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15 Best Things to Do in the Asian Side of Istanbul

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Famous for straddling two continents, the incredible city of Istanbul is unlike anywhere else in the world. Most people only visit the European side which is home to the most famous mosques, the oldest covered market in the world, and some of Istanbul’s top museums.

But if you want to get off the beaten track and skip the touristy stuff, then you’ll find there are plenty of things to do in the Asian side of Istanbul, also known as the Anatolian side.

The Asian side is more local and authentic with its own unique culture, as well as boasting some artsy neighborhoods, the largest mosque in Istanbul, and some beautiful Turkish architecture.

The Asian side of the city can often be overlooked, especially for those traveling with time constraints, but if you’re thinking about exploring Istanbul’s Asian side attractions, then keep reading for some of our favorite things to do there.

Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

• Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

• Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
• Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
• Historical Turkish Bath Experience
• Istanbul Food And Culture Tour

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

• Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
• Pera Palace Hotel
• Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)

The Best Things To Do In The Asian Side of Istanbul

1. explore kadikoy .

If you’re looking to uncover the vibrancy of the Anatolian side of Istanbul, Kadikoy is one of the best neighborhoods in the entire city to visit if you want a truly authentic experience.

Not only is it one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, but it is also one of the most diverse, offering lucky visitors a wonderful blend of history, modernity, and a lively vibrant atmosphere. In a sense, I guess it feels very Istanbul! 

Kadikoy Market is a must-visit for any foodie, especially if you love seafood. Kadikoy is well known for its stuffed mussels, fish sandwiches, and more. Be sure to visit Akmar Passage for a chance to discover some vintage, second hand books.

As you wander through the colorful streets, stop into the boutique shops and eateries that allow you to indulge but without the crowds you find on the European side.

Similarly, Bagdat Avenue is a bustling place. It’s essentially the main shopping street of Anatolian Istanbul . If you’re feeling a bit tired after all of your exploring, roll back the years and hop on the iconic red and white trams that roll through the district. 

2. Visit Beylerbeyi Palace

The Asian banks of the Bosphorus are home to one of the city’s most beautiful, and impressive buildings, especially when it comes to palaces in Istanbul .

Built back in 1865, the Palace was the Ottoman Sultan’s summer residence, and for good reason too. The interior is jaw-dropping, drawing influences from Baroque and Renaissance styles, and being on the banks of the Bosphorus makes for a wonderful summer escape, retreating in the equally as beautiful manicured gardens.

Visitors to Beylerbeyi Palace today can explore the marble staterooms, two pavilions, and the elegant gardens making for a nice change of pace after exploring the busy city streets. 

Related Reading: How to Get From Istanbul Airport to The Asian Side

3. Look For Street Art in Moda 

Now, technically Moda is within the Kadikoy neighborhood, but Moda is so beautiful we think it’s worthy of its own exploration.

It’s a hipster place known for its street art murals and cute, artsy cafes. It has countless restaurants, meyhanes, bars, and coffee shops, as well as quaint streets – plus its location right next to the Sea of Marmara just adds to its charm. Be sure to take a walk along the promenade and admire the views overlooking the Bosphorus.

On those warm summer nights, the main street Moda Caddesi is the place to come. It’s lively, happening, and one of those places where you definitely want to be seen. 

4. Take a boat over to Maiden’s Tower 

Peeking out of the blue waters of the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks . Maiden’s Tower, or ‘Kiz Kulesi’ in Turkish is a tower on a tiny island just 200m off of the coast of Uskudar and perfectly accessible from Istanbul’s Asian side.

The tower, originally wooden, has been in place as a defense tower since the 12 th century and can be visited today by catching the dedicated Tower Ferry from Uskudar.

As the tower is so old there’s plenty of history behind it, like being an important lighthouse for the ships coming into the Bosphorus, and even a quarantine station during the cholera epidemic of the mid-1800s. 

5. Pig out at Ciya Sofrasi 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Çiya Sofrası (@ciyasofrasi)

If you want to experience a slice of local life in Anatolian Istanbul, then why not pay a visit to one of Anatolian Istanbul’s best restaurants ? Located within Kadikoy’s famous market, Ciya Sofrasi is a name synonymous with locals and those with an all-round passion for delicious traditional Turkish and Anatolian food. 

After featuring in Netflix’s Chef’s Table series, the already popular restaurant has boomed in popularity even further and is now a must-visit on any trip to the Asian side of Istanbul.

Musa Dagdeviren is credited with opening this simple but mightily effective restaurant back in 1998. The secret to its success is the sheer diversity of popular and lesser-known regional Turkish dishes that change depending on the season.

There’s a gigantic meze bar to which you can help yourself and some of the restaurant’s signature dishes include slow-cooked lamb shoulder with quince, stuffed lamb’s intestine, and traditional Lahmacun. 

6. Take a picnic to Camlica Hill 

Standing mighty tall at an impressive 945 ft above sea level is Camlica Hill, one of Istanbul’s best viewpoints. Situated in the Uskudar neighborhood, this lesser-known destination in the Asian side of the city, it’s one of the more off-the-beaten-track destinations. 

Not only do you get wonderful views of the wider city and Bosphorus, but there are also plenty of cafes and small restaurants for you to relax and enjoy the view. Alternatively, you can even bring your own lunch and have a cute picnic with a view. 

If you’ve already had lunch and don’t fancy eating anything when you’re there, another top tip is to come to the hill for either sunset or sunrise. The view is spectacular and the golden orange colors over the twinkling lights of the city is an image that will stick with you for a long, long time. 

If you’re ever unsure of what to do on the Asian side of Istanbul, sitting in the park on Camlica Hill with a good book and an amazing view is certainly a good way to pass the time.

7. Marvel at Camlica Mosque 

Another reason to head over to the Camlica Hill area is to marvel at the wonder that is the Camlica Mosque. This unique place of worship is not only the largest in Istanbul, but it is the largest mosque in the entire country, holding up to a staggering 63,000 people.

In true Turkish fashion, the design has been kept traditional with a beautiful blend of Ottoman and Seljuk architectural styles and is complete with 6 minarets that all represent the 6 beliefs in Islam.

Like many large mosque complexes around the world, Camlica Mosque also features a variety of interesting facilities. There’s an art gallery and even a museum that touches on the history of Islam and its civilizations of years gone past.

Combine a visit to the mosque with a picnic on Camlica Hill and you’ve got yourself a wonderful chilled day out. 

8. Visit the Sureyya Opera House

Originally built almost a century ago in 1927, the Sureyya Opera House is a much-loved piece of Istanbul culture that’s brought joy to thousands of locals over the years since its opening.

It was actually the very first ever musical theatre located on the Asian side, but intriguingly given its name, no opera performances were ever performed there. 

It was converted to a cinema in 1930 and was used as such until 2005 when it was completely refurbished as an actual operating opera house.

Since its reopening, opera concerts are performed regularly and tickets can be bought for as cheap as 10TL. We definitely recommend catching a performance at this historical venue at that price! It’s one of the top things to do in Istanbul at night . 

9. Sail across to the Princes’ Islands

Now, technically the Princes Islands aren’t exactly on the Asian side of Istanbul but they are 100% worth getting the boat over for. This can be done from Kadikoy and Moda on the Asian side, which is why I’ve included it. 

Istanbul is known for being such a busy and vibrant city and therefore a quick escape to the serenity of the Princes Islands is always going to be one of the best things to do .

You’ll be able to choose between four islands, Buyukada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kinaliada. Buyukada is by far the most popular one, and you’ll get a lovely mix of natural beauty and charming historical architecture. 

Perhaps most striking is the complete absence of any motor vehicles on the islands. The only way to get around is by bicycle, walking, or shuttle bus.

10. Recharge with a Turkish Coffee at Fazil Bey’s 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fazıl Bey’in Türk Kahvesi® (@fazilbeyinturkkahvesi)

Any Turkish coffee aficionado will instantly grin from ear to ear when they hear the name Fazil Bey . If you are looking for real Turkish coffee in Istanbul , then you should be looking no further than Fazil Bey’s original coffee shop, which is located within the busy Kadikoy Market.

In place for exactly 100 long years, this original branch, complete with antique coffee grinders is the place to relax and recharge with traditional Turkish coffee.

If the history behind the shop isn’t enough to lure you in, we’re positive that the strong, heady aromas will. With two stories and plenty of outdoor seating to people watch, it’s the perfect authentic Turkish pit-stop before wandering around the market. 

11. Watch a match at Fenerbahce SK

Football is taken very, very seriously in Turkey and as a result, one of the most exciting and thrilling things you can do on the Asian side of Istanbul (if you’re a football fan, of course) is to catch a match watching Fenerbahce SK. They’re one of the best teams in the country and match-day is always absolutely buzzing with excitement. 

If you’re not familiar with Fenerbahce, they regularly play in the UEFA Champions League and have some very talented players on the team so you’ll be guaranteed a high-quality, entertaining match with the famous Turkish atmosphere to match.

Soak it all in pre-game at one of the many bars in the district and then follow the crowd (literally!) to the stadium. You can purchase tickets online through passo.com.tr and you’ll need to hold a Passolig pass to enter the stadium but this can be applied for before your trip. 

12. Roam Khedive’s Palace

One of the lesser-known architectural buildings that would be excellent to visit is Khedive Palace. This beautiful Renaissance-styled building was the former residence of the last Khedive of Egypt Abbas II and was extensively restored in 1984 following the Khedive’s abandonment in the 1930s. 

The Palace is perched right on top of a hill giving it stunning views out over the Bosphorus and the surrounding gardens are immaculately kept. The best time to visit the Khedive’s Palace is in April and May when the flowers are at their best. 

13. Shop until your drop at Capitol AVM

If you’ve ticked all the must-sees off your to-do list, then a trip to one Istanbul’s largest shopping malls is always a decent idea. Capitol AVM was opened in 1992 and is the Asian side of the city’s first (and only) shopping mall and is a favorite of locals for shopping and eating. 

There’s a whole range of clothing stores and the food court is surprisingly good and you’ll be able to find a variety of things to eat at excellent prices.

There’s even a large, modern cinema where you can catch the latest movies – just make sure to check what language the film is showing in before buying tickets! 

14. Watch a show at the Istanbul State Theater

Holding a distinguished place within the city’s vibrant cultural scene is the Istanbul State Theatre, located in the Uskudar neighborhood right along the banks of the Bosphorus.

It’s a beautifully historic stone building, once an old ethyl alcohol factory, and today is arguably one of the best places to catch a show in Istanbul.

You can easily get to the State Theatre from Uskudar Metro, which is just a 12-minute walk along the promenade. 

15. Take the kids to the Istanbul Toy Museum

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Martin Lăutar Hegedűs Fiedler (@martoeng.fiedler)

Located within the Goztepe neighborhood of Asian Istanbul is one of the more unique things to see and do on your trip.

Being situated in a former toy shop, The Istanbul Toy Museum is a must for any visitor with children and is one of the best museums in Istanbul .

With an incredible collection, some of which date back over 200 years, you’re guaranteed to be taken on a trip down memory lane. 

Things To Do On The Anatolian Side of Istanbul FAQs

Is the asian side of istanbul worth visiting.

Yes, the Asian side of Istanbul is definitely worth visiting if you want to escape the tourist crowds and explore a more authentic side of the city. It’s lively and atmospheric, with quaint cafes, street art and lots of history to explore.

How to explore Asian side of Istanbul?

You can easily explore the Asian side of Istanbul on foot, or by taking the metro. There is also an extensive bus network that connects the residential areas to the touristy hot spots.

Where is the best view of Istanbul from the Asian side?

Arguably the best views from the Asian side are from the top of Camlica Hill, which offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and overlooks the European side. The promenade in Moda also has beautiful sea views.

Before You Go

When exploring Istanbul, the Asian side proves to be a true hidden gem that’s just waiting to be discovered. Unlike the bustling European side, the Asian side offers a unique blend of culture, history, and charm.

As you wander the vibrant Kadıköy market, you’ll find it hard to not immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and embark on an unforgettable journey, then head to the Asian side of Istanbul.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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• A Guide To Visiting The...

A Guide to Visiting the Asian Side of Istanbul

Travel across the Bosphorus by ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul. Here, you can escape the tourist crowds while exploring the Kadıköy market, discover antique bargains on Tellalzade Street and tuck into steaming hot borek.

Want to explore the vibrant bazaars and rocky valleys in Turkey? Book Culture Trip’s 12-day group tour , where you’ll stop at key historical sites and glide across the landscape in a hot-air balloon.

The ancient city of Istanbul straddles two continents, divided by the Bosphorus (also known as the Strait of Istanbul). Kadıköy, on the Asian side, is where the city began, although the European side became the centre during the Ottoman and Roman periods and remains the main historic and touristic hub. Fewer tourists and more locals make for an authentic experience of this vibrant city.

Things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul

Eating your way around the “other side” of Istanbul is a great way to get intimate with the soul of the Asian part of the city. A local-led food-tasting tour will take you on a sensational journey through the diverse tastes on offer here. From the ubiquitous simit (circular sesame bread), through traditional borek (stuffed pastry) and Turkish-style ice creams to black Turkish tea, sipped from small shapely glasses.

With a full belly, you can explore the colourful neighbourhood of Kuzguncuk in Üsküdar. Once settled by Jews, then Greek-Orthodox and Armenian Christians and currently Muslims, this area of leafy lanes filled with brightly coloured traditional houses is a sight to behold. Stop in one of the many cafes for a cool drink before continuing your stroll through the peaceful, pretty streets.

If you’re in town on a Tuesday then you can’t miss the spectacle of the Kadıköy Tuesday Market, where you’ll find everything you need and more. A far cry from the ostentation of the Grand Bazaar, this is where the locals come for their weekly shop.

While exploring the east side, stop at The Fighting Bull statue on Altıyol Square and find out about this bronze bovine beast’s chequered past, before heading towards the water to enjoy views across the Sea of Marmara and sip a strong Turkish coffee at Moda Pier.

If you fancy a break from the city, it’s about half an hour’s drive north of Kadıköy centre to Khedive Palace in the Cubuklu area. Built in 1907, it’s not one of the oldest palaces, but its pretty woodland setting offers a serenity not often found in this city of 15m people.

1. Asian Side of Istanbul: Uskudar and Kadikoy Full Day Tour

Architectural Landmark

Get a thorough feel for the Asian side of Istanbul on this full-day tour, which takes you from a lively local fish market to the stunning Ottoman-era mosques of Üsküdar and the stylish streets of Moda. A local guide will be on hand to ensure you get a genuine glimpse into the authentic daily life of folks this side of the Bosphorus. You’ll even get a 3-course lunch of traditional Turkish cuisine.

What to eat on the Asian side of Istanbul

Eating and drinking in Istanbul is one of the city’s primary pleasures. Head over to Ciya Sofresi in Kadıköy to sample one of their many traditional classics. Thin crispy lahmacun (Turkish pizza), warming soups, fluffy pilafs (rice dish), delicious stews, more types of kebab than you could ever eat and something sweet to finish. The baklava here shouldn’t be missed.

The area has its fair share of third-wave coffee shops too, including Walter’s Coffee Roastery, based heavily on the Breaking Bad series. Get your cold brew coffee hit, and buy any number of coffee-making kits to make your own. Walter’s sells their own cheerful yellow mugs too.

The five brothers who own Meshur Dondurmacı Ali Usta offer the best dondurma (ice cream), with 40 flavours from which to choose. Don’t forget to ask what toppings they have available. Chocolate and nuts are a classic combo. Make your choice, then take an evening stroll with the locals down Moda Caddesi.

For a taste of the local nightlife, join the youths on Kadife Sokak, also known as Bar Street for good reason. It’s always crowded here and has a jubilant atmosphere, especially on warm summer evenings. Grab a beer from any of the bars and kiosks along the street and soak up the buoyant Turkish atmosphere.

2. Taste of Turkey on Two Continents: From European Istanbul to Asian Kadikoy

If the tapestry of edible delights on offer on the Asian side of Istanbul is a little overwhelming, allow an expert foodie be your guide as you get a taste for this vibrant part of town. You’ll start with a Turkish breakfast on the European side, before devouring a full ten tastings on the Asian side, including baklava, kebab and mussels – expect to have your cultural curiosity satisfied as well as your appetite.

Shopping on the Asian side of Istanbul

The European side may have the super cosmopolitan Istiklal Caddesi, but the Asian side puts up a glamorous fight with the Istanbulite Champs-Élysées, Baıdat Caddesi. Used for trade and military purposes during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, today you’ll find elegant shops, high-end fashion boutiques, large shopping malls and luxury car showrooms here.

In sharp contrast, you could while away a few hours down Kadıköy’s Tellalzade Street, known as Antique Street, due to the array of shops selling vintage record players, lanterns, telescopes and other jumbled oddities. Further on is the Kadıköy Antiques Bazaar, for a finer selection of antiques.

How to reach the Asian side of Istanbul

The best way to arrive in Asia is by boat. There are regular ferries running from Eminönü Ferry Terminal on the west side of the Bosphorus to Kadıköy. Alternatively, take a 20-30 minute taxi from the Sultanahmet area and they’ll drop you in Kadıköy. The tram/bus combo takes a little longer, as you’d need to take the T1 tram from Sultanahmet to Kabatas, then take the 129T bus from Istanbul Beyoglu Teknik Üniversite to Kadıköy, which takes 90 minutes in total.

3. Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Stopover on the Asian Side

There are plenty of standard ferries that can ship you from Europe to Asia in a flash, but why not make the crossing in style and explore the Bosphorus while you ride its gentle waves? Book a yacht cruise with live commentary and interesting insights from an experienced guide, before hopping off on the Asian side for Turkish coffee and an explorative stroll.

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Top 15 Things to Do in Istanbul’s Asian Side

View of Kadıköy ferry station, waterfront cafés and Haydarpaşa Terminal, image sourced from Flickr

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Top 15 things to do on istanbul’s asian side.

Kadıköy cafes, image sourced from Wikimedia Commons

1. Spend a Lazy Day in Moda

Moda promenade at sunset, image sourced from Flickr

Moda pier, image sourced from Flickr

2. Ride the Nostalgic Tram

Nostalgic tramway on Bahariye street, image sourced from Flickr

3. Taste the Cuisine

Kadıköy’s local fresh produce market, image sourced from Flickr

Viktor Levi Wine House, image sourced from Flickr

Turkish coffee, image sourced from Flickr

Çiya Sofrası, Image sourced from Flickr

4. Check out the Architecture in Yeldeğirmeni Neighbourhood

Haydarpaşa Terminal, image sourced from Flickr

Old colorful wooden houses, image sourced from Pxhere

5. Go, Mural Hunting 

Image sourced from Wikimedia Commons

Image sourced from Flickr

6. Shopping on Bağdat Avenue

7. Explore Historical sites in Üsküdar

View of Beylerbeyi Palace, image sourced from Wikimedia Commons

8. Maiden’s Tower

9. Visit the Beykoz Area

Image sourced from Wikimedia Commons  

10. A Ferry to the Princes’ Islands

11. Take a Photo at the Kadikoy Bull Statue

A bull statue by Christian Waske – Unsplash

12. Stroll to the Kadıköy Lighthouse

Lighthouse in Kadıköy/İstanbul by ahmet engineer – Unsplash

13. Shopping on Bahariye Street

Bahariye Cad, Kadıköy, İstanbul, Turkey by Kamil Kalkan – Unsplash

14. Visit the Haydarpaşa Train Station

15. explore akmar passage, 10 best restaurants in istanbul’s asian side .

Image by Karrie Zhu from Pixabay

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address: kanlıca ahmet rasim paşa yalısı, halide edip adıvar cd., 34810 beykoz/i̇stanbul, türkiye, call:  +90 216 413 93 00, 2. ismet baba fish restaurant.

Image by Jason Goh from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Kuzguncuk, Kuzguncuk Çarşı Cd No:1, 34674 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call:  +90 216 341 33 75, open: tue – mon 12 pm – 12 am, 3. divan brasserie – kalamış.

Image by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Fenerbahçe, Münir Nurettin Selçuk Cd. No:15, 34726 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call:  +90 216 414 57 03, open: tue – mon 10am – 12am , 4. the townhouse istanbul.

Image by Adamsov Production from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Suadiye, Plaj Yolu Sk. No13, 34740 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call:  +90 216 463 14 15, 5. victor levi şarap evi.

Image by Maciej Cieslak from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Caferağa Mh Moda Cd. &, Damacı Sk. No:4, 34710 Kadıköy, Türkiye

Call:  +90 530 975 75 23, open: tue – mon 11am – 2am  , 6. ioki sushi.

Image by Erika Marcial from Pixabay

CALL:  +90 216 202 20 22

Open: tue – mon 12 pm – 10 pm  .

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Küçükbakkalköy, Işıklar Cd. No:9 D:B, 34750 Ataşehir/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call: +90 545 572 11 30, open: tue – sat 12 – 2 pm sun, mon closed, 8. lacivert restaurant.

