Tucked away at the northernmost tip of Istanbul European side, Rumeli Kavagi is a charming fishing village known for its fresh seafood, historical landmarks, and breathtaking Bosphorus views.
Unlike the bustling areas of central Istanbul, this coastal retreat offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the city’s crowds and explore a lesser-known side of Istanbul.
If you’re looking for a unique day trip with amazing seafood, stunning scenery, and a touch of history, Rumeli Kavagi is a must-visit.
Why Visit Rumeli Kavagi?
✔️ One of the best places in Istanbul for fresh seafood.
✔️ Unspoiled nature, Bosphorus views, and historical sites.
✔️ Less crowded than central Istanbul, offering a peaceful escape.
✔️ Perfect for a scenic ferry ride along the Bosphorus.
✔️ A great stop before visiting Garipçe and the Black Sea coast.
Rumeli Kavagi is a coastal neighborhood located on the European side of Istanbul, at the northernmost point of the Bosphorus, within the Sarıyer district. It is renowned for its fish, mussels, and figs. Situated along the coast between Rumeli Feneri and Sariyer, this article provides general information about the Rumeli Kavağı neighborhood, including historical sites, places to visit, activities, popular dining spots, and transportation information.
Located at the point where the Bosphorus opens into the Black Sea, Rumeli Kavağı is notable for its natural beauty and historical texture. Offering a peaceful life away from the bustling atmosphere of Istanbul, it is one of the rare places that has retained the atmosphere of a fishing village.
The neighborhood’s narrow streets, old Greek and Turkish houses, fishing boats, and small marketplace take visitors on a journey to the past.
Rumeli Kavağı is also known for its restaurants and tea gardens lined up along the coast. It is an ideal escape point for those who want to experience serene moments with a view of the Bosphorus.
The beaches of Rumeli Kavağı are perfect for those looking to escape the chaos of Istanbul. They offer an ideal environment to relax your mind and body with their natural beauty.
With both its historical texture and natural beauty, Rumeli Kavağı is like one of Istanbul’s hidden paradises waiting to be discovered.
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Continuing from Rumeli Kavağı towards the Black Sea, you will come across Garipçe village, followed by Rumeli Feneri.
Top Things to Do, Places to See
The main attractions in Rumeli Kavagi are its historical and natural beauties. One of the most notable historical structures in the area is the Rumeli Kavagi Castle, located below the road to Garipçe and Rumeli Feneri.
This Byzantine-era castle has a strategic position at the point where the Bosphorus opens into the Black Sea and offers a magnificent view. Climbing to the castle provides visitors with unforgettable moments as they watch the point where the Bosphorus and the Black Sea meet.
Walking along the coast of the neighborhood also offers a refreshing experience with the cool breeze of the Bosphorus. These walks, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, help relieve daily stress as you breathe in the sea air.
Additionally, the harbor area where the fishing boats are docked is worth exploring. Here, you can watch the fishermen, who are part of daily life, and purchase fresh seafood.
For those who want to be in touch with nature, the neighborhood’s green areas and parks suitable for picnics offer a beautiful alternative.
Rumeli Kavagi is particularly famous for its fish and mussel restaurants. Mussel farming has been a longstanding tradition in the area. From the Mussel Market at the entrance of Rumeli Kavağı, mussels are sent to many cities in Turkey.
Telli Baba
Telli Baba is a historical tomb located in Rumeli Kavagi, named after the wire trees surrounding it. It is a popular wishing spot, especially visited by young women who want to get married. Visitors tie a white piece of cloth to one of the wires around the tomb while making their prayers and wishes.
There are various legends about the identity of Telli Baba, but it is generally believed to be a place of special significance for vows and wishes. The tomb offers visitors a spiritual experience and the chance to enjoy nature with its stunning view of the Bosphorus and its peaceful atmosphere.
Rumeli Kavagi Pier
Rumeli Kavagi Pier is located near the point where the Bosphorus opens into the Black Sea. This pier, which has been an important sea transportation point throughout history, is an ideal starting point for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the Bosphorus. The pier, which has existed since the era of the Şirket-i Hayriye (the first ferry company in Istanbul), continues to serve city ferries and various private boats today. The fish restaurants and cafes around the pier offer visitors pleasant moments with a view of the Bosphorus.
Try the Famous Seafood in Rumeli Kavagi
Rumeli Kavagi is famous for its seafood, and no visit is complete without a long lunch at a seaside fish restaurant.
