Maiden’s tower
Maiden’s Tower in Istanbul, known in Turkish as Kız Kulesi, is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and one of the most distinctive sights on the Bosphorus.
The tower stands on a small islet off the Salacak coast in Üsküdar. It can be viewed from the shore or reached by boat for an inside visit.
Quick Facts About Maiden’s Tower
• Name: Kız Kulesi – Maiden’s Tower.
• Location: off the coast of Salacak – Üsküdar.
• It can be viewed from the shore or visited by boat.
• It reopened after restoration in May 2023.
• Sunset is one of the best times to see it.
Where Is Maiden's Tower?
It is located on a small islet in the southern part of the Bosphorus, off the Salacak coast in Üsküdar.
Can You Visit Maiden's Tower Inside?
Yes. The tower reopened to visitors after an extensive restoration project in May 2023 and can be reached by boat.
Important: Boat schedules and admission prices may change, so it is best to check the official information on the day of your visit.
How to Get to Maiden's Tower
From Üsküdar – Salacak
The tower can be reached by dedicated boats from the Salacak area, while the waterfront itself is the most popular place to view the tower.
From the European Side
Boat services are also available from Karaköy according to the announced schedules.
History of Maiden's Tower
The site has a long history spanning centuries. At different times, it was used for observation, defense, navigation, as a lighthouse and for quarantine, and it has undergone several reconstructions and restorations.
What Is the Story of Maiden's Tower?
The tower is associated with several legends, most famously the story of the princess and the snake and the tale of Hero and Leander. These are popular legends rather than documented history.
The Legend of the Princess and the Snake
The legend tells of a ruler who tried to protect his daughter from a prophecy that she would die from a snakebite. According to the story, the prophecy came true despite her isolation in the tower.
The Legend of Hero and Leander
A famous romantic legend associated with the tower tells of a lover who crossed the water to reach his beloved until the story ended tragically.
Maiden's Tower at Sunset
The Salacak waterfront in Üsküdar is one of the best places to view Maiden’s Tower with Istanbul’s historic skyline at sunset.
For photography: The classic view of Maiden’s Tower with old Istanbul in the background is captured from the Salacak waterfront.
What Can You Visit Near Maiden's Tower?
You can combine the Üsküdar waterfront, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, Çamlıca, Çamlıca Mosque and Bağdat Avenue in a day exploring the Asian side.
Maiden's Tower in Rozana Tours Programs
Some itineraries stop at the Üsküdar waterfront to view the tower and take photos, but admission to the islet is not included unless explicitly stated.
Discover Istanbul's Asian Side
Frequently Asked Questions About Maiden's Tower
Where Is Maiden's Tower?
On a small islet off the Salacak coast in Üsküdar.
Can You See It Without Going Inside?
Yes, from the Salacak waterfront in Üsküdar.
What Is Its Most Famous Legend?
The legend of the princess and the snake and the story of Hero and Leander.
What Is the Best Time to See It?
Before sunset from the Üsküdar waterfront.
