A cruise on the Bosphorus is probably the most overlooked Istanbul tourist attraction. Understandable, with such an abundance of historical sightseeing spots in Istanbul and too little time to squeeze them all into your short holiday. But take my advice and set a few hours aside to take an unforgettable Bosphorus tour. Certainly if you’re in town between May and September. You won’t regret it — at least if you follow these simple guidelines.
1. Private Bosphorus Tours
Private Bosphorus cruises are great value for your money if you do them with reputable and trustworthy companies such as Zoe Yacht. Check out my review of a private Bosphorus cruise I took.
Unfortunately, there are also a lot of less trustworthy options. I see these scenes unfold almost every day: poorly informed tourists willing to take a Bosphorus tour, walking on the docks of Eminönü in search of a Bosphorus cruise. Such companies can spot this kind of behavior from a mile away and offer them a seat on their Bosphorus cruise boat. But please, don’t get tempted by the offer these ‘hustlers’ make. Their tours are overpriced (double and more), shorter, and often on boats that can barely be called seaworthy. Moreover, there is nothing private about a boat you share with 50 to 100 or more strangers.
2. Şehir Hatları Offers the No-Nonsense Bosphorus Tours
Şehir Hatları is Istanbul’s official ferry company. It offers three great Bosphorus tours: Short Circle Bosphorus Cruise, Full Bosphorus Cruise, and the Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night. Unfortunately, the availability of these tours changes according to the season. So do keep on reading and check out the respective links for the most up-to-date departure times. Insider tip: sit outside on the left-hand side of the ship for the best views.
The Şehir Hatları Bosphorus lines sales offices are located on the left docks of Eminönü when coming off the Galata Bridge.
Scenic River Cruise Tours on the Bosphorus
2.1 Short Circle Bosphorus Cruise (Kısa Boğaz Turu)
First up is the non-stop Short Circle Bosphorus tour. This one is great for people who are pressed for time but don’t want to miss a genuine Bosphorus experience. This tour is available twice a day in summer (June 16th until September 18th), and once a day during the low season. The cruise takes you from Eminönü to Istinye (well past the second bridge that is), and back.
The ferry leaves the Eminönü docks at 14:40 ( and at 16:45 on holidays in summer) , arrives at Ortaköy around 15:10 ( and 17:15 respectively) to pick up more people, and then continues its two-hour non-stop tour. The price per person for non-Turkish citizens is 260 (free for children until 6 years old). For the latest updates, check the official timetable.
2.2 Full Bosphorus Cruise (Uzun Boğaz Turu)
The Full Bosphorus Tour offers a great Bosphorus experience and will take several hours in total. This cruise will take you from Eminönü all the way to the Black Sea, and back. Each way takes about two hours since the ferry also makes 5 short stops to let people on and off. You must get off the ferry at around 12:30 in Anadolu Kavağı, the last harbor before the Black Sea. This two-hour break gives you the opportunity to grab a (late) lunch in one of the town’s fish restaurants located on the shore and/or visit the fortress.
Non-Turkish citizens pay 480 TL per person (children until 6 go free). The ferry does one complete tour a day. You can board the ferry in Eminönü (10:35) or Beşiktaş (10:50) on the European side, and Üsküdar (11:05) on the Asian side. Do check the official schedule with the latest timetables.
On board, you can use digital guides explaining over 70 points of interest along the way, in 10 different languages (Turkish, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Persian, and Arabic). The price for a round trip is 65 TL, 32,5 TL for children under the age of 12.
2.3 Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night (Mehtap Gezi)
It offers the exact same tour as the regular Full Bosphorus Tour, but you get to see Istanbul at night! The ferry leaves before dusk providing great Istanbul sunset views. It again stops in Anadolu Kavağı for a bit over two hours so people can enjoy dinner in the fish restaurants at the shore. Around 22:30 the ferry departs again for a moonlight cruise on the Bosphorus — a unique experience!
Unfortunately, the Full Bosphorus Tour by Night on the Ferry is only available on Saturdays in July and August. The price per person for non-Turkish citizens is 560 TL (free for children age 6 and younger you better buy your tickets in time.
3. Turyol and Dentur
Turyol and Dentur are two private companies that also offer a two-hour Bosphorus tour, similar to the one by Şehir Hatları. The good news is that they have several departures a day. The bad news is that they are more expensive and a bit shoter.
The Turyol Bosphorus tour sales booth is located on the righthand docks of Eminönü when coming off the Galata Bridge, past the fish & bread sellers. During the high season, ferries depart hourly starting 10:00. Last departure time is 20:00 on weekdays, and 21:00 during the weekend. The Bosphorus tour takes about 90 minutes, and costs 200 TL.
The Dentur Bosphorus tour dock and sales booth are located in Kabataş. The ferries depart every hour with the first departure at 12:45 and the last one at 17:45. The trip takes 1h45 and costs 250TL.
Always check the respective websites for the latest schedules and prices.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission to keep the site ad-free. I only recommend products and companies I use or have used.
Thank you for the informative article! Very helpful! For either Turyol Bosphorus tour, do I pay for my ticket in Turkish Lira, US dollars or credit card? Thank you!
Turkish Lira or credit card.
What time does the Şehir Hatları Moonlight Bosphorus Tour start from Eminönü and when does it leave from Anadolu and return to Eminönü in June & July 2025 ? (June 20-Jul 3).
Do we need to buy tickets in advance for it ?
Does the Moonlight tour depart from the same pier as the long and short Bosphorus tours ?
Are there discounts for students and seniors (non Turkish citizens)
Hard to say, since they’re currently running on the winter schedule. They will release the summer schedule on June 22, so you won’t be able to take it before then and probably the earliest on July 1. You better buy tickets in advance (early morning the same day should be ok). You can buy these tickets at their Sales office in Eminönü. I wouldn’t count on discounts.
Hello! My husband and I are going to Istanbul this Sept 22-Oct1. I wanted to do the Şehir Hatları full bosphorus boat tour, however the website is not opening up or working at all. I have tried in different browsers and from different webpages that have links to Şehir Hatları official website. How can I book a boat tour if website isn’t opening for me at all? Thank you for any advice!
