Top Istanbul On the Water

Enjoy stunning views of historic Istanbul from the water during this boat tour down the Bosphorus. Cover many of the city’s top attractions from the scenic strait, passing highlights like Galata Tower, Dolmabahce and Topkapi palaces, and Rumeli Fortress. You’ll also head to Asia and back, with a stop on Istanbul’s Anatolian side and free time to explore on your own.

Our 2-3-hour Bosphorus cruise is perfectly timed to reveal the city’s unique charm, blending famous landmarks, scenic exploration, exceptional comfort, and warm hospitality. Iconic Landmarks Along the Way Glide under the Bosphorus Bridges and marvel at Istanbul’s celebrated sights: Galata Bridge, Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower, Topkapı Palace, and Süleymaniye Mosque. Every moment offers a perfect photo opportunity. Optional Asian Side Stop & Culinary Treats Upgrade your cruise with our special option: enjoy an approximately one-hour stop in the picturesque Beylerbeyi area on the Asian side. Explore the charming neighborhood, capture stunning photos, and savor a fixed-menu breakfast or lunch, making your journey both scenic and delicious. Comfort & Exceptional Service Relax on our modern, comfortable boat with friendly staff and English/Russian-speaking guides who provide engaging commentary and warm hospitality.

Witness the magnificent views of the Bosphorus during daytime or sunset in Istanbul, depending on the timing you choose on this trip. Explore the city’s historical and cultural richness with a mobile audio guide, stay refreshed with soft drinks and snacks, and opt to include dinner and/or alcoholic drinks for a more luxurious experience. Head to the meeting point to board your mega yacht for the tour. Once aboard, set-off along the Bosphorus Strait and discover historical buildings and famous neighborhoods on both sides of Istanbul, taking in spectacular views from the water. Throughout the tour, receive information about Istanbul's historical, cultural, and traditional aspects from a mobile audio guide. During the tour, see famous landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace, Oratory Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress, Fatih Sultan Mehmed Bridge, Anadolu Fortress, Küçüksu Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and Maiden's Tower.

Experience the magic of Istanbul on a Bosphorus dinner cruise, featuring stunning views of landmarks like the Maiden's Tower, Galata Tower, and Bosphorus Bridges. Enjoy a delicious multi-course meal with options like mixed grill or vegetarian dishes, paired with live entertainment including Turkish folk dances, belly dancing, and a DJ performance. With private VIP tables and optional hotel transfers, this unforgettable evening blends culture, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.

There's no better way to take in Istanbul's beauty than from the water. Discover many of its highlights with none of the step count as you sit back and relax on board this Bosphorus cruise. Learn history and context of what you're seeing as you go with an audio guide, and stay refreshed with unlimited Turkish tea.

Istanbul is a city set on the water and to fully experience its beauty and diversity you need to get out onto the Bosphorus Strait. On this ninety-minute cruise you’ll see both the European and Asian halves of Istanbul, enjoy views of many picturesque mosques and palaces, and learn more about Istanbul’s centuries-long history through an audio guide app available in ten languages.

The Bosphorus Strait divides Europe from Asia, and a Bosphorus cruise is a signature Istanbul experience. This round-trip yacht cruise, with live commentary and fun facts from an experienced guide, covers all the classic waterfront sights—bridges, palaces, the Maiden’s Tower, the Rumeli Fortress, and more. It includes a stop for coffee and snacks in the characterful Kanlıca neighborhood, onboard Wi-Fi, and hotel pick-up and drop-off for added convenience.

Explore Istanbul's Bosphorus Strait without stressing about handling the navigation or transportation with this guided yacht cruise, complete with a visit to the Asian side of the strait. Learn about the city's history, landmarks, and culture while your guides share their insights along the way. Take a break at Kanlica to wander its charming streets and savor some creamy yogurt. Hotel pickup is included for added convenience.

Sail between two continents and into the Black Sea on this full-day cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, with an onboard guide plus a delicious meze lunch on deck. Gaze over the shores of Europe and Asia as you cruise the Bosphorus; stop to visit the pretty Ortaköy neighborhood; and enjoy guided tours of the ornate Küçüksu Palace and Rumeli Fortress. There’s even a chance to swim in the Black Sea.

Experience Istanbul's enchanting Bosphorus Strait aboard a sleek yacht designed for a small, intimate group of travelers. You'll sail past iconic landmarks like the Maiden's Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Rumeli Fortress while enjoying local snacks, Turkish coffee, and seasonal fruit. The tour includes a relaxing stop in the quaint village of Kanlıca, known for its famous yogurt, offering the perfect mix of history, culture, and scenic charm.

Relax on a scenic Bosphorus cruise with an audio guide, and enjoy unobstructed views of Istanbul’s landmarks, including Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Maiden’s Tower. Learn about the city’s rich history with an audio guide available in 11 languages, while sipping unlimited Turkish tea or coffee. This leisurely cruise is the perfect way to explore Istanbul’s beauty from the water.

Istanbul is famous for its skyline, filled with palaces and monuments, but it can be surprisingly hard to see from inside the city. Enjoy front-row views as you glide down the Bosphorus on this dinner cruise. Admire lit-up landmarks as you dig into a multi-course, sit-down meal, paired with belly dancing and traditional folk performances. Cruises also include optional hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited soft drinks, and a private table.

