Things To Do On Bosphorus Cruise

What to Do on Bosphorus Cruise?

One of the best things to do on Bosphorus Cruise is viewing the beautiful attractions of Istanbul from a whole new perspective. As you cruise along, catch a glimpse of the various landmarks of the city such as Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden’s Tower, the Bosphorus Bridge, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and many more. Onboard the cruise you can enjoy a surreal experience as you view the mesmerizing skyline of the city from the legendary waterway that separates Europe and Asia. 


If you want to know what to do on Bosphorus Cruise then be assured that there is no dearth of activities onboard. Apart from the views you can enjoy a delectable selection of traditional Turkish cuisine, learn about the local cultures and traditions. You can sit back and relax and enjoy the sunset while you sip on a beverage. Take in an evening of belly dancing, folk dance, musical performances and other live entertainment as you cruise along the Bosphorus or explore the Black Sea. 

Admire The Stunning Views

The Bosphorus Cruise offers stunning views of some of the most incredible attractions of Istanbul. The Bosphorus Strait in itself is naturally beautiful, and the ancient Ottoman and Byzantine historic places along its banks just adds to its breathtaking beauty. From the cruise you will be able to view the beautiful architecture of Galata Tower, the Rumeli Fortress, Ortakoy Mosque, Dolmabahce Palace, The First Bosphorus Bridge, the fishing hamlets and villages.

Experience The Local Culture

One of the best things to do on Bosphorus Cruise is to experience the local traditions and culture of Turkey. The cruise takes you to beautiful fishing villages and towns along the Bosphorus. Here, you can explore ancient Mosques or sip on a traditional Turkish coffee, visit fascinating markets, bookshops, boutiques, and eateries serving freshly cooked local cuisines. Some cruise packages also include Turkish entertainment shows such as belly dancing, whirling dervishes etc. 

Also experience: Private Yacht Bosphorus Cruise

Learn About History

If you are a history buff then the best things to do on Bosphorus Cruise is to learn about the ancient Ottoman and Byzantine Empires. Learn about their architecture, culture, traditions, their wars, losses and victories and much more. The Bosphorus Strait itself is a strategic historical landmark that has been part of the trade and commerce between several empires around the world. The Strait divides Europe and Asia and on both sides there are centuries old temples, ancient palaces, stone fortresses and many more. 

Must Experience: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Enjoy a Relaxing Cruise

Some of the best things to do on a Bosphorus Cruise is to sit back and just relax as you enjoy the mesmerizing skyline of Istanbul and all that this ancient city has to offer. The cruise is all about relaxation where you get to enjoy viewing Istanbul’s attractions from the best seats in town. Enjoy the peaceful environment while sipping on a Turkish coffee, or enjoy the beautiful sunset while watching a riveting performance of Turkish Dervish.

You can Also Checkout: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise

Sample Local Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is famous for its sheer variety, flavorful spices and being a fantastic fusion of Mediterranean, Eastern European and Central Asian flavors. On the Bosphorus Cruise you can indulge in some popular dishes such as the kebabs, sea food, kofte or spiced meatballs, delicious rice dishes, and some mouthwatering Turkish desserts and the famous Turkish coffee.

Get Combo Deals on Golden Horn And Bosphorus Cruise.

Attend a Live Performance

To add to your Turkish experience the answer to what to do on Bosphorus Cruise is enjoying a variety of traditional live performances onboard. While you enjoy the views, treat your eyes to a live performance by belly dancers, traditional Turkish dervish and a Turkish musical performance. During the ride you can also take in a short play, a Turkish Romani dance show, Kafka shows, Turkish folk dance, Turkish Halay and a live DJ performance.

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See The Maiden’s Tower

Get a good view of the Maiden’s Tower and learn about the various stories that are associated with this medieval structure that has been standing since the Byzantine Empire. One of the most famous legends associated with this Tower is the story of the king and his beloved daughter who was told that she would die on her 18th birthday due to a snakebite. The King kept her in the Tower to protect her but on her birthday, he took a basket of fruits to celebrate the special day not knowing that a snake was hiding in the basket. The princess was bitten and died in her father’s arms. 

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Cross The Bosphorus Bridge

The Bosphorus Cruise takes you past the beautiful Bosphorus Bridge which is also known as Martyr’s Bridge. This is an 8 lane toll bridge and the area around it is one of the most beautiful parts of Istanbul. Quite a few of Istanbul’s famous monuments are near the Bridge. You can get a good view of the Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and beautiful houses on the hill. The area around the Bridge is also home to a rich natural scenery on both the European and Asian side.

Must Checkout: Half Day Bosphorus Cruise Tour

Explore The Black Sea

Wondering what to do on a Bosphorus cruise? Indulging in a fantastic exploration of the Black Sea would be the perfect answer. Once you cross the Strait and reach the Black Sea, there are several small and quaint seaside towns like Beykoz or Poyrazkoy. You can alight here and explore these fascinating destinations and unwind in its lush green surroundings or take a relaxing dip in the Black Sea. The town still has some remnants of medieval fortresses which you can learn in detail from your guide. 

Get Combo Deals on Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea Day Cruise

FAQs for Bosphorus Cruise

What is the best time to go on a Bosphorus Cruise?

The best time to enjoy a Bosphorus Cruise is between April to September. The weather is excellent during this time for the Cruise and presents several opportunities for taking photographs. During the day, the best time for the cruise is just before sunset combined with a dinner and live performance. If you wish to get good pictures, then the best time to go on the Bosphorus Cruise is during the day. 

What is included in the Bosphorus Cruise?

Depending on the packages, the cruise includes -

  • A relaxing boat ride on the Bosphorus
  • Audio guides in English, Spanish, Russian and Arabic, German, Polish, etc.
  • Lunch or dinner onboard
  • Live dance and musical performances
  • Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Also Read: Architecture of Dolmabahce Palace

Can I bring food and drinks on the boat?

Yes, you can carry some snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, especially if you are picking just the boat cruise without the lunch or dinner option. The Bosphorus Cruise comes in a variety of packages and carrying your own snacks or food helps if you have kids traveling with you. There are snacks and food sold on board the boats too but these are to be bought at your own expense. 

Is there a specific route for the Bosphorus Cruise?

No, the Bosphorus Cruise does not have a specific route. The route and length of the trip varies depending on the package chosen by the guests. The shorter cruise starts from about 2 hours while the full Bosphorus cruise is an all day affair. Visits to seaside towns and other sites are also included in the longer cruises. 

Can I book a private Bosphorus cruise?

Yes, there are several options that you can pick from and the best things to do on a Bosphorus cruise is enjoying a private Bosphorus cruise. You can choose from a private table at one of the cruises or book a whole yacht for a private cruise on the Bosphorus Strait with dinner and a live show.

Also Checkout: Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace & Basilica Cistern Combo Ticket and Audio Guide

What language are the tours conducted in?

Audio guides are available in English, German, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Russian, French, Italian, Chinese and Turkish languages. It is best if you carry your own headphones for the audio guides and download the app before you get onboard the boat as internet reception during the cruise might not be good enough. The app does not require the internet to use once downloaded. 

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