
$24.58
From
$24.58

Bosphorus Cruise & Golden Horn Sightseeing Morning Tour
Take a boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn and wander the Spice Bazaar on this guided tour in Istanbul. Discover the colorful Spice Bazaar and elegant Rüstem Pasha Mosque before spending the rest of the day sightseeing on the Bosphorus, a must-do in Istanbul. Explore the inlet to the Golden Horn, which divides European Istanbul, and capture amazing sights of Rumeli Fortress, Bosphorus bridges, and Dolmabahçe Palace. With serene coastal views of the Old City it’s no wonder people can’t seem to put their camera down as they cruise the Bosphorus Strait.
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From
$49.16
From
$49.16
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Show
Cruise between 2 continents as you dine on Turkish meze on a 3-hour Bosphorus cruise of Istanbul. Marvel at monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and enjoy a full program of entertainment, such as folk and belly dancing.
جولة على الباخرة بين قارتين، بينما انت تستمتع بعشائك على باخرة خمسة نجوم لمدة 3 ساعة في مضيق البسفور، تعتبر سهرة البسفور المسائية في مضيق البسفور من اهم وامتع الرحلات السياحية التي يمكنك القيام بها في المدينة، ففي هذه الرحلة ليس فقط يمكنك مشاهدة اهم معالم مدينة اسطنبول من البحر ولكن ايضاً سوف تشاهدها مع العروض التركية والفلكلور التركي الرائع مع الرقص الشرقي والرقص التركي ايضاً.
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From
$65.00
From
$65.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise ((3 Hours))
If you visit Istanbul there are several things you must do.
The most important one is to have a Bosphorus Cruise where you can see the highlights of Istanbul from the sea while you have a cup of tea or Turkish coffee.
Bosphorus is not just border between Asia & Europe. It’s one of the main arteries of the city and one of the most beautiful sites in all of Turkey.
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From
$24.58
From
$24.58

Golden Horn and Bosphorus Boat Tour in Istanbul
See Istanbul on a half-day tour that includes a boat cruise on the Bosphorous River, and a cable car ride up Pierre Loti Hill. You'll also learn about the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires as you take in the walls of Constantinople, and make a stop at Chora Church, know for its frescoes and stunning examples of Byzantine art.
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From
$23.35
From
$23.35

Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner and Belly-Dancing Show
Enjoy a night on the Bosphorus Strait filled with belly dancing and Anatolian folk music during this 3.5-hour dinner cruise from Istanbul. This Bosphorus dinner cruise traverses over the strait’s beautiful evening waters and passes Istanbul’s best sights. See the illuminated Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and Blue Mosque as you watch a traditional performance and savor great food and drinks.
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From
$79.89
From
$79.89
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Full Day Istanbul Old City & Bosphorus Cruise Tour incl Lunch
Take in the highlights of Istanbul and maximize your time with skip-the-line entrance at the most popular attractions. Enjoy guided visits to the Hagia Sophia Museum and the Blue Mosque; browse the stalls at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar; and tuck into tasty Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, discover Istanbul’s European and Asian sides on a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise.
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From
$78.66
From
$78.66
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized

Bosphorus Cruise With Dolmabahçe Palace and Fortresses
Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace and enjoy a Bosphorus cruise on this private Istanbul tour. Explore the Dolmabahçe, the last, lavish palace of the Ottoman sultans, and the Rüstem Pasha mosque. Then, enjoy an afternoon Bosphorus cruise, passing the Rumeli and Anatolian fortresses, Bosphorus Bridge and Topkapi Palace before finishing with time at the Spice Market. A flexible itinerary, choice of departure times, and central hotel pickup and drop-off included.
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From
$200.00
per group
From
$200.00
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Short Guided Bosphorus and Golden Horn Boat Tour
Comfortable transport from your central meeting point takes you to your Bosphorus cruise. In less than two hours, you’ll get a chance to see all of Istanbul’s best attractions on the gentle waters of the Bosphorus. With special commentary from your guide, you’ll admire Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Ottoman villas, and bridges. Ask questions about everything that you see, all while straddling Asia and Europe.
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From
$22.12
From
$22.12

Morning Bosphorus Tour ((4 Hours)) With One Break Near Rumeli Fortress
Bosphorus is a natural water strait located between Europe and Asia so
In our tour we will visit the Bosphorus passing under the magnificent bosphorus Bridges
Also we will sail in the calm water of the golden horn for 50 min where you will be able to be in the heart of the old city
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From
$32.78
From
$32.78
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Istanbul Super Saver: Half-Day Bosphorus Cruise and Egyptian Spice Market Tour plus Turkish Dinner and Show
Explore Istanbul’s touted sites on the cheap by combining a cruise, dinner with Anatolian folk music and a market visit on this Super Saver tour. Select from two different times to start your tour. An professional guide will inform you about the rich history of your experiences throughout the day. See the Egyptian Spice Market, cruise the Bosphorus Strait, and conclude with a 4-course Turkish dinner, including drinks and a belly-dancing show.
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From
$125.00
From
$125.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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