Maiden's Tower travel guide

Maiden's Tower, also known as Leander's Tower, holds a prominent place in the history of Üsküdar, being a symbol of the city's rich past. Its origins date back to 341 BC, when it was constructed by Athenian commander Alcibiades for military purposes. Over the centuries, the tower has served a variety of functions including a toll booth, a lighthouse, and a quarantine station.

The tower's name is derived from a popular Turkish legend, telling the story of a princess locked away by her father in the tower to prevent a prophesied death. Despite his efforts, the prophecy came true, further cementing the tower's legendary status. Today, the Maiden's Tower stands as a beacon of Üsküdar's fascinating history, captivating the hearts of locals and tourists alike with its unique charm and mystery.

Maiden's Tower, a historic monument in Üsküdar, Turkey, has several unique features that make it stand out. Located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus strait, the Tower offers an unmatched 360-degree panorama of Istanbul, including the Asian and European sides, making it a highly sought-after spot for photography enthusiasts.

Structurally, the tower is a blend of Byzantine, Ottoman and modern architectural styles, reflecting its long history and multiple renovations. It stands at 23 meters high, with its conical roof and white marble facades giving it a distinct appearance. The Tower also houses a high-end restaurant and a café, both known for their exquisite Turkish cuisine and breathtaking views. Being accessible only by boat, a visit to the Maiden's Tower promises a unique adventure, as guests get to enjoy a short but scenic ride on the Bosphorus. The Tower is also famous for its rich folklore and legends, adding a mystical charm to its captivating beauty.

Located in the dynamic Istanbul, the popular Maiden's Tower is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Üsküdar or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Turkey.

Üsküdar is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Üsküdar offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Üsküdar and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Dolmabahçe Palace, Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Ortaköy Square, and Naval Museum.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Üsküdar has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Üsküdar, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Turkey!

Maiden's Tower is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Üsküdar, Turkey. If you're flying in, Istanbul Airport is approximately 21.9 miles (35.3 km) away from Üsküdar. From there, you can easily reach Maiden's Tower by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Üsküdar, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Maiden's Tower, which is located 0.7 miles (1.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Maiden's Tower, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Salacak, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Maiden's Tower!

The best time to explore Maiden's Tower in Üsküdar, Turkey, is during the spring and fall seasons. These periods offer a comfortable climate with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than the busy summer period. Spring, from April to June, and fall, from September to November, provide a delightful atmosphere with lush greenery and blooming flowers or vibrant autumnal hues, respectively. The moderate weather during these seasons enhances the pleasure of dining in the tower's restaurant while enjoying panoramic views of Istanbul. Additionally, visiting in the late afternoon or early evening allows tourists to witness breathtaking sunsets and the city's illuminated skyline. The tower also hosts special events and concerts throughout the year, particularly in spring and fall, adding a unique cultural experience to your visit. Consequently, planning your trip during these times not only ensures a comfortable exploration but also increases your chances of participating in exclusive events.

Conveniently explore Maiden's Tower and plenty more captivating attractions in Üsküdar by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Maiden's Tower and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Üsküdar has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Maiden's Tower below.

Aside from Maiden's Tower, Üsküdar is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Üsküdar, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Dolmabahçe Palace, Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, and Beylerbeyi Palace.

Dolmabahçe Palace is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Üsküdar, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 77,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Dolmabahçe Palace is Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd. , 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Another appreciated attraction in Üsküdar is Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. Like Dolmabahçe Palace, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 34,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this mosque is Mecidiye, Mecidiye Köprüsü Sk. No:1 D:1, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Beylerbeyi Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Üsküdar. This museum and top attraction in Üsküdar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Beylerbeyi, Abdullahağa Cd. , 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Üsküdar below.