Istanbul is a great city in every way, that is for sure. But the city from the top of a hill, that is priceless. One of the best locations to experience this pleasure is Pierre Loti Hill.
Named after the famous author Pierre Loti, who settled in Istanbul and visited that hill frequently, the hill offers some of the most mesmerizing city views accompanied by the magical scenes of the Golden Horn.
You can experience a cable car ride to the top and enjoy the great looks of the city and surroundings and take a sip of your tea to maximize the joy.
To get to Pierre Loti Hill in Istanbul, you have several options depending on your starting point:
From the city center (Taksim Square or Sultanahmet): You can take a taxi directly to Pierre Loti Hill. The ride should take around 30 minutes depending on the traffic.
Using public transportation: You can take a tram (T1 line) to Eminonu, and from there, take a bus (number 99A or 99Y) which stops at Eyup. The Pierre Loti Cable Car (Teleferik) station is a short walk from the Eyup bus station. The cable car will take you up the hill to the café and viewing area. The journey on public transportation should take about an hour, depending on wait times and traffic.
By ferry: From Eminonu or Karakoy, you can take a ferry to Eyup. The ferry ride offers lovely views of the Golden Horn. Once you arrive at Eyüp, you can take the cable car up the hill.
Packing for a visit to Pierre Loti Hill in Istanbul is quite simple and would largely depend on the season of your visit.
Spring and Autumn: During these times, the weather can be changeable. It’s best to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler moments, especially in the evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll likely do some walking or standing while enjoying the views.
Summer: The weather can get quite hot. You’ll want light, breathable clothing. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen would also be advisable to protect from the sun. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Winter: Istanbul can be quite chilly and wet in the winter, so you’ll want to bring a warm coat, possibly a scarf, gloves, and a hat. Good waterproof shoes are also advisable.
In any season, remember to pack your camera or smartphone for taking pictures of the stunning views over the Golden Horn and Istanbul from the top of the hill. A small amount of Turkish Lira might also be useful for the café at the top and for the cable car if you choose to use it.
Pierre Loti Hill is located in the district of Eyüp in Istanbul. While there aren’t many hotels right on the hill itself, there are several accommodation options in the surrounding area. Here are some recommendations:
The Marmara Esma Sultan: This is a luxurious hotel located close to Pierre Loti Hill, offering rooms with excellent amenities and a wonderful view of the city.
Eyup Sultan Suites: These suites are located in the heart of the Eyup district. They are known for their comfort and hospitality.
Grand Hotel Halic: Situated in the Golden Horn, this hotel is a short distance away and provides stunning views.
Akgun Istanbul Hotel: This hotel offers luxury and convenience, with comfortable rooms and close proximity to transportation links.
Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus: A modern and stylish hotel located in Karakoy, near the Galata Bridge. This is convenient for those looking to explore both the Golden Horn area and the more central parts of Istanbul.
Pierre Loti Hill is in Istanbul, so it shares the same climate as the city. Istanbul has a transitional climate between a Mediterranean climate and a humid subtropical climate, leading to quite mild and relatively wet weather year-round.
Here are the general characteristics of Istanbul’s climate:
Spring (March to May): The weather during this season is quite unpredictable. It can be warm and sunny one day and rainy and cold the next. Average temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F).
Summer (June to August): Summers in Istanbul are usually warm and somewhat humid. The average temperature is about 28°C (82°F), but heatwaves can push it above 30°C (86°F).
Autumn (September to November): Autumn sees a drop in temperatures and increased rainfall. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F).
Winter (December to February): Winters are cold and wet, with occasional snow. Average temperatures are between 3°C and 8°C (37°F to 46°F).
The best time to visit Pierre Loti Hill largely depends on the type of weather you prefer and what you want to do there. Generally, the most favorable weather in Istanbul occurs in the spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October). During these months, temperatures are typically mild, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer season.
