Sailing the Bosphorus on a Luxury Yacht Tour in Istanbul

Are you looking for a unique way to explore Istanbul? A Bosphorus cruise is the perfect way to see the city from both sides of the water. On a luxury yacht tour, you’ll get the chance to experience a city with centuries of history and culture, while enjoying one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the world. Join us as we take a look at the history, sights, and experiences that come with a Bosphorus yacht cruise in Istanbul.

What Is the Bosphorus?

The Bosphorus is a strait that connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea. It serves as a natural border between Europe and Asia, passing directly through Istanbul itself. On one side you’ll find the European coastline and on the other, a stunning Asian shoreline linking both continents together. In total, it’s around 30 miles long, seven miles wide at its widest, and serves as an important shipping route.

The Bosphorus is also known for its beautiful scenery. What makes it so unique is its combination of bustling cities on one side, and green hills and woodlands on the other. What’s more, you’ll see an incredible number of historic monuments as you travel along it. This combination of historic and modern culture makes it truly one of a kind, and something that everyone should experience when visiting Istanbul.

Experience A Luxury Yacht Cruise in Istanbul

The best way to experience the Bosphorus is with a luxury yacht cruise. There are a huge number of companies offering luxury yacht tours in Istanbul. One of the best is Get Your Guide, who cater for all types of tours throughout Istanbul. From private charters to group tours, they’re sure to have something to suit your budget and needs.

Get Your Guide offer different lengths of Bosphorus yacht cruises ranging from half-day to full day experiences, so you can personalize your tour depending on how much time you have available. All their tours come with an experienced captain who can explain the history and culture of Istanbul as you sail along, giving you priceless insights that you can’t experience just by walking around.

What You Can Expect Onboard

After boarding your luxurious yacht, you’ll usually be taken up onto the open-air decks so you can get full views of the views. The tour will then sail along the Bosphorus for around five hours, depending on the tour you booked, taking in some of the best sights Istanbul has to offer.

For instance, one of Get Your Guide’s most popular routes takes you from Eyup fishing village in the European part of Istanbul to Maltepe in the Asian side. You’ll get to see some amazing landmarks along the way such as the Maiden Tower and Topkapi Palace. What’s more, the company also provides lunch or dinner in some packages, so you can refuel en route without having to worry about finding a restaurant.

In addition to all of this, you can expect to learn plenty about Istanbul’s history during your tour. For example, if you book a six-hour cruise, your captain will point out some of the imperial residences as well as other monuments built by the sultans hundreds of years ago. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to take stunning photographs from all angles, and can even take a dip in the Bosphorus if weather permits it!

Experience All Sides Of Istanbul With A Bosphorus Cruise

Sailing on a luxury yacht along the Bosphorus is one of the best ways to experience Istanbul from both sides of the strait. Whether you choose a short or long tour, you’ll get to see some incredible sights and enjoy some delicious food along the way. This is an experience that can’t be missed during any stay in Istanbul, so be sure to book your cruise today through Get Your Guide!

An insider’s guide to Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, the city that straddles the continents of Europe and Asia, has a rich and vibrant history. From the mighty Ottoman Empire to its current status as a modern metropolis, Istanbul boasts an intoxicating blend of both ancient and modern cultures. Here’s an insider’s guide to the hidden gems and must-see sites that will make your trip to Istanbul truly unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While Istanbul has plenty of famous landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, there are also many lesser-known local spots that are worth a visit. Head to the district of Kadikoy and explore its historic streets and the famous fish market. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at one of the many charming cafes, such as Cremeria Milano, where you can try the city’s famous Turkish coffee and indulge in some people-watching.

Another hidden gem is the Yildiz Park, which provides a serene escape from the bustling city. Spread over 500 acres, it’s filled with beautiful gardens, pavilions, and even a historic palace. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the mesmerizing view of the Bosphorus Strait.

Dining Spots

When it comes to dining, Istanbul offers a diverse blend of flavors and tastes. In the heart of the city lies the famous Karakoy Gulluoglu, the best baklava shop in Istanbul that has been serving up the flakiest, most exquisite baklava for over 200 years.

For a traditional Turkish breakfast, head to Van Kahvalti Evi. The restaurant serves up a sumptuous spread of fresh cheeses, olives, honeycomb, and more. For lunch, don’t miss Ciya Sofrasi, where you can enjoy traditional dishes from all around Turkey.

If you’re in the mood for seafood, book a table at Karakoy Lokantasi and indulge in its specialties like grilled octopus, sea bass, and calamari. Besides the food, the restaurant boasts a picturesque view of the Galata Tower.

Cultural Experiences

Istanbul has a wealth of cultural experiences to offer visitors. To dive deeper into Turkish history and customs, head to the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Its ornate architecture and elaborate gardens are a sight to behold.

For a glimpse into the eclectic art scene, step into Istanbul Modern, Turkey’s first modern art museum. The museum showcases contemporary Turkish art, including sculpture, paintings, and installations. You can also catch a concert at the majestic Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall, which plays host to some of Turkey’s most popular musicians and composers.

Local History

To truly understand Istanbul’s past, visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir built during the Byzantine era. The remarkable structure has over 336 columns, and it’s said that the Medusa Heads at the base of two columns were placed there to ward off evil spirits.

Another must-visit site is the Chora Church, which dates back to the 5th century and boasts beautiful intricate frescoes and mosaics. It’s a testament to the city’s rich religious and cultural history.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience, embark on a luxury yacht tour of the Bosphorus Strait. You can indulge in a romantic dinner on the water, taking in the beautiful skyline of Istanbul while enjoying traditional Turkish music and dance.

Another fascinating experience is to visit the Rustem Pasha Mosque, known for its exquisite tiling. The mosque is tucked away in a side street, and its intricate interior designs will leave you spellbound.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city that will thrill and enchant you with its breath-taking vistas, delicious food, and rich culture. Use this insider’s guide to explore its hidden gems and have an unforgettable adventure.