Istanbul: Bosphorus Boat Tour and Golden Horn Cruise

Duration3h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesArabic, German, English, Italian, French, Spanish

Group sizeUp to 100 travelers

Overview

Sail through the iconic Bosphorus Strait and along the historic Golden Horn on this unforgettable sightseeing cruise, showcasing Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy a refreshing perspective of the city as you glide past Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and Galata Tower, all while listening to fascinating stories via the onboard audio guide.

Meet your host just behind Hagia Sophia, and take a short walk to the nearby pier. Step aboard and begin your journey along the Golden Horn, known as the world's largest natural harbor. From there, continue your cruise through the magnificent Bosphorus Strait, which forms the natural boundary between Europe and Asia.

As you sail along the European shoreline, admire the stunning Bosphorus coastline dotted with charming neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character and beauty. Pass by some of Istanbul’s most iconic waterfront landmarks, including Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and the impressive Bosphorus Bridge.

What's included

Audio Guide
Boat cruise
Meet at the boat location

Personal expenses

What to expect

Bosphorus Strait
Pass by

When it comes to Istanbul, one of the most important and well-known landmarks has to be the splendid Bosphorus. It is the reason Istanbul is known as the “the city between two continents.” The Bosphorus Strait is a natural waterway that runs through Istanbul, dividing the city into two continents. The Bosphorus connects Europe and Asia via the Sea of Marmara.
Galata Tower
Pass by

The Galata Tower is one of the symbols of Istanbul. From its elevated position, there is a magnificent view of Beyoğlu and Karaköy, and the tower's colorful lights can be seen from all over the city at night. Here is an overview of the history of the Galata Tower and some interesting facts about its use.
Halic Koprusu
Pass by

The Golden Horn (Halic) is an arm of the Bosphorus, into which two rivers flow at the other end. Considered the largest natural harbor in the world, it separates the European coast from Istanbul.
Dolmabahce Palace
Pass by

The royal Dolmabahce Palace is one of the main attractions that we will see whileon board. This elegant mansion of the Bosphorus is one of the most marvelous symbolic of Istanbul representing the Ottoman Empire’s 19th century architectural advancements.
Pass by

Ortakoy is one of the most popular, liveliest and attractive neighborhoods in Besiktas, located right on the Bosphorus and under the Bosphorus Bridge. Ortakoy is also another popular entertainment and nightlife center of Istanbul with a variety of excellent cafes, bars, pubs, restaurants, shops, boutiques, bakery and souvenir shops.
Bosphorus Bridge
Pass by

Istanbul is standing between two continents: Asia and Europe. Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges are the two main bridges linking these two continents.
Rumeli Fortress
Pass by

The historical fortress that is erected by the orders of Fatih Sultan Mehmet is another landmark of The Bos.phorus Strait. Rumeli Fortress is now serving as a facility including a lot of cafes and restaurants.
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
Pass by

As mentioned, this second bridge was built in 1988 and is named after the famous Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, who conquered Istanbul in 1453.
Beylerbeyi Palace
Pass by

The glamorous Beylerbeyi Palace is located on the Asian part of the Bosphorus in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood of Istanbul. Located really close to the Bosphorus Bridge, it is one of the most chic buildings of Istanbul, the pearl of the Bosphorus Strait. Commissioned by the Sultan Abdulaziz of Ottoman Empire, it was originally built as a summer vacation palace for the imperial family. The luxurious and elegant interiors greatly complements the outer surroundings. It is a feast fort he eye, while cruising along the Bosphorus.
KIz Kulesi
Pass by

The Maiden's Tower, that is also known as Leander's Tower since the medieval Byzantine period, is a tower built on a small islet right across the coast of Uskudar. One of the most famous symbols of the city, Maiden’s Tower stand alone in the sea like a beautiful, graceful woman. It is considered one of the most romantic spots of the city and it witnesses many celebrations, engagements, proposals, etc… It is the subject of a many mysterious and romantic folk stories. During our Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, we will have the chance to take a look at this amazing structure while having the best time with delicious food and unlimited entertainment.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide with the Grand Boat Line sign in his hand in front of the Gazete Market kiosk opposite the Hagia Sophia. Follow them on a 10 minute walk down to the pier.

Meeting point

This is the port where the boat departs. You must arrive here 15 minutes before your tour starts.

End point

Meet your guide with the Grand Boat Line sign in his hand in front of the Gazete Market kiosk opposite the Hagia Sophia. Follow them on a 10 minute walk down to the pier.

End point

This is the port where the boat departs. You must arrive here 15 minutes before your tour starts.

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

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From

€14.00 per person

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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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Operated by Sultanahmet Old City Travel Turizm Organizasyon · Booked through Viator

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