Bosphorus

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.