İstanbul, Üsküdar — İstanbul · 2 active ferry routes
Harem Pier is the departure point for the car ferry service on the Asian side of Istanbul. It provides vehicle access to the European side via the Sirkeci ferry line. It features a large vehicle waiting area and modern facilities.
Located within the borders of the Üsküdar district on the Asian Side of Istanbul, Harem Pier is one of the city's most important maritime transport hubs. Positioned at coordinates 41.0033000 latitude and 29.0183000 longitude, this pier holds strategic importance, especially as the main departure point for the car ferry service. Thanks to the ferries operating reciprocally with Sirkeci Pier on the European Side, it makes intercontinental vehicle and pedestrian crossings extremely fast, practical, and enjoyable without getting stuck in Istanbul traffic.
Harem Pier is situated on the coastal road between Üsküdar and Kadıköy, at a point overlooking the entrance to the Bosphorus. Getting to the pier is quite easy. IETT buses and minibuses departing from various points on the Asian Side arrive directly at the Harem Platforms. It can be reached in a short time via public transport vehicles traveling along the coast from the centers of Kadıköy or Üsküdar (such as bus lines 16A, 16F, 16U, 320A, 12H). Additionally, it is possible to get off at the Üsküdar station using Marmaray and reach the pier with a short transfer along the coastal road or by walking. For those arriving by private vehicle, simply follow the Harem signs from the D-100 highway.
Dating back to the Ottoman period, the Harem region was historically an important staging post used by sultans and palace residents when crossing to Anatolia. It is rumored that the name "Harem" comes from the palace women being sent off from here. Today, Harem Pier continues to be one of the most critical links in the commercial and daily transportation network between the two sides of Istanbul. Especially during hours of heavy bridge traffic, it increases the logistical and touristic value of the region by offering a lifesaving alternative for both commercial vehicles and passenger cars.
The most fundamental service operated from Harem Pier is the Harem - Sirkeci car ferry line under Şehir Hatları. This line operates regularly at frequent intervals from early morning until midnight, serving both pedestrians and vehicle owners. It is the most ideal sea route for those who want to cross to the opposite side without entering vehicle traffic.
From the moment you step onto the pier, there are many spots to discover in the surroundings. The historical Maiden's Tower is the most popular tourist landmark, located a short walk from the pier. You can take a walk along the Salacak Coast and sip your tea at the coastal cafes while watching the unique view of the Bosphorus and the Historical Peninsula. As you head towards the center of Üsküdar, you can visit Mimar Sinan's masterpieces such as the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and Şemsi Paşa Mosque, and dine at restaurants offering local delicacies.