Maiden's Tower Istanbul: History and Visiting

Yacht passing the Maiden's Tower at sunset

The Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi) sits on a tiny islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus, a few hundred metres off Salacak on the Asian shore. It is one of the most romantic symbols of Istanbul and appears in countless photos, films and songs. There are many legends about the Maiden's Tower, and its real history is just as long.

History of the Maiden's Tower

The site has been used for around 2,500 years, from ancient Greece through the Byzantine Empire to the Ottoman period. In antiquity the area was known as Damalis, a name linked to the wife of the Athenian general Chares, who according to tradition was buried nearby.

The Byzantines built a small fortification here, and the Ottomans rebuilt the tower several times after fires and earthquakes. For long periods it served as a lighthouse and watch tower guarding the entrance to the strait. In many European languages it is still called Leander's Tower, after the Greek myth of Hero and Leander.

Maiden's Tower on its small islet in the Bosphorus off Üsküdar, Istanbul

The legend behind the name

The best-known story tells of a sultan who was warned that his daughter would die from a snakebite before her 18th birthday. To protect her, he built a tower in the sea and kept her there. On her birthday a basket of fruit was sent to the tower with a snake hidden inside, and the prophecy came true. Other versions involve lovers, kings and heroes; our article on Maiden's Tower legends tells them in full.

The Maiden's Tower today

The tower was restored in 2000 and for many years worked as a café by day and a restaurant in the evening. Proposals by boat to the tower became a small Istanbul custom. It also featured in the James Bond film The World Is Not Enough (1999).

After a major restoration, the Maiden's Tower reopened to visitors in 2023, with exhibitions about its history and views across the water to the old city, Galata and the Bosphorus. Services such as food and drink may vary, so check what is open before you go.

Maiden's Tower at sunset with the Istanbul skyline in the background

How to get to the Maiden's Tower

From the Asian side: small boats run from Salacak, south of Üsküdar. The crossing takes only a few minutes. Üsküdar is easy to reach by ferry from Eminönü, Karaköy or Beşiktaş, or by Marmaray train.
From the European side: boats have also run from piers on the European shore, such as Kabataş. Check the current departure points and times before your visit.
From the shore: you do not need to go inside to enjoy it. The Salacak waterfront has cafés with a direct view of the tower and the old city skyline, and it is a popular spot at sunset.

Entrance fees, boat fares and opening hours change, so check them on the official website before you go.

Best time to visit

Sunset is the classic time to see the Maiden's Tower, when the sky behind the old city turns orange and the tower is lit up. Early mornings are quieter if you plan to go inside. On windy days small boats may not run, so keep your plans flexible and have the Salacak waterfront as a back-up.

Seeing the tower on a Bosphorus cruise

Most Bosphorus cruises pass close to the Maiden's Tower, often at the start or end of the route. At sunset, with the domes of the old city behind it, it is one of the most photographed views in Istanbul. A private sunset yacht cruise lets you choose the timing and slow down beside the tower for photos. For more ideas along the strait, see our guide to landmarks on the Istanbul Bosphorus, or climb Galata Tower for a view of the Maiden's Tower from above.

Prices change by season. See our current Bosphorus cruise prices, or ask us for a private yacht quote.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the Maiden's Tower?

Yes. The tower reopened to visitors in 2023 after restoration. Boats take visitors across to the islet; check current times and fees before you go.

Where do boats to the Maiden's Tower leave from?

Boats leave from Salacak on the Asian side, near Üsküdar, and have also run from the European shore. Check the current departure points before your visit.

Why is it called the Maiden's Tower?

The name comes from a legend about a princess kept in the tower to protect her from a prophecy that she would die of a snakebite. In European languages it is also called Leander's Tower.

Where is the best place to see the Maiden's Tower?

The Salacak waterfront in Üsküdar has a direct view, especially at sunset. You can also see it up close from a Bosphorus cruise.

See the Bosphorus on your own yacht

A private yacht cruise with captain and crew, only for your group: sunset, dinner or a full day on the strait. Book directly with a TURSAB-licensed Istanbul operator.

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Maiden's Tower in Istanbul: History, Legends and How to Visit