Views & landmarks
Maiden's Tower
Maiden's Tower
Located on a small islet off the coast of Üsküdar, this tower dates back to the Byzantine era. Visitors go there to see the architecture of the structure and to view the Istanbul skyline and the Bosphorus from a vantage point separated from the mainland.
Getting There
To reach the tower, travel to the Üsküdar district on the Asian side of the city. From the city centre, you can take a ferry or public transport to Üsküdar. Once at the shore, a short boat shuttle transports visitors from the pier to the islet. The total travel time varies depending on the starting point but typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Time Allotment
Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the visit. This includes the boat transit to and from the island and time to explore the interior of the tower and the surrounding terrace.
When to Visit
Late afternoon and sunset are popular times to visit for the lighting and views. The site gets crowded during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. To avoid the largest crowds, arrive early in the morning.
Nearby Attractions
The tower is positioned across the water from several major landmarks. You can combine this visit with trips to the following sites:
- Dolmabahçe Mosque (1.9km)
- Topkapı Palace (1.9km)
- Dolmabahçe Palace (2km)
- Istanbul Archaeology Museums (2.2km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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