Nestled at the northernmost tip of the Istanbul Bosphorus, Anadolu Kavagi is a charming seaside village famous for its fresh seafood, Ottoman fortress, and stunning views of where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea.
This small fishing town is a perfect day trip from Istanbul, offering a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Whether you’re looking to explore a medieval fortress, enjoy a long seafood lunch, or simply take in the panoramic sea views, Anadolu Kavagi is one of Istanbul’s best hidden gems.
Why Visit Anadolu Kavagi?
✔️ A peaceful coastal village – Escape the busy streets of Istanbul.
✔️ The stunning Yoros Castle – Hike up to one of Istanbul’s oldest fortresses.
✔️ Fresh seafood restaurants – Enjoy the best fish and mezes by the water.
✔️ A scenic Bosphorus cruise – Take a ferry ride along the Bosphorus.
✔️ Laid-back, authentic atmosphere – Experience a traditional fishing village.
About Anadolu Kavagi
Anadolu Kavagi, part of the Beykoz district, is said to have derived its name from the poplar trees that once grew abundantly in the area. It is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere.
The village offers visitors a journey back in time with its unique Bosphorus views, historical texture, and natural surroundings. Walking through its narrow streets, among old stone houses and lush gardens, provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.
One of the most notable features of Anadolu Kavağı is its fish restaurants overlooking the cool waters of the Bosphorus and the tea gardens lined along the shore.
The historical roots of Anadolu Kavagi date back to the Byzantine period, and this heritage is evident throughout the village. The small harbor, where fishing boats anchor, highlights the village’s strong connection to the sea and offers fresh seafood to visitors.
Top Things to Do, Places to See
Istanbul Anadolu Kavagi is a charming seaside village with numerous fish restaurants. The local specialties, including crepes prepared in a sandwich press, seafood, and fried mussels, are very famous.
No Regrets Booking Advice
The best activity in Anadolu Kavagi is to enjoy a beautiful weekend trip with magnificent nature and Bosphorus views, along with the pleasure of dining in the fish restaurants.
One of the main attractions in Anadolu Kavagi is Yoros Castle. This historic Byzantine castle is strategically located at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus.
Walking through the village’s narrow streets to explore historical houses and flower-adorned gardens is also very enjoyable. Sitting in the tea gardens along the shore and sipping tea with a sea view will ensure a peaceful day.
Anadolu Kavagi is also the final stop for the Bosphorus tours departing from Eminönü.
The Cevriye Hatun Fountain, dating back to the 18th century, is another must-see spot in the village.
Additionally, the Midilli Ali Reis Mosque from 1593 and the Marko Pasha Mansion located in the military area are among the prominent historical sites.
Take a Bosphorus Cruise to Anadolu Kavagi
One of the best ways to reach Istanbul Anadolu Kavagi is by Bosphorus ferry. The journey is just as amazing as the destination, offering spectacular views of Istanbul’s shoreline, palaces, and mansions.
✔️ Take the Şehir Hatları ferry from Eminönü – It’s the most scenic way to travel.
✔️ Enjoy a relaxing 90-minute cruise, passing famous landmarks.
✔️ Watch for dolphins, as they are occasionally spotted near the Black Sea.
Tip: The ferry departs once a day, so check the schedule in advance.
Enjoy a Fresh Seafood Feast
Anadolu Kavagi is famous for its seafood restaurants along the waterfront. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled fish, calamari, or mezes, you’ll find some of the best seafood in Istanbul here.
✔️ Try the fresh fish of the day, caught by local fishermen.
✔️ Order a variety of mezes like stuffed mussels, octopus salad, and eggplant dishes.
✔️ Pair your meal with rakı, the traditional Turkish anise-flavored drink.
Top Restaurant Picks:
- Yosun Restaurant – A local favorite with delicious seafood platters.
- Milto Restaurant – A family-run spot with great service and fresh fish.
- Kavak Baba Restaurant – Perfect for mezes and a seaside view.
Visit Yoros Castle for Panoramic Views
Located on the hills behind Anadolu Kavagi, Yoros Castle is one of the popular spots in Istanbul for weekend visits, offering a splendid Bosphorus view where you can enjoy breakfast and meals. Here, you can admire stunning views of both the Black Sea and the Bosphorus.
Right next to Yoros Castle, the Yoros Kale Cafe and Restaurant boasts a fantastic Bosphorus view and is an ideal spot for those who want to escape the city’s noise and enjoy a peaceful and serene dining experience in a natural setting.
