Bosphorus Bridge

Bosphorus Bridge featuring cruising, a bridge and a coastal town
Bosphorus Bridge
Bosphorus Bridge
Bosphorus Bridge
Photo by The Adventure Rally


Travel from Europe to Asia on the first bridge to connect the two continents, admire the bridge from below during a cruise and visit centuries-old buildings.

The Bosphorus Bridge is a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) long suspension bridge that crosses the Bosphorus Strait. It stretches between Istanbul’s Ortaköy and Beylerbeyi districts. Opened in 1973, it was the first bridge to connect the continents of Europe and Asia.

Jump on a public bus or a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to travel across the bridge and between the two continents. If possible, sit on the upper deck of a bus and take in the views of the Bosphorus Strait and the Prince’s Islands. At night the bridge is lit up spectacularly, presenting a good photo opportunity.

Each October there is a chance to cross the bridge on foot so you can claim to have sprinted from Asia to Europe. Sign up for the “fun run," which is part of the Intercontinental Istanbul Eurasian Marathon, and join thousands of participants. Visit the marathon’s official website for further details.

An alternative and enjoyable way to see the bridge is on a cruise of the Bosphorus Strait. Passenger ferries and private tours depart from various docks around the city, including Eminönü, Kadiköy and Üsküdar. Ferries pass beneath the bridge, allowing you to appreciate its size. The cruises also offer views of historical mosques and palaces. Some cruises will even go as far as the Black Sea.

Don’t miss the attractions situated on each end of the bridge. Dominating the European side is the Baroque-style Ortaköy Mosque, built in 1853 and decorated with white marble and intricate mosaics. Take your time wandering the cobblestone streets of the Ortaköy district, which are lined with bars and cafés, galleries and handicraft stalls. Go to the Asian side of the bridge to visit Beylerbeyi Palace, a former summer residence of Ottoman sultans. You can enjoy uninterrupted views of the bridge from the palace’s gardens.

The Bosphorus Bridge is a 15-minute drive from Istanbul’s historic center. Public buses provide easy access otherwise it is a 1-hour walk.

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Things to do near Bosphorus Bridge

Near the Bosphorus Bridge, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including delightful theatre performances and vibrant shopping experiences. The area offers a unique blend of cultural enrichment and retail therapy, making it an ideal spot for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Istanbul's lively atmosphere while taking in the stunning views of the iconic bridge.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre, just 3.2km from the Bosphorus Bridge, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping. Mecidiyekoy Square and Balık Pazarı, both 4.8km away, provide a delightful local shopping experience with city vibes.

Recreation

At Tupras Stadium, immerse yourself in the energy of sports activities just 3.2km from the Bosphorus Bridge. For a serene experience, visit Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam, located 4.8km away, where you can indulge in traditional relaxation treatments. Enjoy an evening of entertainment at Cemal Resit Rey Concert Hall, also 3.2km away.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at Istanbul Jumping, located 8.0km from the Bosphorus Bridge. For a scenic adventure, hike the Sultans Trail, 6.4km away, and enjoy stunning landscapes. Alternatively, take the Eyüp Cable Car, also 8.0km distant, for family-friendly outdoor fun and magnificent views.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Bosphorus Bridge is vibrant and diverse. Experience culture and romance at Cemil Topuzlu Open Air Theatre or Uskudar Tekel Sahnesi. For an adventurous twist, visit The Game For Big Kids arcade, perfect for both families and thrill-seekers alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Bosphorus Bridge

When visiting the Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul, you'll find a wealth of attractions to explore, including mosques, historic palaces, and vibrant piazzas. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking cultural enrichment, urban experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're drawn to the rich history or the stunning views, there's something for everyone in this enchanting area.

  • Taksim Square: A vibrant hub of culture and city life, Taksim Square is renowned for its bustling atmosphere. Explore the surrounding shops, cafes, and historical monuments, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe.
  • Dolmabahçe Palace: This historic palace, located near the Bosphorus, showcases stunning architecture and opulent interiors, reflecting the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Its beautiful gardens and rich history offer a captivating glimpse into Türkiye's royal past.
  • Ciragan Palace: Once a residence for sultans, this historic building now serves as a luxurious hotel. Its breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and exquisite design make it a fantastic location to appreciate the elegance of Ottoman architecture.

Best time to go to Bosphorus Bridge

The best time to visit Bosphorus Bridge is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May63.7°F (17.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.5°F (22.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July77.4°F (25.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
August77.9°F (25.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.3°F (22.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bosphorus Bridge

To save money during your visit to the Bosphorus Bridge, consider travelling between January and March when prices are lower. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by filtering for Eco-certified options and sorting prices from lowest to highest. Additionally, consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for better deals. Take advantage of free activities in the area and use public transport to explore Istanbul affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bosphorus Bridge are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bosphorus Bridge is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Bosphorus Bridge is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation near the Bosphorus Bridge with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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