Küçüksu Pavilion

A View of Ottoman Elegance

Küçüksu Pavilion is a beautiful example of Ottoman structure. It lies on the Asian side of Istanbul, on the Bosphorus shore. This charming pavilion, which is also known as Küçüksu Palace, was once a retreat for Ottoman sultans.

Its intricate design and historical importance have attracted tourists for years. The pavilion's beautiful gardens and intricate interiors give us a glimpse into the luxurious life of the Ottoman elites. Today, Küçüksu Pavilion is a symbol of Istanbul's rich cultural past. It draws both history lovers and tourists.

This page provides essential visitor information, historical highlights, and interesting facts about Istanbul’s Küçüksu Pavilion.

History of the Küçüksu Pavilion

HISTORY

Early Beginnings

Back in the 18th century, Sultan Mahmud I ordered a simple wooden building that would become the Küçüksu Pavilion. Originally used as a hunting house and summer retreat, this house provided the Ottoman sultans with a peaceful place to recuperate.

Reconstruction in the 19th Century

Around the middle of the 1800s, Sultan Abdülmecid I started a big project to rebuild the palace. The new structure was designed by renowned architects Garabet Balyan and his son Nigoğayos Balyan. The pavilion, completed in 1857, was designed in an extravagant Baroque style with beautiful stone carvings and luxurious interiors.

 

Post-Ottoman Era

Following the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the Küçüksu Pavilion was abandoned. However, its historical and architectural significance were preserved, inspiring restoration attempts in the mid-20th century.

Restoration and Public Opening

The meticulous restoration of the Küçüksu Pavilion turned it into a museum, conserving its historical significance while making it accessible to the public. Today, it serves as a tribute to Istanbul's rich cultural past, drawing both historians and tourists.ı

Visitor Information

Open: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Tuesdays to Sundays

CLOSED

Mondays

 BEST TIME TO VISIT

Least crowded days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays

Least crowded time: From 9 to 11 AM, and from 4 to 5:30 PM

Küçüksu Pavilion: Opening Hours & Admission

Opening Times: Küçüksu Pavillion is open every day, except Mondays, from 09:00 AM to 05:30 PM.

Last admission: The last admission to the pavilion is at 4:30 PM.

Closing Days: Küçüksu Pavillion is closed on every Monday, New Year’s Day, 1st Day of Ramadan Bayram and 1st Day of The Feast of the Sacrifice.

Entrance Fee: 130 TL for foreign visitors; and 40 TL for domestic visitors

Küçuksu Pavilion Picnic Area: 120 TL for foreign visitors; and 25 TL for domestic visitors

Interesting Facts About the Küçüksu Pavilion



Quick Facts

  • Location: Asian shore of the Bosphorus, Istanbul
  • Address: Göksu, Küçüksu Cd., 34810 Beykoz/İstanbul
  • Built: Originally in the 18th century, reconstructed in 1857
  • Architects: Garabet Balyan and Nigoğayos Balyan
  • Style: Baroque
  • Function: Originally a hunting lodge, now a museum



Fun Facts

Film Appearances: The pavilion has been featured in several Turkish films and TV series due to its picturesque setting.


Sultan’s Retreat: It served as a favorite retreat for Sultan Abdülmecid I, who often spent summers here.


Artistic Interiors: The interior walls are adorned with elaborate frescoes and European-style paintings, showcasing a blend of Ottoman and Western influences.

How to Get to the Küçüksu Pavilion

Küçüksu Pavilion is located in the neighborhood of Beykoz, a very beautiful part of Istanbul. It  can be easily reached by various modes of transportation. By ferry, a scenic ride across the Bosphorus to Anadolu Hisarı pier, followed by a short walk, is recommended. Alternatively, public buses and taxis from central Istanbul offer convenient access. The pavilion's location near major transport routes ensures it is well-connected and accessible for both local and international visitors.

See below your transportation options:

Adress: Göksu, Küçüksu Cd., 34810 Beykoz/İstanbul

By Ferry

Take a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus from Sarıyer to Anadolu Hisarı pier. From there, it’s a short walk to Küçüksu Pavilion, offering picturesque views along the way. >> Go to the Official Istanbul Ferry Website

By Bus

Several public buses from central Istanbul head towards the pavilion. Buses such as the 15, 15H, and 15K have stops near the pavilion, making it easily accessible.

By Metro and Bus

To reach the Pavilion with Metro and Marmaray, take the M2 metro line until Yenikapı and then transfer to Marmaray and go to Uskudar station, then transfer to a bus to Anadolu Hisari. >> Marmaray Departure Times and Stations