The Bosphorus is often defined as a natural waterway that connects Asia and Europe. However, it’s much more than that. On both sides of this strait, you find a vast tradition and history. The city that surrounds this magnificent waterway is what is now called “Istanbul”, “Constantinople” and “Byzantium” earlier. Even these three names imply the big history (or story, which are the same word in Romance languages) of this city. Let’s do some hi/story of the word Bosphorus to begin.
If I were to say that Oxford means literally the same as Bosphorus, you wouldn’t believe me. Believe me or not, it is what it is. The word “Bosphorus” comes from Ancient Greek, it is a compound word “βοὸς” (Bos) + “πόρος” (poros), meaning cattle strait, or Ox-ford. Right behind the etymology, there lies a mythology. A mortal lover of Zeus, Io was a figure of Greek mythology, who was known to transform into a cow. She was condemned to wander across different regions of the world. At some point, she crossed a narrow strait, and that was Bosphorus itself. Since she crossed this passage in a cow form, the waterway that connects Europe and Asia came to be known as Bosphorus.
Another story lies in a historical misuse of the word. The original name was written with a “π” (p) in Ancient Greek. Yet, in the Middle Ages, the word started to be written with a “φ” (phi), which transformed the spelling from “Bosporus” to “Bosphorus” and its derivatives in all the Romance languages (French, Spanish, Italian, etc.) and in Russian. Today, even though the “Bosporus” spelling is found in the dictionaries, “Bosphorus” is used much more commonly.
The Bosphorus is characteristically described as an intercontinental bridge between Europe and Asia. (It literally has three suspension bridges on it to connect both sides!) The bridge metaphor is widely used to describe Istanbul’s and Türkiye’s geopolitical position as well as a literary buzzword. It also implies a civilizational divide, East and West. Türkiye has both Western and Eastern features. That’s why the identity of a Turk is a rather complicated thing to explain. It’s not your typical European, but not your typical Middle Eastern either.
Istanbul is known to be the capital of three Empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. (Some count the Latin empire too, but it was a rather short period). Roman emperor Constantine the Great proclaimed Istanbul as the capital of the empire in 330 (hence the name Constantinople). When the Roman empire collapsed in 395, the empire was divided into two parts as East and West. Eastern Rome continued to call itself Rome, however historians named it as “Byzantine Empire” to distinguish it from the original Roman empire, since its capital used to be called as “Byzantion”, around the 7th century BCE. The Byzantine empire continued to exist, with a Crusades break between 1204 to 1261, until 1453, when Mehmet II of the Ottomans conquered Istanbul. Ottomans proclaimed the city as their capital too and saw themselves as Romans, since Anatolia was called “Diyar-ı Rum” (Land of the Romans) and Mehmet II used the title “Kayser-i Rum” (Caesar of Rome).
Due to its imperial history, the Bosphorus was home to many palaces. One of the oldest palaces in Istanbul is the Boukoleon Palace, built in the 5th century by Thedosius II. Today, there are only ruins of this palace but it’s in a restoration process.
A newer palace is the Topkapi Palace, which is usually one of the first destinations of the tourists in Istanbul. This Ottoman Palace was built after the conquest of Istanbul (then Constantinople) by Mehmed II in 1453. Although it’s not on the seaside, but rather on a hill, its grandeur is seen from many different angles on the Bosphorus.
Bosphorus is not all about some imperial history, but it’s also home to some of the best examples of civic architecture along its coasts. These waterside mansions are called “Yalı” in Turkish, coming from Middle Greek γιάλη (yiáli), meaning seaside. They are usually built by some powerful people in the Ottoman Empire, pashas (high state officials) or some non-muslim businessmen.
Istanbul’s Asian side is a city in a city—quieter, yet no less enchanting. But in its crowded streets and quiet residential districts, its hills whisper a history, a culture, and a view that takes your breath away. From Çamlıca’s grandeur to Joshua’s Hill’s mystical beauty, these hills have long been Istanbul’s best-kept secrets. Chasing panoramic skylines, searching for hidden temples, or simply searching for a peaceful retreat? These hills have in store for you a view, but an experience, not a view, but an experience. Let’s climb and explore!
