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Turkey Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise
Imagine cruising along the Bosphorus Strait, taking in the breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline. Our expert guides will share the stories behind the landmarks, giving you a unique perspective on the city's stunning architecture and rich history. You'll see the sights from a different angle, and it's a great way to experience the city's beauty.
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A Bosporus Cruise to Remember: Seagulls, Breathtaking Views, and Unforgettable Moments in Istanbul
summarizeEditor's Summary
I recently took a Bosporus cruise in Istanbul and it was an experience I'll never forget. The city's mix of European and Asian cultures is pretty mind-blowing, and the Bosphorus Strait is the perfect spot to take it all in. With its stunning views and lively atmosphere, this cruise is a must-do when visiting Istanbul. Plus, it's super affordable, making it a great value for money. I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.
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Hello there!
I recently visited Istanbul, and what I love about this city is that it straddles two continents - Europe and Asia. The two parts of the city are separated by the Bosphorus Strait, and taking a stroll along the waterfront is a must-do. Just like in New York, you can't fully experience the city without a boat tour of its rivers and canals. Istanbul is definitely one of those cities that's best seen from the water.
Taking a ferry ride across the BosphorusSo, we added this to our itinerary, but of course, we tried to save money wherever possible. Taking a ferry turned out to be the best value for money, with a one-way ticket costing around 45 lira. And in some cases, it's even cheaper.Ferries in IstanbulI was worried we'd get lost with the ferries, confuse the schedule, or end up at the wrong dock, but in reality, it was a breeze, and we took the ferry three times. Ferry reviews in IstanbulWe checked the schedule in advance using the şehir hatlari app, which is much easier to navigate than the website. Our route was Eminönü-Ortaköy-Uşküdar-Eminönü - a bit of a triangle on the map. We arrived at the Eminönü dock in the morning, and here's what it looks like. Eminönü dock in IstanbulThere are vending machines nearby that sell Istanbul transportation cards, which also work on the ferries. Vending machines for buying Istanbul transportation cardsWe made sure we were at the right dock and found the schedule. Eminönü dock ferry scheduleOur ferry to Ortaköy was leaving at 10:45. We were lucky with the weather - it was sunny, but the wind was strong, so we had to bundle up. It's always colder on the water, and the sea spray can be pretty intense. But we were prepared. Ferry reviews in IstanbulAnd here comes our ferry. Ferry reviews in IstanbulInside, it's warm and cozy, with plenty of seats and even power outlets near the seats. They sell snacks and hot tea, which is perfect for a windy day. Ferry reviews in IstanbulWe could sit inside, but we, of course, rushed up to the deck.Public ferries in Istanbul reviewsIt was fine on the leeward side, and the views were just stunning. The important thing: there are public toilets on the ferry.There are public toilets on the ferryThe first ferry on the Eminönü-Üsküdar route took just 25 minutes. During that time, we saw the Galata Tower, the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, and nearby Ortaköy Mosque. Ortaköy Mosque in IstanbulBy the mosque, we got off, and 40 minutes to the next ferry was just enough time to visit it. The next ferry was to the Asian side of the city, to the Üsküdar pier. From there, we saw Chamлыджa Mosque, the largest mosque in Istanbul and all of Turkey. Chamлыджa Mosque in IstanbulThis is how the second ferry on the Ortaköy-Üsküdar route looked like.Public ferries in Istanbul reviewsThe third ferry took us back to Eminönü, and on it, we were already in the evening, after having had enough fun on the Asian side of the city. Public ferries in Istanbul reviewsFrom it, the Maiden's Tower, or Kız Kulesi, was well visible. Maiden's Tower in IstanbulWe returned at 7 pm, and we could have stayed longer - the ferries run for a pretty long time.Public ferries in Istanbul reviewsYes, it's not a guided tour, it's just public transportation. But we didn't need any travel information with historical facts, just nice views. Public ferries in Istanbul reviewsAnd let me tell you, the views were just stunning. We paid 125 lira per person for three ferries, which was a total steal.
⛴️ THE OVERALL IMPRESSION
This ferry ride was one of the highlights of my trip to Istanbul. It's an experience that's hard to put into words - the salty sea spray, the seagulls crying, the bright sunshine, and the sense of freedom that came with it.
Ferries in Istanbul reviews I'm a huge fan of boat trips! And the best part was that we weren't tied to a tour group and didn't have to stick to a tight schedule. We got off at Uskudar and explored the area on our own. I was really happy with this little adventure.Ferries in Istanbul reviews I highly recommend it!So, where to go in Istanbul:
The Blue Mosque
One of Istanbul's symbols, a beautiful and elegant mosque that you can visit for free.
The Basilica Cistern
A mysterious and mystical underground structure in the heart of Istanbul, a real 'underground palace'.
Suleymaniye Mosque
A majestic mosque built in honor of Sultan Suleiman and his wife Hurrem.
Overall review of Istanbul with a three-day itinerary:
I'm debunking the myth that Istanbul is an expensive city. Here's how to explore Istanbul on a budget for three full days.
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What's the best time of year to take a Bosporus cruise?
The best time to take a Bosporus cruise is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the cruise is available year-round, and the views are still stunning during the winter months.
Are the ferries wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the ferries are wheelchair accessible, but it's a good idea to check with the ferry operator in advance to confirm.
Can I bring food and drinks on the ferry?
Yes, you can bring food and drinks on the ferry, but be sure to dispose of your trash properly and respect the other passengers.
Are there restrooms on the ferry?
Yes, there are restrooms on the ferry, but they may be a bit cramped and not always well-maintained.
Can I book a private cabin on the ferry?
Yes, you can book a private cabin on the ferry, but it's a good idea to book in advance to ensure availability.
Are the ferries equipped with Wi-Fi?
Yes, the ferries are equipped with Wi-Fi, but the connection may be slow and unreliable.
Can I bring my pet on the ferry?
Yes, you can bring your pet on the ferry, but be sure to keep it on a leash and clean up after it.
Are there any discounts available for students or seniors?
Yes, there are discounts available for students and seniors, but you'll need to show your ID to qualify.
check_circlePros
- •The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the Bosphorus Strait.
- •You'll have tons of opportunities to snap some amazing photos of the seagulls and the water.
- •The cruise is a great way to experience the city's unique culture and history.
- •The ferry is surprisingly comfy, with plenty of seating and amenities.
- •The ticket prices are very reasonable, making it a great value for money.
- •You can bring your own food and drinks on the ferry, which is a nice bonus.
cancelCons
- •Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak season.
- •The ferry ride can be a bit bumpy, so hold on to your seat.
- •Some areas of the ferry may be a bit cramped, but it's worth it for the views.
- •The announcements are typically in Turkish, so it's a good idea to download a translation app.
- •The ferry may not run frequently, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.
- •The restrooms on the ferry can be a bit of a challenge.
