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One of the best Sights covered in Bosphorus sightseeing cruise is the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Dating back to 537 AD, this monument was first built as a centre of the Eastern orthodox church in the Byzantine eras, and was then converted into a mosque in the year 1453, during the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Throughout history, between the years 1953 and 2020, Hagia Sophia has also served as a museum, after which it was reopened again as a church.
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When going on a Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise, you must definitely admire the stunning Basilica Cistern, which ranks as the largest cistern in the city of Istanbul. Spread across 9,800 square metres of area, and held up by more than 300 marble pillars, the Basilica Cistern dates back to the 6th century, and was built during the Byzantine Era. It is also particularly known for the Hen’s Eye column and the two heads of Medusa.
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Also known as the Topkapi Palace Museum, the Topkapi Palace is one of the most famous sights included in a Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise. The palace at one time used to be the main residence and the administrative centre of the rulers of the Ottoman empire. As of today, it serves as one of the most famous museums in the city, where you can witness and catch sights of ancient artefacts, manuscripts, relics, weapons and a lot more, thereby learning about Turkey’s rich history and heritage.
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Popularly known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is another famous sightseeing attraction and landmark that you will witness during your cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. This mosque dates back to Ottoman times, and was built in the year 1616. Boasting of the traditional Islamic style of architecture, the Blue Mosque also has several stunning Byzantine elements in it and attracts more than 4 million visitors and worshippers every year.
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The Dolmabahce Palace is said to be the largest palace in the entire country of Turkey, and is spread over an expanse of a little more than 11 acres. Built in the mid-19th century, between the years 1843 and 1856, this palace used to be the main administrative headquarters of the Ottoman empire. In addition to its amazing size, the palace also boasts of a stunning mix of the Ottoman, Baroque, Rococo and the Neo Classical styles of architecture.
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The Bosphorus Bridge is built over the Bosphorus Strait, and was the longest suspension bridge in all of Europe until 1981, and the longest suspension bridge in Asia until 1988. It connects the European and Asian sides of the city of Istanbul and was opened in the month of October in 1973. During your sunset or dinner cruise, you can see the entire bridge being illuminated with hundreds of LED lights with changing colours and patterns, making it a sight to behold.
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What sights are covered in the Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise?
The Sights covered in Bosphorus sightseeing cruise include attractions like Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Dolmabahçe Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge.
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How long is the Bosphorus Cruise?
The duration of a Bosphorus Cruise depends on the type of cruise you avail. While a sightseeing cruise can take anywhere between 1 to 10 hours, a Bosphorus lunch or dinner cruise takes around 3 to 5 hours.
Where does the Bosphorus cruise leave from?
The Bosphorus Cruise typically leaves from the Kabatas Pier or the Dolmabahçe Palace.
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Should we buy the Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tickets in advance?
Yes, you should buy the Bosphorus Cruise tickets in advance. Being one of the most popular activities in Istanbul, the Bosphorus Cruise typically has very limited seats, which tend to get booked rather quickly. Pre-booking your tickets in advance will help you secure your seats for the cruise on a day and time of your choice, thereby avoiding any last-minute hassles.
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What's the best time to book Bosphorus cruise tickets?
The best time to book Bosphorus Cruise tickets is at least two to four days, or a week before the estimated departure time of your cruise. This will help you save the last-minute rush and high ticket prices, while also presenting you with different cruise options according to your preferences.
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