Image by Jonathan Valencia from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Anadolu Hisarı, Körfez Cd. 57/A, 34410 Beykoz/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call:  +90 216 413 42 24, open: mon – sat 12pm – 12am sun 10am – 12am, reservations:   rezervin.com.

Image by Kavinda F from Pixabay

ADDRESS: Ulus, Ahmet Adnan Saygun Cd. No:71/1, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call:  +90 212 358 29 29, open: mon – fri 12 pm – 2 am sat, sun 6 pm – 2 am , 10. gallada.

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ADDRESS: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Kemankeş Cd. NO:34, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye

Call: +90 212 931 28 88.

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Home > 15 Things To Do On The Asian Side Of Istanbul In 2024

15 Things To Do On The Asian Side Of Istanbul In 2024

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Go beyond the European side of Istanbul and discover these amazing things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul, Türkiye.

Welcome to the exotic and culturally rich city of Istanbul! While most visitors tend to stick around the European side, let’s not forget about the equally fascinating Asian side of Istanbul – known as the Anatolian Side.

From historical landmarks to scenic views, there are many things to do in this less-explored part of town. Whether you’re a foodie looking for an authentic culinary experience or a history buff eager to discover centuries-old architecture, we’ve got you covered with our curated list of the best things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Introduction To The Asian Side Of The City – Anatolian Side

Istanbul is a city situated on two different continents, Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus Strait runs through the city , dividing it into its European and Asian sides by the Bosphorus Bridge.

Although the city has a long history dating back to Roman times, its modern-day incarnation is very much a product of its Ottoman past. From the grand mosques like The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia , and the bewitching palaces  of the old city to the bustling streets of the new, Istanbul is a truly unique destination.

And while most visitors to Istanbul focus on the European side, there is much to see and do on the Asian side as well. Here are some of the places we suggest you check out on the Anatolian side of the city;

1. Kadikoy Bull Statue

Kadikoy Bull Statue is a must-see for any animal or sculpture lover visiting Istanbul . The life-size sculpture of a bull is located in the middle of a park and is a popular place for locals to relax and take photos. Visitors get up close and personal with the bronze statue made by famous French sculptor Isidore Bonheur in 1864. This little cutie was erected in memory of a famous bull that lived in the city during the Ottoman Empire.

2. Take A Ride On The Kadıköy-Moda Tramway

Kadıköy-Moda Tramway is a scenic tramway that runs through the Asian side of Istanbul. The tramway offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings and a convenient way to get around. The tramway is easy to use and provides an excellent way to see some of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

3. Shopping On The Asian Side Of Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul is home to some of the best shopping in the city – and a little cheaper, too. From traditional markets to modern malls, there is something for everyone on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Maltepe Park Shopping Mall

Maltepe Park Shopping Mall is another great option for shopping on the Asian side of Istanbul . It features over 200 stores selling all kinds of products, from clothes to electronics and home goods. There are also plenty of restaurants, Turkish coffee shops, and entertainment venues to enjoy after a day of shopping.

Kadikoy Fish Market

Kadikoy Fish Market is a popular tourist destination in Istanbul, Turkey. It is known for its fresh seafood, and many stalls sell different kinds of fish. Visitors can also find other food items at the market, such as fruits and vegetables. The market is open daily from early morning to late afternoon.

Kadıköy Market

The Kadıköy Market is one of the best places to shop on Istanbul’s Asian Side. It’s a great place to find fresh produce, spices, and other traditional Turkish ingredients. The market is open every day from early morning until late at night, so it’s easy to find a time to visit that works for you.

When you first enter the market, you’ll be greeted by the sights and smells of all the different stalls. Be sure to take some time to wander around and explore all the other options before making your purchase. Haggling is expected (and even encouraged!), so don’t be afraid to bargain with the vendors for a better price.

Kozzy Shopping and Cultural Center Kozyatagi

Kozyatagi is a neighborhood in Istanbul, and it’s home to this great mall. It has a lot to offer, including plenty of shops and restaurants and a movie theater. It’s the perfect place to spend a day or evening, whether you’re looking to do some shopping or relax and watch a movie.

Bahariye Street (Bahariye Caddesi)

Bahariye Street is one of the most popular shopping streets in Kadıköy, a neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s lined with shops and stalls offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and clothing. You can also find great deals on traditional Turkish items like ceramics, jewelry, and carpets.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, Bahariye Caddesi is a great place to find them. Many shops sell Turkish-themed items, such as carpets, tea sets, and evil eye beads. There are also plenty of stores that sell more general tourist items, such as T-shirts and magnets.

If you’re looking to shop for clothes, Bahariye Street has plenty of options. Several chain stores, such as H&M and Zara, and local boutiques sell Turkish-style clothing. You can also find a few shoe stores in the area.

• Souvenir Shopping In Istanbul

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4. maiden’s tower.

Known locally as ‘kiz kulesi,’ this is one of the most famous landmarks in the whole of Istanbul. Sitting a short distance from the coast on a small islet, you have to take a small boat to it, where you can enjoy dinner and watch the sunset. Maiden’s Tower has many different legends attached to it, although if you ask locals, they’ll all believe a different one! Use them, and let us know which one you think is true.

5. Akmar Passage

Akmar Passage is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Istanbul’s Asian side. The passage, which is lined with shops and restaurants, offers a great view of the city’s skyline. Visitors can also take a boat ride through the passage to get a closer look at the city’s landmarks.

6. Haydarpaşa Train Station

Haydarpasa Train Station is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The grandiose building was completed in 1909 and served as the city’s main train station for many years. Today, it is no longer in use but remains a beautiful and popular tourist spot. Visitors can admire the architecture, take photos, and enjoy the views of the Bosporus from the station’s rooftop terrace.

7. Drink Cocktails At Fahri Konsolos

Istanbul’s Asian Side is home to some of the city’s best cocktail bars, and Fahri Konsolos is one of them. This cozy bar has an extensive list of cocktails and a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect drink for your palate. The bar also has a great selection of Turkish wines and beers and a menu of small plates if you get peckish. With its relaxed atmosphere and excellent drinks, Fahri Konsolos is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring Istanbul’s Asian Side.

8. See How Many Stunning Murals You Can Find In Kadikoy

Kadikoy is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and colorful neighborhoods and is home to several stunning murals. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy art while getting fresh air, Kadikoy is the perfect spot.

A massive mural covers the entire side of a building on Kadikoy’s main street. It depicts various scenes from Turkish history and culture, and it’s an absolutely breathtaking sight. You can also find a mural on a wall near Kadikoy Square that depicts two people sharing a passionate kiss, and it’s sure to make your heart melt.

Other murals were made to commemorate the struggle of the Turkish people against authoritarian rule, honoring the Istanbul soccer team, to name a few. You can find many more stunning murals in Kadikoy; wander about, and you’re sure to discover plenty of hidden murals!

Note: There are also Asian side tours you can take on foot to help you find even more murals.

9. Kadıköy Coastal Pathway – Caddebostan Coastal Walk

If you’re looking for a fun and scenic coastal walk, look no further than Caddebostan! This beautiful walkway offers stunning views of the sea and plenty of opportunities to stop and smell the roses!

The Kadıköy Coastal Pathway stretches for almost 2 miles along the waterfront of the Kadıköy district on Istanbul’s Asian side. The pathway winds its way past several landmarks and beaches. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the views, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and parks located along the route. The pathway is also a popular spot for joggers and cyclists, making it a great place to get some fresh air and exercise while exploring Istanbul’s history and culture.

10. Kadikoy Lighthouse

Close to the ferry station, you will find a small path that juts out into the water and a small lighthouse at the end. Walk to the end of there and enjoy the sunset and views all around you. It’s a great spot to escape the noise , too! Remember your camera, as the images you’ll get from here are something exceptional indeed.

Bonus: If you carry on walking after the lighthouse, you’ll find a path that carries on for a good distance and follows the coastline. You can walk or cycle, and it’s packed with people singing, playing music, and snacks, such as sweetcorn and ice cream. During the summer months, you’ll find people just sitting here and enjoying the scenery until late in the evening.

If you want to dip your toes in the sea, keep walking until you reach Caddebostan, where there are some sandy beaches.

11. Bahariye Caddesi (Bahariye Street)

We already told you to head to Bahariye Street for shopping, but you will also find several restaurants and cafes here. If you want to try some traditional Turkish food , several places serve kebabs and other Turkish dishes.

There are also several international restaurants in the area, such as McDonald’s and Burger King.

And if you want a cup of coffee or tea, there are plenty of cafes to choose from.

12. Visit The Princes Islands

While you can also visit the Prince’s Islands from the European side, they are closer to the Asian side! From Bostanci, you can take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands, with Buyukada the most commonly visited and the largest of all the islands.

The islands are free of traffic as cars cannot drive there, so they’re ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are also many historical spots to check out, such as Aya Yorgi Church, and you can also hire a bicycle and enjoy the scenery along the coastal path.

13. Check Out The Sunset

A great place to enjoy a glass of cay and the sunset is the tea garden on the coastal path between Uskudar and Kadikoy . It’s impossible to miss, as you’ll see cushions lining the steps leading down to the water’s edge and countless people enjoying their time. The views from here as the sun goes down are sublime.

14. Nightlife Options

The Asian side of Istanbul is quieter and more residential than the European side, and although you’ll definitely find some great spots to spend your evenings, if you really want bright and vibrant nightlife, you’re better heading over to Taksim Square area or Besiktas on the Asian side.

However, the nightlife in Kadikoy is great fun up until around 1 a.m. There are many sports bars and pubs to enjoy and many restaurants for great meals. Uskudar itself is very quiet in the evenings and more about eating a meal and going home for the evening, but it’s pretty easy to get over to Kadikoy by bus or taxi if you want a few more drinks before you head home.

15. Get To Know The Neighborhoods On The Asian Side Of Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul is home to many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Hacıosman Ümraniye
• Selamiçeşme
• Yeldeğirmeni
• Istanbul Districts Guide

Yeldegirmeni Neighbourhood

The great thing about the Asian side of Istanbul is that it’s full of quirky neighborhoods offering something unique. Yeldegirmeni is a small but quite historic part of Kadikoy that is packed with art, Turkish coffee , and architecture. This is a pretty inexpensive part of Kadikoy, too, so it’s great for just wandering around and watching the world go by with a coffee in your hand. Oh, and if you love cats, you’ll find plenty here!

Beykoz Neighbourhood

As you pass Uskudar, keep walking, and you’ll reach Beykoz. This residential area is packed with waterfront mansions, all with interesting and colorful designs. These mansions all date back to Ottoman reign, and they’re protected buildings. You will find Anadolu Hisar or Anadolu Fortress/Castle a little further down. There are plenty of small restaurants around this part of the city, and it’s a great spot to sit and watch the world go around.

Sultanbeyli

This neighborhood is on the far outskirts of the Asian side of Istanbul, so it’s unlikely you would venture this far. It is calm during the daytime; yes, there isn’t anything to do here. At night, things get more unruly.

This neighborhood is in the Maltepe district near Kadıköy. Again, during the daytime, things are somewhat peaceful here, but at nighttime, it becomes unsafe.

Where To Eat On The Asian Side Of Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul is home to some of the best restaurants in the city. Here are some of our favorites:

• Çiya Sofrasi: this restaurant is known for its delicious kebabs and mezes
• Ismet Baba Fish Restaurant: family-style seafood plates & hearty sides 
• Küff Cafe: an ideal place to eat a traditional Turkish breakfast
• Lacivert Restaurant: on the Bosphorus Strait, serving pasta & seafood
• Baylan Pastanesi: If you have a sweet tooth, then you need to pay Baylan Pastenesi a visit, which has a history dating back around 100 years. Be sure to ask for the famous Sunday of caramel and vanilla ice cream with honey and whipped cream. Delicious!
• İnciraltı Meyhanesi: for the authentic meze experience, this restaurant is great. You’ll also find a range of traditional starters on offer, although some might be a little problematic for you if you have a weak stomach – deep-fried brains, anyone?
• A’Jia: if you have a special occasion, then make sure you head to the upmarket A’Jia. We’re talking small portions, but the fancy presentation here is ideal for something special
• Ciya Sofrası: for Turkish cuisine
• HayvoreL for traditional dishes
• Çiya Kebap: known for its tasty kebabs at reasonable prices

Where To Stay On The Asian Side Of Istanbul

When it comes to finding a place to stay on the Asian side of Istanbul, we have this guide .

As you’ll see, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a more budget-friendly option, you can find something that suits your needs.

Known for its lively street life and diverse dining options, Kadıköy offers a more laid-back atmosphere with plenty of cultural activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy vibrant urban life.

Üsküdar is famous for its historical sites, including beautiful mosques and palaces. This quieter and more residential area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful stay with a touch of history.

A neighborhood within Kadıköy, Moda is renowned for its seaside parks and pedestrian-friendly streets. It’s a great place for enjoying outdoor activities and experiencing local life.

Bağdat Avenue (Bağdat Caddesi)

This upscale area is known for its sophisticated shopping and dining experiences. Bağdat Avenue offers a luxurious stay in one of Istanbul’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus is a great option. This hotel offers stunning views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait , and it’s just a short walk from some of the best shopping in Istanbul.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, plenty of small hotels and hostels are scattered throughout the Anatolian side of the city – find them below.

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FAQs About The Asian Side Of Istanbul

Asian side of istanbul, where is the asian side of istanbul.

The Asian side of Istanbul is located on the eastern side of the city, separated from the European side by the Bosphorus Strait.

Why is it sometimes called the “Anatolian” side of Istanbul?

The Asian side of Istanbul is sometimes called the “Anatolian” side because it is part of the larger Anatolian Peninsula, encompassing much of modern-day Turkey.

Is Istanbul in Asia?

Yes, Istanbul is a transcontinental city, meaning it spans both Europe and Asia. The city is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, with the European side to the west and the Asian side to the east.

What are the top 3 things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul?

Three top things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul are visiting the Maiden’s Tower, exploring the vibrant Kadikoy neighborhood, and taking a relaxing Bosphorus cruise.

What are the best things to do in Istanbul’s Asian side for kids?

For kids, some of the best things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul include visiting parks like Fenerbahce Park, exploring the Istanbul Toy Museum, and taking a boat ride on the Bosphorus.

What things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul are good for couples?

For couples, romantic activities on the Asian side of Istanbul include enjoying a sunset from the Maiden’s Tower, taking a leisurely stroll along the Kadikoy coastline, and trying local delicacies at Kadikoy’s food markets.

Is the Asian side of Istanbul hard to find?

No, the Asian side of Istanbul is easily accessible by the strong transportation networks, including ferries, metro, and buses. Signs and maps are available to guide you as the public transport system in Istanbul is A class.

What Istanbul Asian side attractions are must-sees for a day trip?

For a day trip, must-see attractions on the Asian side of Istanbul include the Maiden’s Tower, the Moda Neighborhood with its charming streets, and the lively Kadikoy Market.

Is Kadikoy Istanbul part of Europe?

No, Kadikoy is part of the Asian side of Istanbul and is located in the Anatolian region, which is in Asia.

Things To Do In Kadikoy

What to do in kadikoy.

In Kadikoy, you can explore the local markets, visit historical sites like Haydarpasa Train Station, and enjoy the vibrant cafe culture along Kadikoy’s charming streets.

Things to do in Kadikoy for kids?

Kadikoy offers fun activities for kids, including visiting Moda Park, playing at KidZania Istanbul, and enjoying a ferry ride on the Bosphorus.

Things to do in Kadikoy for foodies?

Foodies can indulge in Kadikoy’s culinary delights by trying various street foods, tasting traditional Turkish dishes at local restaurants, and exploring the bustling Kadikoy Market.

Anatolian Side Wrap Up

Istanbul’s Asian side is a wonderful place to explore and experience the beauty of Turkey. From its historic landmarks , such as the Yeni Cami Mosque, to its scenic views from atop Galata Tower, there are plenty of things to do that will make your visit to Istanbul unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or want some time away from it all, there’s something on the Asian side that will suit your needs. So pack your bags and head across the Bosphorus – you won’t regret it!

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18 Fun Things to Do on the Asian Side of Istanbul

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Istanbul . It conjures up a juxtaposing association of familiarity, as nearly everyone has heard of it, but it retains a sense of intrigue, with its layers of history as a cross-continental port city. One of Istanbul’s most common refrains from travel writers to visitors to journalists, is that it spans two continents, connecting Europe to Asia.

But despite the fact that it is famous for connecting the Eastern and Western worlds , the Asian side of Istanbul can often get overshadowed by its more popular European half.

I bought a guidebook from a well-renowned travel-guide company, and I was puzzled to discover that the Asian side of Istanbul received no mention and didn’t even make it onto the map.

And when I was in Istanbul, checking out of a hotel in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, the hotel owner asked me which city I was headed to next. After responding that I was heading to stay in Kadıköy, on the Asian side of the city, he promptly countered with “Oh there’s nothing to do over there.” But after spending quite a bit of time across the Bosphorus, I can confidently say that I disagree.

The Asian side of Istanbul, which carries with it the history of the ancient cities of Chalcedon and Chrysopolis, is full of nightlife , beautiful views, relaxing tea gardens, and some of the best food in the city. In short, it is not to be missed.

Below, I recommend some of the best things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul. I can assure you this list barely scratches the surface of what this area has to offer.

Table of Contents

Where to stay

As we’ll cover, there’s quite a bit of action going on in the center of the Kadıköy district , and in the specific neighborhood of Moda .

The ideal balance, I’ve found, is to stay in the Yeldeğirmeni neighborhood , just north of the beating heart of Kadıköy. It’s quieter, with a number of amazing old-school restaurants, and a more homey, residential feel.

It’s a short walk from the main ferry stop, so while you don’t really compromise convenience by staying there, you buy yourself a little reprieve from the wonderful buzz that lies a few blocks South.

A hotel that’s pretty friendly on the budget is the Marist Hotel Kadıköy . This hotel is located in Yeldeğirmeni, on a quiet street with plenty of little cafes.

The rooms are fairly small but clean, and there’s a lovely rooftop terrace overlooking the city that you can enjoy any hour until 11:00 p.m. The (free) classic Turkish Breakfast is served up there as well, cooked up by a charming, friendly staff.

If you’d like to splurge a little bit more, opt for the Moja City Hotel , also in Yeldeğirmeni. This sleek, clean hotel is conveniently located within a minute’s walk to the waterfront and just a few blocks from the metro stop, and has a well-reviewed breakfast option.

How to get around

There are quite a few ways to get around the Asian side of Istanbul.

The best way to get set up for successful navigation is to get yourself an Istanbul Kart (Istanbul Card). This card can be purchased at hubs of public transportation, including the airport, bus stops, ferry terminals, and metro stations.

One of the newer ways to get around in Istanbul, yet likely most familiar to visitors, is the metro system . Should you arrive at the Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), the M4 metro line will take you all the way to Kadıköy, making it not only the fastest but also the cheapest way to get straight to the action of the city.

For a more localized approach to getting around, take a stab at hopping in a dolmuş . These minivans function as a sort of cheap hybrid between taxis and buses. They typically run point-to-point routes from the center of one neighborhood to the next (Üsküdar – Kadıköy, for example), with signage indicating the destination, and riders are able to request convenient stops along the way.

When you hop in a dolmuş , be sure to have cash, and pass your money up to the driver.

There is also, of course, the ferry system. Üsküdar and Kadıköy are the two main ferry terminals on the Asian side, connecting further up the Bosphorus and across to the main terminals on the European side of the city.

A pro tip for those traveling by ferry in the winter months : Get yourself a steaming cup of salep. A thick, creamy, hot drink, salep is made from the powder of orchid tubers, mixed with milk and cinnamon. Sipping on this classic Turkish drink is the perfect way to defend against the cold winter winds as you cross the Bosphorus.

But one of my favorite parts of Istanbul was how the ferry system truly is an essential, perhaps the essential, way to get around. Istanbul (or Constantinople or Byzantium) has for thousands of years, been defined by its waterways, as it is today.

Not only is taking the ferry across the Bosphorus or up the Golden Horn a convenient way to get around, but it is relaxing, easy, and a breathtakingly beautiful way to see the city.

So don’t just take the ferry across to Kadıköy to visit Asia as a novelty. Step off that boat, and spend some time appreciating the many fun, meaningful, and beautiful things that the Asian side of Istanbul has to offer.

Exciting things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul

1. have a sunset picnic at moda sahil park.

Grassy fields filled with picnickers pouring locally fermented wine, bikers and skateboarders weaving through busy pedestrian paths, large flat rocks facing the mesmerizing views of the Princes Islands in the distance, and of course, the ubiquitous parade of stray Istanbul cats.

There are few better places in Istanbul to settle in for an evening beer on the rocks, watching the light fade away. This promenade and picnic area on the farthest southern edge of Moda is, on a nightly basis, filled with locals who come to unwind, listen to music, and enjoy being away from the chaos of the rest of Istanbul.

