“Control post” is what “Kavak” means in Ottoman Turkish. That gives you a clue about the history of Rumelikavağı. This neighborhood in Istanbul holds a strategic position on the Bosphorus. Today I will tell you about this beautiful place.
Rumelikavağı is a neighborhood within the Sarıyer district. It sits on the European side of Istanbul. As of 2022 its population was 3657. “Rumeli” is the Turkish name for Thrace.
Once, Rumelikavağı was a small fishing village. In the 17th century a castle was built. It was used to guard against Cossack naval attacks from the Black Sea. During the Russo-Turkish War in 1877 some immigrants settled here. They came from Russian-occupied provinces. Until the 1960s much of Rumelikavağı was a restricted military zone.
Now, Rumelikavağı offers a peaceful escape from Istanbul’s busy atmosphere. The narrow streets show old Greek and Turkish houses. You can see fishing boats and a small marketplace. These sights transport visitors to the past.
What can you do in Rumelikavağı? Visit historical sites and enjoy the natural beauty. The Rumeli Kavagi Castle is a key attraction. This Byzantine-era castle gives a magnificent view. You can see where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea.
Walk along the coast. The cool breeze of the Bosphorus is refreshing. Stroll through the harbor. You can watch fishermen and buy fresh seafood. Parks offer a beautiful place for picnics.
Rumelikavağı is famous for its fish and mussel restaurants. Mussel farming has a long tradition here. Mussels are sent to many cities in Turkey from the Mussel Market.
Telli Baba is a historical tomb. It is named for the wire trees surrounding it. Young women visit to make wishes for marriage. They tie a white cloth to the wires. They make prayers and wishes. The tomb has a stunning view of the Bosphorus. It provides a peaceful atmosphere.
The Rumeli Kavagi Pier is another important spot. It has been a key sea transportation point. The pier has existed since the era of the Şirket-i Hayriye. This was Istanbul’s first ferry company. Today it serves city ferries and private boats. Fish restaurants and cafes offer pleasant moments with Bosphorus views.
Escape the chaos of Istanbul at Rumeli Kavagi Beaches. Altinkum Beach is a popular choice. Elmaskum Beach is another. There is also Kadinlar Beach for women only. These beaches offer relaxation and clear waters.
Just a short distance from Rumelikavağı is Garipçe Village. This village is known for its natural beauty. It has a peaceful atmosphere away from the city. Garipçe Castle has views of the village and the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge.
Getting to Rumelikavağı is easy. Take a bus from Sarıyer. Use the 150 bus line. From Beşiktaş and Taksim take the 25E and 40T buses to Sarıyer. Then transfer to the 150 bus. You can also take the M2 metro line to Hacıosman. From there take a minibus or bus to Sarıyer. Then take the 150 bus to Rumeli Kavagi. Driving is also an option. Follow the coastal road towards Sarıyer.
Rumeli Kavağı, with its blend of history and natural beauty, truly feels like one of Istanbul’s hidden paradises. I hope you enjoyed exploring it with me today.