Üsküdar, one of Istanbul’s most enchanting districts, lies on the Asian side of the Bosphorus and combines centuries of Ottoman history with tranquil coastal beauty. Once known as Scutari, it has served as a vital cultural and religious center for more than a millennium. Today, it remains an alluring area where visitors can explore grand mosques, scenic viewpoints, lively markets, and peaceful neighborhoods—all while enjoying some of the best views of the city.
Historical & Cultural Landmarks
- 🕌 Mihrimah Sultan Mosque – Built by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century for Mihrimah Sultan, daughter of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. This architectural gem dominates Üsküdar’s central square with its luminous dome and graceful minaret. The mosque’s interior is filled with natural light streaming through dozens of windows, creating a tranquil and ethereal atmosphere. Visitors can appreciate Sinan’s genius in combining geometry, proportion, and spiritual symbolism. Entrance is free, and the mosque is open to visitors outside of prayer times. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing beautiful photographs of its exterior façade bathed in golden light.
- 🕌 Yeni Valide Mosque – Commissioned by Queen Mother Gülnüs Sultan in the early 18th century, this mosque represents the transition from classical to late Ottoman architecture. Its finely detailed calligraphy, ceramic tiles, and elegant dome harmonize perfectly with the courtyard fountain. The adjoining marketplace offers a glimpse of local daily life, where traditional merchants sell spices, fabrics, and handcrafted goods. The mosque complex includes a small library and the tomb of the Queen Mother, making it not only a place of worship but also a historical narrative of female patronage in the Ottoman Empire.
- 🕌 Şemsi Pasha Mosque (Kışkonmaz Mosque) – This small yet remarkably refined mosque, designed by the legendary Mimar Sinan, sits directly on the Bosphorus shore. Often called the “Birds Don’t Perch Mosque,” it is famed for its pristine dome upon which no birds ever settle—an architectural marvel said to be achieved through clever airflow design. Visitors are enchanted by its peaceful garden, marble fountain, and the soft sound of waves lapping nearby. The mosque’s intimate size and symmetry embody Sinan’s mastery of simplicity and harmony. It is an ideal stop for quiet contemplation and seaside photography.
- 🗼 Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi) – One of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks, the Maiden’s Tower rises gracefully from a tiny islet just off the Üsküdar coast. Originally built as a watchtower in antiquity, it has served as a lighthouse, customs post, and romantic inspiration for countless legends. Today, the tower houses a museum and a café with panoramic views of both the European and Asian shores. Visitors can reach it by a short boat ride from Salacak pier. Inside, multimedia exhibits narrate the myths of the tower—including the tragic tale of the princess and the serpent—and from the top deck, the sunset view across the Bosphorus is simply unforgettable.
- 🏰 Beylerbeyi Palace – This 19th-century summer residence of the Ottoman sultans is a jewel of Neoclassical and Baroque elegance. Built by Sultan Abdülaziz, the palace dazzles with its marble staircases, gilded ceilings, and ornate crystal chandeliers imported from Bohemia and France. The richly decorated salons once hosted European royalty, including Empress Eugénie of France. Surrounding the palace are lush terraced gardens descending to the sea, filled with fountains and magnolia trees. The palace is open Tuesday through Sunday and offers guided tours that bring its stories of imperial grandeur vividly to life.
- 🏛️ Selimiye Barracks & Florence Nightingale Museum – Constructed by Sultan Selim III, this massive complex played a pivotal role during the Crimean War. Within its walls, Florence Nightingale established her revolutionary nursing practices, earning her enduring fame as the “Lady with the Lamp.” The on-site museum displays her personal artifacts, letters, and medical instruments. Though access requires prior arrangement, it remains a deeply moving site for those interested in history and humanitarian work. The barracks’ colossal architecture symbolizes the Ottoman Empire’s military modernization, while its legacy connects East and West through the universal ideals of compassion and care.
- 🕌 Çamlıca Mosque – Towering above the city skyline, Çamlıca Mosque is the largest in Turkey, capable of hosting over 60,000 worshippers. Completed in 2019, it reflects a blend of classical Ottoman motifs and contemporary aesthetics. The mosque complex includes an art gallery, library, conference center, and the Museum of Islamic Civilizations, which displays exquisite manuscripts, ceramics, and textiles. Visitors can admire the grand courtyard, soaring domes, and six elegant minarets visible from nearly every corner of Istanbul. At sunset, the hilltop location offers sweeping views of the Bosphorus—making it both a place of spiritual reflection and a modern architectural icon.
