Maiden’s Tower
Travel Point Overview
The Maiden’s Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, standing on a small islet in the Bosphorus. Over the centuries, it has been the center of many myths, the most famous being the legend of Leandros and Hero.
Maiden’s Tower: The Legendary Symbol of Istanbul
📍 Location: Üsküdar, Istanbul
🏛 Historical Period: 24 BC
🗼 Past Uses: Defense tower, prison, quarantine station, lighthouse, radio station
🎟 Entrance Fee (2025): 27 Euros (Museum Pass is valid.)
⛴ How to Get There: Boats operate from Üsküdar Salacak and Kabataş.
The Enchanting Legends of Maiden’s Tower
The Maiden’s Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, standing on a small islet in the Bosphorus. Over the centuries, it has been the center of many myths, the most famous being the legend of Leandros and Hero.
According to the story, Leandros fell in love with Hero, a priestess who lived in the tower. Each night, Hero lit a lantern to guide Leandros across the waters so they could secretly meet. However, on a stormy night, an envious person extinguished the light, and Leandros, believing Hero was calling him, jumped into the sea. Lost in the waves, he drowned, and upon discovering his fate, Hero threw herself from the tower, ending their tragic love story.
To honor their love, a lighthouse was later built where the tower stands today.
A Journey Through History: The Many Faces of Maiden’s Tower
Throughout its long history, the Maiden’s Tower has served many different purposes, reflecting the changes in Istanbul’s past:
🏰 Defense Tower: Built to protect the Bosphorus and control maritime traffic.
⛓ Prison & Exile Station: Used by the Ottoman Empire to imprison high-profile captives.
🚢 Customs Checkpoint: A taxation point for ships passing through the strait.
🦠 Quarantine Center: Used during plagues and epidemics to isolate the sick.
📡 Radio & Observation Station: Served as a radio station and observation point in the early 20th century.
💡 Lighthouse: Guided ships through the Bosphorus for many years.
Today, the Maiden’s Tower is a restored cultural heritage site, serving as a museum and restaurant with breathtaking views of Istanbul.
How to Get to Maiden’s Tower?
📍 Location: Off the coast of Üsküdar, Salacak, Istanbul
🚢 Boat Transport:
- From Üsküdar Salacak: Daily shuttle service from 09:00 to 18:45.
- From Kabataş: Available only on weekends from 09:00 to 18:45.
🚶♂️ Visitors can reach the boat departure points by public transport or on foot from central Üsküdar and Kabataş.
Visitor Information
🎟 Entrance Fee (2025): 27 Euros (Museum Pass is valid.)
🕰 Visiting Hours: Check the official website for the most up-to-date visiting hours.
Things to Know Before Visiting Maiden’s Tower
✅ Boat Transfers: Tickets can be purchased in advance to avoid long waiting times.
✅ Weather Considerations: The tower is on an open islet, so dress accordingly, especially on windy days.
✅ Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s skyline.
✅ Dining Experience: The tower features a restaurant offering special breakfast and dinner experiences.
Why Should You Visit Maiden’s Tower?
🌊 Unmatched Views of the Bosphorus: Enjoy the spectacular scenery from the middle of the sea.
🏰 A Timeless Historical Site: Step into a tower that has witnessed centuries of history.
📷 A Photographer’s Dream: One of the most picturesque spots in Istanbul.
🍽 A Romantic & Exclusive Dining Venue: Dine with a breathtaking sunset view.
📖 A Place Full of Legends: Immerse yourself in the myths and stories that surround this mysterious tower.
Explore Maiden’s Tower with Advisormapp!
📲 Use the Advisormapp app to easily find directions, access historical insights, and enjoy an audio guide for a deeper experience of Maiden’s Tower.
Plan your visit today and experience one of Istanbul’s most magical landmarks! 🚀✨
