Located 300 metres above sea level, on the 47th and 48th floors of the Emaar building, this observation deck offers a unique 360-degree view of Istanbul. You’ll reach the top of the building in just 58 seconds via high-speed lift from Emaar Square Mall.
Emaar SkyView sits on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Üsküdar district. The lift takes you to Emaar SkyView, where you’ll find the longest glass terrace in Europe, at 30 metres long. A Sky Cafe is available for drinks with a panorama of Galata Bridge, Kadikoy and more.
Quick Facts
| Architect(s) | GSM Project |
|---|---|
| Address | Libadiye Cad. No:82, Emaar Square Mall, -2. Floor, 34700 Üsküdar, İstanbul Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
| District | Üsküdar |
| Metro | Ünalan (M4, Walk toward Libadiye Cad., approximately 5–8 minutes) |
| Admission | ₺₺ |
| Best time to visit | Early morning (10:00–12:00) offers the clearest visibility and thinnest crowds. Midday brings haze and peak tourist numbers. Late afternoon (15:00–17:30) provides excellent light for photography and fewer visitors than sunset times. Sunset (17:30–19:30 depending on season) is the busiest but most dramatic period, with colored light over the city. Evening (after 20:00) is quieter but visibility diminishes.
Visit on weekdays rather than weekends for a calmer experience. Clear weather is essential for views; avoid rainy or foggy days when the observation decks become less rewarding. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal conditions—mild temperatures and generally clear skies. Summer is hot but offers long daylight hours. Winter can bring both clear cold days and prolonged cloud cover. |
| Website | emaarskyview.com |
What Is (and Isn't) Part of a Visit to Emaar SkyView?
| Part | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 47th-floor observation deck (open and partly glazed) | Included in the standard ticket | Main observation area with panoramic views; includes access to SkyWalk entrance. |
| 48th-floor glazed observation deck | Included in the standard ticket | Highest level; fully enclosed with climate control; 360-degree views. |
| SkyWalk glass terrace (30 metres long) | Separate ticket or institution | Additional ticket required to walk on the glass floor; located on 47th floor. |
| Sky Cafe | Included in the standard ticket | Free access to seating areas; food and drinks purchased separately. |
| Sky Fun (children's activities) | Included in the standard ticket | Limited amusement activities available at no extra charge on certain areas. |
| Emaar Aquarium | Separate ticket or institution | Located in the same mall but a completely separate attraction with its own admission. |
Why Visit Emaar SkyView?
Enjoy 360° views of both continents from nearly 300 meters high; take in landmarks like the Bosphorus, Galata Tower, and Princes’ Islands, all from an observation deck split between open and climate-controlled areas.
Walk across Europe’s longest glass terrace over the city. During sunset, the light play over the city’s skyline allows you to capture stunning photos, witnessing the dance of lights against the magnificent Bosphorus view. The venue rarely feels crowded, making it a quieter alternative to other Istanbul viewpoints.
How Emaar SkyView Is Laid Out
Emaar SkyView spans two levels—the 47th and 48th floors—accessible by a single elevator ride. The indoor and outdoor spaces located on the 47th and 48th floors offer a perfect vantage point to experience the beauty of Istanbul. The 47th floor is 284.5 meters above sea level, while the 48th floor rises to 290 meters.
The main observation areas feature both open-air terraces and glazed indoor sections. Once you reach Emaar Square Mall, you can take the elevator from the -2nd floor, entering through the Skyview area, and reach the upper levels in just 58 seconds. The 30-meter glass SkyWalk above the city is available on the 47th floor with an additional ticket. Sky Cafe occupies one of the levels, with seating areas facing the main views.
Highlights of Emaar SkyView
47th Floor Observation Deck
The indoor and outdoor spaces located on the 47th and 48th floors offer a perfect vantage point to experience the beauty of Istanbul. The 47th floor is 284.5 meters above sea level. This level features both the open terrace and the glass SkyWalk, where you can walk on a 30-metre glass surface suspended above the city. Look for the Bosphorus Bridge to your north and the European shores to the northwest.
Tip: Visit in late afternoon so you can see both daylight views and sunset colours without needing separate visits.
