Travel between Europe and Asia and enjoy incredible views along the Bosphorus Bridge. This 1.5-kilometre (1-mile) suspension bridge spans the Bosphorus Strait, connecting Istanbul’s Ortaköy and Beylerbeyi districts.
Since it was opened in 1923 this bridge has carried millions of travellers, whether they are crossing for work or just admiring the sights. Board a public bus across the bridge to catch views of the Strait and the Prince’s Islands. Visit in the evenings to watch as spotlights highlight the bridge’s dramatic architecture.
Every year in October, thousands of walkers get the chance to cross this majestic construction on foot. Sign up for this fun run and take part in the Intercontinental Istanbul Eurasian Marathon. Details can be found on the marathon’s official website.
For an incredible memory of the bridge, board a cruise ship on the Bosphorus Strait. These passenger ferries and private tours leave from several ports around Istanbul, including Eminönü, Kadiköy and Üsküdar. Admire the bridge’s expansive pylons as you pass underneath. Look back to the city and spot palace spires and mosque domes poking over the city skyline. Some cruises even take passengers out into the Black Sea.
Each end of the bridge boasts a number of worthwhile landmarks. On the European side, walk around the Baroque-style Ortaköy Mosque, an impressive marble and mosaicked construction that was built in 1853. Wander the cobblestone streets of the Ortaköy district and browse quaint bars, cafés, galleries and craft shops. On the Asian side, find the Beylerbeyi Palace, which once housed the Ottoman sultans. The palace gardens are a great place to photograph the bridge.
Drive to the Bosphorus Bridge from Istanbul’s historic centre. The trip takes around 15 minutes. Alternatively, get there by bus or journey on foot and visit sights along the way.
