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
26 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great 2-Hour Ferry Experience
692nimeshs,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had 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
5.00It 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
5.00Great 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
5.00Chora ghided tour was nice and quality
Must try
burakemreo,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very large and comfortable boat . They even shared food and beverages.
Have a nice boat trip, highly recommended
423christiaanh,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly 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
5.00Nice cruise with a personal touch & tasty snacks🙏🏻👍🏻😄 definitely recommended.
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.
From €100.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Golden City Tours