Hi,
For the Sehir Hatlari boat tour, you don’t really need to make reservations. When you’re in Istanbul, just go to the pier and buy your tickets (a few days ahead) and you’ll be fine.
Hello! The Turyol cruise where has the ending?
It’s a tour, so it drops you off where you board it.
hello Erlend ~ Thank you for your very helpful travel guidance. We’ll be taking our first trip to Turkey in early November this year!
With regard to a Full-Day Bosphorus cruise, what are the significant differences between the reasonably-priced (13 Euros) Şehir Hatları Full-Day cruise; and the FAR more expensive (110 Euros) Full-Day cruise I see offered online by services such as Velena Travel???
Also, do you have a favorite Istanbul Food Tour to recommend? 🙂
Hi Joe,
Doe you have a link where I can have a look at the one from Velena Travel?
The Valena travel one was mentioned above over TWICE the price!!
Hello
In October I am looking for a Full Bosphorus Cruise from Eminonu.
I need the timetable and the prices because the links do not open.
You can help?
Thank you
Hi Erla,
The timetable for wintertime will only be announced by the end of September. Please remind me around that time to have a look for you.
Hello,
Nous partons pour notre premier séjour à Istanbul, mon mari, ma fille de 3 ans et moi-même enceinte.
On souhaiterait faire une excursion en bateau sur le Bosphore, avec une durée à 60 à 90 mins.
Avez vous une compagnie à nous conseiller ? Vaut il mieux prendre les billets sur place ?
As I mentioned in the article, just take the short Bosphorus cruise provided by Sehir Hatlari. If that time frame doesn’t suit you, go for one of the Turyol tours. Buy your tickets in the morning of the day you want to do the cruise.
Hello
Do you have the current timetable for the shortest cruise – (saturdays-sundays)?
Thank you
Hi,
Currently, the Şehir Hatları short Bosphorus cruis departs from Eminönü at 14:40.
Hello
In August I am looking for a short Bosphorus ferry tour from Eminonu.
I need the timetable.
You can help?
Thank you
It’s exactly as in the article.
the full bosphorous tour is 480 lira now, it might be 120 for only turkish citizens
You’re right, they started making a differences between local and foreign. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for useful information.
I have a question: with which of these companies we could visit Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)? I mean that we would like to stop there.
Hi Rosie,
None. You can reach the Maiden Tower with their own shuttle service (payable) from the end of Galataport.
Hi, thank you for this valuable information. I have a question, we are planning to visit 7-11 April during Eid. Are the tours still open? If I want to view sunset plus night instanbul view then which tour you suggest please?
Thanks in advance 👍
Hi, the tours will be operational, but for winter schedule still. The sunset tour offered by Sehir Hatlari will not be available as it only runs in the summer months.
Hi! Thank you for the article. It really helps a lot!
quick question, do you know different Bosphorus tours an Bosphorus lines? is it the same ferry or not?
i’m planning a short tour because i only want to Ortakoy and explore a little bit more there, but unfortunately they don’t stop at the Ortakoy right?
So, if it i’s the same, i wil go woth Bosphorus lines only.
Thank you for your help.
Hi,
Not sure what you would like to do: to Ortaköy and explore the area, and go back to where you came from
– do you want to go from Eminönü to Ortaköy and explore the area while the ship continues its tour
– do you want to go from Eminönü to Ortaköy, explore the area for a short time, boatrd the ship again and continue the Bosphorus tour (spoiler: no such tour exists)
– do you want to go from
Hi,
Am I correct that the Full Bosphorus Cruise (Uzun Boğaz Turu) is NOT available during the month of March (we’ll plan to be there around March 7 to March 14).
Thanks,
Barry Lewis
No, there is one. It leaves in Eminönü at 10:35 and will be back by 16:40 with a 2,5 hour stop at the furthest point. Keep in mind that it can still be very cold in March, so you’ll probably sit inside the whole time.
Hello wl be there in April after 12 ..would love to do the cruise ..is there a long one with several stops? Wl be staying in Taksim .can you please advise.thx
Hi Nadine, do you mean after 12 as in after 12 April 2024 or after 12 as in any day in April but after noon?
Very helpful information thank you. Are these tours guided, ie does a guide provide a narrative on route?
No, they are not.
Hi
Thank you for this information. Extremely helpful. Do you know what time the short tour departs in the inter season? (2 November 2023). I have checked the schedule and cannot seem to work it out.
Thanks in advance.
Hi,
They’re currently in winter mode, which means that the short tour departs daily from Eminönü at 14:40.
Thank you for the invaluable information and your detail in representing Turkey and Istanbul!
The current tariffs (according to https://www.sehirhatlari.istanbul/en/price-list/bosphorus-tours-78) are 120 TL round trip for the long tour, 65 for the short tour, and 130 for the moonlight tour.
We are looking forward to using a LOT of your information
Hi, thanks for sharing. I’ll adjust the price … a never-ending story I’m afraid with the current inflation.
Thank you for your amazing article. It’s very helpful. One thing i wish to find out is, you mentioned there is a digital guide on board the long tour which cost 65TL. Is it a device they provide with earphone set or an app to download off our phones? If neither one, what is it?
I’m guessing it’s an app these days.
Hey there,
do you know if there is a Boat tour leaving from Karaköy?
Hi Anne,
No, no Bosphorus tours from Karaköy.
Hi. Is their a sunset cruise ( preferably non/dinner)that leaves from and returns to Kadikoy
When do you plan to go?
Can you tell me which pier in Kadiköy the night cruise leaves from on Saturdays? The website says it’s the ‘old’ station – but not being from Istanbul I have no idea which one that is! Thanks!
Hi Brett, just go to the Kadiköy piers and ask there where the mehtap Bogaz turu picks up passengers. They often change, so it’s hard to tell where it is now. Just make sure you’re 20 min earlier.
