Pierre Loti Hill: Enchanting Views, a Lovers’ Tale, and Your Guide to an Istanbul Icon
Imagine yourself sipping a warm cup of Turkish tea as the sun draws its golden lines across the waters of the Golden Horn. Before you, Istanbul unfolds with all its history, bridges, and minarets in a breathtaking panoramic scene. This is the feeling a visit to Pierre Loti Hill grants you—one of the most beautiful and romantic spots in Istanbul. For Arab and international travelers seeking an experience that blends history, culture, and stunning views, this hill remains an essential destination.
In this article from “Skyline Travel & Tourism,” we take you on a journey to Pierre Loti Hill. We won’t just show you the view—we’ll tell you the story and provide every practical detail you need for a visit that brings together the fragrance of history and the charm of the present, especially when combined with a stop in the famous Eyüp district.
Why is Pierre Loti Hill considered “Istanbul’s romantic heart”?
Pierre Loti Hill in Istanbul is unlike any other viewpoint in the city. It’s not merely an elevated lookout point—it’s a complete experience. It’s a unique mix of:
- The enchanting view: The hill offers an unparalleled panoramic vista over the Golden Horn, Istanbul’s historic waterway.
- Romantic ambiance: Also known as the “Lovers’ Hill,” it’s a favorite place for couples and families seeking moments of tranquility and beauty.
- Historical depth: The hill is named after a famous French writer and sits above a venerable historic cemetery.
- Cultural proximity: Located in the Eyüp area, it holds special significance for Arab and Muslim visitors.
Who was Pierre Loti? The French writer whose name lives on at the Lovers’ Hill
You may wonder: Who is Pierre Loti and why is this Turkish hill named after him?
“Pierre Loti” was the pen name of Julien Viaud, a renowned 19th-century French naval officer and novelist. “Loti” was known for his deep love of Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire, which he visited repeatedly and praised in his writings.
Legend has it that “Loti” frequented a simple café on this hill, where he would sit for hours writing his novels (most famously “Aziyadé,” said to be inspired by a love story in Istanbul) while enjoying the captivating view over the Golden Horn. Owing to his fame and his affection for the place, his name was given to both the hill and the café—names that endure to this day.
How to get to Pierre Loti Hill (by cable car and public transport)
Reaching Pierre Loti Hill in Eyüp is easier than you might think, and there are several ways to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Here are the best options:
1. The most scenic and fastest way: Ride the Pierre Loti Cable Car (TF2)
This is the most popular and enjoyable method, especially for families and children, and it’s an integral part of the visit.
- Line: TF2 (Eyüp–Piyerloti).
- Starting point: Eyüp Cable Car Station, located right next to Eyüp Sultan Square and Mosque.
- The experience: The ride is short (about 2–3 minutes) but offers wonderful aerial views over the historic cemetery and the Golden Horn as you ascend.
- A Skyline tip: Queues for the cable car can be very long, especially on weekends and at sunset. To avoid crowds, try going early in the morning or later in the evening.
2. The classic way: By public transport (bus)
You can easily reach central Eyüp using public buses from various parts of Istanbul:
- From Eminönü: You can take buses such as 99A.
- From Taksim: Take buses heading toward Eyüp.
Once you arrive at the Eyüp (Eyüp Sultan) bus stop, you’ll be just steps from the lower cable car station. This method is economical and lets you see another side of the city.
Unforgettable experiences on Pierre Loti Hill
Once you reach the top, here are the top activities that make your visit unforgettable:
- Enjoy tea at the historic Pierre Loti Café: This is the essence of the visit. Sitting at the Pierre Loti Café in Istanbul, ordering Turkish tea or coffee, and soaking in the view is an experience in itself.
- Capture panoramic photos of the Golden Horn: The hill is one of Istanbul’s best photography spots. The best time to visit Pierre Loti for photos is either at dawn—when it’s quiet and slightly misty—or shortly before sunset to watch the sun dip behind the city skyline.
- Ride the cable car: As mentioned, ascending and descending by cable car is a delight in itself and a must-try.
- Stroll through the historic cemetery (for those interested): While going up or down, you can pass through the historic Eyüp Cemetery. It isn’t for everyone, but for history enthusiasts, the ornate Ottoman gravestones among cypress trees are solemn and thought-provoking.
Don’t miss the nearby Eyüp Sultan Mosque
This is our “Skyline” tip for our Arab visitors: A visit to Pierre Loti Hill is never complete without setting aside time for the Eyüp Sultan Mosque and its square.
The area is steeped in sanctity and spirituality, as it holds the tomb of the esteemed Companion Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (may God be pleased with him). It is one of Turkey’s most important pilgrimage and visitation sites.
Our suggested day plan:
- Start with a visit to the Eyüp Sultan Mosque in the morning or afternoon and absorb the spiritual atmosphere in the square.
- When finished, head directly to the adjacent cable car station (TF2).
- Ride up to Pierre Loti Hill to relax, have tea, and enjoy the view—a perfect finale to your day.
While visiting monumental sites like the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is essential, a visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque offers a unique spiritual and cultural experience like no other.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Pierre Loti Hill
Is entry to Pierre Loti Hill free?
Yes, entry to the hill itself is completely free. You only pay for the cable car (if you choose to use it) and whatever you order at the café.
What are Pierre Loti Hill’s opening hours?
The hill is always open as a public area, but the Pierre Loti Cable Car typically operates from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and the historic café has its own opening hours, usually ending late in the evening.
Is Pierre Loti Hill suitable for families and children?
Yes, very much so. The cable car ride is enjoyable and exciting for children, and the upper area is pedestrian-only and safe for them to move around freely.
What’s the best time to visit to avoid cable car queues?
The best times to visit Pierre Loti to avoid crowds are early mornings on weekdays (before 11 a.m.) or late in the evening. Weekends and times around sunset are the busiest.