Come here on foot, and be sure to stop by a corner store to grab a bottle of Tuborg or Efes on the way. This spot is made for reminiscing on the memories of a trip well-done, or as an introductory spot on the first evening on the Asian side of the city.

2. Learn about Islamic history

Opened in 2022, the Museum of Islamic Civilizations is one of the newest museums in Istanbul and is absolutely worth a visit. Given the Ottoman Empire once held claim as the Islamic Caliphate from the 16th century all the way through the 20th century, Istanbul is a fitting home for this educational museum.

The beautiful, well-designed, informative museum covers a wide range of approximately 1,200 years of Islamic history, with interactive exhibits, art, and artifacts.

There are early copies of the Quran, a Kiswa (the cloth that covers the Kabba during the Hajj) from hundreds of years ago, coins from around the Ottoman Empire, and countless other fascinating relics. Many of which had never been displayed before.

Not only does the museum boast an immense display of artifacts, but it does a great job explaining history. After having visited a number of Mosques throughout Istanbul, the museum was a great way to answer some questions about Islam and its origins, history, and traditions.

I learned of the many historical routes that the faithful have taken on the Hajj, why the colors in the Mosques changed over time as the religion grew, the different names for sections of a traditional Mosque layout, and so many other insights about Islam, which plays such a prominent role in many people’s lives throughout Istanbul.

The museum is also located beneath the Çamlıca Mosque, making it a great two-for-one opportunity to head up to a lesser-visited part of the city. 

3. Visit the Çamlıca Mosque

Why is the largest mosque in Istanbul, nay, Turkey, so overlooked? It’s a question I asked myself and honestly couldn’t figure out a great answer.

Perhaps it hasn’t had enough time to gain popularity, but it is one of the best attractions on the Asian side of Istanbul. It opened in 2019, making it a radically new monument in a city that goes back to antiquity.

The Çamlıca Mosque is not only massive, from the domes to the minarets to the sahn (courtyard), but it sits atop the highest point in all of Istanbul, with the city unfolding in 360 degrees as the mosque’s backdrop. On the horizon you’ll see two of the three bridges that span Europe to Asia, you’ll see Galata Tower, and the Suleymaniye Mosque, as well as the spread of Asian Istanbul to the East.

The mosque adds to the city’s diversity of religious structures, as the interior is notably more austere than the ornate designs of the Blue Mosque, yet it’s beautiful in its simplicity. The pearly, white walls, and scattered pockets of multi-colored stained glass will leave any visitor, regardless of religious belief, feeling a sense of peace.

Visiting Çamlıca Mosque also comes with the added benefit of accessing the surrounding park. The park has trails undulating up and down between grassy fields and towering trees, and it’s a lovely place to stroll and enjoy the views.

You’ll also find yourself near the base of one of the largest Turkish flags in Istanbul, and when you’re close enough you can hear the sound of this giant flag rippling in the wind.

4. Run (or bike or walk) along the Moda waterfront

There are kilometers upon kilometers of pathways that are perfect for running, biking, or walking along the waterfront of the Sea of Marmara. I’d argue, in fact, that the Asian side of Istanbul is more runner and biker-friendly than the European side.

A great place to start is along the Kadıköy waterfront, starting from Festival Park, passing by Çocuk Park, and wrapping around the corner on the southern edge of Moda Sahil Park. That’s already a couple of kilometers; if you’re eager for more, there’s quite a bit more waterfront pathway to continue following.

The pathway runs parallel to stretches of green grass on one side, and water on the other. In the morning this stretch of pathway is relatively quiet, making it the ideal time to enjoy the greenspace and the fresh, sea air before a day of exploring the crowded streets of Istanbul.

But the scenery along this stretch is what makes it spectacular. The Prince’s Islands are in clear view to the South, and to the Northwest you’ll see the pointy tips of the city’s most iconic monuments, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapı Palace. 

5. Post up at a meyhane and drink rakı

When visiting a new city, it’s always a good idea to give the local hooch a try. In Istanbul, that would be rakı , and Kadıköy has innumerable places to imbibe this special drink.

Rakı is a type of clear brandy, made from fermented grapes, and flavored with anise (which gives it the distinct licorice flavor). It is a strong liquor, usually in the range of 40-50% alcohol.

You can find rakı fairly easily throughout Istanbul, but the best place to drink is at a meyhane . Meyhanes are taverns that are common throughout Turkey, serving up traditional Turkish dishes and of course, serving rakı .

You’ll also find delicious food, as most meyhanes specialize in meze (a wide variety of small, shareable dishes). Rakı is traditionally served with meze, which almost always includes slices of sheep’s milk cheese, melon, and some fresh raw veggies.

Most people make drinking rakı a social affair. There are often pairs of old friends drinking it while catching up, or large communal tables celebrating a family event, with bottles sitting in ice buckets lining the table.

Early on in the evening, the atmosphere will be fun and social, but mostly calm. Stay a little longer and the laughter will get louder, conversations more boisterous, and tables a little messier. The third stage I witnessed of a rakı evening was singing and dancing – when the liquor truly takes hold.

The streets of Güneşli Bahçe and Osmancık in Kadıköy, are lined with meyhanes, so it’s hard to go wrong in choosing one (just avoid the ones where there are suspiciously few people).

It’s important to note that there is an optimal way to drink. After making the embarrassing mistake of knocking it back like a shot at a sports bar, I later learned that was a rookie move. After stepping into a meyhane , I learned the correct way to drink.

Here’s how: Pour a few fingers of rakı into the glass. Add as much water as you like, but most opt for about two times the amount of rakı into the glass. Complete with an ice cube. You’ll see the concoction become cloudy, and then you’re ready to sip. 

6. Watch the city wake up at a coffee shop in Kadıköy

Though it may be hard to rise early after imbibing at a meyhane the night before, posting up at a cafe or çay (tea) house has rewards of its own. For me, it’s very much about the sounds. The rattle of shutters sliding open, the rhythmic sweeping of storefronts, the clinking of keys unlocking doors.

Turkish coffee, or Türk kahvesi , has been an important part of Turkish culture for hundreds of years, after the drink was brought back from modern-day Yemen during the expansion of the Ottoman Empire. In fact, drinking coffee as a daily ritual is older in Turkey than drinking a cup of çay .

For those who like strong coffee, Turkish coffee is the drink for you. Served in small portions, the coffee is unfiltered, and unstirred, so the grounds sit like mud at the bottom of the cup. Because of its strength, it’s often served with sugar, a cup of water, and a small treat (often lokum or Turkish delight).

There are plenty of great places to rise early and slowly sip a Türk kahvesi , but one recommendation is to head to the intersection of Mühürdar and Serakser in the heart of Kadıköy. There are a number of small neighborhood cafes at that intersection that are perfect for a slow start to your day.

So, sit there and sip until you taste the grounds at the bottom of the cup, and watch the city come to life.

7. Peruse one of the many bookstores on Mühürdar Street

It’s always a good sign when a city has a lot of bookstores, and Istanbul has quite a few, especially on the Asian side of town.

At most of the bookstores throughout Istanbul, you see an effort to highlight authors of their own. Turkish literary superstars such as Elif Shafak or Orhan Pamuk line the shelves, showing a sense of pride in the talent from within the country.

There’s so much variety to be found when exploring Istanbul’s bookstores. There are old ones selling dusty books with that oxidated, yellow color. There are new ones selling books in all varieties of languages. And there are ones with large collections of children’s books, including translations you might recognize from childhood.

One of the best places to scavenge for new (or old) books is on Mühürdar Street on the Western edge of Moda. Along the street there are a variety of bookstores, including Barış Sahaf, a rare bookshop that is known to blast heavy metal music, and where I discovered a hilariously cruel “Frommer’s Guide to Europe on $15 per day”…if only that was still possible.

But the pinnacle of book shopping lies tucked off to the side of Mühürdar street, in a place called Akmar Passage (above).

As the name suggests, it’s a kind of passageway, lined with bookseller after bookseller, most of which are secondhand, where you can find almost any type of book or map that you could possibly imagine. It would be easy to spend hours in there – so plan your day accordingly!

8. Soak in the views from Üsküdar  

What was once a key port city during the Roman era, and the site of the Battle of Chrysopolis (between Constantine and Licinius), Üsküdar is now a bustling waterfront district of Asian Istanbul. Given its close proximity to both peninsulas on the European side at the convergence of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus, it boasts wonderful views of the other half of the city.

You can take a sunset walk along the promenade, take a hike up its winding inland streets and find yourself surrounded by gorgeous homes, or simply pick a cafe that opens up to a towering overlook of Europe. There is great scenery to be enjoyed.

And here’s a crucial tip that applies to not only Üsküdar, but all of Istanbul. Look up! Often restaurants will look sleepy and unoccupied on the ground floor, but upon a hike up the stairs, you’ll find a packed top floor. Istanbulites sure do appreciate a good terraz (terrace), and there are many good ones in Üsküdar.

9. Get more than just a simit along the waterfront

Few foods are as common in Istanbul as simit . It’s everywhere, particularly along the waterfronts, as it’s a great commuter food.

For reference, simit is a circular bread made from flour and yeast, toasted sesame seeds, and most often, grape molasses. The dough is comprised of two long strands that are wound together, before taking a dip in the molasses and a coating of sesame seeds. Its texture and flavor can be described as a cross between a soft pretzel and a bagel.

On the European side of the city, whether it’s Eminönü or Karaköy, you’ll find plenty of simit carts. On the Asian side of the city, you’ll see the carts as well, but they’ll often carry a wider breadth of bread and pastry options to pick from.

You’ll see simits , of course, and an array of sandwiches and sweets, but more importantly, you’ll find other Turkish must-try bread and pastries, such as açma , poğaça , and my favorite, çatal çörek .

Açma has the same shape as a thick bagel, but its texture is much softer, akin to a roll. Poğaça , popular throughout Turkey and the Balkans, is a breakfast roll that is often stuffed with savory foods like feta or potatoes.

And lastly, çatal çörek is a flaky, buttery, firm pastry that is shaped like an oval with a line through the middle. It’s the perfect handheld snack for exploring.

The cuisine is so good in Istanbul that it can be tempting to go back to the same food over and over again (thinking of you, simit ). But when the opportunity arises, such as the diverse bread and pastry carts on the Asian side of the city, I encourage you to try some of the other delicious items that make up the fantastic culinary landscape in Istanbul.

10. See live music in Kadıköy

Similar to wandering the local market or finding what lines the shelves of local bookstores, seeing live music in a new city is one of the best ways to orient yourself in the community. It’s a way to see how your new city expresses itself, giving you a deeper understanding of what people are like and what they value.

Walking through the lower section of Kadıköy, there are stretches where seemingly every bar has music. I’ve only seen more live music in a city specifically known for it, in Nashville, Tennessee. You probably won’t hear any honky-tonk, but it’s worth taking your time, hearing which band calls to you, and stepping in to enjoy over an Efes . 

For a specific music venue, one recommendation is to head to Buddha Sahne, along a pretty rocking stretch of Moda on Kadife Street. There, you’ll find live rock bands performing nightly, typically getting the show started around 10:00 p.m.

There are two floors from which you can watch the band perform. The basement-level floor is where most of the action is, front and center from the band. The second floor upstairs gives a cool birds-eye view of the band, and a less crowded bar to grab a drink from.  

In Kadıköy alone, there is so much variety available when it comes to music venues. If you’re a jazz aficionado, there are jazz clubs. A hard rocker? There are places to headbang. Even fans of opera have places to go dress up and enjoy a night of sophistication.

11. Relax with a çay at Kerma Cafe

This sprawling outdoor cafe, or çay bahçesi (tea garden) is one of the most beautiful, scenic locations in Istanbul to sip on Turkish çay . The tea garden is a calming space, surrounded by trees, with pockets of openings that display the waterfront views like a picture frame.

It’s the perfect place to take a book or your travel journal, or to simply chat with friends, all while enjoying the breeze and views of the sea. It’s hard to find as blissful of a cafe, let alone one with waterfront views, in all of Istanbul.

There’s also Moda Aile Çay Bahçesi, a more well-known tea garden that gets a lot of press from travel articles just down the street. It has a similar setup, but you’ll have a better chance at serenity by going down a block to Cafe Kerma.

To find this place, you can search “Kemal’in Yeri” in Google Maps. If you’re staying anywhere in Kadıköy, it’s a walkable distance, and you can even stroll along the waterfront en route to the tea garden.

12. Make your own food tour in central Kadıköy

This is an admittedly vague thing to do, but it is essential. For the section of the city where I was told that there’s supposedly “nothing to do,” I was surprised to realize that I’d never seen a neighborhood with so many restaurants, shops, and bars.

One of the challenges of traveling to Turkey, and Istanbul in particular, is balancing trying the immense range of delectable foods with what your stomach can handle.

In Kadıköy there are a mind-blowing number of places specializing in döner kebabs , kokoreç (sheep intestines and offal wrapped in a coil), balik ekmek (fish sandwich), mantı (Turkish dumplings), as well as all the other food covered in this article.

So, pacing is important. But the act of wandering around from place to place, creating your own food crawl is an activity that is not only fun, but easy to do in a place like Kadıköy.

It’s common to get hung up on trying to find the “best” food in Istanbul. Stop it. There is so much good food available that it’s hard to truly get wrong. So, wander, enjoy yourself, and tuck into all the amazing cuisine that Istanbul has to offer.

If, however, after some wandering, you’re looking for some expertise in learning about local cuisine, this guided food tour that covers both sides of the Bosphorus will help answer any lingering culinary questions.

13. Check out some books for your next ferry ride

Istanbul just has some things figured out. As a New Yorker, I personally try to minimize the time spent at public transit hubs, given the chaos and general unpleasantness. But libraries, bookstores, and cafes while you wait?

Though there are other ferry terminals that have libraries or bookstores, the multiple terminals that comprise the broader Kadıköy Bay contain not only a library but also a bookstore with a sun-soaked terrace cafe.

Locals can check out some books and study, while visitors can peruse and pick out a book to take home as a souvenir or as a ferry read. So, when you’re heading out for a ride, perhaps up the Bosphorus to Rumeli Kavağı, or just back to Eminönü, get there a little early to nab a book and a beverage from the cafe, and watch the flow of boats go in and out.

14. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the “dessert corner” of Moda

This “dessert corner” is not officially named as such, but it should be.

This corner at the southern edge of Moda, just before the waterfront, is a haven (or heaven) for dessert lovers. On one corner alone, there are two different shops specializing in decadent waffles, an ice cream parlor, and a number of cafes with sweets of their own. 

The largest of them all is the full restaurant dedicated to waffles, called Kemal Usta Waffles . You can smell it from a block away. This is a multi-story restaurant that has both indoor and outdoor seating, but best of all, it has a sprawling chocolate fountain.

This place is frequented by tourists and locals alike, where diners come to pile comically large amounts of toppings atop fluffy, fragrant waffles.

Istanbul is a sweet tooth’s dream, with desserts all over the city, ranging from sütlaç (rice pudding) to kadayıf (baked noodles with nuts and syrup), tulumba (like a cross between Indian gulab jamin and a Mexican churro ) to the many varieties of halva , baklava and lokum . 

But beyond these common desserts, here are two additional recommendations to try some sweets that are lesser-seen.

The first is kabak tatlısı , essentially a dish of tender, candied pumpkin flesh, topped with cream, nuts, or tahini. The other is pişmaniye , which is often referred to as “Turkish cotton candy,” and is made from flour, butter, and sugar. The process of making it is arduous, and watching a video of it being made will give you a greater appreciation for this simple-looking treat.

15. Wander the calm streets of Yeldeğirmeni

Within the boundary of Kadıköy, Yeldeğirmeni retains its own distinct identity. Bordered by railroad tracks to the north, but framed by Rıhtım, Halitağa, and Taşköprü streets, this neighborhood has throughout the years been home to Armenian, Jewish, Greek, and of course, Turkish communities.

This neighborhood is now a balance of artists and older, long-time residents, and it has a much slower pace of life to it than Moda to the south. Yeldeğirmeni is a wonderful neighborhood to wander around aimlessly.

At its northern end, on Iskele Street, there are a series of gorgeous, colorful, wood houses, and there are murals scattered throughout the neighborhood, beautifying most blank surfaces.

The food in Yeldeğirmeni is one of its other outstanding characteristics. There are a number of great lokantas , which are essentially lunch counters that locals frequent, with food ready-made and served buffet-style.

There are also long-running old-school pidecis (places serving pide and lahmacun – two styles of flatbreads sharing a resemblance to pizza), with open windows showcasing their wood-fired ovens.   

There is a feel of a local community that isn’t as prevalent in the other, busier parts of Kadıköy. It has a dense population of cafes, and they’re filled with friends catching up over pastries and çay , and you’ll also see quite a few groups of people (mostly older men) playing old-timey games like dominos and okey .

Yeldeğirmeni simply feels different than its surrounding neighborhoods, holding onto a more laid-back pace than what’s going on around it. It’s worth spending some time there to taste its long-running restaurants, appreciate its art, and observe its communal atmosphere.   

16. Go up-river to experience the city’s history

Like all of modern Istanbul, the Asian side, is teeming with history. Particularly along the waterfront, the city is scattered with old palaces, temples, castles, and forts, from a number of different eras that have influenced the city over the years.

The ferry system makes it relatively easy to get up and down the coastline to visit many of these sites. There are far more as you continue north, but here are a couple of sites up the Bosphorus, that offer insight into the city’s history.

Küçüksu Kasrı, just south of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, was used as a hunting lodge and retreat for Ottoman sultans in the 19th century. Nowadays, the ornate, beautiful building, is open as a museum for tours that show the lifestyle in the later years of the Ottoman Empire.

Anadoluhisarı, close in proximity to Küçüksu Kasrı, but far older, played an essential role in the establishment of Istanbul as the center of the Ottoman Empire. Built in the 14th century, it was used as a base to prepare and attack what was at the time, Constantinople. 

17. See what’s for sale at Kadıköy Market

Markets, particularly food markets, are wonderful representations of a city’s culture, and  Kadıköy’s is a great one. It’s not a sprawling market, but it has a wonderful variety of food that is a microcosm of what you’ll find all over the city.

There are gorgeous arrays of olives in colors that I hadn’t known existed, jars upon jars of pickled everything, freshly caught seafood, and overflowing baskets of dried fruit and nuts.

Kadıköy market is a good place to try out a few different varieties of lokum , or to buy some spices and tea to bring back home. It’s no doubt a busy place, but compared to the eager, and sometimes pushy sellers of the bazaars on the European side, it’s a relatively relaxing place to check out what’s for sale. 

18. Pick up a few antiques on Tellalzade Street

Quiet relative to the rest of the cacophony of the neighboring meyhane streets, Tellalzade Street offers a little reprieve. This street is lined with antique stores, selling everything from Ottoman-era tea kettles, to candelabras, to daggers, to intricately-designed cigarette boxes and monocles. 

Each store has its own style, and it’s worth hopping around to a few to see what you can discover.

Some shops are well-designed and organized, with the weaponry in one section and china in the other. And some are more of a chaotic grab-bag, where you’ll have to sift between old records and telescopes to get to the tea cups.

Even if you don’t buy anything, antique shops offer good insight into the local style and how it has changed over the years.

If you’re in need of some sustenance or a drink after picking up a few wares, check out Antika Cafe, on the same street, which has a bookstore upstairs and a nice little garden in the back.

Wrapping up

If you visit the Asian side of Istanbul, I’m confident you’ll be surprised that it’s so widely missed by tourists and guidebooks.

The streets of Moda and Üsküdar are as lively as any on the European side. The biggest mosque in the country is there. There are old-school restaurants with wide-fired ovens that have been slinging pide for decades and streets lined with classic meyhanes pouring chilled rak ı served with melon. There are parks and waterfront promenades and beautiful sunsets.

As a part of the city that has been living and breathing for thousands of years, you can feel and learn about its different iterations of history, all the while embracing the pulsing newness of its streets that can even be described as a little bit hipster.

So, go ahead, I urge you, to cross the Bosphorus and stay a while. Asia, Asia Minor, Anatolia, Istanbul, whatever you choose to call it, will feed you, entertain you, educate you, and make you fall deeper in love with the city of two continents — Istanbul.

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Istanbul’s Asian Side & Best Things to Do

Hello to everyone! I have been living in Istanbul for years. Today i will tell you the best things to do in Istanbul’s Asian Side as a local person. Actually we call it the Anatolian Side, don’t be surprised if you hear that 🙂

I am also a professional tourist who has visited more than 50 countries around the world. I will share with you the most beautiful things to see and visit in Istanbul’s Asian Side for those who want to discover Istanbul today. I will also give information about the Asian side of Istanbul. Let the most beautiful tourist attractions in Istanbul Asian Side begin!

Index / Indeks

• 1 Discover The Istanbul’s Asian Side
• 2 Best Things To Do & Attractions in Istanbul Asian Side
• 3 Local Tips from Insider
• 4 Best Places You Must Visit in Asian Side of Istanbul
• 5 Istanbul’s Asian Side Travel Map
• 6 Istanbul’s Asian Side Districts
• 7 Where to Stay in Istanbul Anatolian Side?
• 8 Where To Eat & Drink in Istanbul’s Asian Side?

