Beyond Istanbul · Beyond Istanbul
Monastery of St George (Aya Yorgi)
On the island’s highest hill
About Monastery of St George (Aya Yorgi)
The Monastery of St George sits on Yücetepe, the highest point of Büyükada, at the top of a steep cobbled path. The views over the sea and the other islands are superb. On St George’s Day, 23 April, thousands of pilgrims of different faiths climb the hill. Dress modestly.
Why it's on our list
- Hilltop monastery
- Views to the other islands
- Pilgrims on 23 April
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Monastery of St George (Aya Yorgi) before you go.
What’s nearby
Distances from Monastery of St George (Aya Yorgi) are approximate, measured in a straight line (as the crow flies). Times are approximate too: walking at about 80 metres a minute, cycling at about 15 km/h and driving at typical city-traffic speeds. Traffic and routes vary.
Key sights
- Blue Mosque21 kmCar or taxi 67 min
- Hagia Sophia21 kmCar or taxi 67 min
- Basilica Cistern21 kmCar or taxi 67 min
- Topkapı Palace21 kmCar or taxi 67 min
- Grand Bazaar22 kmCar or taxi 69 min
- Spice Bazaar22 kmCar or taxi 70 min
- Galata Bridge23 kmCar or taxi 71 min
- Süleymaniye Mosque23 kmCar or taxi 71 min
- Galata Tower23 kmCar or taxi 73 min
- Dolmabahçe Palace23 kmCar or taxi 73 min
Getting around
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)17 kmCar or taxi 53 min