Planning a trip to Istanbul? A Bosphorus tour is one thing you should consider doing. The picturesque waterway splits not just the European and Asian sides but also offers breathtaking views from Istanbul’s skyline, historic palaces, and charming villages. Nevertheless, timing is everything if you want to fully enjoy your tour. Let’s go into details to see what is the best time for a Bosphorus cruise.
How to Tell the Time of Year
Istanbul has four definite seasons and each season is different from the others.
Spring (March to May)
Spring has been considered the best time to do a Bosphorus cruise. This is mainly because during spring the city relieves itself from its cold winters; flowers bloom, and the weather is warm and pleasant. You will also see great, lush greenery views on the shores and the bridges over the Bosphorus. Early morning or late afternoon cruises are relaxing in spring and really offer the best conditions for taking nice photos and breathing fresh air.
Summer: June to August
This is the warmest and longest time of the day. Therefore, it is quite popular among tourists. In as much as a summer Bosphorus cruise would be truly alive, larger crowds should be expected. The liveliness and warmth of the evening make this perfect for a sunset cruise. To see locals and tourists together, this is one fine time you may want to be on the waters. Just don’t forget the water bottle and sunscreen, as the midday sun may become strong.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is one more ideal time to go on a cruise along the Bosphorus. The weather is soft, and the colors of nature in autumn will create a kind of spell. At the same time, unlike in summer, fewer tourists are present, so your journey can be more comfortable. In particular, early fall is perfect for photography when the golden color of the leaves creates some special view. Besides, a cruise at sunset can be really charming.
December, January, and February are dominated by winter.
While winter does not sound just right for a Bosphorus cruise, it has its own unique charm. The city is less crowded at that time of the year, and you may find some special moments with the city blanketed in snow. Provided one bundles up against the cold and picks a day when the skies are clear, a winter cruise can actually be serene and romantic. Moreover, the snow-tipped landmarks against the sharp blue waters are unforgettable.
Timing Your Cruise
When planning your Bosphorus cruise, make sure to take into account the timing. Cruises that start early in the morning or late in the afternoon are usually less crowded and more serene. If you have an interest in photography, these times are also the best for perfect lighting.
Sunset Cruises
Of course, among the tourists, it is one of the most popular choices: the sunset cruise. Indeed, it feels like magic – to observe the sun setting over the horizon while cruising along the Bosphorus, with silhouetted minarets and the skyline of the city forming a breathtaking panorama.
Dinner Cruises
For the indulgent, dine on a cruise. A few operators operate dinner cruises, usually in traditional Turkish cuisine with live music. These are extremely popular during summer and autumn when one can enjoy delectable meals with the stunning views.
Conclusion
Choosing the best time for a Bosphorus cruise can indeed greatly enhance an experience in Istanbul. Be it the vibrant blooms of spring, the alive energy of summer, the serene beauty of autumn, or the quiet charm of winter-whichever you think would be the perfect time, each season tells something different about this marvelous city. So get your camera ready, choose your ideal time, and start your journey on an unforgettable Bosphorus tour!
You can check out our Bosphorus cruises.