Discover The Istanbul’s Asian Side

Those who come to Istanbul to visit usually only visit the European side. but those who visit Istanbul without seeing the Asian side means they have never visited Istanbul!

Why Should You Explore Istanbul’s Asian Side?

Istanbul’s Asian side is famous for its hidden beauties. It is away from the tourist crowds. It also has the historical centers of Istanbul such as Kadikoy and Uskudar and this is where local people usually live in Istanbul.

How to Get to The Asian Side of İstanbul?

Transportation in Istanbul is quite easy by metro and ferry. You can go to the (Anatolian) Asian side in a few minutes with the metro that goes under the Bosphorus. Or it is quite pleasant to go to the Asian side with a ferry tour. Click for transportation to the Asian side of Istabul

Asian Side or European Side?

Turkish People do not agree on this issue either 🙂 I live in the Asian side and I think the Asian side is more beautiful! If you want to watch a real life in Turkey, you should come to the Anatolian side.

Best Things To Do & Attractions in Istanbul Asian Side

Say hello to istanbul in haydarpasa train station.

Haydarpasa is the most magnificent train station of Istanbul, built at the end of the 19th century. The architecture is truly worth seeing. You can watch the Bosphorus from the stairs in front of station entrance.

In the past, people who came to Istanbul from the east of Turkey by train used to get off at this station and say hello to the Bosphorus. So do it like locals!

Walk Through Caddebostan Coast

The most beautiful tourist attraction in the Asian side of Istanbul is to explore the Marmara Sea Coast of Istanbul. Caddebostan is the meeting point of young people in Istanbul Asian Side.

Get your beer here and enjoy the view of Princes Islands. Prince Islands will be right in front of you 🙂 You can meet young and modern Turkish young people in Caddebostan!

Have a Drink at Iconic Cafes of Moda

Moda is one of the most beautiful places to visit on the Asian side of Istanbul. I studied high school in Moda, Kadikoy. Moda has Istanbul’s most iconic, trendy and boutique cafes.

Do not visit the Asian side without having a cup of coffee, beer or tea in Moda’s cafes! There is also a very nice historic tram here.

Feel the old Istanbul in Kuzguncuk

If you think you can feel the old Istanbul only in Sultanahmet or Taksim, you are wrong. Uskudar district in the Asian side is among the oldest residential area in Istanbul.

Kuzguncuk is an amazing place located in Uskudar. You will feel yourself in the Istanbul of 100 years ago, in Kuzguncuk. One of the best things to do in the Asian side of Istanbul is to discover Kuzguncuk.

The Best View of Bosphorus: Uskudar

Since we are talking about uskudar, did you know that the best place to watch the Bosphorus is Uskudar? I think you didn’t know 🙂

It is a little difficult to see the Bosphorus in the European side. However, there are many places to see the Bosphorus and the Bosphorus Bridge from the Asian coast.

Go to Uskudar Cost, and discover the magnificent view of the Bosphorus while discovering the historical mosques there.

Listen to Live Music in Bars in Kadikoy

Kadikoy is the most enjoyable place of Istanbul. Kadikoy is located in the Asian side, but you feel yourself in a city in Europe such as Budapest, Rome, Paris…

There are many bars and live music venues in Kadikoy. You can find concert almost every day. This is one of the must-do activities in the Asian side of Istanbul.

Unlimited Shopping on Bagdat Street

Shopping is one of the best things to do in Istanbul. Because you can find many quality products at cheap prices in Turkey. The shopping center of the Asian side is Bagdat Street.

You can find the stores of world famous brands on Bagdat Street. There are also shops selling local products.

Shopping at the Local Street Markets of Kadikoy

When talking about shopping, it is impossible not to mention Kadikoy. Because there are so many street markets in Kadikoy.

Even if you don’t buy anything, wander the streets of Kadikoy from start to finish and you will find great markets. Shopping in Istanbul’s Asian Side: Malls & Bazaars Find Out More!

You can’t Forget the Maiden’s Tower Anyway

I think you will not forget to visit the Maiden’s Tower. Maiden’s Tower is the most must-see place on the Asian side. The most beautiful Istanbul photos have the Maiden’s Tower.

The best place to see the Maiden’s Tower is the Salacak district of Uskudar. Don’t worry, I will show you all these points on the map at the end of the article.

Camlica TV Tower: Watch Panoramic Istanbul from 587 Meters Above

Istanbul has a new iconic building. Watching Istanbul from Camlica Tower is just like watching Dubai from the Burj Khalifa.

You can watch the entire Bosphorus, Prince Islands and bridges from almost 600 meters above. It is definitely worth experiencing and is one of the must-do attraction on the Asian (Anatolian) side of Istanbul.

A Fabulous Day in the Prince Islands

Let’s travel to fairy tales! The fairy-tale face of Istanbul is the Prince Islands.

There are 5 famous Prince Islands in Istanbul. Buyukada is the one I pay the most to see. Buyukada means a big island in Turkish. Don’t come back from Turkey without a fairy-tale tour on the big island.

Take a Bike Ride on the Asian Coast of Istanbul

Istanbul Asian side coast has a great bike roads! Rent a bike from the municipality’s shared bike rental system and explore the entire Anatolian side coast.

There are also municipal facilities where you can take a break and drink coffee while cycling on the Asian coast of Istanbul

Places to Visit: Toy Museum, Beylerbeyi Palace

One of the most interesting tourist activities in Istanbul is to visit the toy museum. You can feel yourself in your childhood while discovering hundreds of kinds of toys.

Another of the most beautiful historical places to visit in the Asian side of Istanbul is the Beylerbeyi Palace. This is a magnificent Ottoman Palace. You should see the inside of the palace.

Count How Many Historic Mosques are There in Uskudar Square

In Istanbul, you usually visit mosques such as the Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye or Hagia Sophia. but the Uskudar square in the Asian side of Istanbul; It is the place where you can see the most historical mosques together. (i think most in the world 🙂 )

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, Semsi Pasa Mosque, Rum-i Mehmet Pasa Mosque and more… Entry to these mosques is free. But you must respect those who pray.

Best Attractions: Ferry to Anadolu Kavagi

Next, there is an attraction that I recommend to do on the Asian side!

Anadolu Kavağı is one of the quietest, cutest places in Istanbul. This is a real fishing town. It is difficult to reach by road, but you can reach the Anadolu Kavagi by exploring the whole Bosphorus with the municipality ferries.

Local Tips from Insider

Now i will tell you the local advice you need to know while visiting istanbul!

• Turkish people are very hospitable, ask them questions, don’t hesitate.
• Definitely get Turkish Lira, no other currency will pass.
• Get a city card called Istanbul card.
• Walk around all the streets especially in Kadikoy and Moda.
• Prices will usually suit you, have lots of snacks, drinks!
• Don’t try to visit the whole Asian side in a few days, it will take at least 1 week 🙂

Best Places You Must Visit in Asian Side of Istanbul

I talked about the places that should be seen in the Asian side of Istanbul in the article, but now I will list the most beautiful places with some additional places, let’s take a look;

• Beylerbeyi Palace
• Kuleli Solidery School (It is located between Uskudar and Beykoz. It has a wonderful architecture.)
• Caddebostan Coast
• Kadikoy’s Streets (The all of Kadikoy is worth to visit)
• Moda’s Cafes
• Camlica TV Tower
• Princes Islands
• Haydarpasa Train Station
• Anadolu Kavagi
• Istanbul Toy Museum
• Moda Pier, (Moda pier has a very romantic view)
• Maiden’s Tower
• Kuzguncuk Old Town
• Mosques of Uskudar (Uskudar is the district where you can see the most historical mosques together in Istanbul.)
• Bagdat Street

Istanbul’s Asian Side Travel Map

Now let me show you on the map where all these best things to do that I mentioned are. Here is Istanbul Asian side travel map;

Istanbul’s Asian Side Districts

There are many historical and touristic districts on the Anatolian(Asian) side of Istanbul. These are; Kadikoy, Uskudar, Beykoz, Moda, Caddebostan, Maltepe, Kartal, Atasehir, Umraniye, Pendik etc.

I recommend you to explore Kadikoy, Uskudar, Moda and Caddebostan the most.

Where to Stay in Istanbul Anatolian Side?

Tourists usually prefer to stay on the European side of Istanbul such as Sultanahmet, Taksim, Besiktas etc. But the Asian side is more enjoyable to stay!

I think, Kadikoy is the best place to stay in the Asian side. However, Kadikoy is a district that covers a large area. You should find a hotel at a place around the ferry port of Kadikoy.

Apart from that, if you want cheap accommodation, the Asian side is usually cheaper. A little outside of the city, hotels are quite cheap at place like Kartal, Maltepe. You should prefer places close to the metro.

Istanbul is a big metropolitan city. I think stay 2-3 days in the Anatolian side, then stay at a different hotel on the European side. Just an idea 🙂

Where To Eat & Drink in Istanbul’s Asian Side?

Istanbul Asian side has many places to taste delicious Turkish foods, coffee or tea.

I have a lot of local advice, such as drinking tea in Moda, trying Turkish coffee in Kadikoy Muhurdar Street, and drinking yoghurt in Kanlica. Asian side is really a place where you can fully discover local Turkish delicacies.

I told you the best things to do in the Asian side of Istanbul one by one. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to  ask me 🙂 in the comment section below. I wish you all a glorious Istanbul trip!

You May Also Like

Recommended beaches in the Asian side of Istanbul? I am going with my brother and mum and we are staying near Hagia Sophia in the Europe side!

Hello Ahmed! There is a nice beach at Caddebostan that i mentioned above. If you search like “caddebostan plajı” you can find on google maps

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Hello to everyone! I have been living in Istanbul for years. Today i will tell you the best things to do in Istanbul’s Asian Side as a local person. Actually we call it the Anatolian […]

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14 Amazing Things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul in Kadikoy

With a population of over 15 million people, Istanbul is a vibrant city with no shortage of amazing things to see and do. The city famously spans two continents and is split by the Bosphorus Strait, a wide channel that is easily crossed by a network of ferries and bridges.

While most visitors flock to the mosques and bazaars on the European half of the city, the Asian side of Istanbul also has much to offer. The Kadikoy District ( Kadıköy in Turkish), specifically, is the cultural heart of this region. Filled with coffee shops and bars and cinemas, this area has a more relaxed vibe and fewer tourists.

This does not mean that Kadikoy has no crowds. Quite the contrary. The district is home to one million people, which would be an extremely large city were it to exist on its own.

A neighborhood kitty naps in the sun along the Kadikoy coastal pathway

But in Kadikoy, the crowds are more manageable. It is a comfortable community with a thriving art scene that is home to both young hipsters and elderly shop owners alike.

It is also a great place to stay if you plan to be in Istanbul for some time and are looking to get away from the other tourists.

This is exactly what my husband and I did on a recent trip to Istanbul. We rented a flat in the YeldeÄŸirmeni neighborhood of Kadikoy and stayed for an entire month.

It was a great opportunity to live like a local and really get to know all the incredible things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul.

The Kadikoy neighborhood is filled with incredible murals and street art.

Table of Contents

Top 14 Things to do in Kadikoy on the Asian Side of Istanbul

Kadikoy is such a large district that it is subdivided into several smaller neighborhoods. It also has an incredible coastline and features amazing views of the Bosphorus Strait along with monuments on the other side.

While we enjoyed wandering around the various areas of the district, some stood out more than others.

This list includes our favorite neighborhoods and things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul in the Kadikoy district.

Street art in the Kadikoy neighborhood between Moda and the Kadikoy Market

1. Wander the YeldeÄŸirmeni Neighborhood

Located a short walk up the hill from the ferry terminal and bus station, Yeldeğirmeni is a historical part of Kadıköy with lots of old buildings, coffee shops and a thriving art scene .

This neighborhood is home to many elderly Turkish citizens who have lived here from birth, along with hip youngsters who flock to the cafes and tea houses. It’s a relatively inexpensive area with a relaxed vibe that is filled with incredible street art.

The Turkish word for windmill , YeldeÄŸirmeni used to be a green hill that was topped with four windmills to grind flour. Now it is filled with apartment buildings, people, and lots of stray cats.

Yeldeğirmeni stretches along the coast from Haldun Taner Stage to Haydarpaşa Train Station and uphill to the train tracks. The heart of the neighborhood is on Karakolhane Street near Küff Cafe .

Küff Cafe in the Yeldeğirmeni  neighborhood

2. Browse the Kadıköy Market

Visiting the Kadikoy Market is one of the most popular things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul. A foodie’s paradise , the market is filled with shops selling everything from fresh produce and fish to pickles and endless varieties of olives.

The market’s winding pedestrian-only streets are packed with locals going about their daily shopping. It’s a wonderful place to people watch and to try some of the amazing foods Istanbul has on offer.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, however, than the Kadikoy Market may not be for you. It is an incredibly popular place that is filled with so many people that it can be hard to navigate sometimes.

An olive shop in the Kadikoy Market. Photo by Daniel of The Wandering Hedonist .

3. Ride the Kadıköy-Moda Nostalgic Tramway

A great way to see the highlights of Kadikoy is by riding the Kadıköy-Moda nostalgic tramway. This historic trolley car has 10 stops and runs in a circle around the Kadikoy neighborhood.

While the city used to have an extensive network of trams, these began to decline in number after the 1950s. By 1966, all trams lines in Istanbul had shut down.

The Kadıköy-Moda nostalgic tramway was re-introduced to the Kadikoy neighborhood in 2003 after the area was converted to a pedestrian-only zone. Today it is a fun ride and a convenient way to get around the neighborhood.

The Kadıköy-Moda Nostalgic Tramway

4. Grab a Photo at the Kadikoy Bull Statue

The Kadikoy Bull Statue ( Kadıköy Boğa Heykeli in Turkish) is one of the most iconic locations on the Asian side of Istanbul. Located at a busy crossroads where six roads intersect, the statue is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

Originally created by the French sculptor Isidore Bonheur in 1864, the statue came to Istanbul in 1917. It wasn’t until 1990, however, that the statue arrived at its current location.

Be sure to pack your patience if you want a photo with the statue, however. This is a popular attraction and there is usually a long line of people waiting to pose with Istanbul’s most famous bull.

Time for a Photo Op at the Kadikoy Bull Statue!

5. Go on a Kadikoy Mural Tour

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Kadikoy is to admire the murals and street art.

Thanks to the Mural Istanbul Street Art Festival , the district is covered with enormous eye-catching murals that decorate the sides of various buildings. The festival began in 2012 and is still ongoing to this day.

The festival seems to have inspired other “unofficial” artists, as well, because the graffiti in this area is extensive and really quite good.

While the giant paintings are located all over the Kadikoy district, the majority can be found in the YeldeÄŸirmeni neighborhood. One of the best ways to get to know the neighborhood, in fact, is to walk around it and hunt for murals . We were there for over a month on our last visit and still didn’t manage to find them all.

“Resistancia” – Mural by Inti (2013)

6. Visit the Moda Neighborhood

Moda is a trendy up-and-coming area of Kadikoy that is filled with lots of restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, and meyhanes (Turkish pubs). The neighborhood borders the Sea of Marmara and features a coastal walkway with incredible ocean views.

While you’re in Moda, be sure to visit the Barış Manço Museum which is dedicated to Anatolian rock legend Barış Manço.

The Moda Neighborhood

The Moda Jetty along the coastal pathway

7. Stroll to the Kadıköy Lighthouse

Located near Kadikoy’s ferry terminal at the southern entrance to the Bosporus Strait, the Kadikoy Lighthouse ( Kadıköy Ä°nciburnu Feneri in Turkish) is a quiet place to escape Istanbul’s notorious crowds.

The lighthouse provides a great view of the Sultanahmet area on the European side of the city. It is also a fabulous location from which to watch the sunset .

The lighthouse can be reached by walking along Kadikoy’s coastal area and onto a concrete wall that juts into the Bosphorus.

The Kadikoy Lighthouse with Sultanahmet on the European side of the Bosphorus visible in the background

8. Amble along the Kadıköy Coastal Pathway

After paying a visit to the Kadikoy Lighthouse, walk south along a broad walking and biking trail to continue admiring the views.

The pathway begins at the lighthouse and continues to Moda which features some lovely coastal parks . It is a great place to take a stroll and get some exercise away from the bustle of the city.

If you’re looking for a more traditional beach scene, head further south to the Caddebostan Coast ( Caddebostan Sahili in Turkish). This coastal area features sandy beaches and plenty of picnic spots from which to view the sunset.

The Kadıköy Coastal Pathway and Bike Path

9. Go Shopping on Bahariye Street

Bahariye Street is another bustling area of Kadikoy that is filled with restaurants and cafes, along with some trendy stores . The street begins at the Bull Statue and follows the Kadıköy-Moda tram line all the way to the Moda neighborhood.

If shopping is on your agenda, this is a good place to start. Also of note on Bahariye Street is the famous Süreyya Opera House .

Another great place to go shopping in Kadikoy is  Bağdat Avenue , further to the south.

Bahariye Street in the Kadikoy district

10. Admire the HaydarpaÅŸa Train Station

Nestled on the edge of Kadikoy’s harbor, the HaydarpaÅŸa Train Station is a famous historical landmark with a grand neo-classical façade. The building has drawn thousands of visitors since its construction in 1909.

HaydarpaÅŸa was the busiest train station in all of Turkey until 2012. Since that time, railway traffic was suspended due to the construction of the Marmaray commuter rail line.

During my visit to Istanbul in 2021, the Train Station was undergoing renovation. Even though the exterior was covered in construction materials, it was easily one of the most magnificent buildings on the harbor.

HaydarpaÅŸa Train Station under renovation

11. Explore Akmar Passage

If you like books or heavy metal music (or both) then Akmar Passage is for you.

This narrow passage just south of Kadikoy Market is lined with hundreds of independent booksellers. Here, you can find tomes for sale on every possible subject.

The bottom floor also includes a few music shops that specialize in heavy metal music . It’s an odd juxtaposition to find these music stores tucked in among the bookshops, but hey -  that’s what gives this passage its special charm.

Akmar Passage

Would you like a cat with your book?

12. Party on Bar Street

Just east of Moda lies Kadife Street ( Kadife Sokak in Turkish). The road is also nicknamed Bar Street because this is where Kadikoy’s nightlife really cranks into high gear.

The street is lined with pubs and nightclubs featuring live music and DJs which are open until the wee hours of the morning. Here you can dance the night away or nurse a drink in a corner – whichever suits your fancy.

While there are plenty of clubs to choose from, Karga Bar is one of the undisputed favorites. The streets around Kadife Street also feature lively pubs and bars such as the Hiç Bar and Valhalla Pub .

Kadife Street during the daytime

13. Eat a Traditional Turkish Breakfast at Küff Cafe

No visit to Istanbul is complete without eating a Turkish breakfast.

A traditional Turkish breakfast involves lots of little plates filled with salty cheeses, cured meats, olives, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, pastries, honey and fruit preserves, eggs and lots of cups of tea ( çay in Turkish).

While there are lots of great places to get a Turkish breakfast in Kadikoy, our favorite restaurant is the Küff Cafe in the Yeldeğirmeni neighborhood. We liked this café so much that I thought it deserved a special mention.

Küff Cafe is a favorite hangout with locals that features a relaxed atmosphere along with an extensive menu (in English and Turkish). We ended up eating there several times a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Daniel and I share a traditional Turkish breakfast at Küff Cafe.

14. Befriend a Neighborhood Cat (or Two)

Cats are everywhere in Kadikoy. In fact, there are so many cats that it is pretty much impossible to go anywhere without running into a cat or two.

You can find them curled up in coffee shops, strolling boldly through grocery stores, napping in bookstores and stretching in the sunshine. Part wild and part tame, these neighborhood cats live on the street and are cared for by the locals.

They are used to begging at cafes, so be prepared to fend off your lunch from a friendly kitty that may hop onto your lap if you’re not careful.

If cats aren’t your jam, there are plenty of stray dogs wandering the streets as well. The dogs I saw all had tags in their ears and were very well-behaved.

If you can’t get enough of Istanbul’s cats, I recommend watching Kedi . This 2016 documentary follows the lives of some lovable Istanbul cats as they navigate the city and their relationships with the people in it.

Two little kitties take a cat nap on a window sill.

One of my favorite neighborhood cats. He could sleep anywhere.