Standing tall in the city’s most famous viewpoints, Çamlıca Hill is a nexus of modernity and heritage. With its magnificent Çamlıca Mosque, the biggest in Turkey, and its panoramic view taking in the view from the Princes' Islands to the Golden Horn, it’s a must-stop for any traveler wishing to witness Istanbul’s enchanting beauty in one glance. Enjoying a cup of tea at one of its intimate hillside cafes, and appreciating beauty in its graceful domes, a trip to Çamlıca Hill is nothing short of magical. You can also visit the newly built Çamlıca Mosque to appreciate its graceful domes and the stunning view of the Bosphorus.
If you're looking for Asia's high point, go to Mt. Bulgurlu (262m). Not perhaps as renowned as Çamlıca, but no less pleasing, this hill affords visitors unobstructed views of both bridges and the Bosphorus and is a must for photographers and urbanists alike. Nearby, the Selimiye and Validebağ forests offer a peaceful haven, in which soft murmurings of history and nature combine in harmony.
For a view that will make you believe you're in a postcard, go to Nakkaştepe (Embroiderers' Hill). With its breathtaking view over the First Bosphorus Bridge, and its peaceful atmosphere, this hill is a must for any visitor to Istanbul. Below, Istanbul’s multi-faith heritage comes to life in the lovely district of Kuzguncuk, faiths have lived in harmony for centuries. Drop in at Beth Ya'akov and Beth Nissim Synagogues, admire the Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Armenian and Aya Panteleymon Greek Orthodox Churches, or stroll through peaceful Üryanizade and Kuzguncuk Mosques—all within walking distance. Completing the district’s personality, Kuzguncuk possesses a traditional bostan (city garden), in whose midst one can buy locally produced, freshly harvested produce and get a glimpse of Istanbul’s agricultural heritage. Not a stop for a view, but a living testimony to the city’s rich past and present, this hill is a must for any visitor to Istanbul.
For those with an urge for a cinematic panorama of the Bosphorus, Otağtepe is nothing short of breathtaking. Perched high above the Second Bridge, this hill is famous for its panoramic view, and with it, Istanbul’s European and Asian coastlines in one frame can be seen. Ride its cable car, climb its scenic trails, and Otağtepe is the perfect place in which to stop, draw a deep breath, and indulge in Istanbul’s timeless beauty.
In a quiet corner of Istanbul, Kandilli is where Istanbul comes to relax. Perched high on a hill with a view over the Bosphorus, this district is home to some of Istanbul’s most breathtaking sunset panoramas. Kandilli is not simply about view, but about its historic mansions, Kandilli Mosque, and Kandilli Observatory, a haven for astronomers. Walking down its quiet streets, one can almost glimpse a glimpse of refinement in old Istanbul, apart from modern-day madness. Need a serene spot for a scenic coffee break? Kandilli’s seaside cafes are a perfect choice.
Along the Bosphorus, Kanlıca is a lovely district renowned for its famous Kanlıca Yogurt—a rich, subtly tangy dessert best enjoyed with a dash of powdered sugar. Kanlıca, though, is not a culinary stop alone. Mihrabat Woods, with its lush green trails and panoramic vistas of the Bosphorus, and its Ottoman yalıs (mansions) lining its shoreline, form a serene retreat in a section of Istanbul trapped in a nostalgic past. Enjoy a boat ride to this retreat, or a leisurely breakfast with a view, and Kanlıca is a bite of Istanbul’s heritage.
If you're looking for a real Istanbul with no touristic hustle and bustle, Çengelköy is your district of choice. Known for its crunchy cucumbers (Çengelköy salatalığı) and seafront teahouses, Çengelköy blends heritage with a living community life. Historic Vahdettin Kiosk, a former residence of Ottoman Sultan Vahdettin, is a reminder of its imperial past, and its multicultural heritage can be seen in its reflection in the Church of St. George and Armenian Köçeoğlu Family Mansion. Strolling through vibrant Çengelköy Market or having a tea in centuries-old plane trees' shadow, you will feel the pulse of the Bosphorus in this lovely district.