Pierre Loti Hill offers a stunning view over the Golden Horn and parts of the historical city of Istanbul, so visiting it during clear weather is advised. This way, you can fully enjoy the panoramic view and perhaps catch a mesmerizing sunset.
Remember, the café at the top is an essential part of the experience. You might want to align your visit with meal times or tea/coffee breaks. It can get busy, particularly on weekends and holidays, so visiting early or late might avoid the biggest crowds.
Remember to check the operating hours of the Eyup Sultan Cable Car (if you plan to use it), which can take you up the hill, as these may vary depending on the season.
Top activities near Pierre Loti Hill
Pierre Loti Hill, also known as Eyup Hill, is located in the Eyup district of Istanbul, and it’s a place steeped in history and cultural significance. The hill is named after the famous French novelist, Pierre Loti, who lived from 1850 to 1923. Loti fell in love with Istanbul when he first visited, and the hill became his favorite haunt. The café at the top, Pierre Loti Café, is said to be where he wrote many of his novels.
Before it became known as Pierre Loti Hill, the location was significant in Ottoman times. The Eyup Sultan Mosque at the bottom of the hill is one of the holiest sites in Istanbul and is the location where Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, is said to have been buried during the Arab siege of Constantinople in the 7th century. The area was a place of pilgrimage for Muslims, and when the Ottomans took Constantinople in 1453, one of their first actions was to build a mosque and a tomb at the site.
Apart from this religious significance, the hill offers stunning views over the Golden Horn, and it has been a popular spot for leisure and relaxation for centuries. Today, visitors can reach the top of the hill by cable car, enjoy a meal or drink at the café, and appreciate the panoramic views of Istanbul.
Pierre Loti Hill, or Eyup Hill, is famous mainly for two things: being the favorite spot of French novelist Pierre Loti and for its stunning views of the Golden Horn.
Pierre Loti: This hill is where French novelist Pierre Loti used to frequent and wrote some of his novels. His favorite spot was the café that now bears his name, the Pierre Loti Café. This might not be a “first,” but it’s certainly one of the unique attributes that make this location famous.
View of the Golden Horn: The view from Pierre Loti Hill is widely recognized as one of the best vistas of Istanbul. Visitors can appreciate a panoramic view of the Golden Horn’s waterway and surrounding areas. This is the greatest aspect of the hill, providing a perspective that isn’t easily matched elsewhere in the city.
Cable Car: While not a historical first, the Eyup Gondola, a modern addition, offers a scenic route to the top of Pierre Loti Hill. It provides a unique and exciting way for visitors to reach the summit and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Pierre Loti Café: The café at the top of the hill, now named after the novelist, is one of the oldest and most famous coffee houses in Istanbul. It’s known for its traditional Turkish tea and coffee served in a serene environment with a stunning backdrop.
Pierre Loti Hill, also known as Eyup Hill, doesn’t have an abundance of historical monuments itself, but the broader Eyüp district in which it’s located is one of the oldest and most historically significant areas in Istanbul. Here are some notable historical places nearby:
Pierre Loti Cafe: At the top of the hill, there’s a cafe named after the French novelist Pierre Loti, who was said to have written some of his novels here while enjoying the views over the Golden Horn.
Eyup Sultan Mosque: Located at the foot of the hill, this mosque is one of the holiest sites in Istanbul. It’s where Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (Eyup Sultan), the standard-bearer of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, is said to have been buried during the Arab siege of Constantinople in the 7th century. The current mosque was built in the late 18th century.
Eyup Sultan Cemetery: This ancient cemetery stretches up the hill from the Eyup Sultan Mosque. It’s filled with old, beautifully crafted tombstones, and many important Ottoman figures are buried here.
Feshane: This is a former fez factory converted into a cultural center. It hosts numerous events and exhibitions and reflects the industrial history of the Eyüp district.
The most famous person associated with Pierre Loti Hill is the person for whom it is named, Pierre Loti.
Pierre Loti was the pseudonym of Julien Viaud (1850 – 1923), a French novelist and naval officer. He is best known for his exotic novels and short stories, which were heavily influenced by his travels around the world.
