Bosphorus Cruise Tour (Including Ferry Fee & Lunch)

Half-Day Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Lunch

Discover Istanbul from the water on a relaxing afternoon cruise along the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. This sightseeing experience offers a different perspective of the city, combining historic waterfront neighborhoods, imperial palaces, elegant mansions and some of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks.

As you cruise between Europe and Asia, enjoy a freshly served lunch on board while taking in the beautiful views of the city skyline, historic bridges and waterfront palaces.

Tour Highlights

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus

Have lunch on board while admiring Istanbul’s waterfront scenery

See the historic Galata Bridge and the Golden Horn from the water

Pass Dolmabahçe Palace and the impressive Bosphorus waterfront

Admire Küçüksu Pavilion and the elegant mansions along the Asian shore

See the Bosphorus Bridge connecting Europe and Asia

Enjoy views of Beylerbeyi Palace and the iconic Maiden’s Tower

Golden Horn Cruise

Your cruise begins in the Golden Horn, Istanbul’s historic natural harbour. As the boat sails along the waterfront, enjoy views of the city’s historic districts and important landmarks, including the area around the Galata Bridge.

Lunch on Board

Enjoy lunch during the cruise, with the opportunity to relax and take in the scenery. The meal is served on board, allowing you to experience Istanbul’s waterfront atmosphere while sailing.

Dolmabahçe Palace and the European Shore (from the sea)

Continue along the Bosphorus, passing Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most impressive examples of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul. From the boat, admire its grand waterfront façade and the historic buildings that line the European shore.

Bosphorus Bridge and the Asian Shore (from the sea)

Sail towards the Bosphorus Bridge, the famous connection between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Continue along the Asian waterfront, where you can see elegant waterfront residences and historic landmarks.

Küçüksu Pavilion, Beylerbeyi Palace and Maiden’s Tower (from the sea)

Enjoy views of Küçüksu Pavilion and Beylerbeyi Palace from the water. On the return journey, admire the Maiden’s Tower, one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks, standing at the entrance to the Bosphorus.

After completing the cruise, return to the designated disembarkation point.

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off from centrally located Istanbul hotels

Professional licensed English-speaking tour guide

Shared Bosphorus and Golden Horn sightseeing cruise

Lunch served on board

Scenic views of Istanbul’s European and Asian shores

Local taxes

What's Not Included

Drinks and beverages, unless stated as included

Personal expenses

Tips and gratuities

Guide Languages

The standard tour is operated with a professional licensed English-speaking guide.

Other languages may be arranged upon request, subject to availability and an additional charge.

Please let us know your preferred language when making your reservation.

Tour Arrangements & Private Booking

This tour is offered on a shared group basis.

Would you prefer to enjoy this experience privately?

We would be happy to arrange this tour exclusively for you, your family, or your travel companions.

Simply share your preferred travel date, the number of people in your group, and the name of your hotel in Istanbul with our team. We will prepare a personalized quotation based on your group size and requirements.

Contact our team to receive your private tour offer.

Important Information

This is a shared group cruise.

The itinerary and sailing duration may vary depending on weather, sea conditions and operational arrangements.

The palaces and landmarks mentioned are viewed from the boat; entrance tickets and guided visits are not included.

Lunch menu and service arrangements may vary by season.

During periods of low demand, the lunch service or sailing arrangements may be adjusted. Any changes will be communicated before the tour.

Please arrive at the designated meeting point at the confirmed time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the cruise?
Yes. Lunch is served on board. Drinks are excluded unless specifically stated in your booking confirmation.

Does the cruise visit Dolmabahçe Palace or Beylerbeyi Palace?
No. The boat passes these landmarks, allowing you to admire their waterfront architecture from the Bosphorus.

Will we see both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul?
Yes. The route offers views of both shores and the landmarks along the Bosphorus.

Is hotel transportation included?
Yes. Hotel pick-up and drop-off from centrally located Istanbul hotels