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Çamlıca Hill (Büyük Çamlıca Tepesi) is a place on the Asian side of Istanbul with phenomenal views of the city and the Bosporus. The Turkish name literally translates to Big Pine Tree Hill.
Çamlıca Hill
Çamlıca Hill is the highest point in the city. Not many foreign tourists know about it and it’s well worth it if you make the effort. You’ll be rewarded with a relaxing few hours. Once you arrive, there are benches for you to sit and enjoy a very nicely decorated park.
The Views
As mentioned, the views of Istanbul are phenomenal. You can see the skyscrapers on the European side, the Bosporus, and the first bridge. It’s best to go on a clear day.
Restaurant and Café
There’s a good restaurant with decent prices located at the top along with a café. Together they’re called the Çamlıca Social Facilities (Çamlıca Sosyal Tesisleri).
Getting There
The fastest and easiest way to get there is by taxi from Üsküdar. You can also take the metro from Üsküdar to the Kısıklı stop on the M5 line and walk uphill about 15 minutes.