Yoros Castle Istanbul
Yoros Castle offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Black Sea, a historic fortress overlooking vital waterways.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Yoros Castle Istanbul
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yoros Castle offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Black Sea, a historic fortress overlooking vital waterways.
"The best view in Istanbul, truly breathtaking!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path to the castle is a long, steep uphill walk. Comfortable footwear is essential!
🚗 Consider a Taxi/Ride-share
While public transport is possible, a taxi can save you a significant uphill trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Istanbul Views
Castle ramparts
Witness unparalleled 360-degree views of the Bosphorus, the Black Sea, and Istanbul's sprawling cityscape.

Ancient Fortress Ruins
Throughout the castle grounds
Explore the remnants of this historic Byzantine fortress, imagining centuries of strategic importance.
Sunset Over the Bosphorus
Western-facing viewpoints
Experience a magical sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors over the iconic waterway.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Yoros Castle
Best Views & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path to the castle is a long, steep uphill walk. Comfortable footwear is essential!
🚗 Consider a Taxi/Ride-share
While public transport is possible, a taxi can save you a significant uphill trek.
One of my favorite view from istanbul.
📸 Capture the Vistas
Bring your camera! The views are truly spectacular, especially from the castle ramparts.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The sunset views over the Bosphorus are legendary and a must-see experience.
A night out with the boys at Yoros Castle, a few months ago. I also went there to watch the fireworks at new years eve. This place definitely has the best view in Istanbul.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path to the castle is a long, steep uphill walk. Comfortable footwear is essential!
🚗 Consider a Taxi/Ride-share
While public transport is possible, a taxi can save you a significant uphill trek.
📸 Capture the Vistas
Bring your camera! The views are truly spectacular, especially from the castle ramparts.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The sunset views over the Bosphorus are legendary and a must-see experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yoros Castle is lauded for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, offering a unique historical perspective of Istanbul. Visitors appreciate the ancient fortress ruins and the magical sunset vistas. However, the challenging uphill trek to reach the castle is a common point of concern for many.
"As for the castle, there's not much to see. You can see the remains of towers and fragments of walls. However, it's worth visiting for the incredible view. On one side, it overlooks the last bridge on the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, and on the other, Istanbul."
KATErina S.
"Add this to your trip! The fortress is neat but not extraordinary, but the view of Istanbul, the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, and of the Black Sea is quite astounding.
We had a car rental, so we drove from the airport and around the back side without any problems. Parking may be difficult, so you may need to park on the road and walk up. You can also visit via one of the cruises and hike up to the top from the village on the Bosphorus.
The castle itself has some great history worth reading about and learning. Some parts are in better repair than others. Be sure to go inside the main structure and admire the incredible brickwork and Ottoman architecture.
Take some time for some photos of the panoramic view, and take it all in. Listen for all the birds in this lush rural setting."
Jeffrey River Niles
"Yoros Castle is a historic fortress located on a hilltop overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, near the village of Anadolu Kavağı on the Asian side of Istanbul. Dating back to Byzantine times, it was strategically important due to its commanding view of the Bosphorus’s northern entrance. The castle was later used and modified by the Genoese and the Ottomans. Today, it’s a popular spot for its panoramic views and historical atmosphere, often visited during day trips from central Istanbul.
By climbing to this castle, you can enjoy the mysterious mountain air and the stunning view of Istanbul!"
Aysel Ibrahim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Yoros Castle (Yoros Kalesi) involves a journey to the Anadolu Kavağı neighborhood. You can take a ferry from Eminönü or Üsküdar to Anadolu Kavağı, which offers a scenic route. Alternatively, you can use public buses (e.g., 15Ç, 15P) or a taxi/ride-share service. Be prepared for a steep uphill walk from the ferry terminal or bus stop to the castle itself.
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of Yoros Castle, especially during peak season. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi if you're concerned about parking availability. If driving, look for parking areas in Anadolu Kavağı and be prepared for a walk.
