The Majestic Bosphorus: A Striking Strait of History and Beauty
Discover the enchanting Bosphorus Strait, where stunning scenery meets rich history in the heart of Istanbul.
The Bosphorus Strait, a breathtaking natural wonder, connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and divides the enchanting city of Istanbul. This iconic waterway is not only a vital navigation route but also a stunning backdrop for exploration, offering tourists a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. With its picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant local life, the Bosphorus is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Istanbul.
A brief summary to Bosphorus
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Local tips
- Consider taking a sunset cruise for a magical view of the city as the sun sets over the water.
- Visit the waterfront cafes and restaurants for authentic Turkish cuisine with a view.
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and historical landmarks along the strait.
- Explore both the European and Asian sides of the Bosphorus for a complete experience of Istanbul's charm.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Taksim Square, take the funicular down to Kabataş. Once you arrive at Kabataş, transfer to the tram (T1 line) and head towards Bağcılar. Get off at the Eminönü stop. From Eminönü, you can walk to the Bosphorus by heading towards the waterfront. The scenic views will be right in front of you.
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Walking
If you are near the historic Sultanahmet area, you can walk towards the Bosphorus. Start by heading north on Divan Yolu Street, then turn left onto Yerebatan Caddesi. Continue straight until you reach the waterfront at the Eminönü district where you will see the Bosphorus. This walk takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
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Ferry
You can take a ferry from various points along the Golden Horn. For example, if you are in Karaköy, take the ferry to Üsküdar or Kadıköy. Ferries operate frequently and provide a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. Once you disembark, you will be right on the Bosphorus where you can stroll along the waterfront.
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Metro
Take the M2 metro line from Şişli-Mecidiyeköy station towards Yenikapı. Change at Yenikapı to the M4 metro line towards Kadıköy. Get off at the final stop, Kadıköy. From Kadıköy, walk towards the ferry terminal and take a ferry to Eminönü, where you can access the Bosphorus.
Discover more about Bosphorus
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bosphorus
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Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
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Yoros Castle
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Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
15.5 km
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Marmara Capital Portföy Yönetimi A.Ş.
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Anadoluhisarı
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Rumeli Fortress
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Gezebildiğin Kadar
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Vaniköy Mosque
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Kuleli Military High School
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Bosphorus Bridge
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15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü
21.1 km
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ETZ Ahayim Synagogue
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Yıldız Clock Tower
21.5 km
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Muradiye Cami
22.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Marmaracik National Park
4.2 km
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National Parks Bird Observation Tower
5.6 km
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Anadolu Kavağı
6.3 km
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Riva Beach
7.4 km
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Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion (National Palaces)
10.1 km
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Tarabya sahili
11.0 km
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Sait Halim Pasha Mansion
12.3 km
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Ural Ataman Classic Car Museum
12.4 km
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Bentler National Park
12.4 km
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Belgrade Forest
12.5 km
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Ataturk Arboretum
13.0 km
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İBB Hıdiv Kasrı Korusu
13.7 km
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Emirgan Corniche
14.0 km
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İBB Emirgan Grove
14.0 km
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Emirgan Tulip Gardens
14.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Careme Restaurant
18.8 km
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Gina
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View Point Restaurant
20.1 km
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Villa Bosphorus
20.9 km
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Banyan Restaurant
21.2 km
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Feriye Lokantasi
21.3 km
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Manzara Restaurant
21.8 km
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Tuğra Restaurant
22.0 km
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The Populist
22.0 km
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TURK FATIH TUTAK
22.1 km
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Ismet Baba Fish Restaurant
22.2 km
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Hayat Memat Meyhanesi
22.3 km
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Besiktas Carsi Balik Restaurant
22.3 km
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Pancaldi Restaurant
22.3 km
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Hanedan Restaurant Meat & Fish
22.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Luxury Boutique Turkey
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İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi
14.7 km
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Turkeyfamousfor Handmade Gifts Shop
14.7 km
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Efesus Stone
17.4 km
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Akmerkez
18.2 km
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Kanyon Shopping Mall
18.8 km
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Lucky Culture
18.8 km
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Магазин Брендов 1
19.5 km
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Collection Point
19.6 km
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Zorlu Center
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IONIA IL CAFFÉ
20.7 km
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İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall
21.0 km
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Ortakoy Gift Shop
21.1 km
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CASHMERE BOSPHORUS
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Unique Mode
21.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
L'Eclipse Bar
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Capital Bar: Eat-Drink-Music
18.1 km
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Alexandra Cocktail Bar
18.6 km
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Sponge Pub
18.8 km
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Galatasaray İsland
19.4 km
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MiniBar Istanbul
19.5 km
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Long Bar
19.5 km
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Bosphorus Brewing Company
20.0 km
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Bar 212
20.6 km
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Hobo Kitchen+Bar
21.2 km
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Biergarten
21.8 km
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Summit Bar & Terrace
21.8 km
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Divine Brasserie & Jazz Club
21.9 km
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Kozmonot Pub Topağacı
21.9 km
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Lock Bar
22.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bedevi Official
18.0 km
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Fancy Club Vitrin & Meyhane
18.6 km
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Ozone Night Club Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent
18.8 km
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Piano Club Etiler
18.9 km
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29 Clup
19.2 km
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Pasha Club İstanbul
20.0 km
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Masquerade Club
20.1 km
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Sortie
20.4 km
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ديسكو ليالي وناسة اسطنبول - Wanasa Club Istanbul
21.1 km
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OASIS
21.1 km
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SEG Terrace
21.9 km
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Burj Al Arab Club
22.2 km
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Sess
22.4 km
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EVEN ISTANBUL
22.4 km
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Kalisas Night Club
22.4 km
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