Where to Eat on the Asian side of Istanbul

There are so many incredible restaurants in Kadikoy that it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some of my personal favorites:

• Çiya Sofrası – this well-known restaurant located in the Kadikoy Market features some of the best Turkish food in all of Istanbul. This is a must-visit if you’re looking for the best all-around traditional Turkish food.
• Kebapçı Ä°skender – this family-run restaurant has been serving Ä°skender kebap since 1867. This is a delicious dish consisting of döner kebab (sliced grilled lamb) topped with tomato sauce and yogurt on top of pita bread and highly recommended .
• Halil Lahmacun – lahmacun is a pizza-like dish consisting of a thin crust topped with minced meat, vegetables and herbs. For the best lahmacun in Istanbul, head to Halil Lahmacun.
• Yanyalı Fehmi Lokantası – this restaurant ended up being one of my favorites. It serves Northern Greek food buffet style in the middle of the Kadikoy Market.
• Ekspres Ä°negol Köftecisi – looking for the best traditional Turkish meatballs ( kofte )? Then look no further.
• Say Cheese – this incredibly popular restaurant serves fettuccine alfredo made from hand-made noodles that are dipped into a giant wheel of parmesan cheese. Be prepared to wait in a long line if you decide to visit.
• Küff YeldeÄŸirmeni – as previously mentioned, this fun and quirky cafe is one of our favorite places to eat in Kadikoy. It’s a great place to relax and people watch (or eat a Turkish breakfast!)
• Cafe Eya – this small cafe in the YeldeÄŸirmeni neighborhood is a great place to grab a cup of çay or coffee and watch the world go by.

İskender kebap from Kebapçı İskender in the Kadikoy Market. This dish is * delicious* !!

Maps for All the Things to See on the Asian Side of Istanbul

Refer to this handy map to locate all of the places and restaurants discussed in this article. You can zoom in to get a better view of each item and the neighborhood surroundings.

Map of the Kadıköy-Moda nostalgic tramway route around the Kadikoy neighborhood:

Kadıköy-Moda Nostalgic Tramway route. Photo courtesy of Railly News.

How to get to the Asian Side of Istanbul

The best way to get to the Asian side of Istanbul is by ferry. Not only is the ferry quick and inexpensive, but it provides fabulous views of Istanbul on both sides of the Bosphorus during the crossing.

Two of the most popular ferries to Kadikoy are from the Eminönü and the Karaköy neighborhoods. To ride the ferry, simply use your IstanbulKart transportation card. You can use the same card on all buses, trams and the metro.

You can also reach the Asian side of Istanbul via the Marmaray commuter rail line or by crossing one of the bridges of the Bosphorus via taxi or Uber.

The Kadikoy Ferry Terminal at sunset

Where to Stay

If you’re looking where to stay on the Asian side of Istanbul , you can’t go wrong with the Kadikoy or Moda neighborhoods.

Have you been to the Kadikoy neighborhood in the Asian side of Istanbul? If so, I’d love to hear from you! Share your comments below.

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16 comments.

Bahariye street looks lovely. I love taking strolls on such shopping streets in foreign destinations.

Looks like a beautiful place to visit. I love all of the street art! Thanks so much for sharing. Saving this for later!

I’ve never been to Istanbul but it seems like an incredible city! I love that there are so many cats roaming around the streets 🙂

The cats are everywhere in Istanbul! I’ve never seen anything like it 🙂

Useful exposure of the Asian side of Istanbul, and Kadikoy market looks interesting something you can shop for olives.

There are *so* many kinds of olives for sale in Istanbul. I wanted to try them all 🙂

I have never been to the Asian side of Istanbul but it looks amazing and I would love to visit the Kadıköy Market! I love your photography btw 🙂

My favorite part would be meeting all the street cats!

If you’re a cat lover than you’ll love Istanbul!! 🙂🙂

I love Istanbul, still my last visit was some time ago. I have spent most of my Istanbul time on European side of the city, so you inspired me to see Asian side as well. Especially I would love to go on Kadikoy Mural Tour! Thanks for sharing!

I hope you do make it to Kadikoy someday! It’s such a great neighborhood 🙂

What a gorgeous side of the city! The scenery is breathtaking and how amazing does that food look? I’d love to wander through the markets too.

Thanks Sarah! It’s a really magical neighborhood 🙂🙂

I haven’t made it to Istanbul yet, but this side of the city looks so interesting to explore! Can’t wait to plan a trip here!

Great post & I would have never really considered visiting this part of the city but I love the idea of strolling around the market particularly & that breakfast looks delicious!

I am not a fan of crowds but I’d still have to go to Kadikoy Market!

I want to hear from you! Leave your comment below: Cancel reply

Istanbul.tips

The Best of Istanbul in One Place

The Things to Do on the Asian Side of Istanbul: Places, Districts, Cafe, and Top Attractions (2024)

If you’re looking to explore Istanbul beyond the hustle and bustle of the European side, then the Asian side of Istanbul is a must-see destination. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture, the Asian side of Istanbul offers a unique experience that will leave you mesmerized.

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Where is the Asian Side of Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, and the Asian side of Istanbul is located on the eastern side of the Bosphorus Strait. The Bosphorus Strait divides the city of Istanbul into two parts, with the European side on the west and the Asian side on the east.

We’ve already made a guide about the European side of Istanbul before . This guide, however, is all about the Asian side of Istanbul, and it covers its many attractions, neighborhoods, and restaurants.

What is the Asian Side of Istanbul Called?

The part of Istanbul on the Asian side is commonly known as the “Asian side” or the “Anatolian side”.

Is it Worth Visiting the Asian Side of Istanbul?

Absolutely! The Asian side of Istanbul is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. From its rich history and culture to its breathtaking views and delicious cuisine, the Asian side of Istanbul has something to offer for everyone. If you’re looking for a more laid-back and authentic Istanbul experience, then the Asian side is definitely worth a visit.

What Neighbourhoods are on the Asian Side of Istanbul?

The Asian side of Istanbul is home to several cities, including Kadikoy, Uskudar, Maltepe, and Kartal. Kadikoy and Uskudar are the most popular and vibrant areas on the Asian side, with their lively markets, picturesque neighborhoods, and stunning waterfront views.

Find more places and things to do in Maltepe >>

Find more places and things to do in Moda >>

Which Part of Asian Istanbul is the Best to Stay in?

If you’re looking for a more authentic and laid-back experience, then the Asian side of Istanbul is the best place to stay. Kadikoy and Uskudar are two of the most popular neighborhoods on the Asian side, offering a wide range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses. Both neighborhoods are well-connected to the rest of the city, with easy access to public transportation and major attractions.

Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul

Top 12 attractions and things to do on the asian side of istanbul.

Now that you know a little bit more about the Asian side of Istanbul, let’s explore the top 10 attractions and things to do on this side of the city.

Historic Tuesday Market, the Kadikoy Market

The Historic Tuesday Market, also known as the Kadikoy Market, is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the Asian side of Istanbul. This bustling market is held every Tuesday and offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Turkish souvenirs. With its lively atmosphere and rich history, the Kadikoy Market is a true reflection of Istanbul’s vibrant culture. Read more…

Moda Seaside and Moda Pier

Located in the heart of Kadikoy, Moda Seaside and Moda Pier offer stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the European side of Istanbul. This charming neighborhood is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its picturesque streets, quaint cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Take a stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy the stunning views, or relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the pier.

Bağdat Caddesi: Shopping Heaven of Istanbul

Bağdat Caddesi, also known as Bagdat Avenue, is one of the most popular shopping destinations on the Asian side of Istanbul. With its high-end boutiques, trendy cafes, and luxurious department stores, this street is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in a shopping spree. You can find everything from designer clothing to Turkish carpets and ceramics. The avenue is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cinemas, making it the perfect place to spend an entire day. Read more…

Maiden’s Tower

The Maiden’s Tower, also known as the Leander’s Tower, is a unique landmark located on a small islet at the entrance of the Bosphorus Strait. The tower has a long history dating back to ancient times and has been used as a lighthouse, a prison, and a customs checkpoint over the centuries. Today, the tower has been converted into a museum and restaurant, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the city skyline.

Beylerbeyi Palace

The Beylerbeyi Palace is a magnificent Ottoman-era palace located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus Strait. Built-in the 19th century, the palace served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and was also used to host foreign dignitaries. The palace’s stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens make it a popular destination for visitors.

Food Tour in Kadikoy to Taste Local Cuisine

Camlica hill.

Camlica Hill is the highest point in Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. Located on the Asian side of the city, the hill is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its beautiful parks, cafes, and restaurants. Watch the sunset over the city skyline, or take a picnic and enjoy the stunning views.

The Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium

The Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium is a world-class sports arena located in the Kadikoy district of Istanbul. The stadium is home to the Fenerbahce football club and can accommodate up to 50,000 spectators. If you’re a sports fan, be sure to catch a match and experience the electric atmosphere of a Turkish football game.

Istanbul Toy Museum

The Istanbul Toy Museum is a unique museum located in the Göztepe district of Istanbul. The museum houses a collection of over 4,000 toys from around the world, dating back to the 18th century. From classic Turkish toys to vintage Barbie dolls, the museum is a fascinating journey through the history of childhood.

Find more places to go with kids in Istanbul >>

Cinili Hammam

The Cinili Hammam is a historic Turkish bath located in the Uskudar district of Istanbul. Built in the 16th century, the hammam is known for its stunning ceramic tiles and intricate marble work. Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish bath experience, complete with a scrub and massage.

Discover the Asian Side of Istanbul with Unique Bosphorus Experiences

Indulge in the captivating beauty of Istanbul with one-of-a-kind Bosphorus experiences, such as a luxurious private yacht tour or a mesmerizing sunset cruise, providing an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the shoreline of the Asian side of Istanbul.

Khedive (Cubuklu) Palace, also known as the Hidiv Kasri

The Khedive (Cubuklu) Palace, or Hidiv Kasri, is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture located in the Cubuklu neighborhood of the Uskudar district. The palace was built in 1907 by Abbas II, the last khedive of Egypt, as a summer residence. The palace is situated on a hill overlooking the Bosphorus Strait and offers breathtaking views of the waterway and the European side of Istanbul.

What to Eat on the Asian Side of Istanbul: Best Restaurants

If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat on the Asian side of Istanbul. Here are some of the top restaurants to try:

Ciya Sofrası

This restaurant is famous for its traditional Turkish dishes, including meze, stews, and grilled meats.

Bridge Restaurant

The restaurant features a stunning interior with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and industrial accents. The menu features a wide range of dishes, including traditional Turkish cuisine and international favorites. The restaurant is especially known for its delicious seafood dishes, which are made with the freshest ingredients.

Baylan Pastanesi

A must-visit for dessert lovers, Baylan Pastanesi is known for its delectable cakes and pastries.

Çengelköy İskele Restaurant

This restaurant is located on the Bosphorus and offers fresh seafood and stunning views of the water.

How to Get Around Asian Side

The best way to get around the Asian side of Istanbul is by using public transportation. The city has an extensive network of buses, ferries, and metro lines that connect the various neighborhoods on the Asian side.

How to Get from Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen to Asian side

To get from Istanbul Airport to the Asian side of the city, you can take the Havaist bus service, Metro M4 line or a taxi. Read more…

Read our guide on how to get between continents in Istanbul >>

In conclusion, the Asian side of Istanbul is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the rich culture and history of this ancient city. From the bustling Kadikoy Market to the serene Moda Seaside, there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. And with a wide variety of delicious cuisine, including traditional Turkish dishes and international cuisine, the Asian side of Istanbul is also a food lover’s paradise. Getting around the Asian side is easy with public transportation options such as buses, ferries, and the Marmaray train.

So whether you’re arriving at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen, it’s easy to make your way to the Asian side of the city. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that the Asian side of Istanbul is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

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Matador Original Series

Everything You Need to Do in Istanbul’s Underrated Asian Side

G iven its geographical position straddling both Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a melting pot of Eastern and Western civilizations. The famous Bosphorus Strait divides this culturally rich city into an Asian side and European side, both full of deep-rooted diversity. Many first-timers stay near Sultanahmet on the European side in order to see all the tourist-favorite sites, such as Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. But there’s much to discover on the other side of the city. Here’s how to get away from the central tourist area and take in the underrated Asian side of Istanbul.

Explore like a local in Kadıköy.

Photo: Alp Aksoy /Shutterstock

Start your journey by visiting the neighborhoods of Kadıköy and Moda first. There are ferries to Kadıköy departing from different piers, such as Kabatas, Eminonu, and Besiktas. While watching the city from the water, do not skip the pleasure of having a cup of Turkish tea with simit , a round, sesame-coated bread that is a very popular Turkish street snack. As soon as you get off the ferry and find yourself in Kadıköy, you’ll be welcomed by a less chaotic and a more peaceful atmosphere with car-free streets — a perfect place to do some shopping and exploring at the many souvenir shops, restaurants, bookstores, and pastry shops.

As you walk along the streets, you’ll notice that just like many other districts of Istanbul, Kadıkoy is all about contrasts. The large district is a good example of how nostalgia and modernity can co-exist. The root of this beautiful coexistence dates back to ancient times when Kadıköy was first known as Chalcedon. The first settlements in Chalcedon were built by the Greeks around 685 BC, and people from different backgrounds and cultures — including Greeks, Turks, Armenians, and Jews — lived here together under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. This historical and cultural diversity has enriched Turkish culture and cuisine into the vibrant and varied destination it is today.

Meet up at the bull statue.

Photo: Lepneva Irina /Shutterstock

Kadıkoy’s bull statue, located in the center of an intersection, is one of the most famous landmarks of the Asian side of Istanbul. The statue was created by French sculptor Isidore Bonheur in 1864, and it was originally erected in Alsace-Lorraine before being seized by the Germans, who were allied with the Ottomans during WWI. As a symbol of appreciation, the statue was given as a gift to the Ottoman commander Ismail Enver Pasha in 1917. In 1955, the statue was placed in the courtyard of the Istanbul Hilton Hotel. Finally, in 1990, the bull statue was moved to its current location, Altıyol. Since then, this beautiful piece of art has been a meeting place for both locals and tourists.

Enjoy a Turkish breakfast in the Moda neighborhood.

Photo: Moda Van Kahvaltı

Cemal Süreya, one of the most famous Turkish poets, once said, “I don’t know what you think of eating, but breakfast must have something to do with happiness.” Perhaps it was the rich Turkish breakfast that made him say these very words. Breakfast is very important in Turkish culture, especially on weekends, and it’s tradition for locals to have a long breakfast to wipe out the tiredness of hectic weekdays. Traditional Turkish breakfast includes fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, different kinds of cheese, eggs, jams, honey, and a clotted cream known as kaymak , along with tea and fruit juice.

In the Moda neighborhood, there are many places where you can experience and enjoy traditional Turkish breakfast. Moda Van Kahvaltı is the preferred breakfast spot of both locals and tourists. It serves delicious, fresh breakfasts built from ingredients imported from the eastern Turkish city of Van. The dish to try is menemen , a traditional Turkish dish made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and spices.

Get third-wave with your coffee.

Photo: Cherrybean Coffees /Facebook

The word for breakfast, kahvaltı , translates to “before coffee” in Turkish. No matter how much you eat for breakfast, you should not leave Moda without having a cup of Turkish coffee. But instead of visiting the often-touristy “traditional” shops, complete with gilded saucers, try one of the trendy third-wave coffee shops where proprietors take great care in each and every coffee-making process, from harvesting to brewing. One of the best places to hit is Walter’s Coffee Roastery , a Breaking Bad -inspired shop that focuses on the chemistry of coffee and lets customers wear the hazmat suit and the gas mask that are on display. But it’s not all gimmicks; the coffee is the best in town, and the coffee shop also makes the yummiest pancakes ever. Another lovely spot is Cherrybean Coffee , which has a cozy interior design that’ll draw you in from the street and make you crave a homemade muffin to enjoy with your coffee. Pick a book from the bookshelves and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The hot chocolate is also a must-try.

Drown yourself in Turkish cuisine.

Photo: Hayati Kayhan /Shutterstock

The Asian side of Istanbul has just as much incredible food as the European side, from traditional Turkish cuisine to quirky dishes from innovative restaurateurs. One of the best places to get schooled on the classics is Ciya Restaurant in Kadıköy. It specializes in cooking almost entirely traditional dishes from Turkey, such as lahmacun , kebabs, soups, mezzes , and many more. This kind of meal deserves a sweet ending, so do yourself a favor and try the Ciya pumpkin dessert. The restaurant is usually busy, and finding a table is a challenge at times, so show up during off-peak hours if you can.

Otantik Anadolu Yemekleri in Beyoğlu is another noteworthy restaurant to visit. This restaurant’s name actually sums it all up for you — Otantik Anadolu Yemekleri means “authentic Anatolian dishes.” Gözleme , Turkish pancakes, are its specialty. Gözleme is typically a flatbread stuffed with your choice of ground lamb, spinach, potatoes, or feta cheese. This simple yet filling food is often served with a traditional drink called ayran , a yogurt-based beverage that is slightly salty. As healthy as it is, it’s an acquired taste that’s not often a favorite among tourists.

Photo: Beppe Pizzeria Moda /Facebook

If you’re dying for a slice of pizza, Beppe in Kadıköy is a comfy and warm pizzeria that will make you feel like you’re home with friends or family. This small eatery has a special section on the menu labeled “Extraordinary Pizzas,” which features unusual toppings to suit every preference, from frog legs to eel and wasabi to smoked duck breasts. It also serves delectable local wines from Turkish vineyards.

Don’t you dare leave Istanbul without stopping at Meshur Dondurmacı Ali Usta, an incredibly popular ice cream shop in Kadıköy that people don’t mind waiting in line for. Turkish mastic ice cream, called dondurma , is a bit stickier than the creamy version Americans are accustomed to, but you’re sure to find something you like in the selection of about 30 flavors, such as pistachio and Turkish coffee.

Get out on the town.

For shoppers, Antique Street and Bagdat Avenue are the places to be in Kadikoy. Antique Street, rarely called by its real name of Tellalzade Street, is a sanctuary for antique lovers. Seeing all those types of antique furniture, old electronics, secondhand goods, and clothing will make you feel as if you’re a sneaky time traveler. Bagdat Avenue is the Champs-Élysées of Istanbul and one of the longest high streets in the world. This is where all the luxury brands — Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Zara, Mango — can be found. Bagdat is so well known that people simply call it “the street” or cadde in Turkish. While the culture here is lacking, walking down the extra-wide sidewalks under the shadow of trees can make for an enjoyable afternoon.

Photo: Ipek Morel /Shutterstock

The nightlife has been very vibrant in Kadıkoy since the 1990s, and Kadıkoy Bar Street — originally known as Kadife Sokak — is a very important part of the culture on Istanbul’s Asian side. There are plenty of options for every nightlife taste, from cocktail bars to casual pubs to live-music joints. Three of the best are Karga , Aylak Pub , and Buddha Bar — each offering a cozy ambience, a rich selection of affordable drinks, and often times live music.

Lastly, one of the most popular activities to do on the Asian side of Istanbul is take a long walk along the Caddebostan coastline with a cup of coffee in hand. You could also rent a bike or sit on the grass and enjoy the full scenery of the Prince Islands in the distance. On the weekends, it’s very busy as large and small groups of people get together to share a few beer and snacks.

Spend a day on the Prince Islands.

Photo: Nejdet Duzen /Shutterstock

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Istanbul in 24 Hours: Asian Side

The mini tour of the Asian side, or as the locals prefer to say: the Anatolian Coast. 

Istanbul’s Asian side is often overlooked because of the rich history of the European side. Granted, all the empires built and rebuilt in the city took their home on the European side. Up until the 17th-18th century when you meant the “city” you meant the Old Town, and until the 20th century you meant the two sides of the Golden Horn. The Asian side was at best the summer houses of the elite and some villages and ports.

Now though, it’s much more than the residential side of Istanbul. Kadıköy has taken the lead as bar central. Chefs who want a more well-off clientele prefer to open their restaurants around Bağdat Avenue. The coast of Istanbul connected to Anatolia has almost its own culture and vibe. So it deserves its own guide.

While there is much to discover up the coastline in Kuzguncuk, Kandilli and beyond, this guide focuses on Kadıköy and Beylerbeyi to save some time while picking the must-see and must-eat places. Honestly, I don’t know of a good Turkish breakfast spot here so you can either skip it, get a cheese toastie on the ferry (let’s face it you are not staying in the Asian side) or get some pastries and walk around.

1. Coffee: Fazıl Bey Kahvecisi

Turkish coffee is made for post-breakfast. And that’s not an opinion. The word for breakfast in Turkish is kahvaltı, a lazy portmanteau of kahve altı, meaning “before coffee”. On the Asian side, the natural next step to a kahvaltı should be Fazıl Bey Kahvecisi.

This little shop offers light or dark roasted Turkish coffee as well as ground coffee to take home, freshly roasted in the morning. It is a perfect place to watch passers-by under the shade in the summer or in the cosy enclave of the narrow street fillled with coffee shops during winter. Cash only.

Fazıl Bey’in Türk Kahvesi

• Coffee & Snack, Morning Coffee, Traditional
• Quaint, old-timey Turkish coffee shop known for freshly ground coffee

2. The Ultimate Lunch: Çiya

Perhaps the most famous Turkish restaurant now, Çiya is more a project than a simple lokanta. The chef Musa Dağdeviren hosts the staples as well as forgotten dishes of Anatolia on his menu, in the form of a closed buffet. You go to see the food cooked in large pots and give your selection to the waiter or fill your plate with salads and mezes in the cold section and deliver your plate to be weighed.

