Istanbul in 1 Day for Couples - Sunset yacht cruise on the Bosphorus
In Collaboration with Earthissimo. Updated on February 1, 2026.
Two-hour luxury sunset yacht cruise on the Bosphorus from Karaköy. Sip wine, listen to curated music, and glide past Ottoman palaces, iconic bridges and waterfront mansions while your local host shares stories and takes photos. Perfect for couples seeking a relaxed, memorable evening in Istanbul.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Earthissimo, inspired by the tour Bosphorus Yacht Tour with Wine & Music. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Sunset yacht cruise on the Bosphorus
- Wine, snacks and curated music on board
- Views of Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace and Rumeli Fortress
- Passing under Bosphorus bridges and along European & Asian shores
- Rooftop cocktail in Galata for a romantic nightcap
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon arrival in Karaköy, relaxed pre-boarding coffee, then a 2‑hour sunset yacht cruise starting at 18:30. Finish with a rooftop cocktail and sweeping night views of the Golden Horn and Galata.
Pre-cruise coffee & light bite — Privato Cafe (Karaköy)
Arrive a little early to settle in with Turkish coffee or a sweet baklava and take the mood down a notch — soft lighting and cozy seats set the tone before boarding.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a window table if possible — you’ll get a quiet spot for photos and a view of the waterfront.
- Try a small shared dessert (baklava or sutlac) paired with a single espresso for a romantic moment without feeling too full before wine on the boat.
- Karaköy streets are cobbled; wear comfortable shoes and keep belongings close. If you arrive by tram, get off at Karaköy (T1) and follow the signs to the waterfront.
Meet & check-in at Karaköy Iskelesi (boarding point)
Arrive to the Karaköy ferry terminal to meet your host, check tickets and board the luxury 24‑meter yacht. Boarding window and safety briefing included.
Tips from local experts:
- Come to Karaköy İskelesi (ferry terminal) by 18:10 — tram T1 to Karaköy is the most scenic and avoids evening traffic.
- There are a few steps down to the pier; if either of you prefers step-free access, ask the host in advance for an easier boarding spot.
- Keep a light jacket handy — sea breezes intensify after sunset even in May.
Sunset Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Wine & Music — sail past Dolmabahçe, Ortaköy, Rumeli Fortress and more
Two-hour small-group luxury yacht cruise (starts 18:30). Enjoy 2 glasses of wine per guest, snacks and curated music while the captain and local host narrate highlights as you pass: Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress, Bebek, Rumeli / Anadolu fortresses, Küçüksu Pavilion, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, Beylerbeyi Palace, Maiden's Tower and views toward the Golden Horn and Galata Tower.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden hour is the special moment — position yourselves at the bow or on the upper deck about 20–30 minutes before sunset for the best photos; ask the host to take a portrait of the two of you.
- Bring a light wrap or shawl — the breeze across the water cools quickly after sunset in spring. Motion-sickness patches help if either of you is sensitive.
- You may bring extra drinks or snacks (host will serve them) — consider bringing a small bottle of your favourite wine for a private toast; remember to inform the host about corking/opening preferences.
Rooftop cocktail & night views — Leb-i Derya (Galata)
After disembarking, walk or take a short taxi to Galata for a rooftop cocktail with panoramic views of the Golden Horn, Old City and illuminated Bosphorus — a perfect intimate nightcap.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a window/edge table in advance for the view; weekends fill quickly in May.
- Dress slightly smart-casual — many rooftop venues have a relaxed but polished dress code in the evening.
- If you prefer a quieter corner, ask for seating away from the sound system; taxis are easy from Galata back to central hotels but confirm your destination with the driver in Turkish (or show the address).
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Restaurant, Transfer, Experience |
