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Kocaeli, Gebze — İstanbul · 2 active ferry routes
Eskihisar Pier is the Kocaeli-side terminal of Turkey's busiest car ferry line. Operating 24/7 without interruption, the pier features a large vehicle waiting area, kiosks, and WCs. It provides passage to Yalova via the Tavşanlı ferry line.
Located in the Gebze district of Kocaeli, Eskihisar Pier is a highly strategic transportation hub that hosts one of Turkey's busiest car ferry lines. Situated on the northern coast of the Sea of Marmara, this pier is particularly known for alleviating road traffic between Istanbul and Anatolia. Providing uninterrupted 24/7 service, the terminal serves as a vital bridge for thousands of vehicles and passengers wishing to cross towards Yalova. Due to its location, it holds great importance both logistically and touristically.
Eskihisar Pier is located south of the Gebze district center, right on the waterfront. Accessing the pier from the Kocaeli city center and Istanbul is quite easy. Those arriving by private vehicle can comfortably reach the pier via the D-100 (E-5) highway or the TEM motorway by taking the Gebze exit and following the signs. For those preferring public transportation, it is possible to get off at the Marmaray Gebze station and take local minibuses or municipal buses departing from there directly to the pier. Additionally, buses departing from the Izmit center towards Körfez and Gebze offer access to this area via transfers.
Eskihisar is an old fishing town notable for its historical charm. While it was a small pier used by locals for transportation and fishing in the past, it has transformed into a massive car ferry terminal with increasing population and industrialization. Today, this heavily used port was the most important artery connecting the two sides of the Marmara before the construction of the Gulf Bridge (Osmangazi Bridge). Despite the opening of the bridge, it still maintains its regional importance and busy traffic due to its affordability and the opportunity it provides for a rest break.
The primary and busiest service operated from Eskihisar Pier is the car ferry service to Tavşanlı Pier on the Yalova side. The Eskihisar - Tavşanlı line operates continuously on a 24/7 basis, using a fill-and-go system. The journey takes an average of 30-45 minutes. This route is frequently preferred by holidaymakers heading down to the Aegean or Mediterranean, especially during public holidays and summer months, as well as by heavy vehicle drivers.
The area around the pier is not just a transit point but also a tourist area where you can spend an enjoyable time. Eskihisar Castle is one of the leading historical sites you can visit while waiting for the ferry or if you come to the area specifically. The Osman Hamdi Bey Museum, located right on the coastline, is also a fantastic stop for art and history enthusiasts. Furthermore, the fish restaurants, tea gardens, and walking paths lined along the coast offer beautiful alternatives for visitors wanting to get some sea air.