Haydarpaşa Station Istanbul
A majestic Ottoman-era railway station with a grand sandstone facade and iconic clock tower, now a cherished Istanbul landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Haydarpaşa Station Istanbul
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic Ottoman-era railway station with a grand sandstone facade and iconic clock tower, now a cherished Istanbul landmark.
"This stately station is a photographer's dream and a beautiful reminder of Istanbul's rich history."
Use Istanbulkart for transit
Get an Istanbulkart for easy travel on ferries and public transport to reach the station. :credit_card:
Ferry to Kadıköy
Take a scenic ferry to Kadıköy, then enjoy a short walk to the station. :ferry:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Sandstone Facade
Exterior
Admire the imposing, ornate sandstone exterior of this historic Ottoman-era railway station.
Vaulted Interior Views
Interior (limited access)
Catch glimpses of the magnificent vaulted ceiling and architectural details if access is permitted.
Iconic Clock Tower
Exterior
The station's distinctive clock tower is a beloved Istanbul landmark, offering a picturesque backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Haydarpaşa Station
Best Photo Ops & Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Use Istanbulkart for transit
Get an Istanbulkart for easy travel on ferries and public transport to reach the station. :credit_card:
Ferry to Kadıköy
Take a scenic ferry to Kadıköy, then enjoy a short walk to the station. :ferry:
Check for interior access
Interior access can be limited; check local information for current viewing opportunities. :information_desk:
Capture exterior beauty
The station's exterior is a photographer's dream, especially the facade and clock tower. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Use Istanbulkart for transit
Get an Istanbulkart for easy travel on ferries and public transport to reach the station. :credit_card:
Ferry to Kadıköy
Take a scenic ferry to Kadıköy, then enjoy a short walk to the station. :ferry:
Check for interior access
Interior access can be limited; check local information for current viewing opportunities. :information_desk:
Capture exterior beauty
The station's exterior is a photographer's dream, especially the facade and clock tower. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Haydarpaşa Station's stunning Neo-Classical architecture and historical significance, often describing it as a majestic landmark. While its current status as a non-operational station limits interior access, the exterior beauty and its role as a symbol of Istanbul's past continue to impress.
"Haydarpaşa Train Station is a stunning historical landmark with incredible architecture and rich cultural significance. Located right by the sea, it offers beautiful views and a sense of nostalgia from the era of the Ottoman Empire. Although it’s not currently used for regular train services, the station remains a must-visit spot for its history, photo opportunities, and peaceful atmosphere. A great place to take a stroll, admire the building, and imagine its past glory."
Ali T
"This historical station used to be the door of İstanbul to Anatolia. Many trains from different cities used to come here. I for myself used to get on the trains from Afyonkarahisar to here. The restourant in here was really really really really good."
ihsan Yumuturuğ (#ihsanhoca)
"Haydarpaşa station...
Trains for Asian destinations used to leave from the historic Haydarpaşa Station (pictured above right), a ferry ride across the Bosphorus from Sirkeci Station where the European trains arrive. Haydarpaşa station was built in 1908, a gift from the German Kaiser to the Ottoman Sultan, and named after one of the Sultan's generals. It was closed to long-distance trains in February 2012 when engineering work started to rebuild the rail approaches to Istanbul in connection with both the new high-speed line to Ankara and the new Bosphorus rail tunnel. However, welcome news is that TCDD ultimately want to redevelop the station as the terminal for the high-speed trains to Ankara and Konya. In the meantime, the station is still worth a visit, trains or no trains. Map of Istanbul showing Haydarpaşa & Sirkeci stations."
Shovkat Mirzaliev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic way is to take a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy to Kadıköy. From Kadıköy, Haydarpaşa Station is a short walk away. Alternatively, you can use public buses or the Marmaray line to reach Kadıköy.
No, Haydarpaşa Station is no longer an active railway hub for intercity or regional trains. It primarily serves as a historical landmark and for occasional special events.
The Istanbulkart is highly recommended for all public transport, including ferries, trams, buses, and metro. It offers discounted fares compared to single tickets.
Yes, taxis are generally available in the Kadıköy area, which is close to the station. However, it's advisable to use ride-sharing apps or ensure the meter is used to avoid potential scams.
Yes, you can take the Havaist bus service from Istanbul Airport to Kadıköy. From Kadıköy, it's a short walk to Haydarpaşa Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to view the exterior of Haydarpaşa Station. If there are any special exhibitions or events inside, separate tickets might be required.
As it's primarily a landmark, the exterior is accessible at all times. Specific interior access or event hours would need to be checked locally, as they can vary.
Access to the interior of Haydarpaşa Station is often restricted, especially since it's no longer a functioning train station. However, sometimes it's opened for special events or exhibitions.
Some Istanbul city tours, particularly those focusing on the Asian side or architectural landmarks, may include a stop at Haydarpaşa Station. It's best to check tour itineraries.
The exterior grounds are generally accessible, but interior access can be challenging due to the historic nature of the building. It's advisable to inquire locally about specific accessibility.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand sandstone facade and the clock tower are prime photo opportunities. The waterfront area nearby also offers great perspectives of the station.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful warm light on the sandstone. Early mornings are also good for fewer crowds and softer light.
Photography inside the station is usually only permitted if there's an event or exhibition open to the public, and specific rules may apply.
Drone usage in Istanbul is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near the station or any other landmark.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the station's full facade. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details, and a tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit with a ferry ride across the Bosphorus, which is often a highlight for kids. The journey itself offers exciting views, and arriving in Kadıköy allows for a relaxed exploration without the intense crowds of some European side attractions. Pack snacks and water, as exploring can be tiring for little ones.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While interior access is often restricted, any opportunities to photograph the vaulted ceilings and historical elements inside are highly sought after. The surrounding waterfront and the ferry terminals in Kadıköy also offer excellent vantage points for unique shots of the station against the Istanbul skyline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Until its closure for renovation and the cessation of long-distance train services in 2013, Haydarpaşa was a vital hub for intercity, regional, and commuter rail. It connected Istanbul to various parts of Anatolia and was a gateway for many travelers. The station's closure marked the end of an era for rail travel in the city, leaving behind a rich history and a beloved landmark.
While no longer a functional train station, Haydarpaşa remains a cherished part of Istanbul's heritage. Its imposing presence on the Asian side of the Bosphorus continues to draw visitors and photographers, offering a tangible link to the city's past and its architectural splendor.
Experiencing the Asian Side
From Kadıköy, you can easily access other attractions on the Asian side. Take a short bus or taxi ride to Camlica Hill for panoramic views of the entire city, or explore the charming streets of Moda with its boutiques and art galleries. The area around Haydarpaşa Station itself is also undergoing redevelopment, with potential for new public spaces and cultural venues.
To navigate the Asian side efficiently, utilizing the Istanbulkart for ferries and public transport is highly recommended. This allows for seamless travel between Haydarpaşa, Kadıköy, and other points of interest, making your exploration of this dynamic part of Istanbul a breeze.
Social
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