48th Floor Glazed Observation Deck
The 48th floor rises to 290 meters. This fully enclosed, climate-controlled level provides an unobstructed 360-degree panoramic view. It's the highest vantage point in the venue, making it ideal on rainy or windy days. From here you can see the Golden Horn, the Princes' Islands to the southeast, and the sprawling Asian suburbs.
Tip: The glazed level is less crowded than the open 47th floor, especially in midday heat or wind.
SkyWalk Glass Terrace
The longest glass terrace in Europe, at 30 metres long. Walk across Europe's longest glass terrace over the city. Located on the 47th floor, this thrilling 30-meter-wide glass walkway creates the sensation of walking on air. The structure requires an additional ticket beyond the main admission.
Tip: SkyWalk has a separate entrance ticket—ask staff on arrival if you haven't purchased it already. Visit early in the day when it's least crowded and visibility is clearest.
Bosphorus and Golden Horn Panorama
From this vantage point, see landmarks like the Bosphorus, Galata Tower, and Princes' Islands. The views include the azure Bosphorus and the mesmerizing silhouette of the historical peninsula. The two-continent perspective—with Europe to the west and Asia beneath your feet—makes Istanbul's unique geography immediately clear.
Tip: Use binoculars or a camera with good zoom to spot the Galata Tower and historic mosques on the European shore.
Sky Cafe
Enjoy a Turkish coffee with a view of the Bosporus as a backdrop at the Sky Cafe. SkyCafe, located in Emaar Skyview, offers a selection of tasty snacks and drinks accompanied by stunning views of the azure Bosphorus and the mesmerizing silhouette of the historical peninsula. Beverages and light food are available for on-site purchase.
Tip: The cafe opens at 11:00 AM, later than the observation deck. Budget extra time if you plan to dine here; it gets busiest around sunset.
Photography Spots Across Levels
During sunset, the light play over the city's skyline allows you to capture stunning photos, witnessing the dance of lights against the magnificent Bosphorus view. The open 47th floor offers unfiltered shots, while the 48th floor's glass provides a different aesthetic. The SkyWalk's glass floor allows creative perspective shots from above the street.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for golden hour light. Position yourself on the open terrace before crowds peak around dusk.
Atmosphere
The observation deck is designed with comfortable seating areas and informative displays, making it easy for tourists to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The 47th-floor open terrace feels airy and exposed, with the glass walkway adding an element of mild thrill. Wind is noticeable when the terrace is open; hair and light clothing move noticeably.
The enclosed 48th floor offers a quieter, more contemplative environment. Visitors move slowly around the perimeter, often stopping to photograph or simply absorb the views. The venue attracts a mix of tourists from many countries, with a minority of locals. Afternoon and evening are noticeably busier than morning hours. The overall mood is calm rather than energetic—visitors rarely linger more than 60–90 minutes.
Tickets and Booking for Emaar SkyView
| Ticket | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult admission (47th and 48th floors) | ₺₺ | Access to both observation decks, open and glazed areas, SkyWalk entrance area (but not the glass walkway itself). |
| Child admission (ages 3–12) | ₺₺ | Same access as adult; children under 3 enter free. |
| SkyWalk glass floor experience | ₺₺ | Additional ticket for walking on the 30-metre glass terrace on the 47th floor; requires base admission. |
| Combo ticket with Emaar Aquarium | ₺₺₺ | Entry to both SkyView observation decks and admission to the Emaar Aquarium in the mall. |
₺ budget · ₺₺ moderate · ₺₺₺ upscale · ₺₺₺₺ splurge. Price levels are estimates compared with typical prices for visitors.
Tickets are sold at the SkyView entrance on the -2nd floor of Emaar Square Mall. The voucher is only valid on the selected date, however the tickets do not have a fixed time. You can visit at any time during the attraction’s opening hours. Online booking is available through the official website and ticketing partners.
Same-day tickets are usually available, though you may encounter queues during late afternoon (around sunset) and weekends. Note that the outdoor terrace may close temporarily if winds are strong. Prices and concession rates for Turkish citizens differ from international visitor rates; check the official SkyView website for current pricing and all ticket categories.