Hello, We are in Istanbul right now. Just a quick update – the Turyol 90 min. tour is now 100 liras. Thanks for the suggestions. Hoping to catch a Sehir Hatlari full tour this week.
Thanks, enjoy!
Are all boats and crews the same? Do they have similar amounts of guests?
Not sure that I understand your question. I review different companies and different lines on this page. Different companies of course have different boats and crews. And the crew for the short and long tour also differ.
Hi we dock in instanbul from 9 till 6 on a cruise and we want to do a trip on the Bosphorus, what would you recommend? We will be there june. Thanks
I assume you’ll be there from 9 am till 6pm?
Hi, thanks for your article, very helpful. I’ve booked 4 days trip to Istanbul from March 8-12 (this week!), planning to do the Full Bosphorus Tour. What is the Şehir Hatları schedule in March? Can I still take the long Bosphorus tour from Eminönü at 10:35 and be back at Eminönü at around 16:40? Will it be okay to buy a ticket on the day before departure, at this time of the year? Many thanks. Jenny
Hi Jenny,
The winter schedule is still in effect in March, so the timing is correct. In March, buying a ticket on the same dayshould be ok. Have fun.
HI Erlend,
Your articles are very helpful and I am glad I came across it.
I am travelling to Istanbul with my parents next week and was planning to do the long bosphorus tour, we are staying in Cihangir.
My question is – would you still advise the tour as it is November and the weather might be not the best.
And do we buy the tickets from sehir hatlari the same morning?
Thank you for helping all the vacationers to plan their Istanbul holidays.
Hi Mona,
Personally, I wouldn’t do the long cruise in winter. Part of the charm is sitting on deck, in the sun, which is obviously not possible in winter. Moreover, the main sightseeing spots (80%) are also covered by the short tour. Yes, buy tickets from their sales booth, the same day should be ok in winter.
Hi! Does the long cruise take place in November? Are there only outdoor locations on the ship? How to get to the ferry station from Pendik? Can I buy tickets online? If not, can I buy them immediately before the trip?
Yes, there is one trip a day in winter, leaves at 10:35 and back around 16:40 with a long break at the furthest point. Seats indoor and outdoor. Tickets from the Şehir Hatları Bosphorus Tours booth at the Eminönü docks. It’s low season, so I would expect yes, but go in time.
Hi Erlend,
I’m researching Sehir Hatlari’s short Bosphorus tour (2 hours) for my December trip. I know it departs Eminonu at 2:40pm.
I am a bit confused though when I look at Hatlari’s schedule which shows: Departure from Eminonu: 2.40pm
Departure from Üsküdar: 2.55pm
Arrival at Ortakoy: 3.10pm
This one way trip is only half hour.
1. Does this mean the ship continues on further after Ortakoy, perhaps half hour more, only then turns around to return to Eminonu? I’m just counting the timing… If it turns around at Ortakoy and heads back to Eminonu, the whole trip would only be 1 hour, not 2…
2. If this is the case, is the scenery further up after Ortakoy worth it? Or should I disembark at Ortakoy to check out Ortakoy then catch a bus to Taksim (I plan to visit Istiklal Caddesi after the cruise). Just wondering whether Ortakoy is a better option than continuing with the cruise? I heard the traffic between Ortakoy & Kabatas is horrible though.. Maybe still better to do the 2 hours cruise then catch T1 from Eminonu to Kabatas…?
Hi,
The tour takes between 90 min and w hours, so don’t get off at Ortaköy and enjoy the ride until you’re back in Eminönü. From there, as you suggested, take the T1 to Kabatas followed by the F2 to Taksim.
How to buy the ticket? I’m in Turkey currently and planned to take the short tours
As it says in the article, on the Eminönü docks, look for the Bosphorus Tour sales booth by Şehir Hatlari.
Our family will be in Istanbul on the 1st and 2nd January. Do the short 2 hour trips take place on these days? Many thanks. John EV
Normally yes. In case not the 1st then certainly the second.
Hello!
Thank you for the wonderful article about the cruise.
I would like to try it once I arrive at Istanbul. I will be staying at the Asian Side. My question is, when I arrive at Uskudar dock what name should I look for to book this cruise at the same amount you posted? I wanted to try riding the full cruise, also is it okay to bring food and water during the cruise?
Looking forward for my stay in Istanbul. I will be going there alone and I am excited!
Hi,
Look for the name Şehir Hatları, and if there are multiple dock pavilions, look for Bosphorus lines. Sure you can bring food and (non-alcoholic) beverages along, but keep in mind that for the full cruise you’ll stop for quite a while at the farthest point.
Hi Erlend,
The nonstop short bosphorous tour – Will they halt at Ortakoy for an hour or so? Or we won’t have time to get down from the ferry? I really would explore Ortakoy a bit along with the bosphorous tour.
Hi,
It will briefly stop there to let people board, but that won’t even be 5 minutes. So the answer is, no, it’s non-stop.
We would like a round trip ferry ride from Emenonu to Anadolu Kavagi on Tuesday, September 20. Is this route served every day? What company do I use? Where can I purchase the tickets? Same day at the pier ticket? or advance ticket? Thanks, Mary
The current schedule runs until September 18. I’ll let you know as soon as the winter schedule is published.
Hi. We are in Istanbul and really want to cruise. Can you send an update on the schedule for Tuesday, September 20? Much appreciated.
Hi Mary,
The new Şehir Hatları schedule came out today, and you can still take the long Bosphorus tour from Eminönü at 10:35 and be back at Eminönü at around 16:40. You can also take the short tour starting at 14:40. You can find the sales booth and dock right from the Galata Bridge when facing the Galata Tower. It says Bosphorus Lines. Enjoy!
Hi, thanks for a wonderful Istanbul article
Does the Sehir Hatlari has hourly short cruises like Turyol and Dentor.
Are these 3 companies equally good and are the routes the same.
I have very limited time in Istanbul, if not Sehir Hatlari which of this two would you suggest me to take. Because their frequencies are more and I can plan my day better. Thanks
Hi,
As I write in the post, Sehir Hatlari only has 2 short tours, while the others have multiple. I suggest going with Sehir Hatlari if their timetable suits you, if not, Turyol because you stay in Eminönü.
