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Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide

77 Reviews 4.43 out of 5 stars Based on 77 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Istanbul, Turkey
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from $20.66 per person

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Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide Image 1
Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide Image 2
Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide Image 3
Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide Image 4
Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 26 (0) days in advance.
2 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 3 more
Spanish, Arabic, Russian
Instant confirmation

Overview

Sail through the Bosphorus Strait and along the Golden Horn as you see Istanbul's most famous sights on this sightseeing tour.

Hop on a sightseeing cruise to tour the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. Get a fresh look at Istanbul on this boat tour with an audio guide to tell you all the top tales as you glide by Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Maiden's Tower, and Galata Tower. Sail as far south to see the iconic Bosphorus Bridge.

Meet your host on the other side of Hagia Sophia and walk down to the pier behind the grand mosque. Jump on board to discover the Golden Horn, considered to be the world’s largest natural harbor. Sail through the magnificent Bosphorus strait forming the continental boundary between Asia and Europe.

Admire the Bosphorus coastline on the European side from the cruise, and see a string of villages, each with its own individual character and attractions. Glide past Dolmabahçe Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge, among others.

What's Included

  • Boat cruise
  • Audio guide

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    Cankurtaran
    Ayasofya Meydanı No:2, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

    Show on Google Maps

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
    Read more

    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    Bosphorus Strait (pass by)

    When it comes to Istanbul, one of the most important and well-known landmarks has to be the splendid Bosphorus. It is the reason Istanbul is known as the “the city between two continents.” The Bosphorus Strait is a natural waterway that runs through Istanbul, dividing the city into two continents. The Bosphorus connects Europe and Asia via the Sea of Marmara.
    Read more

    Galata Tower (pass by)

    The Galata Tower is one of the symbols of Istanbul. From its elevated position, there is a magnificent view of Beyoğlu and Karaköy, and the tower's colorful lights can be seen from all over the city at night. Here is an overview of the history of the Galata Tower and some interesting facts about its use.
    Read more

    Golden Horn (pass by)

    The Golden Horn (Halic) is an arm of the Bosphorus, into which two rivers flow at the other end. Considered the largest natural harbor in the world, it separates the European coast from Istanbul.
    Read more

    Dolmabahce Palace (pass by)

    The royal Dolmabahce Palace is one of the main attractions that we will see whileon board. This elegant mansion of the Bosphorus is one of the most marvelous symbolic of Istanbul representing the Ottoman Empire’s 19th century architectural advancements.
    Read more

    Ortakoy (pass by)

    Ortakoy is one of the most popular, liveliest and attractive neighborhoods in Besiktas, located right on the Bosphorus and under the Bosphorus Bridge. Ortakoy is also another popular entertainment and nightlife center of Istanbul with a variety of excellent cafes, bars, pubs, restaurants, shops, boutiques, bakery and souvenir shops.
    Read more

    Bosphorus Bridge (pass by)

    Istanbul is standing between two continents: Asia and Europe. Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges are the two main bridges linking these two continents.
    Read more

    Rumeli Fortress (pass by)

    The historical fortress that is erected by the orders of Fatih Sultan Mehmet is another landmark of The Bos.phorus Strait. Rumeli Fortress is now serving as a facility including a lot of cafes and restaurants.
    Read more

    Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (pass by)

    As mentioned, this second bridge was built in 1988 and is named after the famous Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, who conquered Istanbul in 1453.
    Read more

    Anadoluhisarı (pass by)

    Located on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus, it is the neighbor of the Rumeli Fortress. Built by the orders of Sultan Bayezid, it not only added a new beauty to the city silhoutte, it was also used for security purposes. With its ancient look and mysterious atmosphere, Anatolian Fortress is another landmark of the mesmerizing Istanbul while we take a dinner tour along the Bosphorus.
    Read more

    Beylerbeyi Palace (pass by)

    The glamorous Beylerbeyi Palace is located on the Asian part of the Bosphorus in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood of Istanbul. Located really close to the Bosphorus Bridge, it is one of the most chic buildings of Istanbul, the pearl of the Bosphorus Strait. Commissioned by the Sultan Abdulaziz of Ottoman Empire, it was originally built as a summer vacation palace for the imperial family. The luxurious and elegant interiors greatly complements the outer surroundings. It is a feast fort he eye, while cruising along the Bosphorus.
    Read more

    KIz Kulesi (pass by)

    The Maiden's Tower, that is also known as Leander's Tower since the medieval Byzantine period, is a tower built on a small islet right across the coast of Uskudar. One of the most famous symbols of the city, Maiden’s Tower stand alone in the sea like a beautiful, graceful woman. It is considered one of the most romantic spots of the city and it witnesses many celebrations, engagements, proposals, etc… It is the subject of a many mysterious and romantic folk stories. During our Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, we will have the chance to take a look at this amazing structure while having the best time with delicious food and unlimited entertainment.
    Read more
    Show 10 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

    Frequently Asked Questions (9)

    Q: Will I get seasick on Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide?

    A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-347935P5

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    4.43
    77 reviews

    Average 4.43 out of 5 stars based on 77 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    58
    4 stars
    6
    3 stars
    6
    2 stars
    2
    1 star
    5
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 26 (0) days in advance.
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    Frequently Asked Questions (9)

    Activity name

    The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

    Filter by:

    Q: Will I get seasick on Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide?
    A:

    If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

    Feb 2023
    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide?
    A:
    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
    • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
    • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
    • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
    • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).
    Apr 2025
    Q: What's included in the price?
    A:
    The following is included:
    • Boat cruise.
    • Audio guide.
    Apr 2025
    Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
    A:

    This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

    Apr 2025
    Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
    A:

    There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

    Apr 2025
    Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
    A:

    If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

    If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

    Apr 2025
    Q: Is this an accessible tour?
    A:

    Accessibility information for the Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide is as follows:

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    Apr 2025
    Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
    A:

    Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

     

     

    Mar 2024
    Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
    A:

    Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

    Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

    If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

    Oct 2026

    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Boat cruise
    • Audio guide

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers

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