Experience the ultimate luxury yacht tour in Istanbul with a Bosphorus Sunset Cruise. Enjoy panoramic views, photo opportunities, and iconic landmarks while sipping on drinks and snacks.
Experience the ultimate luxury yacht tour in Istanbul with a Bosphorus Sunset Cruise. Enjoy panoramic views, photo opportunities, and iconic landmarks while sipping on drinks and snacks.
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Dolmabahçe Palace - Dolmabahçe Palace is an Ottoman palace situated on a 250,000 m² area in Istanbul, Beşiktaş, between Dolmabahçe Street, which extends from Kabataş to Beşiktaş, and the Bosphorus. It is positioned on the left bank at the Bosphorus entrance from the Sea of Marmara, facing Üsküdar and Kuzguncuk.
Once a cove where ships anchored in…
- Dolmabahçe Palace - Dolmabahçe Palace is an Ottoman palace situated on a 250,000 m² area in Istanbul, Beşiktaş, between Dolmabahçe Street, which extends from Kabataş to Beşiktaş, and the Bosphorus. It is positioned on the left bank at the Bosphorus entrance from the Sea of Marmara, facing Üsküdar and Kuzguncuk.
Once a cove where ships anchored in ancient times, Dolmabahçe became the preferred residence of the sultanate, preserving the memory of centuries and the clear splendor of the Bosphorus waters.
- Çırağan Palace Kempinski - Commissioned by Sultan Abdulaziz and designed by architect Sarkis Balyan, the Çırağan Palace stands where a former wooden summer palace built by Selim III in 1800 once was. During its construction, the wooden structure and the nearby Beşiktaş Mevlevihane were demolished. Completed in 1871, the marble palace covers an area of 80,000 square meters. After Abdulaziz was deposed, he and his family were imprisoned here for years. Similarly, after Murat V was deposed, he was held here for 29 years with his family. Following the declaration of the Second Constitutional Monarchy in 1908, the palace served as the House of Parliament but was damaged by fire in 1910. The grounds were later transferred to the Beşiktaş Sports Club and used as the Şeref Stadium. In the early 1990s, the palace was restored and reopened as a luxury hotel.
- Ortaköy - Ortaköy is a neighborhood and district in Beşiktaş, on the European side of the Bosphorus. The Ortaköy district, comprising Ortaköy and Mecidiye neighborhoods, is a settlement established on the slopes along the valley leading to the coast. The district is bordered by Kuruçeşme, Ulus, Levazım, Balmumcu, and Yıldız, with Defterdarburnu as its northern boundary.
Ortaköy Bazaar is bustling at all hours with its “intellectual market,” souvenir shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. However, in the early morning, the market is somewhat quiet, with activity picking up after 10:00 am.
- Büyük Mecidiye Camii - Ortaköy Mosque, officially known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Situated on the Bosphorus shoreline in Ortaköy, it was constructed in the 19th century during the Ottoman era and showcases elegant Baroque architectural style. With its waterfront setting and stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge, the mosque is a popular symbol of Istanbul and a favorite spot for photography.
- Bosphorus Bridge - The Bosphorus Bridge, one of the two suspension bridges on the Bosphorus, has its feet located in Ortaköy on the European side and in Beylerbeyi on the Anatolian side. As the first bridge built on the Bosphorus, it facilitates access between the two sides of the city, along with the later Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and the ferries operating on the Bosphorus.
The idea of building a bridge over the Bosphorus is quite old. After numerous attempts, construction of the Bosphorus Bridge began in 1970, and it was inaugurated on 29 October 1973, marking the 50th anniversary of the Republic’s proclamation. This suspension bridge, a vital link in Turkey’s transportation network, is active at all hours and serves as an important crossing point for the Istanbul Eurasia Marathon organized by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. Besides transportation, the bridge is a significant symbol of Istanbul, offering a unique Bosphorus view.
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Kuruçeşme - Kuruçeşme is a lively and stylish neighborhood located along the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Known for its seaside restaurants, cafés, and vibrant nightlife, it offers stunning views of the water and passing boats. With its mix of historic charm and modern social life, Kuruçeşme is a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking entertainment by the Bosphorus.
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Galatasaray Island - Galatasaray Island is a small private island located in the Bosphorus, near Kuruçeşme in Istanbul. Owned by Galatasaray Sports Club, it is used as a social and recreational venue for its members. The island is known for its elegant facilities, swimming pools, and beautiful Bosphorus views, making it a distinctive landmark on the waterfront.