✔️ Try freshly grilled fish, calamari, shrimp, and Turkish meze platters.
✔️ Many restaurants offer amazing Bosphorus views.
✔️ Look for daily specials—local fishermen bring in fresh catches every morning.
Top seafood restaurants to try:
- Deniz Yıldızı Restaurant – Known for its grilled fish and calamari.
- Rumeli Balıkçısı – A favorite among locals for authentic Turkish seafood dishes.
- Mavi Karadeniz Restaurant – Serves fresh Black Sea fish with stunning sea views.
Take a Ferry Ride to Rumeli Kavagi
One of the best parts of visiting Rumeli Kavagi is the ferry ride itself.
✔️ Take the Şehir Hatları ferry from Eminönü for a scenic Bosphorus journey.
✔️ Pass by historic waterfront mansions and fortresses along the way.
✔️ Enjoy a slow, relaxing cruise away from the city crowds.
Rumeli Kavagi Beaches
Rumeli Kavagi, as one of the tranquil corners of Istanbul, is a perfect escape point, especially in the summer, for those who want to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle. This small coastal town is quite popular among locals and tourists for its natural beauty and clean beaches. The beaches such as Altinkum, Elmaskum, and Kadinlar (Women) Beach are among the most popular ones.
The beaches in Rumeli Kavagi are especially peaceful and quiet when visited on weekdays. On these days, you can comfortably relax on the sand, enjoy the sun, and take a refreshing swim in the clear waters.
Additionally, you can taste local delicacies at nearby restaurants and cafes, finding yourself in a peaceful retreat away from the city’s noise.
See the best restaurants in Sariyer
Garipce Village
Garipce Village is a charming village known for its natural beauty and historical texture, away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Located near the Black Sea, this small village offers a peaceful escape where green and blue meet.
With its narrow streets, stone houses, and intimate atmosphere, it makes visitors feel like they’re in an Aegean village.
The village is particularly famous for its breakfast spots and fish restaurants. You can buy fresh fish from the fishing boats along the coast or enjoy delicious seafood with the unique view of the Bosphorus at the restaurants. Additionally, Garipce Castle, one of the historical landmarks of the village, offers magnificent views of both the village and the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge.
How to Get to Rumeli Kavağı
Rumeli Kavagi is located on the European side of Istanbul, at the point where the Bosphorus opens into the Black Sea. There are several transportation options to reach Rumeli Kavağı from different parts of Istanbul.
By Bus: You can reach Rumeli Kavagi by using buses departing from Sarıyer. After reaching Sarıyer, the 150 bus line goes directly to Rumeli Kavağı.
From central areas such as Beşiktaş and Taksim, you can take the 25E and 40T buses to Sarıyer.
By Metro and Minibus: Take the M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman metro line and get off at Hacıosman station. From Hacıosman, you can take a minibus or bus to Sarıyer, and then continue to Rumeli Kavagi on the 150 bus line.
Alternatively, you can also take minibuses from Hacıosman to Sarıyer.
By Private Car: It is quite easy to drive to Rumeli Kavagi. Follow the coastal road towards Sarıyer from the center of Istanbul to reach Rumeli Kavagi. Depending on traffic conditions, this journey can take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By Sea: For those preferring sea transportation, there are various options available. Especially during the summer months, it is possible to reach Rumeli Kavagi via Bosphorus tours organized by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.
You can also take city line ferries from Beşiktaş, Eminönü, and Üsküdar, enjoying a Bosphorus tour on your way to Rumeli Kavağı.
We recommend checking IETT public bus routes, METRO, and City Lines ferry schedules from the following links, as the routes mentioned on the page may change over time.
- IETT public bus routes – iett.istanbul
- METRO routes – metro.istanbul
- Public Ferry Lines routes – sehirhatlari.istanbul
Best Tips for Visiting Rumeli Kavagi
✔️ Visit during the week – Weekends can get busy with locals coming for seafood.
✔️ Try the fish of the day – Local fishermen bring fresh catches daily.
✔️ Take the ferry – The best way to experience the beauty of the Bosphorus.
✔️ Bring cash – Some small cafés and restaurants don’t accept credit cards.
✔️ Combine with Garipçe Village – It’s just a short drive away!
Is Rumeli Kavagi Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from central Istanbul, Rumeli Kavagi is the perfect destination. With amazing seafood, a relaxing coastal atmosphere, and a historic fortress, it’s a hidden gem on the Bosphorus that most tourists never get to see.