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Bosphorus Night Lights: Guided Cruise With Tea and Cookies

4.9(88)IstanbulFree cancellation

About this activity

This is not just a boat ride — it's a magical journey through centuries of history, art, and culture, all set against the glittering night skyline of Istanbul. What makes our cruise truly unique is the perfect blend of storytelling, comfort, and scenery. As you sip your warm Turkish tea and enjoy homemade cookies, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of palaces, mosques, fortresses, and iconic bridges — all beautifully illuminated and brought to life through the voice of our knowledgeable guide. Unlike daytime tours, our evening cruise offers a serene, romantic atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle. The reflections of city lights on the Bosphorus waters create an unforgettable ambiance — ideal for couples, photographers, history lovers, and anyone looking to see Istanbul from a new perspective. Add to that our carefully planned route covering both European and Asian shores, and you get an immersive cultural experience that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Highlights

    What's included

    • Tea and Cookies(only night tour option)
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Wi-Fi On Board
    • On-board restrooms

    Not included

    • Carbonated beverages
    • Alcoholic beverages

    Itinerary

    1. Bosphorus Strait

      Experience the enchanting beauty of Istanbul illuminated by night as we sail through the legendary waters of the Bosphorus. This two-hour guided evening cruise offers a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks, bathed in the warm glow of city lights and history.

      2 hoursAdmission includedSee on map

    2. Galata Bridge

      Our journey begins near the historic Galata Bridge, a vibrant symbol of Istanbul connecting continents, where the modern city meets its ancient soul. As we glide by, the striking silhouette of the Galata Tower stands proudly over the old city skyline.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    3. Dolmabahce Palace

      Cruising north along the European shore, we pass the majestic Dolmabahçe Palace, a masterpiece of Ottoman grandeur, followed by the elegant Çırağan Palace, now a luxurious hotel with a royal past

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    4. Ortaköy

      the picturesque Ortaköy Mosque greets us with its Baroque beauty nestled by the water, a favorite photo stop for many.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    5. Rumeli Fortress

      As the Bosphorus narrows, we approach the powerful stone walls of Rumeli Fortress, built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in the 15th century. Directly across the strait stands its counterpart, the lesser-known but equally charming Anadolu Fortress, marking the historic control of the strait.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    6. Bosphorus Bridge

      We cruise beneath two iconic suspension bridges: the 15 July Martyrs Bridge and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, both connecting Europe and Asia, illuminated beautifully at night.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    7. Beylerbeyi Palace

      On the Asian side, we admire the graceful structure of Kuleli Military High School, an architectural gem by the waterfront, and soon arrive at the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace, a summer residence for Ottoman sultans.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    8. Maiden’s Tower

      As we make our return, we pass the romantic Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), steeped in legends, standing alone on a tiny islet.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    9. Topkapi Palace

      enjoy complimentary tea and cookies as our expert guide shares fascinating stories and historical insights, turning every sight into a window into Istanbul's rich and layered past.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    Meeting point

    Please find the boat named NARAL at our pier located on the Eminönü Golden Horn side, next to Istanbul commerce university and ahi çelebi Mosque. If the boat is not yet there, please wait until the tour start time. Kindly note that the boat's docking may be delayed

    The map shows Istanbul. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

    Pickup

    • Everyone meets at the start point

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
    • One per booking
    • Please note that meeting points and times may vary by up to 1 km and 30 min due to dock availability. Guests should arrive at the specified address 15 minutes prior to the departure time. Our boat is named NARAL. Note: In the event of extraordinary circumstances the assigned boat may change.

    Cancellation and refunds

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    If you cancelRefund
    At least 1 days before100%
    Between 0 and 1 days before0%
    • Cancelled and fully refunded if the weather makes it unsafe
    • Cancelled and fully refunded if too few travellers book
    Supplied by
    IMCA TOURISM
    Product code
    223894P5

    Customer reviews

    4.9 · 88 reviews
    4.9
    88 reviews
    • 5 ★83
    • 4 ★4
    • 3 ★1
    • 2 ★0
    • 1 ★0

    Ratings from Viator 4.3 (3) · Tripadvisor 5.0 (85)

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    $11$10per person