While the international fame comes from the Chef’s Table episode spotlighting Dağdeviren, locals enjoy Çiya for its food and service since the first day. I still can’t help to stop and have some vişneli köfte (meatball stew with cherries), dried aubergine dolmas, garlic stalk soup or crispy pumpkin dessert with tahini. The biggest mistake you could do here is order a generic kebap or not take a peek at the display area.

Çiya Sofrası

• Big groups, Lunch, No Alcohol, Outdoor Seating, Tourist Must-See, Traditional
• Acclaimed eatery serving hyperregional Anatolian dishes

3. For a Cheeky Dessert: Baylan Pastanesi

Though not very much on cultural display in Western narratives, patisseries were a big component in the Istanbul food scene especially in the late 19th and early to mid 20th century.

Baylan is one of the famous patisseries still alive after a 100 years. Go here for a decadent dessert after lunch. The chocolate mousse is my favorite, while the Kup Griye is the iconic sundae made of vanilla and caramel ice cream, almond and honey caramel sauce and whipped cream.

Baylan Pastanesi

• Coffee & Snack, Dessert Craving, Traditional
• Iconic patisserie serving decadent desserts

4. A Breather: Moda Aile Çay Bahçesi

Istanbul without its views is not Istanbul. Perhaps the best place in Kadıköy to take in the magnificence of the city is this tea garden in Moda. Looking at the Prince’s Islands and the Moda bay’s shimmering waters with windsurfers under large shade-providing trees, Moda Aile Çay Bahçesi is ideal to get a cup of tea and take a breather.

Moda Aile Çay Bahçesi

• Coffee & Snack, Great view, Outdoor Seating, Traditional
• A casual tea garden with a shimmering view of the Marmara Sea

5. Dinner: İnciraltı Meyhanesi

İnciraltı is a classic meyhane that transports you to a simpler, more reverent time of Istanbul. It is the perfect dinner for a one-day visit because you find calmness in the squeaky wooden floors of the upstairs or in the unassuming but green-covered garden area.

What distinguishes this place from others though is its wide range of mezes. Go for the unusuals as well as staples. The topik, pickled fish and papaz yahni are perfect starters to be followed by pan-fried liver and deep-fried brains.

If you insist on watching the Bosphorus for dinner good alternatives would be İsmet Baba or Suna’nın Yeri a bit more up the coast but with excellent fish-forward meyhane menus.

İnciraltı Meyhanesi

• Big groups, Casual Dinner, Date, Outdoor Seating
• A classic meyhane with minority cuisine and nostalgia

6. Drinks: Fahri Konsolosluk

Fahri Konsolosluk makes the most inventive and effortful cocktails in Istanbul. I’ve been tooting their horn since they first opened. The bartender Edi is a master of stitching flavors together, discovering local botanical ingredients and adding an artistic twist to his concoctions.

Taste aside, Fahri is a great place to get that buzz after dinner. It’s central, doesn’t feel crowded, the service is casual and friendly (without the fuss of a craft cocktail bar making its way into global review lists) and the drinks are affordable for what they offer. The only problem is it gets full easily on weekend nights, but the wait is never too long. Last order is at 1am, which is when it makes sense to go dancing.

Fahri Konsolosluk

• Cocktails, Late Night, Outdoor Seating
• The best cocktails in Istanbul

7. Late-Night: Kimyon

Kimyon encapsulates the perfect late-night eating experience in Turkey. It’s open 24 hours a day and offers heavy, greasy and fast traditional food. After a night out in Kadıköy, having stomped feet to some techno and a belly sour from bad G&Ts at the venue, sitting down on cheap faux-leather seats and gorging on protein-filled soup is more a cure than a delight.

Soup, yes. Soup is the ultimate drunk food. It hydrates and drops in the stomach like a liquid blanket. At Kimyon one should get either the beyran (lamb neck soup) or the kelle-paça (head and trotters soup). Both are made with rendered lamb fat as well as spices, so not the light and easy kind. Perhaps a side of içli köfte (fried bulgur wrapped minced meat balls) dipped in pistachio crumble could be the cherry on top of this decadent anti-hangover dish.

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• The ultimate late-night eatery for traditional food

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TOP 7 THINGS TO DO ON THE ASIAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL IN 48 HOURS

48 hours might seem like a very short time to visit any destination, but in truth, you can get a lot done in 48 hours. Take in the historical sights, do some shopping, there are so many possibilities.

Here are 7 things that you can do on the Asian side of Istanbul when you only have 2 days.

1. Khedive (Cubuklu) Palace / Hidiv Kasri

The Khedive (Cubuklu) Palace is the centerpiece of a park that contains restaurants, and cafes that live among rose gardens and pine-lined trails.

Check out the quirky squirrel and kangaroo sculptures along the way. Art Nouveau influences the palace’s glass stained and ceramic tiles. There is also a fountain in the foyer surrounded by marble pillars. It’s truly a sight to behold.

2. Terrace Of Tapasuma

The Terrace of Tapasuma is a restaurant on the grounds of the Sumahan on the water hotel. The lights on the Bosporus bridge changes from pink to yellow, blue, even unique colors like turquoise. It makes for a truly stunning sight, and the food is to die for.

3. Beylerbeyi Palace

You can tour the Beylerbeyi Palace , it’s a truly stunning place to look at with crystal chandeliers, grand staircases, and an indoor marble fountain adorned with happy dolphins. The Palace once played host to many visiting English Royalty, and the best part is, the tour is in English.

4. Kuzguncuk

This art colony was once a melting pot of different beliefs and cultures. It plays home to many Orthodox and Armenian churches and is covered in nice cafes.

The rows of colorful townhouses are perfect if you’re a visiting bride wanting to take pictures and it’s also an ideal spot to pick up cute souvenirs like painted bookmarks and purses.

5. Buyuk Camlica

You can grab a cab to Buyuk Camlica which is the highest point in Istanbul. You can enjoy the incredible scenery while having a slice of delicious hazelnut cake and sipping on a cup of thick black coffee.

6. Sureyya Opera House

At this tiny opera, house tickets can be sold for as little as 50.00 TRY. It is here that the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet perform. On Saturday afternoons, Turkish works are performed.

The opera house is also known to hold concerts like the annual Istanbul Music Festival.

You can hop on over to Moda which is home to some of the quirkiest museums in Istanbul.

For example, it has a museum that pays tribute to a beloved Turkish rock star. There is a gate that made in His likeness, and vegetable sculptures on the lawn that relate to one of his hit songs. It’s a truly interesting place to be.

There are many more things to do in Istanbul that what we’ve named here. To check out more places of interest read more here .

Things to Do on the Asian Side of Istanbul

These are all 7 possible things that you can do on the Asian side of Istanbul with only 48 hours to explore the city. It’s a truly historic place to explore with much more than just these few things to do.

If you’re planning a trip to the Asian side of Istanbul, let us be your trip consultants !

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Exploring Istanbul’s Asian Side

Aka. anatolian side, table of contents.

Istanbul is not the only city that straddles two continents. There are other cities that are located on more than one continent and are called transcontinental cities . Some of these cities include Suez in Egypt , Magnitogorsk and Orenburg in Russia, and Atyrau in Kazakhstan. So maybe not technically but Istanbul is certainly the largest, best known, and most important urban area on a continental divide .

A city of 20 million (unofficially), is literally divided into 2 sections; while the European side is more well-known to travelers, Istanbul Asian side (also known as the Anatolian side ) offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Istanbul Anatolian side , covering its history, topology, demographics, transportation, infrastructure, tourism attractions, alternative destinations, and answers to internet’s burning questions about Istanbul’s other half. You can even find out where to play chess on the Asian side of Istanbul .

Is the Asian Side of Istanbul Worth Visiting?

The question of whether the Asian side of Istanbul is worth visiting is a common one among travelers. While the European side may have more well-known landmarks , the Asian side offers a unique perspective on the city and its history. With its diverse neighborhoods, natural attractions, and cultural centers, the Asian side is definitely worth exploring .

We should also mention that we’re talking about a massive area size here. Istanbul’s Asian side has dozens of neighborhoods and exploring it comprehensively usually requires private transportation . In most cases though, catching a ferry and restricting your visit to one or two neighborhoods ( like Üsküdar and Kadikoy ) makes a lot of sense.

History of Istanbul’s Asian Side

Istanbul Asian side has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The area was first settled in the Neolithic period , and it has been inhabited by various civilizations throughout history, including the Greeks, Persians, Romans, and Ottomans .

Asian side in Byzantium’s foundational myth

Istanbul’s Asian shores hold a curious twist in the city’s origin story. Legend tells of Byzas , the founder, seeking the “land of the blind” as instructed by an oracle in Delphi. While the myth often depicts the “blind” as lacking foresight in choosing the Asian side over the seemingly superior Sultanahmet area, it adds another dimension to the story of this vibrant district.

In his search for a new Greek colony Byzas had a prophesy from Pythia. He had to find “the land opposite the city of the blind”. Indeed opposite the colony which was already established by Chalcedon he found an ideal place for a city. He gave the new city his name, Byzantium.🏛 pic.twitter.com/KSVhmUHBE6 — Michael Lambda (@Michael_Lambda) May 3, 2020

This intriguing perspective challenges us to see Istanbul’s Asian side not just as the “other side,” but as a place that played a surprising role in the birth of a legendary city.

Greek/Roman/Byzantine periods

During the Byzantine period , the Asian side of Istanbul was an important trading hub, and many wealthy merchants and aristocrats built their homes in the area. Kadiköy (Chalcedon) and Üsküdar (Chrysopolis) are prime examples. Let’s delve into their past:

Chalcedon: This ancient maritime town, now known as Kadıköy, was once a rival of Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul) across the Bosphorus . Its strategic location made it a vital center during various empires.

Chrysopolis: Meaning “Golden City” in Greek, Üsküdar predates Byzantium by a few decades. It was initially overshadowed by Chalcedon but eventually grew in importance.

The Council of Chalcedon and Christian Theology

In 451 AD , Chalcedon played a pivotal role in Christian history by hosting the Fourth Ecumenical Council . This gathering of Christian bishops aimed to address theological disputes, particularly concerning the nature of Christ.

The Council’s importance lies in its:

• Definition of Christ’s Dual Nature:  It established Christ as both fully human and fully divine, a concept central to Christian belief. This definition helped solidify Christian doctrine and countered opposing views like Monophysitism (Christ as only divine).
• Impact on Church Schism:  While the Council aimed for unity, its pronouncements contributed to the East-West Schism in 1054 AD. Some Eastern Christian churches rejected certain aspects of the Council’s decisions.

One of the most famous landmarks of this era is the Maiden’s Tower , which was built on an islet at the entrance of the Bosphorus  and served as a watchtower and lighthouse.

Ottoman History

In the 15th century, the Ottomans captured Istanbul , and the city became the capital of the Ottoman Empire . The Asian side of the city continued to grow and develop, with many new neighborhoods and palaces being built. One of the most famous Ottoman landmarks on the Asian side is the Beylerbeyi Palace , which was built in the 19th century as a summer residence for the sultan.

During the 20th century, the asian side of the city continued to expand and modernize, with new neighborhoods and infrastructure being built. Today, it is a vibrant and diverse section of Istanbul , with a unique blend of old and new, tradition and innovation.

Anadoluhisarı, is a medieval fortress located in Istanbul, Turkey on the Anatolian (Asian) side of the Bosporus. The complex is the oldest surviving Turkish architectural structure built in Istanbul. 📷 George Rishan pic.twitter.com/x7DH0jcvfU — Türkiye_Pics 🇹🇷 (@Turkey_Pics) November 9, 2020

Further Exploration

If you’re interested in learning more, here are some suggestions:

• Visit the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Originally a patriarchal church, it offers a glimpse into the historical significance of the region for Christianity.
• Explore the museums on both sides of the Bosphorus to understand the rich history of the area.

Topology and Infrastructure

Istanbul’s Asian side is characterized by its hilly terrain and stunning natural beauty. The area is bordered by the Bosphorus Strait to the west and the Black Sea to the north, with the Princes’ Islands lying just off the coast. The Asian side is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Fethi Paşa Korusu , Göztepe Park , and the Çamlıca Hill.

In terms of infrastructure, the Asian side has a well-developed transportation network that includes buses, metro, and ferries. The Marmaray tunnel, which connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul via a submerged tunnel under the Bosphorus , is also a popular mode of transportation for locals and visitors alike. The Asian side also has its own international airport, Sabiha Gökçen Airport , which is located in the Pendik district.

Planning a Trip to Istanbul Asian Side

If you’re planning a trip to the asian side, there are several things to keep in mind. The easiest way to get to the Asian side from Europe is via the Marmaray train or by taking a ferry . The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette to ensure a pleasant and respectful trip.

How to Get from the European Side to the Asian Side

Getting from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s well-developed transportation network. Here are a few basic tips on how to do it:

One of the most popular and scenic ways to get from the European side to the Asian side is to take a ferry. Ferries depart regularly from various points along the Bosphorus , including Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Kabataş, and travel to several destinations on the Asian side, including Kadıköy, Üsküdar, and Bostancı.

The Marmaray tunnel is a convenient and fast way to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The tunnel connects the Yenikapı station on the European side with the Üsküdar station on the Asian side, and trains run every few minutes.

Several bus lines connect the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, including the E-5 highway and the Bosphorus Bridge. Buses run regularly and are a good option for those on a budget. As of April 2023 . Some of these bus lines are  14M ,  15F ,  16D ,  20Ü , and  SG-1. Click here for MoovitApp’s comprehensive list.

Overall, getting from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul is relatively easy and convenient, with several transportation options to choose from.

Tourism Attractions in Istanbul’s Asian Side

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Istanbul’s Asian part, with landmarks such as the Maiden’s Tower and historic sites like the Beylerbeyi Palace offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Natural attractions such as the Fethi Pasa Korusu park and the Beykoz Korusu forest provide a peaceful respite from the busy city. The Asian side is also home to several arts and culture centers, dining and nightlife options, and shopping districts.

Top 10 Things to Do in Istanbul Asian Side

To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in Istanbul’s Asian segment:

• Visit Maiden’s Tower: Located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait , Maiden’s Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi in Turkish, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul , Turkey . The tower has been an integral part of the city’s history and culture for centuries, and its unique architecture and fascinating legends have attracted visitors from all over the world.
• Take a Bosphorus cruise (read our dedicated post on the topic)
• Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace
• Explore the Camlica Hill
• Visit the Bagdat Avenue

• Explore the Kuzguncuk neighborhood
• Explore the Kadikoy neighborhood
• Visit the Camlica Mosque
• Check out Caddebostan
• Discover Anadolu Kavağı

Neighborhoods to Visit in Istanbul Asian Side

Located on the coast of the Marmara Sea, Kadıköy is one of the most popular neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, street markets, and excellent food scene . Kadıköy is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Haydarpaşa Train Station and the Moda Naval Museum .

Situated on the Bosphorus , Üsküdar is a historic district that boasts numerous Ottoman-era landmarks and architectural gems. Some of the must-visit attractions in Üsküdar include the Maiden’s Tower , the Yeni Valide Mosque , and the Beylerbeyi Palace .

Moda is a charming neighborhood located just south of Kadıköy. It’s known for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant street art scene. Moda is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the Moda Coastal Park .

Beykoz is a sprawling district located on the outskirts of Istanbul’s Asian side. It’s known for its tranquil forests, hilltop villages, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Some of the must-visit attractions in Beykoz include the Anadolu Kavağı fishing village, the Sultaniye Thermal Springs, and the Riva Castle.

Kanlıca is a quaint neighborhood located on the Bosphorus, just north of Üsküdar. It’s known for its traditional Ottoman-style wooden houses, historic mansions, and excellent yogurt. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the Kanlıca Mosque, or enjoy a bowl of fresh yogurt at one of the many local cafes.

Kuzguncuk is a charming, historic neighborhood situated on the banks of the Bosphorus , just north of Üsküdar . It’s known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and quaint cafes. Kuzguncuk was once home to a diverse array of communities, including Greeks, Armenians, and Jews, and it retains much of its multicultural character to this day.

Visitors can explore the area’s historic wooden houses, visit the Kuzguncuk Synagogue , or enjoy a cup of tea at one of the local cafes. Kuzguncuk is also a great place to sample traditional Turkish food , including meze and kebabs, at one of the many local restaurants.

Caddebostan

Caddebostan is a coastal neighborhood located in the southern part of Istanbul Asian side. It’s known for its long, sandy beaches, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. The area is popular with locals and visitors alike, who come to swim in the sea, relax in one of the many parks, or enjoy a night out at one of the many bars and clubs. Caddebostan also boasts several cultural attractions, including the Caddebostan Culture Center , which hosts concerts, exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the Kadıköy Fish Market, which is one of the largest and busiest fish markets in Istanbul, or take a stroll along the Fenerbahçe Marina, which offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area.

These neighborhoods offer a diverse range of experiences and are sure to delight visitors who venture to Istanbul’s Asian sector.

Bosphorus Cruises and Tours

One of the best ways to experience Istanbul’s Asian side is by taking a Bosphorus cruise . These cruises offer breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and a chance to see many of its historic landmarks from the water. Several top companies offer daily tours , including traditional boat tours, sunset tours, and private tours. Additionally, many locals offer alternative experiences through Airbnb , such as canoeing in Bosphorus under Istanbul Bridge and sunset yacht cruises with luxury boats.

Daily Tours in Istanbul’s Asian Side

Several top companies offer daily tours of Istanbul Asian side, which can be a convenient and informative way to explore the area. These tours often include transportation, guides, and visits to top attractions such as the Maiden’s Tower , Beylerbeyi Palace , and Camlica Hill . Some popular tour companies include Istanbul Tour Studio , Context Travel , and us, The Other Tour , we go to the Asian side each and every time!

In addition to these tours, many locals offer alternative experiences through Airbnb , providing visitors with unique and authentic insights into life on the Asian side. Some popular Airbnb experiences include a cooking class in a local home, a visit to a traditional Turkish bath, and a tour of the Kuzguncuk neighborhood with a local guide.

Whether you choose to go on a guided tour or explore on your own, there are plenty of ways to experience the rich history, culture, and beauty of the Istanbul’s Anatolian segment.

Best Restaurants on the Asian Side of Istanbul

here are 5 of the best restaurants on the Asian side of Istanbul:

• Ciya Sofrası: A popular restaurant that serves traditional Turkish cuisine, with an emphasis on regional specialties from Anatolia. https://ciya.com.tr/
• Neolokal: This restaurant offers modern interpretations of Turkish dishes, with an emphasis on using local and seasonal ingredients. https://neolokal.com/
• Yakup 2: A seafood restaurant that serves fresh fish and seafood dishes, with a great view of the Bosphorus. http://www.yakup2.com.tr/
• Aheste: A cozy restaurant that serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. https://www.aheste.com.tr/

Which is Better, Istanbul Asia or Istanbul Europe?

The question of whether Istanbul’s Asian side or European side is better ultimately depends on individual preferences and interests. The European side is home to many of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and historic sites, including the Hagia Sophia , the Blue Mosque , and the Topkapı Palace .

On the other hand, the Asian side offers a more relaxed and authentic experience of Istanbul, with its diverse neighborhoods, natural attractions, and cultural centers. It’s also a great place to escape the crowds and experience a different side of the city.

May be a cop out answer but, both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul offer unique and valuable experiences for travelers. Plus, it’s worth exploring both to get a comprehensive understanding of the city and its rich history and culture .

In conclusion

Istanbul’s Asian side offers a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture, with its diverse neighborhoods , natural attractions, and historic landmarks. By exploring the Asian side, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. For further information and resources on exploring Istanbul Asian side, we recommend visiting websites such as Lonely Planet and The Culture Trip .

36 Hours on the Asian side | The New York Times

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Hey Fethi, would you recommend staying on the asian side? Maybe in Kadikoy? And which hotels would be reckon are good?

Just sent you an email about that. We don’t wanna reveal everything here, you know 🙂 Information is power, as they say 🙂

All the best, Fethi

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Istanbul’s Asian side

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Visit Istanbul: the Anatolian side

Istanbul is the only megalopolis in the world that straddles two continents. Europe and Asia are separated by the Bosphorus Strait , which connects the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea . There are three very large suspension bridges that connect the European and Asian shores of Istanbul , but also vapors (ferries in Turkish) that go all day round ( see our article on public transport ).

In the collective unconscious, the Asian shore of Istanbul is wrongly considered more “oriental” than its European sister. What is really striking in Istanbul and which in our opinion constitutes its main beauty is the cohabitation between diverse and varied populations. In a very short time, you move from a conservative neighborhood like Üsküdar to a modern neighborhood like Moda .

The classic tourist guides usually completely hide this part of the city, so we decided to make a summary of what you can find there.

