I'm rowing in Istanbul

“What an amazing way to start our day in Istanbul! We were picked up promptly from The Four Seasons Sultanhamet by Sinan, and were in a sculling boat rowing on the Golden Horn within 45 minutes. With a little direction by our knowledgeable instructor and a bit of practice, we rowed up and down the bay on a beautiful and calm morning. It was exhilarating to be on the water in the early morning watching the city come alive. We always felt safe and well cared for, and enjoyed hearing Sinan tell us about the historical sites from the water view. Most amazingly, we learned how to row in a sculling boat! If I lived here, I would spend every morning rowing in Istanbul; it is a FABULOUS tour.” Read more on Tripadvisor.

I'm Rowing in Istanbul

Rowing tour is one of the most unique Istanbul experiences that we offer. What better way to start your morning than with rowing along the Golden Horn; a calm and quiet stretch of water with fantastic views of the old city . The Golden Horn is the major waterway—an inlet of the Bosphorus—that separates the historical peninsula of Istanbul from the newer city. 

As we row early in the morning, you’ll feel you have Istanbul all for yourself. Whether you’re an experienced rower or a complete beginner, we spend an hour rowing on the historic Golden Horn. The minarets and spires of the old city’s most beautiful mosques and churches are easily visible from the water—in particular the Süleymaniye Mosque, constructed by the Ottoman master architect Sinan, towers over the city. Along the shores of the Golden Horn are dotted historic districts of the ancient city, Fatih, Fener, and Balat. Especially, watch out for Phanar Greek Orthodox College, an extraordinary red brick building, which stands out as an iconic piece of architecture on the hills of Fener. 

You should also look out for the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, also known as the Bulgarian Iron Church. This structure is famous for its cast-iron elements in neo-Byzantine style with a gilded dome. Among other landmarks of importance along the way are the old French tobacco factory, now repurposed as Kadir Has University; Balat Or-Ahayim Hospital, and the Haliç Shipyards, one of the oldest active shipyards in the world with a history that dates back to 1571. If you are careful enough, you will also be able to spot the ancient Sea and the Land Walls of Constantinople. You can learn more about the Golden Horn and visit its historic districts in our Fener, Balat walking tour.

Highlights

• See historical landmarks of Istanbul from the water including ancient city walls, grand Ottoman mosques, 19th century churches and a great panoramic view. 
• Practice a unique exercise paired with fantastic views of the sun rising over the old city, while listening to the sounds of birds and seagulls.
• Learn to row from professional and expert teachers. If you are new to rowing, there’s nothing to worry about as we use the most talented teachers in Istanbul. You will first learn the basics of rowing and then get to enjoy rowing together on the Golden Horn.
• Have Istanbul all to yourself! As we go early in the morning, you can enjoy the calm water, pink hues of sunrise, the sound of ezan (call for prayer) and no one else around! It's just you… and the other early birds.

Safety First

We offer a short demonstration and briefing before we start to row in the water and use experienced and licensed rowing instructors. We also provide a life jacket for each participant.

Who is this tour for?

• Anyone who has never tried rowing and would like to learn the basics in a safe environment.
• Anyone from experienced rowers to complete beginners who want to get out and take in the city whilst being active.
• Anyone that would like to see Istanbul from a new perspective.

Why book with Istanbul Tour Studio?

• We use professional, licensed rowing instructors that will make you feel safe and comfortable at all times.
• Istanbul Tour Studio is rated "Excellent" on Tripadvisor. Click to read the latest reviews about us.

 Contact us for more information