Yoros Castle
Ruined Byzantine castle with Genoese additions, perched above the meeting point of the Bosphorus and the Black Sea near Anadolu Kavağı.
Yoros Castle sits in ruins on a strategic hilltop in Beykoz, where the Bosphorus empties into the Black Sea. Originally built by the Byzantines, it was later reinforced and held by the Genoese in the mid-15th century, hence its local nickname 'Genoese Castle'. The remains of its walls and towers still command the landscape, offering unobstructed views over the water and passing tankers.
Getting there is half the experience: a public ferry from Eminönü or Kadıköy to Anadolu Kavağı, followed by a 20-minute walk up through the village and forest. The ruins themselves are free and unfenced, so you can wander and explore at your own pace. There are no facilities at the top, so bring water and a snack.
Sunset is the classic time to visit, when the sky turns orange over the Black Sea. A few local tea gardens down in the village are perfect for waiting for the return ferry.
“For the dramatic meeting point of two seas and a crumbling castle with zero crowds.”
Go in late afternoon, catch the sunset, then walk down quickly before it gets completely dark—the path has no lights.
Steep, unpaved path up from the village; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Good to know
- Is Yoros Castle free to visit?
- Free. Open ruins above Anadolu Kavağı where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea; classic ferry day trip
- How long should you spend at Yoros Castle?
- ~1h
- When is the best time to visit Yoros Castle?
- Sunset
- Is Yoros Castle wheelchair accessible?
- Steep, unpaved path up from the village; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
