As the sun casts its golden hues over the historic city of Istanbul, there is an enchanting experience that awaits those seeking to uncover its hidden treasures.
The Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise with Cable Car invites travelers to embark on a journey that combines the serenity of a boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait with the thrill of ascending Pierre Loti Hill by cable car.
This unique tour promises panoramic views of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and a chance to explore the city’s rich history from a fresh perspective.
But what makes this excursion truly captivating? Well, let’s set sail and discover the secrets that lie within Istanbul’s mesmerizing afternoon.
Good To Know

- The Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise with Cable Car tour allows participants to explore Istanbul by both land and sea.
- The tour includes a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait, offering views of Rumeli Fortress and Yildiz Palace.
- Participants will also visit various historical sites such as Eyup Sultan Tomb, the Church of St Stephen of the Bulgars, and the Byzantine city walls.
- The tour includes a cable car ride up Pierre Loti Hill, providing a panoramic view of the city.
Tour Highlights
One of the highlights of the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise & Cable Car tour is the breathtaking views of Rumeli Fortress and Yildiz Palace that can be enjoyed from the middle of the Bosphorus Strait.
But that’s not all. This tour also takes you to two historically significant sites: the Eyup Sultan Tomb and the Church of St Stephen.
The Eyup Sultan Tomb is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims, as it’s the final resting place of Eyup Sultan, a companion of Prophet Muhammad.
The Church of St Stephen, on the other hand, is a cast-iron church that was built in the 19th century and represents the Bulgarian community in Istanbul.
After visiting these sites, the tour takes you to Pierre Loti Hill, where you can ride a cable car and enjoy scenic views of Istanbul. From this vantage point, you can take in the magnificent skyline and the beauty of the city.
It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
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Bosphorus Boat Cruise

The Bosphorus Boat Cruise offers an enchanting journey through the scenic waters of Istanbul, providing a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking views.
As you glide along the Bosphorus Strait, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the city’s skyline, dotted with magnificent palaces, mosques, and bridges.
The boat cruise allows you to admire the grandeur of Rumeli Fortress and the elegance of Yildiz Palace from a whole new angle.
The gentle sway of the boat and the cool breeze in your hair create a serene atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the beauty of Istanbul.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, the Bosphorus boat cruise is a must-do experience that will leave you in awe of Istanbul’s scenic views.
Visit to Eyup Sultan Tomb and Church of St Stephen

During the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise & Cable Car tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the historic Eyup Sultan Tomb and the charming Church of St Stephen, enjoying the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul.
The Eyup Sultan Tomb holds great historical significance as it’s the burial place of Eyup Sultan, a close companion of Prophet Muhammad and one of the first Muslims in Istanbul. The tomb is considered one of the holiest sites in the city and attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The architectural details of the tomb showcase Ottoman design and craftsmanship, with intricate calligraphy and stunning tile work.
On the other hand, the Church of St Stephen, also known as the Bulgarian Iron Church, is a testament to the city’s diverse religious history. Built in the 19th century, this cast-iron church stands as a symbol of the Bulgarian community in Istanbul and features a unique blend of Byzantine and Western architectural styles.
Both the Eyup Sultan Tomb and the Church of St Stephen offer visitors a glimpse into Istanbul’s captivating past and the interplay of different cultures that have shaped the city.
Cable Car Ride to Pierre Loti Hill

As you ascend Pierre Loti Hill, the cable car provides a thrilling and scenic journey, offering panoramic views of Istanbul’s stunning skyline. From the comfort of the cable car, visitors can marvel at the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque.
This cable car ride not only offers a unique perspective of Istanbul, but it also holds historical significance. Pierre Loti Hill is named after the French writer and naval officer, Louis-Marie-Julien Viaud, who went by the pen name Pierre Loti. He was known for his love of Istanbul and spent much of his time in the city, drawing inspiration for his novels.
Today, visitors can experience the same awe-inspiring views that Loti himself enjoyed and appreciate the historical connection between the cable car ride and the renowned writer.
Tour Duration and Meeting Point

Upon arrival at the meeting point, participants of the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise & Cable Car tour are greeted with anticipation for an exciting exploration of the city by land and sea. The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, providing ample time to experience the highlights of Istanbul. The meeting point is located at the Kabatas Pier, where the tour begins with a scenic boat cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. From the boat, participants can admire the stunning views of Rumeli Fortress and Yildiz Palace. After the boat ride, the tour continues with a visit to Eyup Sultan Tomb, the cast-iron Church of St Stephen of the Bulgars, and the Byzantine city walls. The final stop of the tour is Pierre Loti Hill, accessed by a cable car ride, where participants can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, leaving participants with lasting memories of Istanbul’s beauty.
| Tour Duration | Meeting Point |
|---|---|
| Approximately 4 hours | Kabatas Pier |
Refund Policy and Customer Reviews

Continuing the exploration of the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise & Cable Car tour, let’s now explore the refund policy and hear what customers have to say about their experiences.
The refund policy for this tour states that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time or make changes within that timeframe, no refund will be given. It’s important to note that the tour organization operates based on the local time of the experience.
In terms of customer reviews, there’s one review available, giving the tour an overall rating of 2.0. The review mentions a slightly chaotic tour, with late collection and an hour-long wait for the bus. It also highlights that the tour started late and lacked stops for food, water, or bathroom breaks.
However, the host responded to the customer’s concerns, apologized, and refunded the entire payment, demonstrating a helpful attitude towards customer satisfaction.
Common Questions

Is Food Included in the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise & Cable Car Tour?
Food is not included in the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise & Cable Car tour. Visitors with dietary restrictions should plan accordingly and bring their own snacks or eat before the tour.
How Long Is the Boat Ride During the Tour?
The boat ride during the tour lasts for approximately one hour. Along the way, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the views of Rumeli Fortress and Yildiz Palace in the middle of the Bosphorus Strait.
Can I Visit the Eyup Sultan Tomb and Church of St Stephen on My Own Without Joining the Tour?
Yes, you can visit Eyup Sultan Tomb and the Church of St. Stephen on your own without joining the tour. Both attractions offer self-guided tours, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
What Is the Duration of the Cable Car Ride to Pierre Loti Hill?
The cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill offers stunning views of Istanbul. Experience the beauty of the city from above as you ascend the hill and take in the panoramic scenery.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Join the Tour?
The minimum age requirement for the tour is not specified. It is recommended to contact the tour provider for more information on tour participation criteria, including any age restrictions that may apply.
The Sum Up

To sum it up, the Istanbul Afternoon Boat Cruise with Cable Car offers an enchanting experience for travelers seeking to discover the beauty and history of Istanbul.
With its breathtaking views of iconic landmarks and the Bosphorus Strait, visits to significant sites, and a thrilling cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill, this tour provides a unique perspective of the city.
Plus, the tour offers a convenient meeting point and a flexible refund policy, making it an opportunity not to be missed for anyone visiting Istanbul.
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