Scenic Parks & Viewpoints
- 🌄 Çamlıca Hill – At 268 meters above sea level, Çamlıca Hill offers sweeping panoramic views of Istanbul, stretching from the Golden Horn to the Princes’ Islands. Visitors can stroll through manicured gardens, rest under shady pines, or enjoy Turkish tea in traditional cafés perched on the ridge. Early mornings are tranquil, while evenings bring lively crowds and glowing city lights. Local photographers often gather here for the spectacular sunsets, capturing the Bosphorus bridges illuminated against the night sky. Families can picnic on grassy terraces, and couples often visit to admire the skyline’s romantic backdrop. The hill also features small souvenir stands, flower gardens, and ample benches for rest.
- 🌆 Çamlıca Tower – The futuristic Çamlıca Tower, completed in 2021, rises as Istanbul’s tallest building and a symbol of the city’s modern skyline. The observation decks, enclosed by glass, allow visitors to see landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, and both Bosphorus bridges from a single vantage point. The revolving restaurant offers gourmet Turkish and international cuisine accompanied by unparalleled cityscapes. Interactive displays explain the tower’s construction and its function as a broadcasting hub. Visiting near sunset provides an unforgettable transition from daylight to twilight, when the city glows in hues of gold and violet. Ticketed entry and guided tours make the visit both informative and visually breathtaking.
- 🌳 Fethi Paşa Grove – This expansive green space connects Üsküdar to Beylerbeyi and is one of the most beloved parks among locals. With pine and cypress trees providing shade, the grove features meandering walking trails, open-air cafés, and several viewing terraces overlooking the Bosphorus. Morning joggers and yoga enthusiasts frequent the park for its peaceful atmosphere. In spring, blooming Judas trees paint the landscape with vibrant purples. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely Turkish breakfast at the hilltop café or bring their own picnic basket to enjoy under the trees. The grove’s gentle slopes make it an ideal escape from city bustle, yet it remains within walking distance of the waterfront.
- 🌅 Salacak Waterfront – Just south of Üsküdar’s bustling center, the Salacak promenade stretches along the Bosphorus with uninterrupted views of the Maiden’s Tower and the old city skyline. During the day, the promenade hums with fishermen and street vendors selling roasted corn and simit. As the sun sets, it becomes one of Istanbul’s most romantic spots. Locals sip tea from tulip glasses while watching ferries glide across the water. The reflections of the tower and skyline shimmer on the sea’s surface, creating a postcard-perfect scene. For photographers and sunset chasers, Salacak is a must-see stop, easily accessible by a short walk from the ferry terminal.
- 🌿 Nakkaştepe Millet Bahçesi – Nestled near Kuzguncuk, this modern urban park is a blend of recreation and nature. Covering nearly 50 acres, it offers walking trails through wooded hills, elevated treetop bridges, and panoramic viewpoints that frame the Bosphorus Bridge in the distance. Families will find playgrounds, fitness areas, and picnic zones, while adventurers can enjoy a zip line or suspension bridge. Seasonal flower gardens and a small artificial waterfall add visual charm. The park’s café serves refreshments, and its well-maintained paths make it perfect for both leisurely strolls and active workouts. Open daily and free to enter, Nakkaştepe Millet Bahçesi has become a favorite for weekend outings and peaceful evening walks.
Neighborhoods Worth Exploring
- 🏘️ Kuzguncuk – Üsküdar’s artistic heart, a colorful village of wooden Ottoman houses, art galleries, and cafés. Known for its multicultural past, it features mosques, synagogues, and churches within a few blocks. The main street, İcadiye, is perfect for strolling, photography, and café hopping. Visitors can also explore hidden backstreets lined with pastel-painted homes that tell the story of centuries of coexistence between different faiths. The area has become a favorite backdrop for Turkish films and TV series. Local artisans sell handmade ceramics and textiles, while cozy bookshops and bakeries fill the air with the aroma of fresh pastries. On weekends, cultural events and art markets give the neighborhood a festive yet relaxed energy, inviting everyone to linger a little longer.
- ☕ Çengelköy – Famous for its waterfront tea garden under a centuries-old plane tree, Çengelköy retains the charm of a Bosphorus fishing village. Visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish tea, taste fresh börek from local bakeries, and admire the historic wooden mansions lining the shore. Early mornings bring fishermen hauling their nets, while afternoons fill with families and students sipping tea by the sea. The historic Çengelköy Mosque and surrounding cobblestone lanes create a timeless atmosphere. Don’t miss the neighborhood’s vibrant street market selling organic produce and pickles—a tradition going back generations. Whether you’re seeking a quiet morning by the water or a lively evening among locals, Çengelköy’s welcoming spirit and nostalgic character make it one of Üsküdar’s most enduring treasures.
