Istanbul Chora Mosque and Balat Experience with Bosphorus Cruise
Overview
Available languages
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.
Ahrida Synagogue
The Ahrida Synagogue, built in the 15th century by Jews from Ohrid, is one of the oldest and largest synagogues in Istanbul.
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
Chora & Balat W/Sunset Cruise
With Violin or Guitar Player
Violin or Guitar player
Reviews
19 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Perfect
346henrikef,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Everything 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
5.00Everything was great. The staff and waiters were kind.
Super
A8120WOandreeac,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It a beauty atmosphere. I recomand this company.
Chora
cristianpJ9365YW,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ale una and te-am Was nice and profesionale
You have to choose it!
41athinak,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The best experience in Istanbul! Value for money! The staff was very friendly and happy!
Very nice experience
theologitisa,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very good value for money, very friendly staff
A must do sunset bosphorous cruise in istanbul
Sha0606,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such a lovely Bosphorus cruise! The views were amazing and everything was well organized. Our host Nur was super friendly and made the experience even better with her warm attitude . Delicious snacks were served onboard..overall it was a really chilled, enjoyable way to see Istanbul. Definitely recommend!
Very good tour
jeongbeens,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was very fun experience with a great view to ride a boat and look around the country with beneficial stories that person told us.
Tourist erdem
dianagS7412PJ,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Aleyna ans the erdem very good nice and kind beautiful city coral and the city Istanbul amazing recommend it to wverbody
Perfect
Traveler37605723876,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very good on board team, good welcome sticks and snacks,very good tour with beautiful views, interesting live guided !
From €100.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Golden City Tours