Nestled along the Istanbul Asian shores of the Bosphorus, Kanlica is a picturesque and peaceful neighborhood known for its stunning waterfront views, Ottoman mansions, and famous yogurt.
This charming neighborhoods offers a relaxing escape from the bustling city while still being easily accessible from central Istanbul.
If you’re looking for a laid-back Bosphorus experience, Kanlica is a must-visit. Whether you want to try its legendary yogurt, take a ferry ride, or explore historic sites, this hidden gem is full of surprises.
Why Visit Kanlica?
✔️ Authentic Bosphorus village feel – A quiet, local escape from the crowds.
✔️ Famous Kanlica Yogurt – A must-try delicacy served with powdered sugar.
✔️ Bosphorus views – Stunning scenery, especially from waterfront cafés.
✔️ Historic yalıs (Ottoman mansions) – Some of the most elegant in Istanbul.
✔️ Great for a relaxing day out – Ideal for a peaceful walk or a cup of Turkish tea by the sea.
About Kanlıca
This neighborhood belongs to Beykoz district, and is known by its Greek name “Glaros”, meaning seagull. There are different theories regarding its current name. Some sources suggest it comes from “Kağnılıca”, referencing its history as a cart-making place, others say it’s due to the red-painted mansions in the Ottoman color, and some believe it is named after the “Kanglı” Turkish tribe that once lived there.
Kanlica, with its greenery and peaceful atmosphere, is an ideal escape for those looking to get away from the noise of Istanbul. It is especially famous for its yogurt, attracting many visitors who come to taste this unique delicacy.
The neighborhood’s narrow, historic streets are lined with old Ottoman houses and mansions. These historical elements take visitors on a journey back in time. Situated along the Bosphorus, Kanlica offers stunning views, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Top Things to Do, Places to See
Istanbul Kanlica is famous for its yogurt, which even Evliya Çelebi praised, its cobblestone streets adorned with countless varieties of flowers, its grand mansions, and Mihrabad Grove.
At the entrance to Kanlica pier, you’ll find Kanlica Gazi İskender Paşa Mosque, built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. The mosque, particularly its wooden interior, is worth seeing.
In Kanlıca, fishing is also popular in the open spaces between the mansions. It’s an ideal activity for those looking for something different to do on the weekend. For those without fishing gear, rental services are available.
For those looking to stay in Kanlica, there is A’jia, the Ahmed Rasim Pasha Mansion, located right by the sea.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Kanlica Pier
Kanlica Pier is another significant spot in the neighborhood. The pier opens to a charming and lovely square. Around it, you can find tea gardens, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy a break with a view of the Bosphorus.
One of the oldest and most famous tea gardens here is İsmail Ağa Kahvesi, serving since 1870. It’s a great place to take a breather.
You can also take a walk by the cool waters of the Bosphorus or enjoy your tea at one of the tea gardens while soaking in the peaceful view of the Bosphorus.
Pier Square
The heart of Kanlica, Pier Square, is one of the most vibrant and attractive spots in the neighborhood. Located by the Bosphorus, the square is a gathering point for both locals and tourists. Here, you can find many places to taste the famous Kanlıca yogurt. The cafes and restaurants in the square offer an ideal setting to enjoy a pleasant break with a view of the sea.
Pier Square is also an important starting point for those who want to take a Bosphorus tour. Ferries and boats departing from Kanlica Pier provide an unforgettable experience for those wishing to explore the unique views of the Bosphorus. The historical buildings and green areas around the square offer a perfect atmosphere for those who want to take a walk and enjoy the neighborhood.
Ismail Ağa Kahvesi
Ismail Ağa Kahvesi is one of the oldest and most famous establishments in Kanlıca, ideal for enjoying coffee with a view of the Bosphorus. Its historical texture and nostalgic atmosphere offer visitors a journey back in time. The interior of the coffee house is decorated to reflect the spirit of old Istanbul coffeehouses.
In addition to its coffee, Ismail Ağa Kahvesi is also famous for its delicious snacks. Here, you can enjoy not only traditional Turkish coffee but also freshly made pastries and börek.
Kanlıca Mansions
Kanlica is also famous for its magnificent mansions lined up along the Bosphorus coast. These historic buildings, with their elegant Ottoman architecture, attract attention. The mansions are surrounded by the cool waters of the Bosphorus and lush gardens, carrying the elegance of the past to the present.
The mansions are captivating not only for their external beauty but also for the stories they hold inside. Many of these mansions once hosted important families of the Ottoman era. Today, some are used as private residences, while others have been restored and opened to the public.
İskender Pasha Mosque
İskender Pasha Mosque is an important place of worship that reflects the historical texture of Kanlica. Built by İskender Pasha in the 16th century, the mosque is one of the elegant examples of Ottoman architecture. The mosque offers visitors a spiritual experience with its simplicity and serene atmosphere.
Muvakkithane
One of the significant historical buildings in Kanlica, the Muvakkithane was constructed during the Ottoman period to determine prayer times. It is also known as one of the places where astronomy and clock science studies of the era were conducted. The elegant architecture and historical texture of the building provide visitors with a glimpse of the past.
Mihrabat Grove
Among the places to visit in Kanlica Istanbul, Mihrabat Grove ranks high and is also one of Istanbul’s most beautiful groves and parks. The grove is also the location referenced in the famous line “I looked at you from a hill yesterday, dear Istanbul” by Turkey’s significant writer Yahya Kemal Beyatlı.
This vast and green area is perfect for walking, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature. In the grove, you can also find observation terraces offering unique views of the Istanbul Bosphorus, a charming café named Aadan Lounge, and a beautiful restaurant named Mihrabat Restaurant.
