Istanbul Chora Mosque and Balat Experience with Bosphorus Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

5 hours

Mobile ticket

This guided tour starts with a 1-hour visit to Kariye (Chora) Church, a remarkable Byzantine church celebrated for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes. After exploring Kariye, you will head to Balat, a vibrant neighborhood full of colorful historic houses, churches, synagogues, and lively streets reflecting local culture.

Following the Balat visit, enjoy a 2-hour Bosphorus cruise, taking in breathtaking views of both Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. Along the way, you will pass by famous landmarks including Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Anadolu Fortress, Kuleli Palace, Küçüksu Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and the iconic Bosphorus Bridges.

This tour perfectly combines history, culture, architecture, and scenic beauty, offering a thorough introduction to Istanbul’s rich heritage and the stunning Bosphorus coastline. A professional guide provides detailed explanations in English at all sites.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for people who are prone to seasickness

Not recommended for people with vertigo

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Meeting point in front of Kariye Mosque with your guide.

1 hour • Admission Not Included

Ahrida Synagogue

The Ahrida Synagogue, built in the 15th century by Jews from Ohrid, is one of the oldest and largest synagogues in Istanbul.

Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Some snacks during the sunset cruise such as baklava cookies and fruits

two hours bosphorus sunset cruise

Englısh professional tour guide

Admission and entry tickets (chora mosque)

Public transportation tickets and expenses

Options

With Violin or Guitar Player

Violin or Guitar player

Chora & Balat W/Sunset Cruise

Reviews

5.00

26 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Great 2-Hour Ferry Experience
692nimeshs,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had a really nice ferry ride! It was a 2-hour journey that felt smooth and relaxing, with great views throughout. Snacks were provided on board, which made the experience even better. Nur, one of the staff members, was especially friendly and welcoming. The trip was also reasonably priced for the experience.
Fantastic
diyardeniz 2020,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was a lovely day and a beautiful tour with Deniz and Nur
Stunning yacht trip on the Bosphorus
Saverio N,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great experience, comfortable boat, snacks and fruit. The guide and Nur very kind. I'd definitely do it again.
Guided tour
mehmetaZ5316RA,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Chora ghided tour was nice and quality
Must try
burakemreo,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very large and comfortable boat . They even shared food and beverages.
Have a nice boat trip, highly recommended
423christiaanh,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Highly recommended to see both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul in a short time. We could not make the first reservation, moving was no problem to the next day. Top service!
Nice cruise with a personal touch & tasty snacks🙏🏻👍🏻😄 definitely recommended.
Q2831SAjudithh,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Nice cruise with a personal touch & tasty snacks🙏🏻👍🏻😄 definitely recommended.
Perfect
346henrikef,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Everything was perfect! After a nice welcome from Nur we started thr tour and also got delicious snacks and drinks. The tour guide Arol did a great job. Highly recommend
Tour istanbul
956shahaba,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Everything was great. The staff and waiters were kind.
Super
A8120WOandreeac,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It a beauty atmosphere. I recomand this company.