Local Dining & Cafes
- 🍲 Kanaat Lokantası – A beloved institution since 1933 serving authentic Turkish comfort food. Favorites include olive oil braised vegetables, lamb stews, and creamy rice pudding. One of Istanbul’s best esnaf (tradesmen’s) restaurants. The interior, decorated with vintage tiles and mirrors, evokes an old-world charm that transports visitors back to mid-century Istanbul. The open kitchen reveals trays of freshly prepared dishes, ranging from stuffed eggplants to rich meat casseroles. It’s not just a restaurant but a living museum of traditional Turkish cuisine, offering flavors that have remained unchanged for generations. Lunchtime crowds often include locals, government officials, and curious travelers—all drawn by its honest, hearty fare.
- 🐟 İsmet Baba Restaurant – Overlooking the Kuzguncuk waterfront, this old-school fish tavern is a local favorite for fresh seafood and meze. Enjoy grilled bluefish or sea bass with views of the Bosphorus. Established in the 1950s, it retains its nostalgic atmosphere with checkered tablecloths and framed black-and-white photographs of old Istanbul. Waiters, many of whom have worked there for decades, serve with a warm familiarity. The extensive meze selection—smoked eggplant salad, octopus in olive oil, and spicy ezme—complements the daily catch perfectly. Evening diners can sip rakı as the Bosphorus Bridge lights up overhead, creating a timeless ambiance that captures Istanbul’s spirit.
- 🍴 Filizler Köftecisi – Located in Salacak with direct views of Maiden’s Tower, it’s known for grilled meatballs and hearty Turkish breakfasts. Perfect for a casual meal with a postcard-perfect view. The aroma of sizzling meat on the grill drifts out to the waterfront, enticing walkers from the promenade. Portions are generous, and each plate is served with traditional accompaniments like piyaz (bean salad) and pickled peppers. In the mornings, locals gather for expansive Turkish breakfast spreads featuring eggs, olives, cheeses, and honey. Its large windows frame Maiden’s Tower beautifully, especially at sunset. With friendly staff and quick service, it’s ideal for both families and solo travelers seeking a taste of everyday Istanbul.
- 📚 Nevmekan Sahil – A cultural café and 24/7 library blending Ottoman architecture with modern style. Offers coffee, light meals, and art exhibitions—all with panoramic Bosphorus views. The high-domed interior, lined with bookshelves and soft lighting, creates a serene yet inspiring environment. Visitors can spend hours reading, studying, or simply gazing at the sea through arched windows. The café’s menu ranges from rich Turkish coffee to modern desserts and light meals like sandwiches and salads. Regular art exhibitions and poetry readings add to its creative atmosphere. Open around the clock, it’s a rare space in Istanbul where one can combine culture, cuisine, and quiet reflection at any hour.
Hidden Gems
- 🏛️ Adile Sultan Palace & Hababam Sınıfı Museum – Located within Validebağ Grove, this 19th-century palace now serves as a cultural center and houses a museum dedicated to the beloved Turkish film series Hababam Sınıfı. The building itself was originally designed for Ottoman royalty and later repurposed as a prestigious girls’ school before becoming a film location. Today, it blends elegant Ottoman architectural elements—arched corridors, marble staircases, and wide balconies—with lush green surroundings. Visitors can wander through rooms displaying props, costumes, and photographs from the famous film series, as well as exhibits about Princess Adile Sultan’s life and charitable works. The museum recreates classrooms and scenes from the movies, allowing fans to immerse themselves in nostalgia. Beyond the museum, Validebağ Grove invites exploration with shaded walking paths, ancient trees, and panoramic city views. The site often hosts cultural events, outdoor film screenings, and local art fairs, making it a vibrant community space. Whether you’re a cinema enthusiast, a history lover, or simply in search of serenity, the palace offers a layered experience of Istanbul’s cultural and cinematic heritage.
Final Thoughts
Üsküdar is a district where Istanbul’s past and present meet harmoniously. Whether you’re exploring Ottoman mosques, sipping tea by the Bosphorus, or wandering through Kuzguncuk’s colorful streets, you’ll experience a side of Istanbul defined by authenticity and calm beauty. With its mix of spirituality, history, and everyday life, Üsküdar offers an unforgettable journey into the soul of the city.