Hello Erlend,
We like to take the short Bosphorus Cruise on October. What is the name of the office at the Eminou dock? Can we buy tickets inside the office on the day of the cruise?
We are just afraid of all these touts outside the office and all over the docks?
Thanks so much.
Hi Tony,
Assuming that you want to take the one by Şehir Hatları, it’s just called Eminönü 2 Iskelesi / Pier – Boğaz Hattı / Bosphorus Line by Şehir Hatları. Yes, you can buy the day itself. If you have the time, maybe stop by in the morning already.
Hi Erland
We have just moved to Istanbul and are living it!
My daughter is visiting at the moment and we want to show her the most we can via a Bosphorous tour as she is 7 months pregnant and don’t want her trudging around for hours.
Is it best to get the ferry from Eminönü?
Love your tips many thanks
Colin
Yes, unless you want a private (and rather expensive) Bosphorus tour, the Eminönü pier is your best bet. You can go with the Şehir Hatları (cheapest but only once a day) or with Turyol (every hour I guess). Enjoy.
Many thanks, we are going to take the Eminönü ferry today.
Hi Erlend
On Thursday we will make our way to Emenonu via the tram.
Where in Emenonu is the piers/docs?
Will we need to take a taxi or it’s a walking distance?
Thank you
Hi,
You can’t miss. Literally, when you get off the tramway, you’ll see the docks.
Hello. We plan to travel in Europe in august 20, 2022 , and we have a 15 h layover in Instanbul.we will arrive sunday around 4pm , can we still get the Bosphorus free tour from the airport? is it still on for sundays this tour? I dont mind if its the short one or the long tour.
Thank you!!
Hi Diana,
This service is called Touristanbul. Do you fly with Turkish Airlines? You can find out all the information whether you’r eligible for Touristanbul.
Hey erlend.
It will be my birthday tomorrow and I wanted to do something special. I was at eminönu the last few days and the prices were about 60 tl but without food or anything. People outside are trying to sell the Bosporus tour with dinner for 35 Euro per person… I don’t get that sorry. Can you help me?
Hi Mery,
Not sure what you’re not getting. Just a short tour (1,5 hours) without food on a big ferry is indeed about 60TL. If you want a longer cruise with food or a small more private vessel with less people snacks and drinks, of course you need to pay more.
Here are two popular activities you may have a look at: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht and Istanbul: Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table
Hi Erlend,
First of all – Thank you very much for these useful information!
I will be in Istanbul – for the first time – for the last May weekend, arriving Wednesday afternoon and leaving Sunday noon.
So, three full days and some few hours.
I love boat tours and exploring places, I am thinking to take the “Full Bosphorus Cruise”. Of course I am debating if it is “worth” to spend one full day for it, out of just three days of my first time in Istanbul, or if I should just take one of the shorter cruises and have the other half day to visit other places in Istanbul. But that’s up to personal preferences, I know. Still your opinion is very welcome! 😀
But, what I am trying to figure out as well is – so, we arrive on Wednesday afternoon, I thought for Thursday we would stay and explore the city for “getting a first overview”, including Hagia Sophia, etc. and on Friday going on the Full Bosphorus Cruise. Or is there any advantage in doing the Bosphorus Cruise on Thursday? I mean, if there will be, out of your knowledge, much more people using the boat on Fridays and you would recommend the Boat cruise on Thursday?
(We are staying in Sultanahmet)
Thank you very much & sunny regards,
Marie
Hi Marie,
If you’re only in Istanbul for 3 days and it’s your first visit, I would definitely go for the shorter cruise and have extra time to visit the top attractions. There is no real preference for a day, just see what day best fits in your plan and/or pick the sunniest day.
Have a nice time.
Hi Erlend,
Thank you very much!
I might come back to you and ask another touristy question 😀
Oh, here comes the first one: As we arrive on a Wednesday around 3 PM (arrival at airport), what would you recommend for this evening – that doesn’t involve too much sightseeing & walking, as we will be tired probably. Drop our stuff in the hotel in Sultanahmet and make our way to the Galata Tower, to spend the evening there and for a nice view of the city for a “first impression”?
Or maybe just stay in Sultanahmet. Don’t know, what makes “sense”.
Thanks a million!
Marie
Hi Marie,
It will all depend a bit on traffic I guess. Let’s say out of the airport and on the road by 17:00, which is rush hour. Assume to be at hotel by 19:00.
So yes, not a bad idea, and maybe have a bit nearby.
Great, thank you so much Erlend! 🙂
All the best, Marie
Can you please give me step by step instructions to go from our hotel at the Pullman Istanbul Hotel, Yenibosna Merkez, Mahallesi, 1. Asena Sk. No:15, 34295 Bahçelievler/İstanbul which is very neat Attaturk Airport but outside the city center to Sultanahmet or the Bosphorus Ferry tour terminal in Eminonu Pier. I would like to take public transport but I would not mind taking taxi to the nearest public transport terminal from our hotel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Jose,
It’s not an easy connection. If I were you I would take a taxi to the T1 tramway stop in Zeytinburnu in the direction of Eminönü or Kabatas. This tramway passes the Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet and has a stop at the ferry docks in Eminönü.
Thank you Erlend. I googled Zeytinburnu and it looks easier and safer to catch a taxi back to our hotel at night. Does the Tram runs at midnight ?
The operating hours were in the link I shared in the previous reply. But yes, outside operating hours, a taxi back is your best/only option. I would stay clear of buses, it’s not that comfortable and can be pretty confusing for tourists.
Hi I’ll be going to Istanbul in June / early July hopefully, we want to go on the sunset cruise, on one of the days we’ll be visiting the Dolmabahce Palace and we were thinking off doing the sunset cruise the same day. Where is the best place to purchase the sunset cruise near Dolmabahce Palace or can we purchase before and get onto a boat near the Dolmabahce Palace?