Hidiv Pavilion and Grove
Located between the neighborhoods of Cubuklu and Kanlica on the Bosphorus, Hidiv Pavilion and Grove is also one of the most beautiful places in Istanbul. This historical site amidst greenery with a serene environment overlooking the Bosphorus is an ideal place for breakfast, dining, and relaxation, especially on weekends.
Built in 1907 by the Egyptian Khedive Abbas Hilmi Pasha, the pavilion is constructed in the Art Nouveau style. It stands out with its magnificent Bosphorus view and expansive gardens.
The interior of the Hidiv Pavilion is just as impressive as its exterior. Elegant furniture, sophisticated decorations, and historical details catch the eye at every corner of the pavilion. Additionally, the pools and walking paths in the pavilion’s garden allow you to experience peaceful moments intertwined with nature.
Also, there is a restaurant and café operated by Beltur, a subsidiary of the Istanbul Municipality, where you can spend a beautiful day with a splendid view of nature and the Bosphorus. Along with a spread breakfast, hot meals, and beverages are available throughout the day.
Take a Ferry Ride from Kanlica Pier
One of the best ways to experience Kanlica is by taking a ferry ride along the Bosphorus.
✔️ Catch a ferry to Eminönü, Beşiktaş, or Üsküdar for a scenic journey.
✔️ Enjoy the cool sea breeze and see Istanbul’s landmarks from the water.
✔️ Take a sunset ferry ride for unforgettable Bosphorus views.
Tip: The Şehir Hatları Bosphorus Line is the best ferry option for sightseeing.
Dining – Popular Places, Restaurants, and Cafes
Istanbul Kanlica offers a rich variety of dining options. It is a must to taste the famous Kanlıca yogurt before leaving the area.
The restaurants and cafes in the neighborhood offer a wide menu ranging from seafood to traditional Turkish cuisine. Especially the restaurants located along the Bosphorus are known for their excellent seafood. In Kanlıca, you can enjoy fresh and delicious seafood with a sea view. Moreover, the tea gardens and cafes along the coast are ideal for a peaceful break.
Kanlıca Yogurt
The yogurt shops along Kanlıca Square are perfect for those wanting to experience this treat. Kanlıca yogurt, served with powdered sugar on top, stands out as a sweet and refreshing snack.
The fame and uniqueness of Kanlıca yogurt come from the milk of local cows. Due to a special herb that the cows eat, their milk has a slightly pink hue, making the yogurt particularly tasty. Real Kanlıca yogurt is made from a blend of buffalo, cow, and sheep milk. Tasting Kanlıca yogurt at the tea gardens and cafes around the ferry pier is a delightful experience.
Lacivert Restaurant
Lacivert Restaurant is one of Kanlıca’s most famous and prestigious dining venues. Located along the Bosphorus, the restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with its stunning view and elegant decor. The menu features select dishes from Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. Fresh seafood and specially prepared dishes are among the most popular items.
Kanlıca Teras Cafe
One of the most popular spots in Kanlıca, especially among the youth, known for its quality service, menus, and ambiance.
İsmail Ağa Kahvesi
The oldest and most famous tea garden in Kanlıca, serving since 1870.
Yakamoz Restaurant
A nice fish restaurant located next to the pier.
How to Get to Kanlica?
Located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus Istanbul, Kanlica is approximately 13 km from Uskudar, following the neighborhoods of Kuzguncuk, Beylerbeyi, Cengelkoy, Kandilli and Anadolu Hisari towards the Black Sea.
The most practical and fastest way to reach Kanlica is by sea.
By Sea
It is possible to reach Anadolu Hisari with city line ferries operating on the Bosphorus line. You can also use the following city line ferry routes to come directly to Anadolu Hisari by sea.
- Çengelköy – İstinye line (Çengelköy – Arnavutköy – Bebek – Kandilli – Anadolu Hisarı – Kanlıca – Emirgan – İstinye)
- 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.
By Bus and Minibus
You can easily reach Kavacik with IETT buses departing from various points in Istanbul. Bus lines 15, 15H, and 15K from Üsküdar provide direct transportation to Anadolu Hisarı.
Additionally, you can reach the neighborhood with buses coming from Kadıköy and Beykoz. You can also use the minibuses going from Üsküdar to Beykoz.
For IETT Municipal Bus routes and stops, visit the IETT Line and Stop Search.
By Metrobus and Metro
For those coming from the European side, you can take the metrobus and get off at Altunizade or Zincirlikuyu, then transfer to Usküdar and continue to Kavacik by bus or minibus.
Alternatively, you can use Marmaray to reach Uskudar and then take a bus or minibus to Kavacik.
Best Tips for Visiting Kanlica
✔️ Visit in the morning – The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful early in the day.
✔️ Try the yogurt – It’s the most famous specialty in Kanlica.
✔️ Bring a camera – The Bosphorus views are stunning.
✔️ Take a ferry ride – A great way to see Istanbul’s coastline.
✔️ Explore Mihrabad Grove – It’s one of Istanbul’s hidden gems.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
- Mihrabad Grove – A beautiful green park with panoramic Bosphorus views.
- Küçüksu Pavilion – A historic Ottoman hunting lodge by the water.
- Anadolu Hisari – A small but charming fortress on the Asian side.
- Beykoz – A scenic district with forests, fishing villages, and Ottoman mansions.
Is Kanlica Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape in Istanbul, Kanlica is the perfect place.
With its famous yogurt, stunning Bosphorus views, charming Ottoman mansions, and relaxing seaside atmosphere, Kanlica offers a unique blend of history, nature, and local culture.