Who needs a pricy Bosphorus tour by a tour company when there are local Bosphorus lines of "Şehir Hatları" (public sea transportation run by Istanbul Metropolitan)? Anadolu Kavağı - Üsküdar line is perfect for seeing the whole shore on the Anatolian side. You can also get off at one of the piers and catch the next boat after visiting the popular neighborhoods on the coastline.
Anadolu Kavağı- Üsküdar line stops at 9 piers: Anadolu Kavağı, Beykoz, Paşabahçe, Çubuklu, Kanlıca, Anadolu Hisarı, Çengelköy, Beylerbeyi, Üsküdar. Beware that some of the trips do not stop by Anadolu Kavağı; they start at the previous pier in Beykoz. The advantage of the tour is that throughout the Anatolian shore, you can see gorgeous historic mansions from the 17th-18th century. A few of the famous mansions are Çubuklu Yedi Sekiz Hasan Paşa Mansion, Kandilli Count Ostrorog Mansion, Anadolu Hisarı Hekimbaşı Salih Efendi Yalısı.
I generally start my trip from Üsküdar, and if I go all the way to Anadolu Kavağı, I get off there, stroll along the streets, eat fresh fish at the fish restaurants near the pier and then come back through the same route, but it is also possible to cross to the European side by the Anadolu Kavağı- Rumeli Kavağı line. The only problem with the Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar line is that they do not offer too many trips a day. There are 4 trips in the morning and 4 trips in the afternoon. You can check the up-to-date timetable at the Şehirhatları website or the piers.
Find your way with 249 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Tünel, İstanbul’s 1875 funicular, and its 1883 arcade offer bookstores, restaurants and wine bars amid historic buildings with a unique atmosphere.
by
Discover a quiet, Byzantine-inspired sanctuary behind modest doors. The Church of St. Mary Draperis is an easy-to-miss yet unique and peaceful escape.
by
Black Mustache is a modest place packed with rare, outstanding art and culture books, plus indie-designed stationery that makes you wanna browse on.
by
The unassuming, small restaurant Sayla Mantı, serves delicious hand-made mantı in the İstanbul style. One of the most reliable spots for fresh mantı.
by
Yoğurtçu Park is a lively and green escape with spots courts, playgrounds, a beautiful view over the canal and a crowd of friendly strays and locals.
by
Cherrybean Coffees' humble porch hides a cavernous, living-room-cozy haven with in-house roasted brews and irresistibly delicious pastries.
by
Overlooking the Bosphorus, Moda Tea Gardens is such a realaxing place. Enjoy the tea, sea breeze and sunsets beneath lantern-lit trees in Istanbul’s heart.
by
Ready for a stunning seaside, history and excellent coffee? Moda Pier Café in Istanbul has it all, while life unfolds around you, from ferries to playful dogs.
by
The outdoor area is perfect for warm or hot weather, with a mix of deck chairs, regular tables, and a shared table, all adding to its inviting atmosphere.
by
The bench itself, though simple in design, provides a comfortable and inviting place to rest. Sit in silence, read a book, or watch the world go by...
by
What sets Yenikoy Kitapcisi apart is that they proudly showcase lesser-known publishing houses, celebrating diversity & creativity of the literary world.
by
When you enter Brasserie di Dante, you're greeted by an outdoor seating area surrounded by plants and trees. Even in cold weather, they have fire heaters.
by
249 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 249 Insider Tips