Many thanks,
Umar
Hi Umar,
The season hasn’t started for the sunset cruise, so it’s hard to predict on what the schedule will be this year. Normally this trip is available during the months July and August. You can buy tickets upfront from the sales booth on the docks in Eminönü. Chances are you can board in Beşiktaş, but you won’t know for sure until the summer schedule is released. If not, no need to worry, only a 10 minute walk from Dolmabahçe you can take the T1 tram from Kabataş to the Eminönü.
Have a nice time.
Hi Erlend,
Thank you so much for the reply so helpful. Do you know when the summer schedule is released? And where I can find it please?
Hi Umar,
I think around May. Here’s the link. Currently you see only two tours, as soon as the sunset tour is back available, it’ll appear there too.
Hi Erlend,
Thank you once again that’s very useful. Just a couple more questions before I stop bothering you lol:
1. You mentioned I can buy tickets upfront from the sales booth on the docks in Eminönü, can we buy tickets a few days before the cruise or do we have to purchase on the day? I’m just wondering if we’re passing by the docks in Eminönü then we may buy before if we can.
2. Which company do we need to book with? is it Sehir Haltari? Do they have ticket booths on the docks in Eminönü?
Thanks,
Umar
Hi Umar,
1. Yes, normally you can
2. Yes, Şehir Hatları
Is the sunset tour now available?
Yes, it is. It leaves from Eminönü at 18:25, but I suggest to be there earlier to make sure you have (a good) seat and buy your tickets in the morning if you can.
Hey, thabk you so much for the article! I’ve read all the comments and have two questions left: for the long bosphorus tour you mentioned the audio guides, where can we get one? Is it on the boat itself?
And secondly: you mentioned the ticket office, is it really an office or machines? Because we walked past the dock today and I could find a real office.
Thank you so much
Hi Lilly,
In winter there are no long Bosphorus tours, only short ones. The audio guide you normally get on the vessel itself. It’s a real office. If you are on the docks, and look at The Galata Tower on the other side of the Golden Horn, it’s about 150 meters right from the bridge.
Have a nice stay.
Is a night cruise available on June 25, 2022?
If night cruise on 25 June is not available from you, which other affordable and reliable company is recommended? Please help me as there are so many scams. Just a decent evening/night cruise for a family in budget?
Hi Nadia,
The one from Şehir Hatları will not be available. In order to recommmend you one, can you please specify the amount of people, private or not, vessel size, budget (in EUR or USD), and whether you want just the cruise or also want to eat something (and have a belly dance show)?
Hi Erlend
We are 3 adults and 1 child (11 year) and 1 child (5 years old). We are fine with anything nice, private or not, food or without food, with or without night show. Budget would be 20-40 per head. We can do two separate types if they are within 25$/person, one day for sunset and another day for night/ music. Or a single one having sunset+a bit of night, max 40$/person.
Thank you very much
Ok, when will you be in Istanbul? The reason I ask is because the state run ferry normally has a Bosphorus sunset cruise in summer, which may be announced soon?
You can now take the Sehir Hatlari Sunset cruise for 52 TL per person. It leaves daily from the Eminönü pier at 18:25. Better buy your tickets upfront to make sure you have a seat.
Hello hart! Thank you for the information, I wanted to ask you about the short trip of the bosphorus where can I buy the ticket ? In the locker in eminonu or I can use istanbulkart?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Annisa,
It’s safer to go to the booth in Eminönü and buy the ticket upfront. It may not be too crowded this year, but better be safe than sorry.
Have a nice day.
Hi – such a helpful blog! We are considering visiting Istanbul for New Years. Do you think any cruises will be running in the winter? Would it still be worth visiting one of the Princes’ Islands in the winter? I know winter means less crowds, but hoping things are still open, despite colder temperatures and COVID.
Hi Bri,
Thanks a lot. As you mentioned, it all depends on the weather. For instance, last winter it was still 17 in the shade in December. On the flip side, it may freeze and even snow. Cruises still run in winter, but of course less frequently. Sitting outside because of the cold and/or precipitation may be less appealing. Visiting the islands is still a good idea, and something locals do on Sundays to escape the busy city life and get some fresh air.
As for COVID, it’s hard to predict. I do know that the government just signed a deal for 90 million Pfizer vaccines, so let’s hope they can distribute them quickly.
Hi there. I’m sure this must have been asked before. But please reply me.
So the long tour starts at 10:35 and reaches ANADOLU at 12:25
And return from there to Eminonu is at 15:00 again. So between that time, are there places close by to have lunch ? Do they leave exactly at 15:00 or before time ?
Hi Ay,
Yes, there will be restaurants at the port where you can eat, and the ferry doesn’t leave until 15:00. I suggest to play safe and be aboard minimum 10 minutes ahead of time though.
Have fun.
Hi Erland
Hope you’re well. I am so confused I really hope you can help me.
I’ll be visiting Istanbul in April Insha-Allah and I’d like to visit the Asian side as 1 activity on one day and I’d also like to take a Full Bosphorous Cruise by Night as a different activity…
So,
Firstly,
Where exactly do I get the ferry if I wanted to get from the European side to the Asian side for a day outing on the Asian side?
I’ve been told to walk down Istiklal Street and at the end of Istiklal Street I can get a ferry at Karakoy port on the European side, is this correct?
Is it also true that if i took the ferry from Karakoy on the European side, I will get off at Kadikoy port on the Asian side and this ferry ride should take about 15mins from Karakoy to Kadikoy…..
However, in saying this I’ve been told that coming back from the Asian side, I get on at Kadikoy port but it doesn’t drop you at Karakoy, if it doesn’t drop you at Karikoy on the European side then where does it drop you on the European side?
How much should a ferry ride cost on an IstanbulKart?
Secondly,
I would also like to do a Full Bosphorous Cruise by Night.
Where do I get the tickets for this cruise?
Do I have to book in advance or can I turn up on the day at Sehir Hatlati offices to book for that night?
Where are the Sehir Hatlati offices located?
How much will a Full Bosphorous Cruise by Night cost in Turkish Lira please and can I pay in Turkish Lira by cash?
