Best Bosphorus Curise Tickets 2025 | Istanbul Museum Pass

Information

Sightseeing cruises:

- Morning sightseeing cruises usually start by 10am

- Afternoon cruises start by 12pm

- Evening cruises begin between 3pm and 5pm.

Please Note: Weekdays offer a more relaxed cruise experience.

Sunset & evening cruises: Sunset and evening cruises generally start between 2pm and 5pm.

Dinner cruises: The departure time for dinner cruises is generally between 8.30pm and 9pm.

Lunch cruises: Bosphorus lunch cruises start between 9.30am and 12.30pm, and end between 3.30pm and 5pm.

Reasons to go:

- Scenic Views
- Unique Experience
- Historical Significance
- Sunset Cruises
- Historical Landmarks from the Water

Best time to go:

A Bosphorus cruise in the evening or at night offers breathtaking views of Istanbul at sunset and its illuminated skyline after dark.

The Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul offers a captivating journey along the winding waterway that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, passing through the heart of Istanbul. This iconic strait not only divides the city between Europe and Asia but also serves as a vital maritime route that has shaped the history, culture, and identity of Istanbul for centuries.
This page contains essential details to help you plan your visit to this historic cistern.

All Istanbul Cruise Ticket Options

1) Most Popular Cruise Tickets

2) Most Popular Combo Tickets

3) City Passes

For details on passes that grant access to this attraction, please refer to the passes page.

>> View all available passes here.

Typical Itinerary of a Bosphorus Cruise

Departure from Eminönü or Kabataş: The cruise begins from the European side of Istanbul.
Golden Horn: Passengers enjoy views of Galata Tower and historic waterfront neighborhoods.
Bosphorus Strait Landmarks: The route includes Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and Ottoman waterfront mansions (yalıs).
Rumeli Hisarı & Anadolu Hisarı: Medieval fortresses guarding the narrowest part of the Bosphorus.
Bosphorus Bridges: The cruise passes under the Bosphorus Bridge and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, linking Europe and Asia.
Asian Side Stops: Some cruises stop at Çengelköy or Beylerbeyi, offering a glimpse of local life and historic districts.
Maiden’s Tower: A famous islet steeped in legend.
Return: The cruise ends back at the departure point.

Types of Bosphorus Cruises

Sightseeing Cruise: Discover Istanbul’s skyline and historic landmarks on a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise. These cruises offer a relaxing journey along the strait, with commentary on iconic sites such as palaces, mosques, and medieval fortresses lining the shores. It’s a perfect way to take in the city’s history and stunning waterfront views.
Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a Bosphorus dinner cruise, where you can savor authentic Turkish cuisine while sailing past Istanbul’s illuminated landmarks. These cruises often feature gourmet meals, traditional music, and live dance performances, making them ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
Yacht Tours: For a luxurious and personalized experience, a private yacht tour offers the ultimate way to explore the Bosphorus at your own pace. Customize your itinerary, visit exclusive coves and hidden beaches, or simply relax on deck while enjoying the scenic beauty of Istanbul. Many tours also offer options for swimming, sunbathing, or venturing to nearby islands.

Practical Information

Pre-Book Your Tickets: Book your tours in advance to guarantee the best experiences. Online booking can also get you some great discounts.
Photo ID: Please carry your valid photo ID for verification before entry. // All foreign citizens must present their passport and visa information upon arrival. (Source: Foreigners Information)
Don’t forget: Bring along your headphones to listen to the audio tour.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes so you are safe and your feet are happy throughout your tour.

Navigating Istanbul’s Historic Waterway

As travelers set sail on a Bosphorus Cruise, they are greeted with stunning panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, featuring iconic landmarks such as Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Dolmabahçe Palace.

Throughout the journey, expert guides provide historical and architectural insights, sharing stories about the strategic importance of the Bosphorus, the diverse civilizations that have shaped Istanbul, and the city's enduring maritime heritage.