Visit Yuşa Hill & Tomb (Yuşa Tepesi)
Before reaching Anadolu Kavagi, we recommend visiting the sacred site known as Joshua Hill. This hill, believed to be the burial place of Prophet Yuşa (Joshua) (1082-972 BC), is located on the heights of Anadolu Kavagi, 200 meters above sea level on the Bosphorus’s Anatolian shore.
Joshua Hill, with its magnificent Bosphorus view, is a must-visit for those heading towards Anadolu Kavağı and Beykoz. It is also the second-highest hill in Istanbul after Camlıca Hill.
The hill features the tomb of Prophet Joshua, a fountain, and a mosque. The long tomb at the site is believed to be the grave of Prophet Joshua.
If you continue towards the Black Sea from Anadolu Kavagi, you will reach other charming villages along the Bosphorus, such as Poyrazkoy and Anadolu Feneri.
Popular Spots, Restaurants, and Cafes
Anadolu Kavagi is renowned for its fresh seafood and restaurants with Bosphorus views. The fish restaurants lined along the waterfront offer visitors an unforgettable dining experience with their delicious mezes and fresh fish. Eating fish by the sea at sunset with the unique view of the Bosphorus will be a delightful experience.
In addition, the tea gardens and cafes along the shore are ideal for resting and enjoying tasty snacks. In these spots, you can take a peaceful break with a freshly brewed tea while gazing at the cool waters of the Bosphorus.
Fish Restaurants
Anadolu Kavagi is famous for its fish restaurants, thanks to its location at one of the narrowest points of the Bosphorus and its breathtaking sea views.
Yosun Restaurant
Yosun Restaurant is one of the most popular fish restaurants in Anadolu Kavağı. Located by the sea with a spacious terrace, it offers fresh fish with a Bosphorus view. The menu includes seasonal fish such as sea bass, sea bream, and bluefish, as well as a variety of seafood. The restaurant is also famous for its mezes and salads, and it tends to be very crowded, especially on weekends.
Kavak Doğanay Restaurant
Kavak Doğanay Fish Restaurant specializes in seafood and offers a wide variety to its guests. Fresh mezes, calamari, shrimp, and mussels served with the magnificent Bosphorus view are among the restaurant’s standout dishes.
Ice Cream Shops
Anadolu Kavagi is as famous for its ice cream shops as it is for its fish restaurants. It’s an ideal place to cool off in the summer and enjoy delicious ice cream with a Bosphorus view.
How to Get to Anadolu Kavağı?
Anadolu Kavagi is a quiet and peaceful neighborhood located at the northern end of the Bosphorus, connected to the Beykoz district of Istanbul. It is approximately 30 km from Üsküdar, beyond Beykoz towards the Black Sea.
There are various transportation options available to reach Anadolu Kavagi from different parts of Istanbul. The most practical and fastest way to reach Anadolu Kavagi is by sea.
You can use the following city ferry lines to get directly to Anadolu Kavağı by sea:
- Anadolu Kavağı – Üsküdar line (Anadolu Kavağı – Beykoz – Çubuklu – Kanlıca – Anadolu Hisarı – Çengelköy – Beylerbeyi – Üsküdar)
- Bosphorus line
Alternatively, you can transfer from Eminönü, Kabataş, or Beşiktaş to Üsküdar using city line ferries (or boats running between Beşiktaş and Üsküdar) and then proceed to Anadolu Hisarı from Üsküdar.
Please cross check sehirhatlari.istanbul for all above routes, timetables and prices.
Best Tips for Visiting Anadolu Kavagi
✔️ Take the morning ferry – You’ll have plenty of time to explore before heading back.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes – The walk to Yoros Castle is steep.
✔️ Try the seafood – It’s some of the freshest in Istanbul.
✔️ Bring cash – Some restaurants and cafés don’t accept cards.
✔️ Check ferry schedules – The last ferry back to Istanbul departs in the afternoon.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
- Yoros Castle – An ancient fortress with the best views of the Black Sea.
- Poyrazköy Beach – A quiet beach perfect for a summer visit.
Is Anadolu Kavagi Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Istanbul, Anadolu Kavagi is a fantastic choice.
With its stunning Bosphorus views, fresh seafood, ancient castle, and charming village atmosphere, this coastal town offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and culture.