What it is
There has been a structure on the rock since antiquity — a customs post, a lighthouse, a quarantine station. The current tower is nineteenth century, restored and reopened in 2023 with a café and viewing level.
The legends attached to it are numerous and mutually contradictory, which is part of the appeal.
The reward is the view: from the middle of the water, the old city sits low on one side and the Asian shore rises on the other.
Arriving by car
Boats run from Üsküdar and Kabataş; the Üsküdar crossing is the short one. A car sets you down at the pier and collects you there afterwards.
Üsküdar is an easy drive from Sabiha Gökçen and a bridge crossing from the European side — worth pairing with Çengelköy or Kuzguncuk in the same afternoon.
Worth knowing
- Crossings can be suspended in strong wind — have a second plan
- Book the café table in advance in season if you want to sit
- The waterfront walk in Üsküdar is a pleasant way to fill a wait
Close by
Üsküdar · Kuzguncuk · Çengelköy · Çamlıca Hill