Experience Istanbul's Beauty from the Bosphorus – Daytime, Sunset & Night Cruises See Istanbul from a unique perspective on our modern, comfortable boat, perfectly timed for a breathtaking sunset or a scenic cruise at any time of the day. Relax and enjoy iconic landmarks along the Bosphorus while our friendly guides share fascinating stories. Iconic Sights Along the Way: As we cruise, you'll pass the Galata Bridge and Tower, Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Dolmabahçe Palace (with its Mosque and Clock Tower), Çırağan Palace, and Ortaköy Mosque. Sail under the First Bosphorus Bridge, pass Galatasaray Island, and glimpse Bebek Khedive Pavilion. Admire the Rumeli Fortress before passing under the Second Bosphorus Bridge. On the return, enjoy views of the Maiden's Tower, Topkapı Palace, Yeni Camii (New Mosque), and the majestic Süleymaniye Mosque. Whether you choose a daytime, sunset, or night cruise, each journey offers a memorable perspective of Istanbul.

Cruising the Bosphorus Strait affords magnificent views of Istanbul’s European and Asian sides, and the most magical time to set sail is at sunset. On this early evening cruise, relax on a luxury yacht and enjoy drinks and snacks on board as you glide past 19th-century palaces, Rumeli and Anadolu Fortresses, and the Galata district. The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.

See more of Istanbul in less of the time on this full-day package. Glide past bridges, palaces, fortresses, and more on a Bosphorus cruise, which takes you all the way up to the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. Then savor two less-visited attractions in Istanbul’s Asian side—the Ottoman-era Beylerbeyi Palace and the enormous, modern Camlica Mosque. After lunch with a view, enjoy Golden Horn vistas from Pierre Loti Hill.

Discover Istanbul’s European and Asian sides—and taste a range of delectable Turkish delicacies—on this full-day, small-group tour. Meet your guide in the morning in Istanbul’s Old City, and be sure to come hungry: you have a day of feasting ahead of you. Explore a spice market, and enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast, before crossing the Bosphorus to trendy Kadikoy. Sip Turkish coffee, visit multiple restaurants, and discover Istanbul’s must-try dishes.

Although many cross-country tours in Turkey only allocate a day to Cappadocia’s preternatural landscape and innovative architecture, most travelers find that a two-day tour strikes the right balance between seeing the region’s highlights and sacrificing time elsewhere in the country. See all of the highlights of Cappadocia comfortably during this two-day tour departing from Istanbul. Don’t risk running out of time to see all of the region’s unique natural heritage; instead, make sure you get to experience all of Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes, its cave churches, and the underground city.

Discover Istanbul off the beaten path on a guided adventure where history and vibrant culture come alive. Visit iconic landmarks like the Hippodrome, Serefiye Cistern, and Suleymaniye Mosque, along with hidden gems like the book market Sahaflar Çarşısı, the Spice Bazaar, and the old neighborhoods of Fener and Balat. Between stops, savor Turkish coffee, pastries, and even a relaxing hookah session before exploring more of the city’s rich layers.

Get ready for an exceptional evening on the Bosphorus! Our luxurious cruise offers a 3-hour unforgettable journey through the historic and natural beauty of Istanbul’s iconic waterway. During the tour, you will witness breathtaking views of Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower, and the illuminated 15 July Martyrs Bridge. Enjoy a delightful dinner accompanied by live music and traditional dance performances, creating a memorable atmosphere. This experience is perfect for those seeking a romantic evening or simply a joyful night of entertainment. Make your night in Istanbul even more special with the comfort of our luxurious boat, stunning views, and vibrant live shows.

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. 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. Flexible daily itineraries: Day 1 - Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome Square, German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar. Day 2 - Bosphorus Cruise by Public Ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Cicek Passage, Galata Tower (from outside), Spice Market. Day 3 - Suleymaniye Mosque, Fener and Balat Districts, St. Stephen Church (Iron Church), Pierre Lotti Panoramic Hill by Cable Car, Kadıkoy Market (or alternative sites).

Immerse yourself in the enchanting nightlife of Istanbul with a 3-hour Bosphorus dinner cruise. Sail between two continents as you indulge in a 4-course dinner featuring authentic Turkish cuisine, all while enjoying stunning views of iconic landmarks such as Dolmabahçe Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge. Delight in a vibrant Turkish night show, showcasing traditional folk dances, a mystical whirling dervish ceremony, and captivating belly dancing. As the evening unfolds, join in a lively dance party with a DJ. Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers, this unforgettable experience promises delicious food, cultural richness, and beautiful city lights. - 3-hour scenic Bosphorus cruise with dinner and entertainment - Enjoy a delicious 4-course Turkish dinner at your private table - Experience traditional performances, including belly dancing and folk shows - Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking culture

Watching the sunset over Istanbul’s skyline is best experienced from the water. This Bosphorus yacht cruise lets you relax as you glide past landmarks such as Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Beylerbeyi Palace. Sip traditional sharbat (a chilled, sweet drink) and enjoy baklava, cookies, and other snacks while taking in the city’s waterfront views at sunset.

Escape Istanbul’s bustle on a luxury sunset cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. Sail between Europe and Asia as golden light reveals panoramic, water-level views of the city. Enjoy prime photo opportunities of Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, and other iconic landmarks. This small-group experience includes live commentary in English and Spanish, with optional hotel pickup from select areas.