İstanbul, Kadıköy — İstanbul · 1 active ferry route
Bostancı Pier is the departure point for the shortest route to the Princes' Islands from Istanbul's Asian side. Marmaray and bus connections are available. There is a walking path and parks along the coastline.
Located in the Kadıköy district on Istanbul's Asian side, Bostancı Pier is one of the city's most bustling and strategic maritime transport hubs. As the departure point for the shortest and most popular route to the Princes' Islands (Adalar), this pier is heavily used by both locals and tourists. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sea of Marmara, the pier sits at the exact intersection of advanced transportation networks, playing a key role in Istanbul's maritime traffic.
Bostancı Pier is centrally located along the coastline in the eastern part of Kadıköy. Getting there from within the city is highly convenient. You can take the Marmaray line directly to the Bostancı station and reach the pier with just a few minutes' walk. Additionally, the area is easily accessible via yellow shared taxis (dolmuş) departing from central Kadıköy, IETT buses (such as lines 16D, 4, 16, and 222), or the M8 Bostancı-Dudullu metro line. For those arriving by private car, the coastal road leads directly to the pier.
With a history dating back to the Ottoman era, the Bostancı area takes its name from the "bostancıbaşı" (head gardeners) responsible for the palace's vineyards and gardens. Once known as a summer resort, this neighborhood became one of Istanbul's main arteries with the introduction of ferry services. Today, Bostancı Pier serves as the primary maritime gateway connecting the Asian side to the Princes' Islands and the European side. It is not just a transport hub, but also a regional attraction center with its surrounding social living spaces.
Regular ferry services operate from Bostancı Pier year-round. The busiest routes are the Princes' Islands ferry and motorboat services covering Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. There are also Şehir Hatları ferries heading towards Kadıköy, Kabataş, Beşiktaş, and Karaköy. Through IDO, fast ferry services are organized to more distant destinations such as Yenikapı, Bakırköy, Kadıköy, and Yalova.
The area around the pier offers many options for an enjoyable time while waiting for your ferry or after your journey. The walking and cycling paths stretching along the coastline are ideal for those who want to take in the sea air. Thanks to its striking historical architecture and proximity to the famous Bağdat Avenue, you can walk to countless restaurants, cafes, and shops, or taste fresh seafood against the Sea of Marmara at the region's renowned fish restaurants.