Maiden Tower

Istanbul's Maiden Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi in Turkish or as Leander’s Tower, is a captivating landmark rising from the Sea of Marmara at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait. 

With a history spanning centuries, including stints as a lighthouse, fortress, and quarantine station, it now stands as a museum and one of the cities top attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into its intriguing past.

Venturing to the Maiden Tower offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich tapestry of legends and historical significance. From panoramic views of the city's skyline to the intrigue of its fabled past, this mysterious landmark promises an unforgettable journey through time.

The journey to this iconic landmark is as memorable as the destination itself: the Maiden Tower is only accessible by boat, and a beautiful ferry ride provides marvelous views of Istanbul, the famous Bosphorus strait, and plenty of photo opportunities. Don’t miss this experience - see our Maiden Tower ticket options and secure your ticket now!

Upon setting foot on the small island of the Maiden Tower, visitors are greeted with a myriad of experiences. Wandering through the inner courtyard of the tower, find cannons with the emblem of the Ottoman Empire, and walk the walkways around the ramparts with narrow window-like loopholes offering vistas that open up unparalleled views across the cityscape. 

The highlight is, of course, stepping inside the Maiden Tower to unravel the secrets within and to climb to the top for some of the most stunning vistas of Istanbul's skyline.

Since its reopening in 2023, the Maiden Tower has been transformed into a museum, inviting guests to explore its rich heritage and legends. Inside the Tower, history can soak in the ambiance of this venerable structure, admiring the architectural marvels and exhibits on display. 

The terrace on the very top is one of the best vantage points of the city. Its strategic position offers sweeping views of both the European and Asian shores of Istanbul, as well as the glittering Bosphorus strait, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Visit our ticket section and secure your Maiden Tower ticket now.

The Maiden Tower's former restaurant, once a popular wedding venue, has closed after renovations. However, visitors can now relax and enjoy refreshments at the new cafe. Unwind with a hot cup of black tea or Turkish coffee, or indulge in delicious snacks like ice cream, pastries, and more, all while enjoying the historical ambiance of the structure. 

The Maiden Tower's history is steeped in myth and legend, with origins dating back to ancient times. Historical evidence suggests the tower, built in 410 BC by Athenian Alcibiades, controlled and taxed ships passing through the strait. Throughout its time, it has served as a defensive structure, a lighthouse, and even a quarantine hospital. Its enduring presence is a testament to Istanbul's rich and complex history.

The Maiden Tower is shrouded in captivating legends that enhance its mystique:

The Legend of the Princess: In Turkish folklore, a king built the tower to protect his daughter from a prophesied snakebite. Tragically, the prophecy came true, and the princess perished.

The Legend of Hero and Leander: Named "Leander's Tower" in European tales, it recounts the story of a doomed lover's nightly swim across the Hellespont. When the guiding torch extinguished, Leander drowned, and his beloved Hero followed suit in despair.

The Legend of the Two Loving Towers: An enchanting tale suggests that the Maiden Tower and Galata Tower harbored unspoken love for each other. Despite their affection, they remained apart, symbolizing an enduring but unfulfilled connection.

Perched on a tiny islet off the coast of the Üsküdar neigborhood (Asian side of Istanbul), the Maiden Tower stands as a sentinel guarding the Bosphorus Strait. 

You can easily reach the Maiden Tower by the ferry boats departing from either the Üsküdar-Salacak or Galataport piers.

• From the Üsküdar-Salacak Pier: Boats depart directly in front of the Maiden Tower ticket office between 09:00–17:30 every day of the week.
• From the Galataport Istanbul Pier:Boats for the Maiden Tower depart at: 11:00, 12:30, 14:15, 15:30, 17:00 (Note: The 17:00 boat does not return to Galataport İstanbul.)

The Maiden Tower is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00.

While the average time spent at the Maiden Tower varies depending on individual preferences, most visitors find themselves captivated for several hours. Allocate for at least 1 to 1.5 hours to exploring its views, the interior and museum, and to savor a leisurely treat.

To make the most of your visit to the Maiden Tower visit, consider planning ahead. Research transportation options, check the weather, and consider going on mid-week, as weekends tend to be the busiest. 

In either case, it is highly recommended to book your Maiden Tower Ticket online to save precious time and ensure you don’t miss out on this must-do experience in Istanbul. Check out our ticket section and secure your Maiden Tower ticket here!

Exploring the vicinity of the Maiden Tower offers a plethora of additional activities to enrich your experience. From exploring the Asian Side of Istanbul and nearby attractions like the Beylerbeyi Palace and Camlica Hill to indulging in a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, there's no shortage of adventures awaiting just beyond its walls.