How long does this cruise take?
Are there free transfers provided from hotel to boat and back to hotel after the Cruise?
I know that I’ve asked many questions, but I will great appreciate if you can be as detailed as possible in your reply please because I want to get this right.
Feel free to explain it to me like you would explain it to a 5yr old 🤣🤣🤣
Thanking you in advance
Sharwaaz
Hi,
To get to the Asian side, and assuming you’ll want to go to Kadıköy, you can take a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy. Mind you that Karaköy is not located at the end of Istiklal Caddesi. You’ll still have to take Tünel (a funicular) to reach Karaköy. Alternatively, again from Taksim, you can take the other funicular to Kabataş and then take the tramway to Eminönü (which also passes Karaköy). Maybe have a look at this Istanbul Transportation map. The trip takes indeed about 15 min. If you take the Kadıköy-Karaköy ferry it will drop you off at Karaköy.
In April there is no full Bosphorus cruise by night organized by Şehir Hatları. But you can find many advertisements of such cruises organized by private companies on this site. Do read the details of such cruises to see if they match your expectations, and read the comments written by people who have take the cruise. It’s safe to book them online.
Hope this helps.
Hello. Thanks for the article. Are there any multi-day cruises from Istanbul? We need a company that accepts children, in August.
Hi David,
The Bosphorus Cruise as they call it is of course not a real cruise. For multi-day cruises you should contact established cruise companies. There is a nice cruise port in Istanbul. I read this year 65 cruise ships would enter Istanbul. Good luck.
It’s a pleasure reading your article. Thank you so much for all the informations you have provided, we will be in istanbul in mid april for 4 days. We would like to take a Bosphorous cruise but we are more interested in taking a 2 to 3 hrs cruise, apart from 2.30 pm cruise is there any other cruise. We will be staying in Sultanhamet area and would prefer to start the cruise and ends at Eminomu. Are there any cruise that departs late in the evening without dinner provided that cruises for 2 to 3 hrs. We don’t prefer taking a private cruise. Thanks.
Hi Hart,
The only non-private company providing Bosphorus tours is Şehir Hatları, with the tour you know. There are lots of different private tours (with and without) dinner. You can find them in the ads on the page. Make sure to read through the comments of others to make sure if it suits your needs. You may also want to check out Turyol, another private company.
Hop this helps.
Hi
the schedule you shared for the full bhosphorus tour above in the article have one departure and one return cruise so it will start at 10:35 from first stop and reach the last stop at 12:25, then for the return, they will start at 15:00 which means we have to stay at the last stop for more then 2 hours?
is there any option that we have continuous cruise like we reach at the last stop and after some time we start our journey back?
Is there only two long bhosphorous cruises for the day?
Hi Mohammad,
Since it’s winter currently, they only operate one boat and only do one run. In summer the frequency is higher, so you can opt for an earlier return. If you want a continuous tour to the Black Sea and back, then I’m afraid that you’ll have to look for private companies and Bosphorus Tours. Keep in mind that they will be more expensive.
Hope this helps.
Hi,
Are Şehir Hatları tours (either short or long) available during winter time? Their timetable looks the same way as this summer when I did a tour, but I was wondering if you have any closer information, as we would like to take the tour again these days.
Thank you 🙂
Hi Milica,
It does look similar, but it has actually been updated. You’ll see that the long tour only has one trip up and down, where in summer there are a few more. So, to answer your question, yes the info is up to date.
Enjoy.
Hi, my family and I will arrive Istanbul on the 2nd week of December, and from your post, the schedule changes seasonally.
So I am worried about the schedule for Short Bosphorus Tour as we want to ride the cruise from Ortakoy.
1)Is the cruise still available during Winter season/ December?
2)How to find out their schedule for Short Bosphorus Cruise?
Thank you
Hi Lee,
Yes, the short Bosphorus tour continues during winter. Here you can find the schedule.
Have fun.
Hi there, great article! I have a couple of questions if you don’t mind:
What is the difference between the scenic River cruise for EUR20 and the full bosphorus for TL25? I ask this because of the substantial difference in price.
TIA!
Johan
Hi Johan,
The full Bosphorus cruise for 25 TL is a regular public transportation ferry taking you all the way to the last dock before the Black Sea, and back. It briefly stops at all the docks along the way to let people on and off. The 25 TL just lets you on the ship, no drink nor food included.
The Scenic River cruise, among many others on this page, are privately owned cruises that advertise here. Their offers MAY include equally long or shorter cruises, normally don’t have extra stops, can have daytime, sunset or night timeframes, food and drinks, entertainment on board, etc. each program is different, and so are their prices. I recommend you read the details and go over comments left by others.
Hope this helps.
Is this correct link for Bosphorus cruise? https://www.ido.com.tr/
do they pick up from Yotel at IST?
Hi Muhammad,
No, that is the wrong link. Here are the links for the public Bosphorus tours and a private Bosphorus cruise which I took myself. Hotel pickup is only available on some tours, and certainly not for public tours.
Enjoy!
HI,
Thank you so much for all the help. It really helps us all.
I have few questions:
1) I am coming there in first week of november. Is it usually busy during that time?
2) I will be there on Nov 1st (Friday Evening) to Nov 6th (Wednesday Morning). I know you mentioned the cruise doesn’t work on saturday! Would you recommend me taking the Sunday, Monday or Tuesday cruise?
3) I am planning on taking the full day cruise from Sehir Hatlari in Eminono, what is the small fish town called where the cruise stop for lunch? Any restaurants there you would recommend?
4) What time is the return cruise? What happens if we miss the last cruise?
5) Do you know where i should buy the tickets for princes island ferry? How much will it cost? I read online and people said the only place worth visiting on princes island is Buyukada. Or are there any other islands you recommend us going to. Any information about the princes ferry would be appreciated.
One day we are planning on doing bosporos tour, next day go to the princes island, third day visit mosque, museums and grand bazaar. We will still have one full day left, what do you recommend us to do. Something you would highly recommend someone doing when they visit istanbul. Doesn’t matter even if its 2-3hrs drive, i will rent a car and take my family.