Yes, you can walk from the Anadolu Kavağı ferry terminal to Yoros Castle. However, be aware that it's a significant uphill climb, which can be quite strenuous. Many visitors find it rewarding for the views, but comfortable shoes are a must.
For tourists, a combination of ferry and walking is often recommended for the experience. However, if you prefer convenience and have mobility concerns, a taxi or ride-share directly to the castle area is a good option.
Several bus routes serve the Anadolu Kavağı area, which is near Yoros Castle. Routes like 15Ç and 15P from Üsküdar are common options. From the bus stop, you will still need to walk uphill to reach the castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, Yoros Castle is generally accessible without an entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and enjoy the views freely. However, it's always a good idea to check for any recent changes in access policies before your visit.
Yoros Castle is typically open to visitors during daylight hours. As it's an open-air historical site, there are no strict opening or closing times like a museum. However, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
Due to its historical nature and location on a hill, Yoros Castle can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. The paths are uneven, and there are steep inclines. Accessing the highest points might be difficult.
While the castle grounds are technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. The best experience is during daylight hours, especially for sunset.
There are limited facilities directly within the castle ruins. You'll find more options for restrooms and cafes in the Anadolu Kavağı village below the castle. It's advisable to use facilities before ascending to the castle.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The ramparts of Yoros Castle offer the most iconic photo opportunities, providing sweeping views of the Bosphorus, the Black Sea, and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. Look for vantage points that capture the confluence of the two waterways.
Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, is considered the prime time for photography at Yoros Castle. The golden hour light casts a beautiful glow over the landscape, and the sunset itself is a spectacular sight.
Yes, you can see the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge (the third Bosphorus bridge) from Yoros Castle. While some Redditors note that its presence has altered the original view, it remains a significant landmark visible from the castle.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive Bosphorus and cityscape views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant landmarks. Don't forget a tripod if you plan to shoot during sunset or in lower light conditions.
Drone usage is subject to Turkish aviation regulations. It's generally restricted in populated areas and near sensitive sites. It's best to check current drone laws and regulations before flying one in the vicinity of Yoros Castle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Yoros Castle ruins. However, the village of Anadolu Kavağı, located below the castle, offers several seafood restaurants and cafes with beautiful sea views.
Anadolu Kavağı is known for its fresh seafood restaurants. You can enjoy a variety of fish dishes, mezes, and traditional Turkish cuisine while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy while exploring Yoros Castle. It's a great idea to pack some refreshments, especially if you plan to spend a few hours taking in the views.
While there aren't designated picnic areas within the castle itself, you can find suitable spots on the surrounding hillsides or in the village of Anadolu Kavağı to enjoy a picnic with a view.
Many visitors enjoy the seafood restaurants lining the coast in Anadolu Kavağı. While specific recommendations can change, look for places with good reviews and a pleasant sea view for an enjoyable dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Yoros Castle
From its ramparts, one can still grasp the strategic advantage it offered. The panoramic views not only provide breathtaking scenery but also a tangible sense of its historical role in defending Istanbul. The remnants of its walls and towers whisper tales of battles fought and empires that rose and fell, all while overlooking the vital waterway.
Visiting Yoros Castle offers a unique opportunity to connect with Istanbul's layered history. It’s a place where natural beauty meets historical depth, providing a compelling glimpse into the city's past as a maritime power. The sheer drops and commanding presence of the castle are a testament to its enduring strategic importance.
Navigating the Journey to Yoros Castle
Upon arrival in Anadolu Kavağı, the real challenge begins: the uphill climb to the castle. This can be a steep and lengthy walk, so wearing comfortable shoes is paramount. Some travelers suggest that a taxi or ride-share service from the ferry terminal or a nearby point can significantly reduce the strenuous ascent, making the experience more accessible.
For those who enjoy a good hike, the walk itself can be part of the experience, offering glimpses of local life and increasingly impressive views as you ascend. Planning your transport in advance, whether it's factoring in ferry schedules or booking a taxi, will ensure a smoother visit to this historic gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit