Ferry from Üsküdar to the European Side: Eminönü & Beşiktaş 2026

Undoubtedly, the most enjoyable, fastest, and traffic-free way to cross from Istanbul's Asian Side to the European Side is by sea. For passengers wishing to cross from Üsküdar to the European side by ferry, as of the summer of 2026, two main routes stand out: the Şehir Hatları (City Lines) Eminönü-Karaköy line, which provides access to the Historical Peninsula, and Dentur Avrasya motorboats, which go directly to Beşiktaş. In this guide, you will find the schedules, fares, and travel strategies for services between the busiest piers on both sides.

Üsküdar - Eminönü and Karaköy Ferry Services

If you are departing from Üsküdar and wish to go to the Historical Peninsula, Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, or the Galata area, the Üsküdar-Eminönü line operated by Şehir Hatları is the most practical option. This line operates on a "ring" principle. After departing from Üsküdar, ferries stop at Karaköy and Eminönü piers, dropping off and picking up passengers according to the route. This model, serving two important piers in a single journey, also offers a direct solution for passengers looking for an Üsküdar Karaköy ferry.

This Bosphorus crossing, lasting approximately 15 minutes, takes place against the silhouette of the Maiden's Tower and Topkapi Palace. For more detailed information about the line, you can visit our Üsküdar - Eminönü services page. Additionally, for general pier locations, you can check our Full List of Istanbul Piers guide.

Üsküdar - Eminönü Ferry Fares 2026

Üsküdar - Eminönü Ferry Timetable

The table below shows the morning and midday departure times from Üsküdar towards Eminönü. For afternoon and evening hours not included in the data, and for current cancellations/changes, please confirm by calling the Şehir Hatları call center at 444 1 851 or by checking their official channels.

Eminönü - Üsküdar Ferry Timetable

After completing your business or tour on the European side, you can use the Eminönü pier for your return journey. Details about return services can be found on our Eminönü - Üsküdar services page. Our article Ferry Guide for Public Holidays and Festivals 2026 will also be useful for information regarding public holidays.

Üsküdar - Beşiktaş Ferry Services (Dentur Avrasya)

The Üsküdar Beşiktaş ferry line is a key connection point, especially for passengers heading towards Taksim, Nişantaşı, Şişli, or Bosphorus villages (Ortaköy, Bebek). Dentur Avrasya, which operates on this line, works with a "continuous and frequent service" model, unlike Şehir Hatları's schedule-bound timetable. Boats depart approximately every 15 minutes throughout the day, in both directions.

The journey takes approximately 15 minutes. For route and pier details, you can visit our Üsküdar - Beşiktaş services page.

Üsküdar - Beşiktaş Ticket Fares 2026

Departure Times from Üsküdar to Beşiktaş

Dentur Avrasya motorboats start their services from Üsküdar at 06:10 AM and depart continuously approximately every 15 minutes until 00:45 AM. Example departure periods are as follows:

• Night Services: 00:10, 00:25, 00:40
• Morning Start: 06:10, 06:25, 06:40, 06:55
• Daytime: Regular departures every 10-15 minutes (07:10, 07:25, 07:40, 07:55...)

Beşiktaş - Üsküdar Return Times

The same frequent service model applies for return journeys from Beşiktaş to Üsküdar. The first motorboat departs from Beşiktaş pier at 06:20 AM, and services continue until 01:00 AM. Late at night (00:05, 00:20, 00:35, 00:50) and in the early morning (06:20, 06:35, 06:50), transportation is provided at approximately 15-minute intervals.

Which Pier to Choose for Which Destination?

When crossing from the Asian side to the European side, choosing the correct arrival point can significantly shorten your transfer time within Istanbul:

• Eminönü Pier: You should choose this pier if you are going to Historical Peninsula attractions such as Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), Grand Bazaar, or if you plan to transfer to the T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line or Sirkeci Marmaray station.
• Karaköy Pier: Ideal for direct access to Galata Tower, the Tünel end of İstiklal Avenue, Istanbul Modern, and Karaköy cafes.
• Beşiktaş Pier: You should use Dentur Beşiktaş motorboats if you are going to destinations such as Taksim Square, Nişantaşı, Yıldız Park, Ortaköy, Bebek, or if you need to transfer to a bus/minibus towards Levent/Maslak.

For changes in service frequency during the summer months, you can plan your journey by reviewing our Ferry and Seabus Summer Timetable 2026 guide.