Thank you so much for all the help with this forum.
Hi Sam,
1. It shouldn’t be too busy, it’s low season.
2. The cruises work every day, just the sunset cruise doesn’t. So you can take it any day you want.
3. It’s the very last stop, Anadolu Kavağı. Can’t really recommend one. Just don’t be overwhelmed by the waiters trying to lure you in, take your time to check them all out first, and then pick the one that pleases you most.
4. You can find the Şehir Hatları timetable for the full Bosporus cruise here. If you miss the only return ferry, the you’re left with a very expensive taxi ride back.
5. Just go to the Şehir Hatları offices on the docks of Eminönü and look for their Bosporus or Boğaz sales office. If you’re pressed for time, yes, focus on Büyükada.
6. Are Dolmabahçe Palace, Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern on your list already?
Hope this helps.
Is there any non stop cruise?
I am looking for something that takes 1 to 2 hours maximum?
Could I buy the tickets at the boat port? How much it cost?
The short tour only stops twice to pick up passengers. If you really want non stop tours you’ll have to take a look at private Bosphorus tours. For the tours by Şehir Hatları you can buy tickets at the pier, for other tours you better buy online.
Hello, thanks for your detailed article on the cruises and it helps a lot. My group are planning to do a short cruise, however we have a few questions:
1) We are a bit confused on the information from Sehir Hatlari’s website. Does the short cruises only depart once a day from Eminonu/ Uskudar/ Ortakoy? The Turkish version says it departs once a day, but the English website seems to be saying there would 2 departures per day.
2) We are planning to take on the short cruise from Ortakoy, would we be able to finish the cruise at Eminonu? Or we have to get off the ferry at Ortakoy if we were onboard there?
3) Would we miss anything good if we were onboard from Ortakoy for the short cruise?
Thanks so much and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi Peter,
1. There is only one tour a day. The top row are the departure times, the bottom row are the arrival times.
2. Yes, you can start in Ortaköy and get off at Eminönü.
3. You’ll only see the shore between those two points only once. If it fit your itinerary by boarding in Ortakoy, then I wouldn’t change it.
Hope this helps.
Hi Erlend,
Could you please share the google map location of the place where we can buy the tickets for Bosphorus tour. EMINONU area is pretty wide.
Here you go: Şehir Hatları Bosphorus Cruises
Hi,
I am currently at Istanbul and I am planning to take the full cruze, I am also planning to visit Dolma bahçet saray and Rumli Hisarı at the same day. Would that be possible ? If so, shall I book the 1:30 trip or the 10:30 one? Is there a way to stop at a ferry station close to beşiktaş or Rumli Hisarı in the way back instead of waiting to get off at Eminonu?
Thanks
Hi Ahmad,
I would first go to Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Hisari, and take the cruise at 13:35 from Eminönü or at 13:50 from Beşiktaş. You’ll be at 15:25 at the last stop. Before you get off the ship, ask what time the last boat embarks so you don’t miss it. On the way back you can get off at Beşiktaş or Eminönü, that’s up to you.
Have a good time.
Hello!
I will be in Istanbul in September for 3 full days, sunday – Tuesday (flying out Wednesday morning).
We really wanted to do a sunset cruise, what is the best company to use and how much are we expecting for two adults?
I don’t even mind dinner with the sunset cruise.
And thank you so much for taking your time to do this, great work 🙂
Hi,
Best is obviously a private cruise, but if you’re only a party of two it might be a bit too expensive. Cheapest is the one offered by Şehir Hatları, but it only runs on Saturdays in high season. If neither are an option, I suggest you take a look at all the other Bosphorus tour suggestions, with or without dinner. Please do take the amount of stars and reviews into consideration to make a wise decision.
Have fun.
Went on Saturday for a night cruise with Şehir Hatları but the office was closed and I was told that Şehir Hatları has only one cruise on Saturday but that’s in the morning (or maybe they said afternoon..can’t recall).
So we took the BigBus tour (they share the same booth with Şehir Hatları. The cost originally was 400 TL for 4 adults but after some negotiations it went down to 350 TL. It was very good. Not crowded at all. It was close to the evening so we started with a day light and also managed to see the sunset and Istanbul in night lights. Tour was with commentary at points of interest.
Food drinks onboard are expensive. Bring your own snacks.
Hi Mustafa,
It’s correct that Şehir Hatları only has the sunset cruise on a Saturday. Maybe you were too late to catch it (it’s at Eminönü at 18:25) or it already sold out earlier in the day. Glad to hear that the other cruise worked out for you.
Hi, thanks for your very informative articles. Me and my wife are visiting Istanbul from Sept 8th to 13 Sept. Would you suggest booking any tours or we rather do our own thing. Its like all the operators use the reason for booking with them is to skip long queues. In terms of the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus cruise (Full Cruise), when disembark at the last harbor for lunch is the ferry waiting or do you catch a different one back. And is this cruise cover all the important sites along the river or are there other cruises as well.
Regards
Hi Jaco,
There are often long queues, but that’s most of the time to buy tickets. You can avoid that buy buying the museum pass or buy buying these skip the line guided tours. The latter also have the advantage that these are mostly guided tours. You can buy those online, you’ll find their ads on my site. And last but not least, you can buy a complete package with Istanbul Tourist Pass. I always used to go in with a book in hand, but I recently enjoyed the added value of a guide.
As for the cruise, it depends a bit on the day, but normally it’s the same ferry. Please safe, and take the 10:35 ferry to the last stop in the morning, and ask there when the return ferries depart. There is always a return ferry at 15:00, but the second one is either at 17:00 or 18:00, depending on the day.
Have a nice stay.
Is it reasonable to target the 1:30 departure from Eminonu with an arrival at Ataturk scheduled for 11:20? I don’t have any concept of the time needed to get through immigration and the taxi ride to the dock. Since we won’t buy the ticket until we are at the dock, the only question is whether it is reasonable to plan for that? Thanks.