At the edge of the Bosphorus in the north, Beykoz is a mixture of history and nature. With its wooded hills, Ottoman mansions, and serene shoreline, Beykoz is a country retreat in a city. Overlooking the Bosphorus, the imposing view of the grand Khedive Palace, built for Egypt’s final Ottoman sultan, is breathtaking, and a glimpse of Ottoman sultans' lavish life can be experienced at Hünkar Mansion. Beykoz is a haven for nature lovers, with lush hiking trails, seafront promenades, and quiet tea gardens for a leisureful retreat. Whatever your intention – visiting its heritage sites or simply enjoying a whiff of refreshing Bosphorus air – Beykoz is where you go to inhale.
Joshua’s Hill (Yuşa Tepesi) is a location in which religion, history, and beauty combine breathtakingly. Islam, Christianity, and Judaism believe that it is the resting place of Prophet Joshua (Yuşa), and for them, it holds significant religious value. Visitors admire the 17-meter-long grand grave and say prayer at the Yuşa Mosque, and according to legend, an ancient Temple of Zeus stood at this location, adding an aura of mythology to it. Besides its religious value, Joshua’s Hill possesses one of Istanbul’s most panoramic and scenic views, stretching from the Bosphorus to the Black Sea, and is a haven for both spiritual and scenic inspirations in a peaceful manner.
Üsküdar, although not officially a part of the city in the past, is one of Istanbul’s oldest and historically significant districts. It is a land of sultans, mystics, and poets, marked by its rich Ottoman heritage and deep-rooted spiritual significance. Home to some of the most iconic mosques, palaces, and scenic spots along the Bosphorus, Üsküdar offers visitors a unique blend of history, architecture, and tranquility.
Istanbul is commonly known by tourists for its rather classical sites like Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia and the historical peninsula. However, there is also a very rich heritage on the Bosphorus, in what we call “Bosphorus Villages” since they all end with “–köy” meaning village. Although they were villages in the past, they are now integral parts of the city and frequently visited. We picked three great examples of these villages for you to explore more of Istanbul.
Have you ever wondered what it's like to cruise along the Bosphorus, the sparkling strait that divides two continents? One of Istanbul's prominent elements is the Bosphorus, which links the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara and acts as the meeting point of Europe and Asia. A cruise along its waters is an experience that will never be forgotten because of the amazing blend of history, scenic beauty, and urban excitement it offers.
During a Bosphorus cruise tour in Istanbul, you will see many monumental buildings and a great nature. It's often hard to choose the best option since Istanbul offers you so many different things to do at the same time. We picked 6 hotspots for you to better understand the culture and nature of the Bosphorus.
Discover the European side of the Bosphorus Strait, where historic coves like Rumeli Hisarı and İstinye meet cultural landmarks such as the Greek Patriarchate and the Sadberk Hanım Museum. From the bustling luxury of Bebek to the serene shores of Kuruçeşme and Yeniköy’s iconic waterfront mansions, each stop offers a unique blend of Istanbul’s rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant local life.
Istanbul’s Asian side offers a rich blend of history, nature, and stunning views often overlooked by visitors. From the panoramic grandeur of Çamlıca Hill and the serene charm of Kandilli to the spiritual significance of Joshua’s Hill, each destination reveals a unique story. Whether exploring the lively streets of Çengelköy, savoring the famous yogurt of Kanlıca, or soaking in the lush greenery of Beykoz, this journey offers not just scenic views but an authentic experience of Istanbul’s cultural depth and natural beauty.
Istanbul is a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly, and few sights capture this contrast as elegantly as the yalıs—the grand (mostly wooden) mansions lining the Bosphorus Strait. These waterfront homes, with their stunning views and rich histories, are among the city’s most treasured architectural gems. Exploring these beautiful residences is an unforgettable way to experience the city's charm, history, and luxury.
Have you ever thought about what it’s like to sail along the Bosphorus, the beautiful strait that separates two continents? The Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s most important features, connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara while acting as the border between Europe and Asia. Taking a cruise on its waters is an unforgettable experience, combining history, stunning views, and the energy of the city. In this guide, we share the best alternative Bosphorus tours for you to enjoy.