The Bosphorus Strait: A City Divided Between Continents
Suggested Duration
1.5-2.5 hours
Good to Know
Details below before you go
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Two continents, one strait, and a public ferry ticket cheaper than a cup of coffee. The Bosphorus is the quickest way to see why Istanbul feels like two cities sewn together at the seam.
Highlights
- On a public commuter ferry, cross Europe and Asia for the price of a bus fare
- Cruise past Ottoman waterfront palaces, fortresses, and the Bosphorus Bridge from the water
- From the open deck, watch the call to prayer roll across both shores at sunset
Included / Excluded
- Public ferry crossing between European and Asian sides
- Most Şehir Hatları ferries have open deck seating
- Live commentary (public ferries are unguided, book a sunset cruise for commentary)
- Food and drinks (can be purchased onboard)
Good to Know
- Public ferries leave from the Eminönü, Kabataş, and Üsküdar piers on a fixed schedule
- Best views of the palaces and fortresses are on the right side, heading north from Eminönü
- Guided sunset cruises are more expensive and include live commentary and a set loop route
Available languages: Turkish, English
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to join a tour to visit the Bosphorus?
No. The public Şehir Hatları ferries run scheduled routes across the strait for a fraction of the price of a private tour. A guided sunset cruise adds a fixed loop route and commentary.
Where is Europe and where is Asia?
The old city, Sultanahmet and Beyoglu, sits on the European side. Üsküdar and Kadıköy are on the Asian side across the water.
How long does a full Bosphorus cruise take?
Public ferry loops take about 90 minutes to 2 hours. Private sunset cruises are usually shorter, about 2 to 2.5 hours including boarding.