Suggested itineraries Emaar SkyView
45–60 minutes
Enter via the -2nd-floor mall entrance and take the lift to the 47th floor. Spend 20–25 minutes on the open terrace and SkyWalk area, then ascend to the 48th floor for 15–20 minutes of glazed viewing and photography. Exit via the main lift.
1.5–2 hours
Follow the above route but spend additional time at the Sky Cafe (30–40 minutes) with a drink or snack. Capture sunset light if timing allows. Revisit the 47th-floor terrace as light changes, then end on the 48th floor with city lights beginning to appear.
Half day (3 hours)
Combine SkyView with lunch at a restaurant inside Emaar Square Mall, then return to spend an hour exploring both decks. Visit once in daylight and again at dusk, or dedicate the full period to detailed photography from multiple angles. Include a 15-minute SkyWalk experience if not already done.
How to Get to Emaar SkyView
By Metro: Located in the central area of Istanbul, Emaar SkyView is easily accessible by public transportation. Metro and bus lines serve this region. The nearest metro station is Ünalan (M4 line). From Ünalan station, exit and walk toward Libadiye Caddesi; Emaar Square Mall is approximately 5–8 minutes on foot. Follow signs for the mall and enter via the main entrance or the -2nd-floor SkyView entrance.
By Car: If you plan to drive to Emaar Skyview, you can take advantage of the free parking service at Emaar Mall. The mall is located at Libadiye Cad. No:82, Üsküdar. GPS coordinates: 40.767, 29.027. Parking is plentiful.
By Bus or Dolmuş: Several minibus (dolmuş) routes serve Üsküdar and pass near Emaar. From central Eminönü or Taksim, take a dolmuş heading toward Üsküdar or ask drivers for stops near Libadiye Cad.
Accessibility
The venue is accessible by lift only; there are no stairs to the observation decks. The main lift from the -2nd-floor entrance is spacious and accessible to wheelchair users. Both the 47th and 48th floors feature accessible observation areas with seating. The 48th floor (glazed section) is fully climate-controlled and accessible. The 47th-floor open terrace is accessible but exposed to weather. Accessible restrooms are available in the mall. Staff can assist visitors with mobility issues; contact the venue in advance if specialized help is needed.
Food Nearby
Inside Emaar Square Mall, you can visit the Emaar Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, and Emaar Skyview. The mall houses multiple cafes, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. Sky Cafe at SkyView itself serves light refreshments. Avoid the rush times (12:00–14:00 and 18:00–20:00) if you wish to eat in the mall. The broader Üsküdar district around the mall has many traditional Turkish restaurants and kebab shops within a 10-minute walk, though none with views to rival SkyView's.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate shoes—you'll walk around the perimeter of both levels. In cool seasons, bring a light jacket; the 47th floor can be breezy. Sunscreen and a hat are advisable for daytime visits in spring and summer. A camera or smartphone with a good zoom lens is highly recommended for photography. The venue has no bag restrictions, but large backpacks may be awkward on crowded lift rides during peak hours. Water bottles are allowed.
Best Views and Photo Spots of Emaar SkyView
47th-floor open terrace facing northwest toward Galata Tower
See landmarks like the Bosphorus, Galata Tower, and Princes' Islands. The European shore, Galata Tower, and the historic peninsula spread in a wide arc; the Golden Horn glints below.
Best time: Golden hour (one hour before sunset) for warm light on historic buildings; also works well in early morning when shadows define the skyline.
SkyWalk glass floor looking downward
The glass terrace offers a unique perspective of the city directly beneath, with Üsküdar's streets visible far below and the Bosphorus waters beyond. The sensation of height intensifies the visual drama.
Best time: Clear midday for sharp detail and no glare on the glass; late afternoon for dramatic shadows and definition.
48th-floor glazed area facing southeast toward Princes' Islands
On clear days, the islands appear distinct on the horizon beyond the Asian shore. The Bosphorus waters separate the foreground from the islands, creating depth.
Best time: Morning or midday for best visibility of distant objects; haze increases later in the day.
