What if we told you that you could experience Venice in the heart of Anatolia, right in the middle of a vibrant student city? Yes, you heard that right! The Porsuk River, which flows like a necklace through Eskişehir, gives the city such an atmosphere that it's easy to feel like you're in a European city. If you're preparing a list of things to do on the Porsuk River for your next getaway, you must add the famous gondola ride to the very top. The gentle lapping of the water, the laughter rising from the riverside cafes, and the colorful boats gliding under the bridges... To understand the soul of Eskişehir, all you need to do is let yourself go with the flow of the Porsuk!

Take a gondola or esbot tour in the Adalar district that rivals Venice

When you think of the Porsuk River, the first activity that comes to mind is undoubtedly the famous boat tours. But here, you have two options: romance and nostalgia, or a practical city discovery? If your goal is to enjoy the moment with your loved ones, gliding slowly on the water, your choice should definitely be a gondola. If you're thinking, "I want to see the city from the water, a quick and enjoyable tour," then the larger tour boats called "esbots" are perfect for you.   

The starting point for these delightful journeys is the Köprübaşı area, one of the liveliest spots in the city. You can embark on an unforgettable experience with these boats, which operate under the "ESGONDOL" brand and depart from the pier right next to the old Tepebaşı Municipality building. To help you plan, we've gathered the most up-to-date information for you.   

Porsuk River Boat Tour Guide (2025 Prices)

 A little tip: If you haven't come with a tour package, buying your ticket directly from the official ticket office at Köprübaşı is the most economical option. This way, you avoid commissions from intermediary companies. Also, for the best photos and the most pleasant experience, we recommend planning your trip for late spring or the summer months. The water color can be a bit murky during rainy periods , but don't worry, the city's vibrant atmosphere is always there!   

Sit at one of the countless cafes and restaurants along the Porsuk River

After a tour on the Porsuk River, the best thing to do is to sit at one of the dozens of cafes and restaurants lining the riverbank and watch the city flow by. This isn't just a riverside; it's where the social heart of Eskişehir beats. This area, especially buzzing with the energy of university students, is lively and bustling at all hours of the day.   

The vibrant cafes and restaurants you see today are the fruit of successful urban planning and rehabilitation projects carried out on the Porsuk River over the years. So, when you sit here, you're not just having a coffee; you're also witnessing the modern face and transformation story of Eskişehir.   

If you're wondering where to sit, there's an option for every taste:

For Coffee Lovers:Hey Joe Cafe, one of the best representatives of the third-wave coffee movement, awaits you with its delicious coffees and cool atmosphere.   

For Traveler Souls:Varuna Gezgin Café Del Mundo, offering flavors from world cuisine and transporting you to different lands with its bohemian decor, is a must-visit.   

For Those Seeking Views and Elegance:GAGA Restaurant, with its modern design, spacious terrace, and commanding view of the Porsuk, is a fantastic choice, especially in the evening.   

For Fans of the Classics: You can take a pleasant break at established venues on Porsuk Boulevard like Dante Kafe or Arena Kafe, watching the world go by.   

If you get hungry while sipping your coffee by the Porsuk, let us take you to our article Things to Do in Porsuk to discover the city's famous delicacies.

Take photos passing over and under the city's modern bridges

One of the things that makes the Porsuk River so special is its beautiful bridges. These bridges are not just structures connecting two banks; they are works of art that reflect the city's aesthetic sense. It's worth noting that the legendary mayor Yılmaz Büyükerşen personally designed many of them.   

Each bridge over the Porsuk tells you a story of Eskişehir. These are not just structures of iron and concrete but also manifestos of the city's modern and open-minded identity. You'll understand what we mean when you see people lining up to take photos on these bridges, especially on weekends.   

Some of the best spots for photos are:

İki Eylül Bridge: Considered the city's main artery, this bridge will give you a bit of a Parisian vibe with its statues on the sides. Both the bridge itself and the Porsuk view from it offer great shots.   

Şair Fuzuli Bridge: This bridge, notable for its elegant decorations, is close to the starting point of the gondola tours, allowing you to capture beautiful compositions with the boats on the water.   

Mavi Köprü (Blue Bridge): As its name suggests, this bridge stands out with its vibrant color, creating a wonderful backdrop, especially on sunny days, and has become a staple for social media posts.   

We have two recommendations for the best photos: First, take shots from water level while passing under the bridges during a gondola or esbot tour. Second, stand on the bridges to capture both the fairytale-like view of the Porsuk and the architectural details of the bridge in the same frame. Every photo you take will be a part of this successful transformation story.

While You're Here...

Now that you're filled with the energy of the Porsuk River, it's time to discover the other wonders of Eskişehir! If you want to trace the footsteps of the past and travel through time, the Odunpazarı Houses district, just a walking distance from the Porsuk, awaits you. If you want to step into a fairytale world and push the limits of your imagination, head to Sazova Science, Culture, and Art Park, one of Turkey's largest and most beautiful parks.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the operating hours for gondola and esbot tours on the Porsuk River? They generally operate daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM during the spring and summer months. However, hours may vary depending on demand and weather conditions, so it's a good idea to confirm before you go.   

What is the main difference between a gondola and an esbot? Which one should I choose? A gondola offers a slower, more romantic ride for up to 4 people. An esbot is suitable for larger groups and provides a practical 15-minute city tour. Choose the gondola for a short and special experience, and the esbot for a quick overview of the city.

Can you swim in the Porsuk River, and is the water clean? The Porsuk River is intended for boat tours and recreation; the section in the city center is not suitable for swimming. The Eskişehir Municipality regularly performs bottom cleaning. However, at Kentpark, which is very close to the Porsuk, there is an artificial beach created using the river's water where you can swim.   

References: For our readers who want to access the most current and official price information, we recommend the official tariff page of the Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality as a source:

Source: Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality, "Tarifeler" (Tariffs), [https://www.eskisehir.bel.tr/tarifeler].