For those seeking a memorable yet affordable experience in Istanbul, a Bosphorus cruise is an excellent choice. With various options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This page provides all the essential details to help you select the best Bosphorus cruise for your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bosphorus Cruises

Bosphorus Cruise Map & Itinerary

Bosphorus Cruise Photo Gallery

Other Top Istanbul Attractions

TOPKAPI PALACE MUSEUM

InformationWinter period: 1st October to 1st AprilOpen on: Wednesday to MondayMuseum, Harem, and Hagia Irene: 9 AM to 6 PMSummer period: 1st April to 1st OctoberOpen on: Wednesday to MondayMuseum, Harem, and Hagia Irene: 9 AM to 6 PMClosed Days: TuesdayNote: The ticket office closes at 5.30 PMRecommended Duration: 3 hoursAddress: Cankurtaran Mah. Babı Hümayun

HAGIA SOPHIA

InformationHagia Sophia MosqueSummer & Winter period: 1st October to 1st AprilOpen on: 9:00 AMClosing time: 8:30 PM (last entry: 19.30)Hagia Sophia History Museum Winter & Summer Season: Hagia Sophia History Museum can be visited between 8.00 am and 8.00 pmClosed Days: Open every dayNote: The ticket office closes at 7:00 PMRecommended Duration: 1 hoursAddress: Sultanahmet Hagia Sophia Square

BASILICA CISTERN

InformationRegular Visiting Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 18:30Night Shift Visiting Hours: 19:30 – 22:00Ticket Requirement: Night-Shift Tickets are exclusively available on-site at the Basilica Cistern box office.Please Note: Closed between 18:30 and 19:30Closed Days: Open to Visit Every Day of the WeekTicket Office: Open daily from 09:00 AM to 10:00 PMRecommended Duration: 2 hoursAddress: Alemdar Mahallesi,

DOLMABAHÇE PALACE

InformationVisiting Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 17:00Ticket Office: Daily from 09:00 – 17:00Closed Days: MondayIn addition, the palace is closed on New Year’s Day, the first day of Ramadan, and the first day of the Sacrifice Feast.Recommended Duration: 3 hoursAddress: Dolmabahce Palace, Visnezade Mahallesi Dolmabahçe Cd, 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey.Email: info@millisaraylar.gov.trPhone: 0 (212) 236 90 00Founded On:

GALATA TOWER

InformationVisiting Hours: Daily from 08:30 – 23:00Please Note: It is forbidden for children under the age of 18 to visit without their parents by their side.Closed Days: Open every dayBox Office Closing Time: 22:00Recommended Duration: 30 min.Address: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoglu, Istanbul, TurkeyEmail: galatakulesimuzesi@ktb.gov.trPhone: +90 212 249 03 44Founded In: 1348🎧 👉 Listen to a sample of

BOSPHORUS CRUISES

InformationSightseeing cruises: – Morning sightseeing cruises usually start by 10am- Afternoon cruises start by 12pm – Evening cruises begin between 3pm and 5pm. Please Note: Weekdays offer a more relaxed cruise experience.Sunset & evening cruises: Sunset and evening cruises generally start between 2pm and 5pm.Dinner cruises: The departure time for dinner cruises is generally between 8.30pm and 9pm.Lunch cruises: Bosphorus lunch

MAIDEN’S TOWER

InformationVisiting Hours: Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00.Check the Weather: Conditions can impact your experience, especially the panoramic views.Closed Days: Open every dayBox Office Closing Time: 17:00Recommended Duration: At least 1 to 1.5 hoursAddress: Salacak Mah. Salacak Mevkii 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbulEmail: iktm34@ktb.gov.trPhone: +90 (216) 342 47 47Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and clear

BLUE MOSQUE

InformationAlso Known As: Sultan Ahmet MosqueVisiting Hours: Summer: Daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PMWinter: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PMClosed: During the 5 prayer hours in the day, the mosque is closed for about 90 minutes to non-worshippers and visitors; it is also closed till noon on Friday (which is a sacred day for

MINIATÜRK

InformationVisiting Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 18:00* Wheelchair accessibleClosed Days: Open every dayEmail: ietisim@kultur.istanbulRecommended Duration: 2 hoursAddress: Örnektepe Mah., İmrahor Cad.,No.7 Sütlüce 34445 Beyoğlu – İstanbulPhone: +90 212 222 28 82Box Office Phone: +90 551 234 05 12👉 Listen to a sample of the Miniatürk Audio Guide and download it from the App Store.👉 Listen to a

MUSEUM OF TURKISH AND ISLAMIC ARTS

InformationSummer Period Hours: 1 April – 31 OctoberVisiting Hours: 09:00 – 21:00Winter Period Hours: 31 October – 1 AprilVisiting Hours: 09:00 – 17:00Closed: Open Every DayBox Office Closing Hours:Summer Period: 20:00Winter Period: 17:30Address: Binbirdirek Mah. At Meydanı Cad. No:12, 34122 Sultanahmet/İstanbul.Email: tiem@ktb.gov.trPhone: +90 (212) 518 18 05Recommended Duration: 1.5 hours👉 Listen to a sample of

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