During his time in Istanbul, Loti frequently visited the hill and cafe that now bears his name. The cafe, and subsequently the hill, were named after him due to his love for the location and its panoramic views over the Golden Horn, which he often described in his writings.
It’s said that Loti wrote parts of his novel “Aziyadé” at the hillside cafe, which tells a semi-autobiographical love story set in Istanbul. His affection for the city and its culture left a lasting legacy, and he remains a respected figure in Turkey.
Therefore, when we talk about the history of Pierre Loti Hill, Pierre Loti himself is undeniably the most famous person associated with it.
Top things to do near Pierre Loti Hill
Visiting Pierre Loti Hill, there are several places of interest you should consider:
Pierre Loti Café: Named after the French novelist Pierre Loti, this historic café offers fantastic views of the Golden Horn and is a great place to enjoy Turkish tea or coffee.
Pierre Loti’s House: The house where the French novelist Pierre Loti used to stay has now been converted into a museum. It offers an insight into his life and works.
Eyup Sultan Mosque: Located at the bottom of the hill, this is one of the most important mosques in Istanbul, and it is a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims.
Eyup Sultan Cemetery: The hill is home to this historic cemetery, with its beautifully ornate gravestones and tombs, including that of Eyup Sultan, the standard-bearer of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
Cable Car: The cable car, or teleferik, is a popular way to reach the top of Pierre Loti Hill. It provides beautiful views of the surrounding area during the short trip.
The viewing platform: At the top of the hill, there is a viewing platform where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul and the Golden Horn.
Local Shops: The area around Pierre Loti Hill has several small shops selling traditional Turkish items, perfect for picking up souvenirs or gifts.
Touring Pierre Loti Hill is often included in broader tours of Istanbul, especially those focusing on the Golden Horn area. Here are some of the best tours you can consider:
Golden Horn and Pierre Loti Hill Tour: This tour typically covers the historic areas around the Golden Horn, including Pierre Loti Hill, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, and the historic Byzantine walls. It often includes a trip up to the hill in the cable car for panoramic views of the city.
Eyup, Pierre Loti Hill, and Kariye Museum Tour: This tour offers a more comprehensive look at the cultural history of the area, including a visit to the Kariye Museum (The Chora Church), which is famous for its Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
Bosphorus Cruise and Pierre Loti Hill Tour: This tour combines a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait with a visit to Pierre Loti Hill, giving you a chance to see Istanbul from two very different perspectives.
Private Guided Tours: For a more personalized experience, you can hire a private guide who will take you around Pierre Loti Hill and other attractions in Istanbul. The guide can provide deep insights into the history and significance of the sites you visit.
Top tours near Pierre Loti Hill
Pierre Loti Hill in Istanbul offers stunning views of the city and the Golden Horn, and it is home to several restaurants that provide both delicious food and a memorable dining experience. Here are some of the best restaurants in Pierre Loti Hill:
Pierre Loti Cafe: This historic cafe is a must-visit when on Pierre Loti Hill. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine and beverages while taking in panoramic views of the city from the terrace.
Hamdi Restaurant: Located near Pierre Loti Hill, Hamdi Restaurant offers a blend of Turkish and Ottoman cuisine. Indulge in delicious kebabs, mezes, and other traditional dishes, all while enjoying views of the Golden Horn.
Mandabatmaz: Known for its Turkish coffee, Mandabatmaz is a cozy cafe on Pierre Loti Hill. Sit back and savor a cup of authentic Turkish coffee while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Bosphorus Brewing Company: If you’re a fan of craft beer, visit the Bosphorus Brewing Company located near Pierre Loti Hill. Enjoy a variety of handcrafted beers and tasty food in a relaxed setting.
Banyan: Located in Eyup, near Pierre Loti Hill, Banyan is a fusion restaurant combining flavors from different cuisines. It offers a diverse menu, including sushi, Turkish dishes, and international favorites.