Hi John,
First of all, you probably will not fly on Atatürk, because Atatürk Airport has been closed down a few months ago. You’ll now land at the new Istanbul Airport. Typically it takes just over one hour to get out of the airport, and depending on the means of transportation you choose and amount of traffic, it’ll take one to two hours to reach the city center.
Assuming you’ll want to check in at your hotel first to at least drop your luggage, I think it’s very unlikely you’ll make it to the docks on time.
Hope this helps give you an idea.
Hey, I went on a Bosphorus cruise tour from Ortaköy, Beşiktaş. The one that costed 25 TL and lasted around an hour. It said “ Bogaz turlari” where we took the boat from. Is there any way to find out who was working on the boat/ cruise that we were on? Meaning the ones selling snacks, tea and so on. Thank you
Hi Sara,
I’m afraid that would be very difficult.
Sorry I can’t help you for that.
Hello
First of all your post helped alot to understand the Bosphrous Tour Thanks for that.
My question is
what i am seeing in the schedule provided by Şehir Hatları that
Full Bosphorus Cruise is departing from EMINONU and we also have ticketing office located on the left docks of EMINONU. So its a win win you go to EMINONU get the ticket and enjoy the cruise. Ok.
Now the issue is for Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night we’ll take the tickets from docks of EMINONU but the cruise is departing from BOSTANCI according to
” http://en.sehirhatlari.istanbul/en/timetable/sunset-cruises-415.html ” this link.
What is that??? Are you getting my point?
2) Second thing is you said ” For the tours organized by Şehir Hatları you can only buy tickets the same day. You can go in the morning to get tickets for the evening though ”
Then what if i wanna go in the morning as i am seeing the schedule for Full Bosphorus Cruise the morning cruise will depart from EMINONU at 10:35. Will i easily get the ticket if i reach at the ticket office at lets say 9:30 or 10:00 ? I mean is it really hard to get the ticket or you can easily get the ticket if you reach an hour before departing the Cruise?
Do respond
Regards
Hi Aqueel,
The boat starts it’s trip in Bostancı, then sails to Kadiköy and picks up people there, then sails to Eminönü where you’ll get on the boat, etc.
Yes, you can buy your tickets in the morning to make sure the boat isn’t sold out by the evening.
Hope this helps.
Hi
I am right now in Istanbul with my husband and two toddlers for a week. Can you please suggest me what we can do in Istanbul for around three days and for the remaining days we wish to explore places around Istanbul.
Thank you
Hi Rumana,
Have you had a look at the articles 15 things to do in Istanbul and fun activities with kids?
Hope this helps.
Thank you so much, Erlend, for the details!
One more question – may I use Istanbulkart for the Long Bosphorus Cruise? Or the cost of the cruises are not included?
Thanks again!
Hi Dana,
No, you can’t use your Istanbul Kart.
Have a nice stay.
Hello,
I will arrive in Istanbul next Friday for in the afternoon at 6PM. I will be there until Saturday at 8 AM, as I checked, my only option to visit something typical in Istanbul is the Bosphorus Cruise by Night (Mehtap Gezi). Or do you suggest me another plan?
1. What time start the cruise at night?
2. How much is it?
3. Where I could buy the ticket?
4. How long is the cruise?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Camilo
Hi Camilo,
If you land at 6 PM, I’m afraid you won’t make it in time. I suggest you have a nice dinner overlooking or by the Bosphorus.
Hope this helps.
Hello!
I have read your articles and they are very useful. tank uou for your effort and time to write them!
I have a few questions on the cruises a tourist can take:
1. For long Bosphorus Cruise, I found on googlemaps more names for the docks, such as: Eminonu Pier / Eminönü İskelesi and Terminal Feribot Eminönü (Ş.Hatları; Üsküdar & Boğaz). Could you, please, help me with the correct one where I should go to buy tickets and embark?
2. I want to take a cruise on the Golden Horn, too. On Sehir Hatlari website I found a departure point from Karakoy (ferry coming from Uksudar and stopping to Eyup). On the other hand, I found info that there is a ferry going to Eyup from Eminonu Halic Iskelesi (this is the name I found on googlemaps). I don„t know if this is still available in 2019. Is it possible to help me with correct and updated info?
3. Istanbulkart. It is clear it can be used by up to 5 people. When they all use it first time, they will have a discount fare (around 2,60 TL instead of 5TL, as it is a standard ticket). At the first transfer, all of them get discounts?
Thank you in advance for your help,
Dana
Hi Dana,
1. The Şehir Hatları docks are on the right side of the Galata Bridge with your back to Eminönü and looking at the Galata Tower. It should write Boğaz Turları and the brand name, Şehir Hatları.
2. The one you found starting in Üsküdar and ending at Eyüp is the official Golden Horn line (Haliç Hattı). Keep in mind that Karaköy is only just across the bridge from Eminönü, a very enjoyable walk.
3. No, only the first one of all people on the same card will get the discount. Personally, I don’t recommend more than three people on one card.
Have a nice stay.
Is it worth buying Istanbul tourist pass or venture on your own?
Hi Kedar,
Unless you plan to do all they offer in the time frame you picked, I think you’re better of on your own.
Hope this helps.
Can you buy tickets for full boat cruise on the day of the cruise for the morning cruise. So in other words can you just turn up to ticket office and buy a ticket for the cruise
Hi Helen,
Yes, you can.
What is the exact location of your office/ticket office? I don’t want to go on a different company, how do I find your ticket counter?
Hi Vivien,
I’m not a travel agent, so I don’t have an office. I just share my Istanbul experiences and advice to help tourists make the most out of it.
How can i buy advance ticket for long bosphorus cruise or ensure that tickets are not totally sold for the day?
Hi Imran,
For the tours organized by Şehir Hatları you can only buy tickets the same day. You can go in the morning to get tickets for the evening though.
Hope this helps.
Hey, can you bring whatever you want to the cruise? (drinks, food, and the like) are the prices on board reasonable?
Hi Aviv,
On the public cruise boats you can bring your own drinks and some snacks. Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages may not be allowed.