47th-floor open terrace facing south toward Kadıköy
See landmarks like the Bosphorus, Galata Tower, and Princes' Islands. Kadıköy's bustling waterfront, colorful buildings, and ferry terminals dominate the view across the strait.
Best time: Any time of day, but evening light turns the buildings warmer; morning offers clearest air.
Sky Cafe window seating
Framed interior views of the city through climate-controlled windows; the foreground of the cafe adds context and color to landscape shots.
Best time: Late afternoon as sunset light fills interior space; also works for drinks and casual documentary shots.
Photography Rules
General photography is permitted throughout both observation decks. Tripods are not prohibited but are rarely used due to space constraints and crowds. Flash photography is not restricted but unnecessary given excellent natural light. Drone photography is not permitted. The glass on the 48th floor may cause reflections; polarizing filters or shooting at angles minimize this. Professional or commercial photography should be cleared with management beforehand.
Family Suitability
Visitors under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Children aged 3–12 receive discounted admission. The open 47th-floor terrace may unsettle very young children (under 5) due to height and wind; the enclosed 48th floor is reassuring for all ages. Admission is free for children under 3. The SkyWalk glass terrace appeals to older children and adventurous teens but is not suitable for anxious or very young children. The venue has no dedicated children's play areas apart from light activities. The lift ride itself is exciting for kids. Allow 45–90 minutes for a family visit; longer if children move slowly or are hesitant on the glass walkway.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Arrive in the first hour after opening (around 10:15 AM) to beat crowds and enjoy the clearest light before afternoon haze builds over the city.
- The SkyWalk glass floor requires a separate ticket that many first-time visitors overlook; buy it at the entrance when purchasing main admission if you want the full experience.
- Check weather before visiting; cloudy or hazy days dramatically reduce visibility of distant landmarks. Clear skies are essential for views worth the admission cost.
- Avoid peak hours around sunset (17:00–19:30) unless sunset photography is your specific goal; the venue becomes packed and movement slows significantly.
- The 48th-floor glazed section is identical in views but less crowded than the 47th floor; many visitors skip it, making it an uncrowded refuge if you need breathing room.
- Bring a light layer even in summer; the 47th-floor open terrace has noticeable wind, especially in cooler months, and can feel chilly despite good weather at ground level.
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FAQ: Emaar SkyView
Is SkyWalk included in the admission ticket?
No. The main admission covers both observation decks (47th and 48th floors). Access to the SkyWalk glass terrace requires a separate additional ticket. Ask at the entrance if you wish to add it.
How long does a typical visit last?
Most visitors spend 45–90 minutes on site. Time depends on whether you visit just the observation decks, add the SkyWalk experience, or spend time at the Sky Cafe. Photography enthusiasts often stay longer.
What's the difference between the 47th and 48th floors?
The 47th floor is primarily open-air terrace with the SkyWalk glass section; it offers unobstructed views but is exposed to wind and weather. The 48th floor is fully enclosed with climate control; views are identical but framed by glass.
Can I bring children?
Yes. Children under 3 enter free; children 3–12 receive discounted tickets. An adult must accompany children under 12. The enclosed 48th floor is best for anxious young children; the open 47th-floor terrace and SkyWalk suit older, confident children.
Is there a time limit for how long I can stay?
No. You can stay as long as you wish after entering, up until closing time at 22:00. There are no scheduled time slots; admission is open-ended.
Is food or drink available at the venue?
Yes. The Sky Cafe serves Turkish coffee, soft drinks, and light snacks at on-site prices. You may not bring outside food or beverages into the observation areas.
How do I get to Emaar SkyView by public transport?
The nearest metro station is Ünalan (M4 line). From there, walk toward Libadiye Caddesi for 5–8 minutes to Emaar Square Mall. The SkyView entrance is on the -2nd floor of the mall. Multiple bus and minibus routes also serve Üsküdar near the mall.
What if the weather is bad?
The outdoor 47th-floor terrace may close temporarily in high winds. The enclosed 48th floor remains open in all weather but offers reduced visibility in fog or heavy cloud. Poor visibility significantly diminishes the experience; consider rescheduling if weather is poor.
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