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Arnavutköy - Arnavutköy is a charming historic neighborhood located on the European side of Istanbul along the Bosphorus. It is famous for its colorful wooden Ottoman houses, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. With its seaside cafés, fish restaurants, and scenic waterfront, Arnavutköy offers a peaceful escape and an authentic glimpse into Istanbul’s traditional lifestyle.
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Bebek Park - Bebek is a historic Istanbul neighborhood, located on the European shores of the Bosphorus, surrounded by Arnavutköy, Etiler, and Rumeli Hisarı. The direct translation of the word Bebek is baby, which refers to the neighborhood’s attractive positioning on the Bosphorus. A popular residential district since the Ottoman rule, Bebek’s population reflects the diverse society of the time. Today, with its historical buildings such as Boğaziçi University and waterside mansions, it offers beautiful Bosphorus views and fancy restaurants.
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Rumeli Fortress - Located in Sarıyer, Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisarı) was constructed directly across from the Anadolu Hisarı (the Anatolian Fortress). Construction began in 1453 at the order of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, placing the fortress at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. The construction was completed in just three months. Before the conquest of Istanbul, it was used to protect against naval attacks. After the conquest, it served as an inspection point for maritime traffic on the Bosphorus.
Over the centuries, the area inside the fortress filled with small wooden houses, but during restoration work in 1953, these houses were removed. After its restoration, the fortress became known for the numerous concerts held here during the summer months, and it now serves as an open-air theater and museum. -
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge - Istanbul’s second bridge spanning the Bosphorus, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (Fatih Sultan Mehmet Köprüsü) was built between Kavacık and Hisarüstü. Construction began in 1986, and the bridge opened on 3 July 1988. The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is the 14th largest steel suspension bridge in the world.
Along with the Bosphorus Bridge and the city’s ferries, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge carries a significant portion of Istanbul’s trans-Bosphorus traffic. It has also become an unforgettable piece of the Istanbul skyline. -
Anadolu Hisarı Fort - The Anatolian Fortress (Anadolu Hisarı) is located in Beykoz (on the Asian Side), at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. It was built in 1395 by Beyazit I and consists of a citadel and its exterior castle walls. After the conquest of Istanbul, it lost much of its strategic importance and was converted into a military hospital. Over time, the area around the castle became settled. Today, waterfront houses and old mansions are dispersed among the castle’s ruins. During restoration work from 1991-1993, it was converted into a museum; however, it is not open to the public. Today, Anadolu Hisarı is an open-air museum, but only the outer walls can be visited, and the road passes just through it.
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Küçüksu Pavilion - The Küçüksu Palace, located on the Bosphorus coast road between Üsküdar and Beykoz, is a small Ottoman summer palace ordered by the Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecit. The palace was designed by the famous architect of the time, Nikogos Balyan. With its excellent view of the Bosphorus, Küçüksu attracted many Sultans during the Ottoman period who used the palace for relaxation. Due to the fine quality of furniture, paintings, carpets, and the delicacy in details, the small palace was opened as a museum during the Republican period.
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Kuleli Military High School - Kuleli Military High School is a historic landmark located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Established in the 19th century, the building is known for its elegant architecture and striking waterfront location. It has played an important role in Turkish military education and remains one of the most recognizable structures along the Bosphorus.
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Beylerbeyi Palace - The Beylerbeyi Palace (meaning “Lord of Lords”) is an Ottoman summer palace complex built in the 1860s on the shores of the Bosphorus. Today, it lies right under the Bosphorus bridge. The building was designed by the well-known architect Sarkis Balyan and combines elements of Renaissance, Baroque, and other styles from both the East and West. The main building of the complex is a two-story construction, made of stone, on a high basement. The building was constructed on a land of about 2,500 square meters and sits on a rectangular floor area. The South side of the Palace was organized as Imperial Mabeyn and the North side as Valide Sultan’s Apartment. There are a total of 6 halls, 24 rooms, 1 hamam, and 1 bathroom across two stories.
In addition to the fantastic view of the Bosphorus and historical architecture, one should not miss exploring its lily pond and large garden. -
Üsküdar - Üsküdar is a historic and cultural district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, along the Bosphorus. Known for its mosques, seaside squares, and traditional neighborhoods, it offers stunning views of the Maiden’s Tower and the European shore. With its deep Ottoman heritage and calm atmosphere, Üsküdar reflects the spiritual and timeless character of Istanbul.
