Top Places to Visit in Beykoz and Kuzguncuk: Explore Istanbul's Hidden Gems

Beykoz and Kuzguncuk, two of Istanbul's quiet and historic districts, attract visitors with their beauty, waiting to be discovered. Beykoz is famous for its unique view of the Bosphorus and is a paradise for nature lovers with its forests. Kuzguncuk resembles a movie set with its colourful houses, stone streets and nostalgic atmosphere. Both neighbourhoods offer a peaceful escape for those who want to get away from the crowds of Istanbul. Places to visit in Beykoz and Kuzguncuk range from nature walks to historical sites.

So, what to do in Beykoz? And what to see in Kuzguncuk?

Here is everything you need to know about the best places to visit in these two neighbourhoods! 👇

Anadolu Hisarı - Beykoz, Istanbul Görseli — Built in 1395 by the Ottoman sultan Yıldırım Bayezid at the mouth of Göksu Creek on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus, Anadolu Hisarı was the first Ottoman fortress built to control the Bosphorus passage. During the reign of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, it was reinforced for defence purposes before the conquest of Istanbul. Although it lost its strategic importance with the construction of the Rumeli Fortress and the Ottoman domination of the Black Sea, it has an important place in our history with its role in the conquest of Istanbul. Today, it awaits its visitors as a modest but meaningful silhouette among the settlements on the shores of the Bosphorus.

Kanlıca - Beykoz, Istanbul Görseli — Located on the shores of the Bosphorus, Kanlıca is a charming neighbourhood famous for its yoghurt. It is a tradition to eat yoghurt sprinkled with powdered sugar in the coffee houses around the pier. It is one of the favourite stops of both Istanbulites and tourists with its beach decorated with mansions and easy access by ferry.

Kuleli Museum - Beykoz, Istanbul

Located on the shores of the Bosphorus in Beykoz, Kuleli Museum is a historical building that attracts attention with its two majestic towers. It was built in 1871 during the reign of Sultan Abdülhamit II. Previously, there was a Byzantine monastery in the same place and different buildings in various periods. The building, which served as a military high school for a while, can be visited as a museum today. It is especially impressive with its view of the Bosphorus.

Hidiv Pavilion - Beykoz, Istanbul

Built in 1907 by Abbas Hilmi Pasha, the last khedive of Egypt, Hidiv Pavilion is located in Beykoz, right next to Çubuklu Pier. Designed by Italian architect Delfo Seminati, the building draws attention with its semicircular form and elegant architecture reminiscent of Italian coastal palaces. The pavilion was home to the family of Abbas Hilmi Pasha for many years. Although it fell into disrepair over time, it was restored in 1996 and turned into a social facility affiliated to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. Today, this historical building, which serves both breakfast and dinner, is one of the special corners of Istanbul in terms of both architecture and atmosphere with its location in the greenery.

Source: hidivkasri

Yoros Castle - Beykoz

Yoros Castle, which has a history of eight hundred years, may be a little difficult to reach because it is located on a hill, but it is definitely worth it to watch the magnificent view of the Bosphorus from the summit and see the preserved structure. Built by the Genoese to protect the sea trade routes, the castle attracts attention with its historical texture and strategic location. Since it may be difficult to reach by public transportation, it would be the most practical option to go by private car. If you like a pleasant nature walk, seeing this castle can be a great experience.

Göksu and Küçüksu - Beykoz, Istanbul

Göksu Creek has been one of the favourite getaway spots of the Ottoman elite, known for its musical boat trips since the Tulip Period. Today, it is a pleasant stop with boats offering river cruises on the Bosphorus. Küçüksu Creek, just to the south, is quieter, but with Küçüksu Beach around it, it is a nice alternative for those who want to cool off in summer. The beach is free of charge and offers a nostalgic Istanbul experience for those who want to swim in the cool waters of the Bosphorus.

Anadolu Kavağı - Beykoz

Located on the shores of the Bosphorus and reminiscent of small seaside towns in the Aegean, Anadolu Kavağı offers a pleasant dining experience with its small restaurants located among the trees by the sea. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood and spend time in a peaceful environment. However, since this is a very popular place, it can get busy especially on weekends and it can be a bit difficult to cope with the crowds. If you are planning a quiet visit, it might be better to go on a weekday. You can reach Anadolu Kavağı by ferry or by bus number 15. If you expect to spend a long time here, we suggest you plan your trip accordingly.

Küçüksu Pavilion - Beykoz, Istanbul

Located on the shores of the Bosphorus between Göksu and Küçüksu streams, Küçüksu Pavilion is one of the most beautiful buildings in Istanbul with its elegant architecture. Built in 1751 by Sultan Mahmut I, it is now a museum. You can visit the pavilion every day of the week (except Monday) between 09:00-17:00. Entrance fee: 70 TL (200 TL for foreigners, 40 TL with discount).

Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion - Istanbul

Drawing attention with its pink facade, Beykoz Mecidiye Pavilion stands out with its elegant architecture. It can be visited on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays between 09:00-17:00. Entrance: 75 TL (foreigners 200 TL, discount 40 TL, garden 30 TL). For transportation, you can choose a private car or take bus number 15 to Yalıköy stop.

Beykoz Grove - Istanbul

Beykoz Grove, one of the most peaceful spots in Beykoz, was organised by Abraham Pasha, the vizier of Sultan Abdülaziz. There is an artificial waterfall and elegant dolphin statues placed in the waterfall. It is an ideal stop for those who want to spend time in touch with nature. The social facilities in the grove serve breakfast and lunch between 08:30-23:00. For transportation, bus number 15 or Üsküdar-Beykoz minibuses can be preferred; just get off at the Koru stop.

Source: IBB Tesisler

Fethi Pasha Grove and Kuzguncuk - Beykoz

Fethi Pasha Grove is especially famous for its redbud trees and attracts attention with its unique view of the Bosphorus. Watching the sunset with the colour of the redbud trees offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors. The social facility inside the grove is open every day between 08:30-23:00. For transportation, you can get off at Paşalimanı stop with the bus number 15.

Fethi Pasha made important contributions to Ottoman history and is especially known for initiating the first archaeological excavations in Sultanahmet Square and turning Hagia Irene Church into a museum.

Kuzguncuk neighbourhood, where the grove is located, is a place that keeps the old mosaic of Istanbul alive. Its wooden houses with bay windows and streets attract the attention of photography enthusiasts. This region has been a source of inspiration for poets such as Can Yücel and has hosted many poems. In addition, the street where the series Perihan Abla was filmed was named “Perihan Abla Street” and the series Ekmek Teknesi was also filmed on these streets.

Kuzguncuk Bostanı, another beauty of Kuzguncuk, is one of the places to be seen. Üryanizade Mosque is located by the sea with its simple white architecture and elegant minaret. Cemil Molla Mansion is also among the trees, has an impressive architecture and bears similarities with the nearby Haunted Mansion.