One of Istanbul’s three bridges connecting the European and Asian shores.

First day of visits: Kadıköy, Moda et Bağdat Avenue

Kadıköy is the nerve center of Asia , it is the Anatolian Taksim . In ancient times Kadıköy was called Chalcedon and according to the legend it was nicknamed the city of the blind because Herodotus would have said that the Chalcedonians who had built their city 17 years before Byzantium were probably blind for choosing the location of the city in A situation that is so little strategic away from the Detroit. It is more pleasant to go to Kadıköy by steamer (ferry) thanks to which you will have the opportunity to see the Maiden’s Tower  (Kız Kulesi) or the splendid Haydarpaşa station .

Although very dense, it is very pleasant to stroll through the small alleys in the center of this lively area. You will find a different atmosphere from Beyoğlu or Sultanahmet. One of the main “attractions” is the Kadıköy market . It is one of the most important in the city. This is a good opportunity to discover Turkish products, do not hesitate to ask to taste before buying. The Kadıköy Market on Hasırcıbaşı Street (Hasırbaşı Caddesi) is open every Tuesday.

Haydarpaşa Train Station in Istanbul, one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

Commercial “Train de nuit” for the perfume CHANEL N°5, shot in Istanbul, in which we see the Haydarpaşa station.

For shopping enthusiasts , you should visit Bağdat Caddesi (Baghdad Avenue). Considered the “Istanbulitie Champs-Élysées” , this 6 km long avenue is home to shopping malls, luxury boutiques, cafes, and international restaurant chains. The upbeat youth of the Asian shore of Istanbul meet up on weekends to stroll, have a drink or shop.

Bagdat Avenue (Bağdat Caddesi).

A very nice walk to escape from the city center is that of the seaside of Caddebostan . This walk along the Marmara Sea, you will even find some small beaches. After this walk, you can go for a drink at Divan Brasserie in the marina of Kalamış .

Marina of Kalamış – Fenerbahçe.

Bar addresses:

The café-bar Bina.

– Bina: with a small garden on the top floor, the establishment is as pleasant during the day as it is in the evening for a good coffee or a cocktail. Caferağa Mahallesi, Kadife Sokak No: 26, Kadıköy, İstanbul

– Buddha Sahne: alternative live music, from 10:30 pm to 3:00 am. Kadife sok. No:14, Kadıköy, İstanbul

– Karga: more than a bar, a cultural center, film screenings, and art exhibitions sometimes take place. A different live DJ every night. Kadife Sk No:16, İstanbul

– Trip Bar: a bar famous for its mulled wine but also because it is the bar of the film “Kaybedenler Kulübü”, a film about the first free Turkish radio station. Kadıköy Barlar Sokağı Kadife Sokak 10/1, İstanbul

– Arka Oda: a vintage bar that hosts 4-5 concerts per week. Caferağa, Kadife Sok. No:18 D:1, Kadıköy, İstanbul

Restaurant addresses:

Ciya restautant.

– Ciya Kebab: one of the best Anatolian cuisine restaurants in Istanbul, go there to enjoy authentic food. The restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol. Caferağa, 32, Güneşli Bahçe Sk., Kadıköy, İstanbul

– J Burger: opened since 1977, it is truly essential. Everything is homemade, bread, ketchup, mayonnaise, fries, and especially a sauce whose recipe is treasured! Caddebostan, Operatör Cemil Topuzlu Cd. No:51, Kadıköy, İstanbul

– Dinnette Café: a very good small brewery offering international dishes at a reasonable price. Altıntepe Mh., Bağdat Cd No:1, İstanbul

– Palma d’Oro: located in a beautiful villa, this restaurant offers international cuisine at affordable prices. You will find good deals such as buffet/all-you-can-eat brunch from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm or also during the week, and unlimited dessert and wine (Kavaklıdere) formula. Suadiye, Kazım Özalp Sk. No:50, Kadıköy, İstanbul

Palma d’Oro restaurant.

– Misina Fenerbahçe: very good fish restaurant in Fenerbahçe, the mezzés are delicious. A good address for lovers of fish and seafood. The restaurant is always very full, the best option is either to come early or to book. Fenerbahçe Mh., Dr. Faruk Ayanoğlu Cd No:36, İstanbul

Second day of visits:  the Asian Bosphorus

Yalı Çubuklu Yedi Sekiz Hasan Paşa in Beykoz, on the Asian shore.

The Asian side of the Bosphorus is residential and very green. You can admire beautiful houses and yalı (seafront villa) by boat. Going up the neighborhoods of the Bosphorus, you have the impression of passing from village to village.

The district of Üsküdar is a little bit the edge of the urban city. Usküdar is one of the most conservative and ancient districts of Istanbul. Unlike neighborhoods like Galata, Nisantaşı, Kadıköy or the European Bosphorus, here religion is displayed. In this area, there are more than 180 mosques . The largest and best known are the mosque of Mihrimah Sultan , built by the famous architect Sinan, it opened its doors in 1548, another large and very beautiful mosque is that of Yeni Valide built between 1708 and 1710.

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque.

An unmissable monument of the Asian bank of Istanbul is the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi). It was built on a small island on the Bosphorus in 408 BC by the Athenian general Alcibiades to control the movements of enemy ships. It was later modified and renovated by the Byzantines and Ottomans over the centuries. After being a lighthouse for centuries, it is today one of the most symbolic monuments of the city, it is also a restaurant accessible by boat.

To discover this area in depth while enjoying a wide variety of local specialties, you can take part in our culinary and cultural walk on two continents .

Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi).

The further north you will find the district of Kuzguncuk . It is a small area of wooden houses located in a valley surrounded by forests. Kuzguncuk transports you into a universe where time seems to have stopped. It was originally the Jewish quarter that fled Europe during the Inquisition, and then it became the Armenian and Greek community. Today, most of its inhabitants are Turks from the rural exodus. You will find monuments testifying to this community past, it is one of the few places in the world where you can find mosques next to churches and synagogues. The most famous are the synagogues of Bet Yaakov (built-in 1878) and the synagogue Bet Nissim (built-in 1840), the churches of Surp Krikor Lusavoric , Avios Yorgios , and Avios Panteleimon .

The wooden houses of Kuzguncuk.

Smaller than Dolmabahçe, the palace of Beylerbeyi was the former residence of the sultans in a French neo-baroque style of the 19th century. It is possible to visit it from 9h30 to 17h the days except for Monday and Thursday.

Continuing north, you can admire the Anadolu Hisarı . It is the oldest Turkish monument in Istanbul. It was built between 1393 and 1394 by the Ottoman Sultan Bayazid as part of the preparations for the second Ottoman siege of Constantinople, which took place in 1395. Anadolu Hisarı is located at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus.

The fortress of Anadolu Hisarı.

– İsmet baba: this restaurant opened in 1951 is on the edge of the Bosphorus, and everything is absolutely delicious. Prices are reasonable. It is a traditional place, the decoration is very simple. See our article on the best fish restaurants in Istanbul . Kuzguncuk, Kuzguncuk Çarşı Cd No:1, Üsküdar, İstanbul

– Kosinitza: a small six-table restaurant serving seafood dishes prepared in Italian or Spanish. It is a very charming and good restaurant. Kuzguncuk, İcadiye Cd. 9 A, Üsküdar, İstanbul

Kosinitza restautant.

– Kanat Lokantası: good small restaurant offering homemade dishes at low prices. Perfect for tasting good Turkish dishes. Tembel Hacı Mehmet Mh., Selman-ı Pak Cd No:25, Üsküdar, Türkiye

Kanat Lokantası restaurant.

• Daily visit: Fener and Balat
• Daily visit: Beyoğlu (Taksim, Istiklal, Galata, and Cihangir)
• Daily visit: the Bosphorus
• Discover the contrasts of Istanbul
• Our guide to public transportation in Istanbul

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Passionate about travel, food and current affairs, we created Too Istanbul with the desire to share our love and knowledge of Istanbul to give you the opportunity and desire to participate in the vibrant life of Istanbul, and make your trip a unique and rewarding experience and not just a visit.

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JOIN our culinary and cultural walk on two continents 

CRUISE on the Bosphorus with an aperitif 

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VISIT with us the great classics, Sultanahmet

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14 must-do things on your trip to Istanbul

Nov 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Get ready to add even more to your Istanbul itinerary: here are the top things to do in the city © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

We’ve all heard the descriptions of Istanbul being a bridge between Europe and Asia, a place where East meets West and where cultures have coexisted for centuries. But not everyone is aware of its endlessly fascinating contradictions.

Here are the top things to do in Istanbul to experience the city’s different stories and faces.

Marvel at the Aya Sofya

History resonates when you visit the majestic Byzantine basilica of Aya Sofya . Built by order of the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, its soaring dome, huge nave and glittering gold mosaics contribute to its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful buildings, and its fascinating history as church, mosque and museum make it the city's most revealing time capsule. Looted by marauding Crusaders in the 13th century, stormed by Ottoman invaders during the Conquest in 1453 and visited by millions of tourists after being converted into a museum in 1935, it is one of Turkey's greatest treasures.

Since its reconsecration as a mosque in summer 2020 , the Aya Sofya is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayer times, women must cover their heads and all visitors must take off their shoes to enter the inner narthex. Most of the building’s ancient marble floor has been covered by carpets, some of its mosaics are shielded by retractable screens and the upper gallery is inaccessible, but its historic grandeur remains breathtaking.

Experience the extravagance of Topkapı Palace

The secrets of the seraglio will be revealed during your visit to the opulent Ottoman Topkapı Palace complex occupying the promontory of Istanbul's Old City. A series of mad, sad and downright bad sultans lived here with their concubines and courtiers between 1465 and 1830, and extravagant relics of their centuries of folly, intrigue, excess, patronage, diplomacy and war are everywhere you look. Highlights include the huge Harem, impressive Imperial Council Chamber, object-laden Imperial Treasury and picturesque Marble Terrace.

Uncover the secrets of Topkapı Palace

Lose yourself in Istanbul's Bazaar District

The chaotic and colorful Grand Bazaar is the best-known shopping destination on Istanbul's historic peninsula, but it certainly isn't the only one. After exploring its labyrinthine lanes and hidden caravanserais, follow the steady stream of local shoppers heading downhill into the busy shopping precinct of Tahtakale, which has at its hub the seductively scented Spice Bazaar . From there, head back up toward the Blue Mosque and its attached arasta (an arcade-style Ottoman bazaar that typically featured practitioners of a single trade), where you may well find a lasting memento of your trip.

Ride Istanbul’s ferries

Climbing aboard one of the city's famous flotilla of ferries is the quintessential Istanbul experience. The trip between Asia and Europe on a commuter ferry is hard to beat, but the Bosphorus tourist ferries that travel the great strait from Eminönü toward the mouth of the Black Sea are even better, offering passengers views of palaces, parks and ornate timber mansions on both the Asian and European shores. It doesn't matter whether you opt for a long or short cruise: either is sure to be memorable.

Istanbul ferries will now run during the night at weekends

Revel in Istanbul's nightlife

Though Istanbul’s nightlife scene has suffered some setbacks, you can’t keep a good party town down. For a traditional night out, head to one of the Beyoğlu district’s meyhanes, tavern-like restaurants serving meze and fish where sing-alongs of classic songs flow with each new round of rakı, an anise-flavored liquor. Lively crowds of young beer-drinkers fill the pubs of the Beşiktaş Çarşı and central Kadıköy, while a swankier set sips cocktails near the Bosphorus in the bars and cafes of Bebek and Arnavutköy. For the full Istanbul experience, top off the evening by joining your fellow revelers in lining up for some late-night street food.

Get acquainted with Turkish contemporary art

Anchored by high-profile cultural institutions like Istanbul Modern , Pera Museum , SALT Beyoğlu and Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat , the Beyoğlu district has long been a hub for art-lovers, with galleries and museums scattered on and around İstiklal Caddesi , and increasingly in the adjacent Karaköy, Tophane and Dolapdere neighborhoods as well. Well-established commercial galleries in stately apartment buildings also cluster among the chic boutiques of the Nişantaşı neighborhood, while hip Kadıköy has an up-and-coming independent art scene of its own.

Surrender to the steam in a bath house

In life, there aren't too many opportunities to wander seminaked through a 16th-century Ottoman monument. But Istanbul's world-famous hamams offer just that: the chance to immerse yourself in history, architecture, warm water and soap suds all at the same time. A hamam treatment makes for a relaxing finale to a day spent pounding the city's pavements and gives a fascinating insight into the life and customs of Ottoman society. You can surrender to the steam at baths on both sides of the Galata Bridge: the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Tophane and the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı in Sultanahmet are particularly stunning and luxurious.

Istanbul's bathhouses: a step-by-step guide

Hang out with the cool kids in Kadıköy

Riding a ferry across the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s great pleasures and the Asian-side neighborhood of Kadıköy is becoming a destination in itself, with hip cafes, bars, restaurants and boutiques frequented by a lively young crowd. Peruse the colorful produce market , hunt for street-art murals in the backstreets, visit the museum-home of Turkish rock giant Barış Manço or stroll the waterfront with an ice cream in hand. The sunset views from the shoreline are among the most spectacular in the city.

Sample the flavors of Istanbul

More than anything else, Istanbullus love to eat, and food is much more than mere fuel. Instead, it’s a celebration of community. Meals unfurl with great ceremony – they are joyful, boisterous and almost inevitably communal. The national cuisine has been refined over centuries and is treated more reverently than any museum collection in the country. That’s not to say it’s fussy, because what differentiates Turkish food from other national noshes is its rustic and honest base. The small meze dishes you’ll eat will be simple, the kebaps austere, the salads unstructured and the seafood unsauced. Flavors will explode in your mouth because ingredients are used in season.

Top 5 Istanbul cooking courses and food tours

Admire the architecture of Süleymaniye Mosque

Commissioned by the Ottoman sultan Süleyman I, known as “the Magnificent,” this 16th-century mosque has a fittingly grand perch atop one of the old city’s seven hills. The view from here is one of the finest in Istanbul, looking out over domes and rooftops to the confluence of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn waterways and beyond. With its elegant symmetry and soaring interior, the mosque itself is considered among the masterpieces of the great architect Mimar Sinan. The complex around it is inviting and serene, with tall trees, a grassy lawn and a rose-studded cemetery.

Go underground at the Basilica Cistern

When the Byzantine emperors decided to build something, they certainly didn't cut corners. The extraordinary subterranean Basilica Cistern , located opposite Aya Sofya, features a wildly atmospheric forest of columns (336 to be exact), vaulted brick ceilings, mysterious carved Medusa-head capitals and ghostly patrols of carp. A testament to the ambitious town planning and engineering expertise of the Byzantines, the cistern has played a starring role in innumerable motion pictures (remember From Russia with Love ?) and is now one of the city's best-loved tourist attractions.

Go tile-mad at the Blue Mosque

Officially named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after the early 17th-century Ottoman ruler Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque gets its better-known moniker from the color of the tens of thousands of İznik tiles that adorn its interior. With its enormous courtyard, grand prayer hall and six minarets (an unprecedented number for a mosque when it was constructed) this is a building made to impress – and to rival the Aya Sofya, which sits directly opposite across a landscaped square.

Ogle the opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace

Weighing in at nearly 10,000 pounds, the crystal chandelier hanging over the Ceremonial Hall of Dolmabahçe Palace exemplifies the opulence of this royal residence commissioned in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit I. It’s a glorious mishmash of styles and materials, with ceilings gilded with thousands of pounds of gold, marble floors, crystal bannisters and bearskin rugs. The Bosphorus views are just as dazzling as the decor.

Let your feet be your guide

Istanbul’s marvelous sights could keep a visitor busy for months, but it’s worth taking some time to explore its myriad neighborhoods as well. Though the city is sprawling, its central districts are walkable and reward wandering, with lively street life and distinct identities. Follow the film crews and Instagram influencers through shabby-chic Fener and Balat’s historical lanes ; sip black tea with a Golden Horn view at the Pierre Loti Café , perched above the leafy cemeteries and holy tomb complexes or Eyüp; or watch fishermen cast their lines from the Bosphorus village of Arnavutköy.

You might also like: A hotel in Istanbul has the world's first baklava butler The best shops you can only find in Istanbul Local's guide to Istanbul

This article was first published Feb 10, 2011 and updated Nov 1, 2021.

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The 40 best attractions in Istanbul

Our list of Istanbul's top 40 attractions is your gateway to discovering the city's rich historical, cultural, architectural, artistic and natural gems. Let's dive into the heart of Istanbul and discover its treasures

Istanbul connects Europe and Asia and offers a fascinating blend of history and modernity. From the dazzling Hagia Sophia to the lively Grand Bazaar, Istanbul's sights are as colourful and diverse as the city's culture. Whether visiting the city for the first time or having lived here for a long time, exploring Istanbul's top sights is a unique experience. It's not just limited to the famous view of the Bosphorus or its unique historical heritage; it's a vibrant metropolis constantly evolving and full of surprises. The list of Istanbul's top 40 attractions is your gateway to discovering the city's rich historical, cultural, architectural, artistic and natural gems. Let's dive into the heart of Istanbul and discover its treasures.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Istanbul                                                             RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Istanbul                                                                       RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Istanbul

What makes the cut? While we've not reviewed every attraction, we've based our list on reviews, editorial insight, and popularity to find you the best attractions. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information,  see our   affiliate guidelines .

Istanbul’s top attractions

1.  Sultanahmet District

What is it?  Sultanahmet is the historical heart of Istanbul, encompassing landmarks from the Ottoman and Byzantine eras. This district is home to Haghia Sophia, the Atmeydanı (Hippodrome), Topkapı Palace, the Archaeological Museums, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, and the Blue Mosque.

Why go?  Visiting Sultanahmet is essential for experiencing Istanbul's rich history and architectural grandeur. It offers a journey through the city's imperial past, with various cultural and historical sites.

2.  Hagia Sophia

What is it?  The Hagia Sophia, a cornerstone of Istanbul's historical landscape, was completed in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Originally the largest cathedral in the world, it became a mosque and then a museum. This architectural marvel is famous for its massive dome and exquisite Byzantine mosaics, which include portraits of emperors and religious figures. It also houses unique runic inscriptions from the Viking Age.

Why go?  The impressive dome and intricate mosaics give an insight into past civilisations' artistic and cultural heights. This iconic structure is a monument and a testament to Istanbul's historical and spiritual significance - a must-see for anyone passionate about history, art and architecture.

3.  Blue Mosque

What is it?  The Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a remarkable architectural masterpiece from the early 17th century. Located opposite the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is still an active place of worship, with visits restricted during prayer time. Despite the crowds, the mosque is a significant testament to its time and epitomises the architectural style of the classical age.

Why go?  Its iconic status and the opportunity to view its majestic design, especially from the nearby Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, offer a unique experience to understand Istanbul's rich cultural and architectural heritage.

4.  Basilica Cistern

What is it?  The Basilica Cistern, known as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, was reopened in 2022 after an extensive archaeological restoration by the IMM. This vast and remarkable underground cistern, built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, is 10,000 square metres and was once an important water source for the city. It consists of 336 marble columns, each 9 metres high and arranged in 12 rows, and is known for its unique architectural elements, including the famous Medusa head sculptures.

Why go?  The cistern's striking columns and mysterious Medusa heads are an enchanting experience. Today, the cistern is a museum that not only showcases the historical significance of the cistern but also hosts various cultural and artistic events.

5.  Topkapı Palace

What is it?  Topkapı Palace is not just a building but a sprawling testament to the luxury and power of the Ottoman Empire. It was the Ottoman sultans' primary residence for over four centuries, a central government seat and a royal court. Today, it is one of the most important museums in Istanbul and displays the rich history of the empire. Visitors can explore the extensive rooms and chambers, each of which tells a different story about the life and reign of the sultans. One of the most valuable exhibits is the 86-carat spoon maker’s diamond, a breathtaking symbol of luxury. The palace also houses an impressive collection of weapons, precious jewellery, and religious artefacts.

Why go?  Walking through the palace halls, you feel transported back in time, surrounded by the luxury that characterised the Sultan's reign. The palace offers insight not only into the private lives of the sultans but also into the administrative and ceremonial functions of the empire.

6.  Gülhane Park

What is it?  Next to the magnificent Topkapı Palace, at the tip of Istanbul's historic peninsula, lies Gülhane Park, one of the city's largest and most beautiful parks. This green oasis is a peaceful retreat in the middle of the bustling old town. Its expansive lawns, shady walkways and picturesque views offer a glimpse into the city's imperial past while providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and leisure. The park's history as part of the Topkapı Palace adds to its appeal and is a vibrant part of Istanbul's rich heritage.

Why go?  If you visit the park in spring, you can admire its brightly coloured tulips - a picturesque sight not to be missed. In spring, Gülhane Park is transformed into a spectacular display of colour with thousands of tulips in bloom, a nod to the flower's deep-rooted significance in Turkish culture.