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Kız Kulesi - The Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi) is a distinctive feature of the Bosphorus skyline. Built on a tiny island located about 200m from the shore of Üsküdar, the tower is the main subject of many legends.
The most popular legend is about a sultan and his daughter. An oracle prophesied that the sultan’s daughter would be killed by a snake bite on her 18th birthday. To protect her from this misfortune, the sultan had the tower built in the middle of the Bosphorus, where she lived in secrecy and protection. On her 18th birthday, the sultan brought her a basket of fruits as a gift, unaware of the hidden snake inside. Upon reaching into the basket, the princess was bitten by the snake and died in her father’s arms, as foreseen by the oracle. This legend gave the tower its name: Maiden’s Tower. -
Galata Köprüsü - The history of the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü), one of Istanbul’s most exciting spots, begins in 1845. The bridge, which spans the two sides of the Golden Horn, has undergone many changes over the years. Most recently, the bridge was damaged by fire in 1992, and a new bridge was built in its place. The beloved old bridge was moved to Haliç. The Galata Bridge is an important symbol of Istanbul and holds a significant place in the city’s daily life, as well as in its literature and popular culture. With its restaurants, cafes, and hookah lounges below, and the tramway and pedestrian traffic passing above, it offers a splendid view of the city, particularly in the evening.
Together with the street peddlers, people fishing from the bridge, and the ferries docking across the way, it is one of the most magnificent places to capture daily life in Istanbul. -
Galata Tower - Built by the Genoese in 1348, the nine-story tower stands at 66.90 meters and was the tallest building in the city when constructed.
In the Ottoman Era, the tower served various purposes, such as a fire observatory and a jail. Throughout its long history, the tower witnessed many events, but the most striking was in 1632 when Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi glided from the top of the Galata Tower across the Bosphorus to Üsküdar with his self-constructed wings. During a storm in 1875, the conic roof of the tower was destroyed and was not restored during the rest of the Ottoman Era. In the 1960s, the conical cap was restored, and the wooden interior was replaced by a concrete structure. Since then, the tower has been open to the public. Today, there is a restaurant and cafe on its upper floor. With its essential role in Istanbul’s skyline, Galata Tower is the optimum spot to catch a panoramic view of Istanbul. -
Galataport Istanbul - Galataport is a modern port and social hub in Istanbul’s Karaköy district. It seamlessly blends the city’s historical charm with contemporary architecture. The area features restaurants, cafes, shops, and cultural venues, making it a vibrant destination for both locals and tourists. The innovative underground terminal efficiently manages cruise ship traffic, adding to its appeal. Galataport is a prime example of Istanbul’s fusion of culture and modernity.

- Luxury yacht designed for comfort
- Onboard restroom facilities
- Fruit plates, baklava, and cookies served
- Experienced guide for the tour
- Complimentary drinks including homemade lemonade, tea, and coffee
- Luxury yacht designed for comfort
- Onboard restroom facilities
- Fruit plates, baklava, and cookies served
- Experienced guide for the tour
- Complimentary drinks including homemade lemonade, tea, and coffee
- Alcoholic beverages
- Transfer services
- Alcoholic beverages
- Transfer services
Experience a serene Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus, departing from Kabataş Pier on a luxuriously adorned yacht. Relish your drinks and light snacks while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul’s renowned landmarks, such as Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and Rumeli Fortress.
Cruise up to the Second Bosphorus Bridge along the European…
Experience a serene Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus, departing from Kabataş Pier on a luxuriously adorned yacht. Relish your drinks and light snacks while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul’s renowned landmarks, such as Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and Rumeli Fortress.
Cruise up to the Second Bosphorus Bridge along the European shore, then return via the Asian side, passing picturesque waterfront homes and enjoying captivating tales from our guide.
The tour’s highlight is the iconic Maiden’s Tower, offering the perfect chance to capture stunning sunset photos over the Bosphorus. The cruise concludes back at Kabataş Pier, showcasing beautiful views of Istanbul’s historic skyline. On May 1st only, the tour will depart from Kuruçeşme Pier instead of Kabataş.
- Tour takes place shine or rain, the yacht has indoors and covers
- Not recommended for travelers with vertigo and seasickness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.