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Maiden's Tower Ticket with Audio Guide

Recommended by 94% of travelers Recommendation score based on the average review rating.

Planning your visit? Our Maiden's Tower tickets guide covers hours, rules and every ticket option.

Discover the Maiden's Tower, a legendary symbol of Istanbul symbolizing love and mystery. Unveil captivating tales of a king's daughter and forbidden romance. Experience a boat journey to reach the tower, explore the museum, and soak in the perfect view of Istanbul. Enjoy a complimentary audio guide and immerse yourself in an enchanting atmosphere on this historic island.

About This Activity

skip the ticket line icon

Skip the ticket line

Walk past ticket queues and show your mobile QR code at the entrance.

audio guide included icon

Audio guide included

Listen to a curated audio guide in 25 different languages

flexible cancellation icon

Flexible cancellation

Plans can change, no problem. Learn about the refund policy.

duration icon

Duration

2 Hours

Highlights

  • Explore the captivating Maiden's Tower, one of the most popular iconic landmarks of Istanbul.
  • Enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of Istanbul from the Maiden's Tower
  • Unveil the tragic tales of a king's daughter and the forbidden love of Hero and Leander
  • Experience a boat journey from Galataport to the tower and back with an extra fee.

Included

  • Maiden's Tower Entrance Ticket
  • Audio Guide - Professionally prepared audio-guide in English

Not Included

  • Boat Fee - Karakoy Pier Return Tickets

Maiden's Tower

Experience the magic of Istanbul at the iconic Maiden's Tower Istanbul. Immerse yourself in centuries-old legends, breathtaking views, and captivating history. Discover the secrets of love and mystery that surround this enchanting tower. Don't miss the chance to visit this must-see destination with its museum, cafe, and stunning panoramic views. Create unforgettable memories at the Maiden's Tower, an essential stop on your Istanbul adventure. Sunset in Istanbul at Its Best

The Story of the Maiden's Tower

There was once a beautiful princess who was dearly loved by her father, the King. But one day, a sorcerer told him that his beloved daughter would die by snake bite. Afraid for her, the King had this tower built so that she would be protected from snakes roaming the land. However, on an unfortunate day, a basket of apples was brought to the tower with a snake hidden inside. Sadly, but as predicted, the snake bit the princess and she died.

Transportation Notice

The Maiden's Tower is open to visitors every day of the week between 09:00 - 16:30. You can reach the Maiden's Tower by private boats departing from the Karaköy port. Boats departing from the Karaköy Pier and arriving at the Maiden’s Tower are as follows: Boat trips from Karaköy Pier are available daily from 09:30 to 16:30, every 90 minutes. Boat tickets are not included.

Meeting point

Karakoy Port - Maiden's Tower Boat Pier

Open in Google Maps

Pier in Front of Ziraat Bank, Müeyyetzade, Karaköy Pier, 74200 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Türkiye

Go directly to the pier in front of Ziraat Bank at Karaköy Pier for your cruise. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your selected departure time to allow enough time for check-in and boarding. Present your ticket to the staff at the pier and follow their instructions. Make sure to arrive on time, as the cruise departs at its scheduled time.

Meeting point

Maiden's Tower

Open in Google Maps

Salacak, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul

This location shows Maiden's Tower only. To visit the tower, first go to the Maiden's Tower Ticket Booth for ticket validation and transportation to the island. Do not go directly to Maiden's Tower.

  • Boats departing from the Galataport Istanbul every half an hour between 9.30 AM - 4.30 PM

  • The QR tickets are only shown when you are in close proximity to the pier.

  • You need an Internet connection on your smartphone to get your QR tickets.

  • Children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums in order to validate their age.

  • All visitors must go through the security check at the entrances.

  • Kindly note that due to the limited capacity, there might be long queues.

Cancellation Policy

Flexible Cancellation: Plans can change, no worries. You can change or cancel within the refundable time period.

Questions?

Visit the istanbul.com Help Centre for any further questions.

Product code: MTSE48

Reviews

4.7

Based on 1,057 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

5 Stars
815
4 Stars
187
3 Stars
43
2 Stars
10
1 Star
2
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Frequently Asked Questions

A centuries-old lighthouse and watchtower on a tiny islet in the Bosphorus, it is wrapped in legends of love and intrigue and offers one of Istanbul’s most romantic skyline views.

Entrance to Maiden’s Tower and an audio guide. The boat ride to the islet is not included.

Boats depart from Karakoy Pier (in front of Ziraat Bank) daily between 09:30 and 16:30 at 90-minute intervals. You can also sail from Uskudar/Salacak. Pay the boat fee separately.

Space is tight and there are stairs, so accessibility is limited. Staff can assist where possible.

Handheld photography is fine. Tripods or professional gear may require permission.

Still have questions?

Our Istanbul travel experts are happy to help.

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