The Bosphorus
The strait that divides two continents - the shimmering waterway threading through Istanbul between Europe and Asia, lined by palaces, fortresses and waterside mansions, best seen by boat.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
The Bosphorus is the shimmering strait that threads through the heart of Istanbul, dividing Europe from Asia and linking the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Busy with ferries and ships, its shores are lined with Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, wooden waterside mansions and grand mosques, and a cruise along its length, watching the city and two continents drift past, is one of the great pleasures of Istanbul.
What you actually see
- The strait cruise - the boat trip between Europe and Asia.
- The waterside palaces - the Dolmabahce Palace and Ottoman mansions.
- The bridges and fortresses - the great bridges and Rumeli Fortress.
- The two continents - crossing between Europe and Asia by ferry.
When to go
Spring and autumn for the mildest weather and calm water; a sunset cruise is especially beautiful as the city lights come on. The public ferries offer the same views far more cheaply than the tourist cruises.
Honest expectations
The cheap public commuter ferries offer much the same views as the pricier tourist cruises, so they are the local's choice. The full-length cruise up to the Black Sea takes most of a day. The shores are scenic but the water is busy with heavy shipping traffic.
Nearby
The old city sights, the Dolmabahce Palace and the Asian side of Istanbul are all along its shores.
What to pack for The Bosphorus
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
