Where to Stay in Üsküdar
Turkey
|Pop. 524K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Üsküdar at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Üsküdar
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Take a ferry to the European side from Üsküdar Ferry Terminal; it's a cheap and scenic way to see the city skyline.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by taxi drivers (ensure meter is used or agree on price beforehand)
Solo Female Travel
Üsküdar is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, by sticking to well-lit and populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings.
Hidden Gems in Üsküdar
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Kuzguncuk Bostanı
FREEThis charming urban garden is a beloved spot for locals to relax, picnic, and enjoy the sea breeze. It's a peaceful oasis away from the city bustle, filled with colorful flowers and community spirit.
Çengelköy Sahili
FREEStroll along the picturesque Çengelköy waterfront, lined with historic mansions and offering stunning views of the Bosphorus. Stop by a local tea house for a simit and Turkish coffee.
Beylerbeyi Palace Museum
While the palace itself is known, many tourists overlook the intricate details and quieter corners of this opulent Ottoman summer residence. Explore its lavish interiors and serene gardens for a glimpse into royal life.
İcadiye Mektebi Cafe
This delightful cafe, housed in a historic school building, offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious homemade cakes and pastries. It's a favorite local haunt for a relaxed afternoon tea or coffee.
Salacak Sahili (Maiden's Tower Viewpoint)
FREEFind a quiet spot on the Salacak shore to admire the iconic Maiden's Tower. The sunset views here, with the city skyline as a backdrop, are simply magical and much less crowded than other viewpoints.
Üsküdar Halk Pazarı
FREEExperience the vibrant atmosphere of this local market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique textiles. It's a great place to mingle with locals and practice your bargaining skills.
What It Costs in Üsküdar
Daily budget per person in TRY
💡79% cheaper than London
TRY 1200/day
TRY 2500/day
TRY 6000/day
Where to Stay in Üsküdar
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Bosphorus Promenade5 min
- Beylerbeyi Palace20 min
Pros
- +Picturesque and tranquil
- +Excellent local cafes and restaurants
- +Authentic Istanbul feel
Cons
- -Can feel a bit quiet at night
- -Limited public transport within the neighborhood
Best for
Walk to
- Çengelköy Promenade5 min
- Kuleli Military High School15 min
Pros
- +Stunning Bosphorus views
- +High-quality dining options
- +Relaxed and elegant atmosphere
Cons
- -More expensive than other Üsküdar neighborhoods
- -Can be difficult to access without a car or taxi
Best for
Walk to
- Maiden's Tower10 min
- Mihrimah Sultan Mosque5 min
- Üsküdar Ferry Terminal2 min
Pros
- +Excellent transport links
- +Abundance of historic sites
- +Lively local atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially near the ferry terminal
- -Less charming than smaller neighborhoods
Top stays in Üsküdar Center
Park Inn by Radisson Istanbul Asia
$$Modern hotel with good amenities and convenient location near the ferry.
Grand Es Hotel Istanbul
$$Comfortable hotel with a central location and friendly staff.
Nur Apart
$Offers self-catering apartments, ideal for longer stays.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial zones on the outskirts: These areas lack tourist infrastructure and offer little of interest.
Insider tip: Take a ferry to the European side from Üsküdar Ferry Terminal; it's a cheap and scenic way to see the city skyline.
Safety in Üsküdar
SafeSolo Female Travel
Üsküdar is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, by sticking to well-lit and populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings.
At Night
Main streets around the ferry terminal and major mosques are well-lit and busy. Quieter residential streets can be dark; avoid walking alone in these areas late at night.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by taxi drivers (ensure meter is used or agree on price beforehand)
- 2Fake goods being sold near tourist spots
- 3Being led to shops by unofficial 'guides' expecting commission
Getting Around Üsküdar
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
From IST Airport (European side): Metro M1A to Aksaray, then tram T1 to Eminönü, then ferry to Üsküdar (approx. 1.5-2 hours, 150-200 TRY). From SAW Airport (Asian side): Metro M4 to Kadıköy, then ferry to Üsküdar (approx. 1 hour, 100-150 TRY). Taxis are available but significantly more expensive.
🎫
Day Pass
Istanbulkart (a rechargeable card) is needed for all public transport; no specific day pass, but a loaded card offers per-ride discounts. A round trip ferry ticket is around 30-40 TRY.
Single: Approximately 15-20 TRY for metro/tram/bus with Istanbulkart. Ferry single ride is around 15-20 TRY.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber
📶
WiFi
Good30-50 Mbps
Public Transport
The Marmaray rail line connects Üsküdar to the European side and other parts of the Asian side. Ferries are crucial for intercontinental travel. Local buses are extensive but can be confusing.
Ride-share
BiTaksi and Uber are available, though Uber often operates as UberXL. Expect to pay 200-400 TRY for rides within Üsküdar or to nearby districts.
Transport Tip
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls offer free Wi-Fi with purchase. Some public areas around ferry terminals may have limited free access.
Coworking
Limited options directly in Üsküdar; most are in Kadıköy or on the European side. Expect daily passes around 200-400 TRY if found.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jun, Sep, Oct
Hotels & Accommodation in Üsküdar
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Üsküdar?
Compare prices across Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and more.
Who Is Üsküdar Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Istanbul visitors wanting a local feel
Offers a great introduction to Asian-side life with easy access to transport and key landmarks.
Couples seeking a romantic escape
Its picturesque streets and charming cafes provide a perfect setting for romantic strolls.
Foodies exploring local flavors
Known for its high-quality seafood restaurants and traditional Turkish eateries with beautiful views.
Budget travelers interested in culture
Provides affordable accommodation and easy access to numerous historical sites and transport links.
About Üsküdar
Üsküdar (Turkish pronunciation: [ysˈcydaɾ]) is a municipality and district of Istanbul Province, Turkey. Its area is 35 km2, and its population is 524,452 (2022). It is a large and densely populated district on the Anatolian (Asian) shore of the Bosphorus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Üsküdar
Is Üsküdar safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Üsküdar?
What area should I stay in Üsküdar?
When is the best time to visit Üsküdar?
How do I get around Üsküdar?
Üsküdar Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel