Yoros Castle, Istanbul - a large body of water surrounded by trees
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Yoros Castle Istanbul

4.5
·4k reviews·, Türkiye

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning views

CrowdMedium
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Yoros Castle, Istanbul - a large body of water surrounded by trees

Yoros Castle Istanbul

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(4k reviews)

"The best view in Istanbul, truly breathtaking!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Istanbul Views

Panoramic Istanbul Views

Castle ramparts

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

Ancient Fortress Ruins

Ancient Fortress Ruins

Throughout the castle grounds

Explore the remnants of this historic Byzantine fortress, imagining centuries of strategic importance.

Sunset Over the Bosphorus

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

Reaching Yoros Castle involves a scenic but sometimes challenging journey. Many visitors opt for a combination of public transport and a walk, or a taxi/ride-share for direct access. Be prepared for uphill climbs once you're near the castle.

Best Views & Timing

Yoros Castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul, especially during sunset. While beautiful year-round, consider visiting on a clear day to fully appreciate the vistas. Weekdays might offer a less crowded experience.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Yoros kalesi | قلعة يوروس . . Location 📍👇🏻 الموقع . . Anadolu Kavağı, Fener Yolu No:3, 34825 Beykoz/İstanbul #i̇stanbul #اسطنبول #turky #قلعة #yoroskalesi #kale #castle #turism #سياحة #tourist #yav...
bayan.asaad1996
468 likes • 28.5K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The path to the castle is a long, steep uphill walk. Comfortable footwear is essential! Instagram

🚗 Consider a Taxi/Ride-share

While public transport is possible, a taxi can save you a significant uphill trek. Reddit

Yoros Castle & A beautiful view 🌠 . Yoros Kalesi'ne giden yol zorlu yollardan geçer 😅 (Bence manzaraya değdi ama bir daha çıkar mıyım hayır.) . ‼️Sahilden kaleye ulaşmak için çoooook uzuuuun yokuş yo...
__tugces
0 likes • 2.2K views
reddit.com

One of my favorite view from istanbul.

📸 Capture the Vistas

Bring your camera! The views are truly spectacular, especially from the castle ramparts. TikTok

🌅 Aim for Sunset

The sunset views over the Bosphorus are legendary and a must-see experience. Reddit

reddit.com

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! Instagram

🚗 Consider a Taxi/Ride-share

While public transport is possible, a taxi can save you a significant uphill trek. Reddit

📸 Capture the Vistas

Bring your camera! The views are truly spectacular, especially from the castle ramparts. TikTok

🌅 Aim for Sunset

The sunset views over the Bosphorus are legendary and a must-see experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

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

Spectacular panoramic views
Historic castle ruins
Beautiful sunset scenery

What People Dislike

Steep uphill climb

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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yoros Castle offers a unique historical adventure for families. While the climb can be challenging, the open spaces within the castle grounds allow children to explore and imagine themselves as knights or royalty. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The stunning views can also captivate younger minds, offering a visual lesson in geography and history. Consider a taxi for the final ascent to make it easier for little legs. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Yoros Castle is a dream destination. The panoramic vistas of the Bosphorus, the Black Sea, and the city skyline are unparalleled. The best light for capturing these scenes is during the golden hour before sunset, when the sky erupts in color. Don't miss the opportunity to frame shots of the ancient ruins against the dramatic backdrop of the waterways. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers

The journey to Yoros Castle provides a rewarding hiking experience. The uphill path offers a good workout and increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the castle, you can explore the grounds and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. The area around Anadolu Kavağı also offers opportunities for coastal walks, making it a great destination for those who love to be active outdoors. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Strategic Importance of Yoros Castle

Yoros Castle, also known as the 'Castle of the Seven Towers,' holds immense historical significance. Perched strategically at the confluence of the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, it has been a vital defensive point for centuries. Its origins trace back to the Genoese period, and it was later fortified by the Byzantines and Ottomans. The castle's commanding position allowed it to control maritime traffic entering and leaving the Black Sea, making it a crucial stronghold throughout various empires. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Navigating the Journey to Yoros Castle

The journey to Yoros Castle is an adventure in itself, often described as a bit of a trek but well worth the effort. Many visitors opt for public transport, which typically involves taking a ferry to Anadolu Kavağı. This ferry ride offers a delightful perspective of Istanbul from the water, a stark contrast to the bustling city streets. TikTok

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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