Located on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus Strait, between the Göksu and Küçüksu rivers, Küçüksu Palace shines like a jewel on the shore, attracting everyone's attention.
As you pass by the Bosphorus by boat, you will be amazed at how stunning a small palace from the Ottoman period can be when you first see this elegant mansion. With its marble-white exterior and intricate ornamentation, the Küçüksu Palace, considered the jewel of the Bosphorus, offers a breathtaking view surrounded by lush green forests and crystal-clear waters. This impressive structure, which can be greeted by yachts and boats sailing along the Bosphorus, evokes the feeling of witnessing a historical film scene.
History of the Küçüksu Palace
In the 18th century, a two-storey wooden palace was built in the Küçüksu Meadow, one of Istanbul's most popular recreational areas, during the reign of Sultan Mahmud I (1750s) and was used by Ottoman sultans for many years.
In the 19th century, Sultan Abdulmecid had the old building demolished and replaced it with the current stone structure. Completed in 1856-1857 by architect Nigoğos Balyan, the new Küçüksu Palace boasts a striking architecture that reflects the Western influences of the period. The building initially served as a hunting lodge for the sultan to rest during his day trips and hunting expeditions, and even hosted some important diplomatic meetings.
Used for various ceremonies and invitations during the Ottoman period, the Küçüksu Palace was also a venue for foreign dignitaries (for example, King Edward VIII of England was a guest here). The palace retained its importance during the Republic of Turkey following the Ottoman Empire, with leaders such as Atatürk, İsmet İnönü, and Celal Bayar staying there for short periods. The structure continued to host official guests until the 1970s and was opened to the public as a museum-palace in 1983. After undergoing extensive restoration between 1992 and 1996, Küçüksu Palace is now open to visitors as part of the National Palaces and serves as a museum with its historical atmosphere. The pier area in front of the palace can also be used for events such as weddings and parties.
Discover the Küçüksu Palace by Yacht
One of the most enjoyable ways to discover the beauty of the Bosphorus is to yacht rental and create your own itinerary. During a private yacht trip on the Bosphorus, you will have the opportunity to see the historic buildings along the coastline up close and away from the crowds. Many visitors have opted for yacht rental in recent years to enjoy this unique experience, allowing them to explore Istanbul's tourist attractions from the sea. As you sail through the cool waters of the Bosphorus, the Küçüksu Palace greets you with all its elegance, and watching this view from your yacht's deck becomes an unforgettable memory.
The charm of exploring Küçüksu Palace from the sea by renting a yacht is truly unique. While sipping your coffee on the deck of your yacht, you can admire the palace's silhouette against the sea and its intricate exterior decorations. From angles that are not visible from land, you will have the opportunity to take photos of this historical structure. Moreover, while cruising on a yacht, you can experience both the natural beauty and historical heritage of Istanbul at the same time, accompanied by the gentle breeze of the Bosphorus and the rhythm of the waves. Renting a yacht for a Bosphorus tour offers you not only transportation but also a special and peaceful atmosphere; away from crowded tours, you can create memories with your family or friends.
If you want to experience the pearl of the Bosphorus, Küçüksu Palace, and the unique views around it in the most impressive way, rent a yacht and start exploring Istanbul from the sea. By setting your own route, you can see many landmarks such as Anadolu Hisarı, Rumeli Hisarı, and Kız Kulesi on the same trip, in addition to Küçüksu Palace. During your private yacht tour, you can listen to the stories of Istanbul's historical structures as you pass by with the help of a guide, or you can stop at the Bosphorus's tranquil coves to enjoy the scenery. Remember, rent a yacht and make your Istanbul trip unforgettable by experiencing the magical atmosphere of the Bosphorus!