7.  Eminönü District

What is it?  Eminönü, at the entrance to the Golden Horn, offers a unique insight into the cultural diversity of Istanbul and combines historical architecture with vibrant street life. It's an ideal destination for exploring famous sights such as the Spice Bazaar and Süleymaniye Mosque and experiencing the city's dynamic daily scene. It's an important transport hub that can be reached by ferry and tram, connecting different parts of the city. The neighbourhood is characterised by essential sights such as the Spice Bazaar, Sirkeci Railway Station and the 16th-century Rüstem Pasha Mosque.

Why go?  Eminönü is perfect for those who want to dive into the heart of Istanbul's history and experience everyday hustle and bustle.

8.  Grand Bazaar

What is it?  The Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, is a monumental testament to Istanbul's rich trading history. This bustling marketplace is more than just a shopping destination; it's a historical marvel. The bazaar's intricate network of lanes and alleys, lined with shops and stalls, offers everything from traditional Turkish crafts to jewellery, textiles, and spices. The architecture of the bazaar, with its domed halls and vaulted passageways, reflects the city's vibrant cultural and commercial heritage.

Why go?  Visiting the Grand Bazaar is an experience transcending the mere act of shopping. It's a place to immerse oneself in Istanbul's past and present essence. Even if you're not looking to buy, wandering through the bazaar is like stepping back in time, where every corner holds a piece of history and every shop a story.

9.  Çemberlitaş Hamamı

What is it?  The Çemberlitaş Hamamı, which was built in 1584 by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, is one of the oldest and architecturally most important hammams in Istanbul. Nurbanu Sultan commissioned it, and it is a testimony to Ottoman bath architecture, which combines functionality, elegance and simplicity. Located close to Istanbul's historical sights, this hamam has separate sections for men and women, each topped by large domes and decorated with marble and intricate inscriptions.

Why go?  The Çemberlitaş Hamamı offers an authentic Turkish bath experience steeped in history. The traditional treatments and the tranquil and historic surroundings offer a unique opportunity to relax and immerse yourself in Istanbul's cultural heritage.

10.  Spice Bazaar

What is it?  The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a lively and historic marketplace in Istanbul. It was built in the 16th century and is a more intimate alternative to the sprawling Grand Bazaar. The bazaar is famous for its many stalls selling spices, sweets, teas, dried fruits and other goods. The Spice Bazaar isn't just a place to shop but also a sensory journey through the rich flavours of Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Why go?  A visit to the Spice Bazaar is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a colourful and aromatic world. It's the perfect place to buy authentic Turkish delicacies, spices, medicinal herbs, and unique souvenirs. Whether for shopping or just to experience the lively atmosphere, the Spice Bazaar is a must-see in Istanbul.

11.  Istanbul Modern

What is it?  Istanbul Modern is the pioneering museum of modern and contemporary art in Istanbul. Founded in 2004, the museum was initially located in Antrepo No. 4, a former dry cargo warehouse on the banks of the Bosphorus. In 2018, Istanbul Modern entered a new phase: it temporarily relocated to Beyoğlu while the original building underwent an extensive renovation. In 2023, the museum reopened at its new location in Karaköy. The new design, created by the renowned Renzo Piano, draws inspiration from the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus. It offers expanded exhibition spaces, a state-of-the-art auditorium and improved public facilities.

Why go?  The new building offers an even better experience for visitors with its innovative design and interactive spaces. Whether you're an art lover or a curious explorer, Istanbul Modern offers you a captivating insight into the evolving history of contemporary art in Istanbul and beyond.

12.  Galataport

What is it?  Galataport Istanbul, a 1.7 billion dollar development project, has transformed Istanbul's historic harbour into a dynamic urban space. The sprawling 112,000 square metre complex has 230 retail and restaurant units, making it a bustling hub for shopping and dining. Galataport offers many local and international restaurants, major art museums, and cultural events. As a popular attraction in Istanbul, Galataport draws visitors with its unique mix of retail, dining and culture.

Why go?  It's a perfect place for families and tourists to explore, offering everything from shopping to arts and entertainment. The harbour redevelopment has also opened up a 1.2 km stretch of coastline in Karaköy, where you can stroll.

13.  Pera Museum

What is it?  Opened in 2005 in Istanbul's historic Tepebaşı neighbourhood, the Pera Museum is one of the city's cultural highlights. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the museum features a mix of temporary global art exhibitions and three permanent collections: 'Oriental Paintings', 'Anatolian Weights and Measures' and ‘Kütahya Tiles and Ceramics'. Founded by the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, the museum is also home to Pera Film, a cinema that screens various independent films and documentaries.

Why go?  Visiting the Pera Museum offers a deep insight into historical and contemporary art. The museum's diverse exhibitions and permanent collections provide local and global art insights.

14.  Bosphorus Strait

What is it?  The Bosporus is a vital strait that not only forms part of the border between Europe and Asia but is also an important sea route. As the narrowest strait in the world used for international shipping, it connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, which is connected to the Aegean and the Mediterranean through the Dardanelles. With a length of 31 kilometres, the Bosphorus varies in width, with the narrowest point being only 700 metres wide. The strait is bordered by four lighthouses: Rumeli Feneri and Anadolu Feneri in the north and Ahırkapı Feneri and İnciburnu Feneri in the south. This geographical marvel is not only a critical waterway but also a picturesque region of Istanbul that offers classic shoreline promenades, baroque palaces, yalıs (waterfront mansions) and several excellent museums.

Why go?  Exploring the Bosphorus offers the opportunity to experience Istanbul's unique geographical location and rich cultural heritage. The Bosphorus is ideal for leisurely exploring, whether walking along its banks, visiting opulent palaces and traditional yalıs or discovering the diverse museums on its shores.

15.  Cağaloğlu Hamam

What is it?  The Cağaloğlu Hamamı, built in 1741 during the reign of Sultan Mahmut I, is the last great Hamam built in the Ottoman era and a significant historical landmark of Istanbul. Designed by court architect Süleyman Ağa and completed by Abdullah Ağa, the hammam has baroque features and stylistic innovations unusual for classical Ottoman architecture. It was initially built as a çifte (double) public hamam to raise revenue for Sultan Mahmut I's library in the Ayasofya Mosque. The Hamam, covered by a large dome with a glass roof, houses a restaurant, shops, a hairdresser and a shoe shine parlour.

Why go?  A visit to the Cağaloğlu Hamamı offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a traditional Turkish bathing experience in a historical setting. This experience is designed to make visitors feel like royalty, like the Ottoman sultans whose portraits adorn the entrance.

16.  The Museum of Innocence

What is it?  The Museum of Innocence is not just a museum but a living narrative inspired by Orhan Pamuk's novel of the same name. In this innovative space, literature and reality merge and make the setting of the novel tangible. The Museum of Innocence is a captivating destination for anyone interested in Istanbul's cultural and historical diversity. It houses an extensive collection of artefacts, photographs and memorabilia that reflect the novel's bittersweet love story and mirror Istanbul's development since the 1970s.

Why go?  This museum is more than just an exhibition of artefacts; it is an exploration of the soul of a city told through the lens of a poignant story. An added attraction for visitors is the novel's unique feature: a ticket printed on the final pages that can be stamped upon entering the museum. This combined experience enriches the visit and makes it a must for literature lovers.

17.  Maiden’s Tower

What is it?

The Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi / Leander Tower), whose history dates back to 24 BC, is a historic lighthouse and cultural symbol on a tiny island at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus. Due to its location, it is regularly exposed to the elements and the sea and frequently damaged by earthquakes. The tower has been restored several times throughout its long history, most notably after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1509 and later by Mahmut II in 1832. The most recent restoration, which took place from 2021 to 2023, was carried out under the supervision of expert academics. You can reach the Maiden's Tower by private boats that depart from the Üsküdar-Salacak and Galataport piers.

Built on a tiny island about 200 metres from the shore of Üsküdar, the Maiden's Tower offers a unique experience combining history, architecture, and stunning panoramic views.

18.  Istanbul Aquarium

What is it?  The Istanbul Aquarium, known as the largest themed aquarium in the world, offers a unique journey through different aquatic worlds. The sprawling aquarium covers 22,000 square metres and houses 66 tanks with 7,000 cubic metres of water, in which around 1,500 species and 17,000 marine and terrestrial creatures can be seen. In addition to themed cafeterias and a restaurant with panoramic views, it offers 17 themed areas and a rainforest that takes visitors from the Black Sea to the Pacific.

Why go?  The aquarium offers interactive elements, films and visual graphics that enrich the experience and make it more than just an exhibition of marine animals.

19.  Rahmi M. Koç Museum

What is it?  The Rahmi M. Koç Museum in Istanbul was founded in 2005 and is dedicated to the history of transport, industry and communication. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in Beyoğlu. It displays a variety of exhibits from the fields of road, rail, sea and air transport, as well as technical and scientific instruments. The collection, mainly from the private collection of Rahmi M. Koç, is complemented by interactive learning areas and a cinema. The museum covers several sites, including the historic Lengerhane building and the Hasköy shipyard, each with its own historical significance. The open-air exhibition features significant artefacts such as vintage cars and a submarine from World War II.

Why go?  The museum is an educational and exciting experience for all ages, with various exhibits that bring the history of industry and innovation to life. The museum's unique location on the Golden Horn makes it even more attractive.

20.  Princes’ Islands

What is it?  The Princes' Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara, offer a tranquil refuge from one of the busiest cities in the world. The İstanbul Islands are steeped in history and multiculturalism, reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire era. The group consists of nine islands, four larger and five smaller ones, all of which are closed to modern traffic in order to preserve their tranquil environment. The main islands - Büyükada, Kınalıada, Burgazada and Heybeliada - are accessible by ferry and are popular for their beaches, historic villas and Victorian cottages.

Why go?  The Princes' Islands are an ideal destination for a day trip, especially in summer, as they offer a glimpse into a slower-paced, car-free life. Visitors can explore the islands on foot, by bike or on electric bus tours.

21.  Galata Mevlevi Lodge

What is this?  The Galata Mevlevi Lodge in the heart of Istanbul is a historical and spiritual landmark. Founded in the 15th century, the oldest ‘tekke’ in Istanbul served the Mevlevi order and is known for its deep roots in Sufism. In 1975, this important building was converted into a museum, which today is a central element of Sufi culture and tradition. The Galata Mevlevi Lodge is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Sufi culture and history. It displays various artefacts, including musical instruments, calligraphy and traditional Mevlevi clothing.

Why go?  The main attraction is the mesmerising Sema ceremony, performed by whirling dervishes every Sunday at 17.00, which offers a unique insight into the spiritual practises of the Mevlevi order. Visitors are advised to get tickets in advance and arrive early to get good seats. Occasionally, concerts of classical Ottoman music are also held in the hut, adding to the cultural appeal.

22.  St. Antoine Church

What is it?  St Antoine's Church, the largest Catholic church in Istanbul, adorns Istiklal Caddesi with its majestic Venetian neo-Gothic architecture. Built between 1906 and 1912, the church is a place of worship and a historical landmark. It is known for its association with Pope John XXIII, who served here before becoming pope and commemorated by a courtyard statue.

Why go?  St. Antoine Church offers peace in the busy Beyoğlu district and is ideal for quiet reflection. Services are held in several languages, including English and Turkish, making the church a welcoming place for diverse worshippers and those interested in its rich history and architectural beauty.

23.  Casa Botter

What is it?  The Botter Apartment or Casa Botter on Istiklal Street is an architectural gem built initially as Istanbul's first fashion house by Dutch tailor Jean Botter in the early 20th century. Designed by architect Raimondo D'Aronco, the historic building was recently restored and transformed into a design and art centre that houses various cultural spaces such as an exhibition hall, a demonstration centre and a design workshop.

Why go?  Now a centre for art and design, Casa Botter is a must-see because it offers a unique combination of historical architecture and contemporary art.

24.  Gazhane Museum

What is it?  Gazhane Museum, originally the Hasanpaşa Gashouse, has a rich history dating back to 1892. It was the last gashouse in Istanbul, providing light and fuel for over a century. After its closure in 1993, the building, which represents a significant piece of Turkish industrial heritage, was left to its own devices. After a lengthy and extensive restoration by the IMM, the 130-year-old building was reborn as the Gazhane Museum in 2021. Located in Kadıköy, this vibrant cultural and community space offers a climate and caricature museum, a children's science centre, exhibition and workshop areas, theatres, libraries, and activity spaces. It also includes a climate crisis exhibition, a restaurant, and a café, all within a 32,000 square-meter campus.

Why go?  The museum offers cultural, artistic and scientific events and stages, libraries and workspaces for young people that are open 24 hours a day. Visitors can relax among the resident cats in the garden and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

25.  Galata Tower

What is it?  The Galata Tower, built in 1348, is a striking landmark on the Istanbul skyline. It originally belonged to a Genoese colony and has been restored to house a museum showcasing Istanbul's extensive history. From its top-floor balcony, you have a panoramic view of the city, the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara.

Why go?  The tower offers an unrivalled view of Istanbul and a unique insight into the city's historical development - all from a major architectural landmark.

26.  Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture

What is it?  Founded in 1937 and initially located at Dolmabahçe Palace, the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture (IMPS) is Turkey's first museum dedicated to plastic arts. After a temporary closure, it was relocated to the redesigned Antrepo 5 in the Tophane district. The museum, now housed in a modernised space, completed its renovation in 2021 and offers a contemporary setting for its extensive art collection.

Why go?  IMPS is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing a rich array of Turkish fine arts in a modern museological environment. The museum's blend of historical significance and contemporary design provides a unique cultural experience, making it a standout destination in Istanbul's art scene.

27.  Belgrad Forest

What is it?  The Belgrad Forest stretches over 1300 hectares and is a green oasis in Istanbul known for its hiking trails, picnic areas and barbecue sites. This deciduous forest is not only a botanical treasure with a variety of interesting plants but also a historical site with ancient aqueducts and several recreational areas such as Ayvad Dam, Bueyuek Çeşme and Mehmet Akif Ersoy Recreation Area. The forest is a habitat for various wild animals, including deer, weasels, snakes and the occasional fox or wolf. A 6-kilometre hiking trail winds around a picturesque lake and is ideal for walking, jogging, or running.

Why go?  Belgrad Forest is an ideal retreat for anyone looking for peace and a touch of nature. The quiet paths and abundant wildlife offer a refreshing break from Istanbul's urban hustle and bustle and are perfect for outdoor activities or simply relaxing in the greenery.

28.  Atatürk Arboretum

What is it?  Founded in 1949 and nestled within the Belgrade Forest, the Atatürk Arboretum covers 300 hectares and is home to almost 2,000 tree and plant species worldwide. This green oasis in the north of Istanbul is home to tranquil lakes, diverse flora including oak, fir and sequoia trees and the city's first swan nursery, founded in 1916.

Why go?  The Atatürk Arboretum offers a peaceful escape from the urban bustle of Istanbul and is ideal for quiet walks and immersing yourself in nature. Just 5 kilometres from the city, it is ideal for relaxation and fresh air amidst rich botanical surroundings.

29.  Istanbul Archeology Museums

What is it?  The Istanbul Archaeology Museums, Turkey's first museum founded in the late 19th century, is a remarkable complex that includes the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Near Eastern Works and the Tile Kiosk Museum. It houses an extensive collection of artefacts from Ancient Greece, Rome, Turkey and beyond, including the famous sarcophagus of Alexander the Great. The museum buildings are architectural gems, with the Tiled Kiosk being one of the oldest examples of Ottoman civil architecture in Istanbul.

Why go?  Visiting the Istanbul Archaeology Museum offers a deep insight into ancient civilisations. It is an enlightening experience for anyone interested in history, archaeology or art. The museum's extensive collection offers a comprehensive insight into the region's rich past and is necessary for a meaningful and educational journey through time.

30.  Tünel

What is this?  The Tünel is a historic funicular railway connecting Karaköy with Tünel Square in Istanbul. It was opened in 1875, making it the second oldest underground railway after the London Underground. It was initially built to provide traders and merchants a faster way up and down the steep hill between the city's two parts. This short but significant route is popular for those arriving at Karaköy Pier and heading to Beyoğlu. The journey takes around 90 seconds, and trains run every 5 minutes, making it an efficient travel method.

Why go?  As well as being practical, the Tünel offers a glimpse into Istanbul's rich historical past and is a delightful experience for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're interested in history or simply looking for a unique way to travel around the city, a ride on the Tünel is a must in Istanbul.

31.  Süreyya Opera House

What is this?  The Süreyya Opera House, an impressive architectural marvel, was commissioned in 1927 by the famous politician Süreyya İlmen Pasha. This iconic cultural centre is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is a first-class address for opera and ballet performances. Due to an incomplete stage, the Süreyya Opera House initially served as a cinema and wedding venue for many years. However, after an extensive restoration in 2007, it was reopened and originally served as a performing arts centre.

Why go there?  Today, it is not only the performances that attract visitors but also the building itself, which is a sight to behold. Its walls exude nostalgia, and the art deco foyer, inspired by the Champs-Elysées theatre in Paris, testifies to its historical and architectural significance.

32.  Bomontiada

What is it?  Bomontiada, located in the vibrant European side of Istanbul, is a dynamic cultural complex that has revitalised the once-dormant Bomonti and Kurtuluş neighbourhoods. This innovative space within the historic and previously abandoned Bomonti beer factory is a melting pot of artistic and culinary experiences. It houses the renowned music venue Babylon, the versatile art space Alt, the Leica Camera Turkey, the Ara Güler Museum, and various restaurants.

Why go?  Bomontiada combines art, music, photography, and gastronomy, offering something for everyone. The complex is especially lively during the warmer months, hosting free outdoor concerts and film screenings in its airy courtyard.

33.  Sakıp Sabancı Museum

What is it?  The Sakıp Sabancı Museum in Istanbul's Emirgan district is a famous cultural institution housed in a historic mansion on the Bosphorus. The former residence of business tycoon Sakıp Sabancı is now a prominent museum for significant art exhibitions featuring works by Monet, Picasso and other famous artists. The museum's permanent collections include the ‘Art of the Book and Calligraphy’, which exhibits exquisite Ottoman calligraphy and illuminated manuscripts, the ‘Painting and Sculpture Collection’ with many works of art, the ‘Decorative Arts’ and an ‘Archaeological’ collection.

Why go?  Housed in a mansion known for its equestrian statue and historical significance, the museum is a must-see for anyone wishing to explore Istanbul's artistic and cultural heritage.

34.  Pierre Loti Hill

What is that?  Pierre Loti Hill is located in the quiet in Eyüp and is named after the French writer Julien Viaud, known by his pseudonym Pierre Loti. The hill above the Golden Horn is famous for its breathtaking views and a collection of well-preserved 19th-century Istanbul architecture. Visitors can reach the summit by cable car or a staircase that winds through the Sultan's Cemetery. The hill is not only a natural landscape but also a historical site, home to six historic mansions converted into a boutique hotel, restaurant and café where Loti wrote his novels.

Why go there?  The hill offers one of the most famous views of the Golden Horn and becomes even more magical after sunset when the city lights illuminate the area.

35.  Turkish and Islamic Art Museum

What is it?  Opened in 1914, the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is located in the historic Ibrahim Paşa Palace near the Blue Mosque and houses a diverse collection of Islamic art. The museum is known for the world's best carpet collection, including rare Seljuk carpets from the 13th century. Also, it displays glassware, ceramics, metal artefacts and a section on life in Istanbul in the 19th century.

Why go?  Although the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art is not one of the most famous museums in Istanbul, it takes its visitors on a journey through time with its works from various historical periods.

36.  Dolmabahçe Palace

What is it?  The Dolmabahçe Palace, completed in 1856, is a historical landmark of Istanbul and was the last residence of the Ottoman sultans and the summer residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic. The palace is known for its opulent interiors, including the world's most enormous crystal chandelier, and has been transformed from a natural harbour into a magnificent mansion. It has 285 rooms, 44 halls and a unique blend of Ottoman and Western architectural styles.

Why go?  A visit to the Dolmabahçe Palace is a journey through the luxury of the Ottoman era and a poignant link to modern Turkish history. It was in this palace that Atatürk spent his last days.

37.  Emirgan Korusu

What is it?  Emirgan Korusu is located on the European shore of the Bosphorus north of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and is one of the largest and most picturesque parks in Istanbul. This tranquil haven is located in Emirgan, which stretches across a low headland between Baltalimanı and İstinye. The park offers breathtaking views across the Bosphorus to Kanlıca and the expansive Beykoz Bay. Emirgan Korusu is known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.

Why go?  Emirgan Korusu is known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. It's enchanting in spring when it's transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colour thanks to the thousands of tulips planted for the annual Tulip Festival.

38.  Borusan Contemporary

What is it?  Borusan Contemporary Perili Köşk in Istanbul, also known as the Haunted Mansion, is an innovative "office museum" where the Borusan Contemporary Art Collection is exhibited. During the week, it is the office of the Borusan Holding Company, while at weekends, it is transformed into a museum where a range of contemporary artworks are exhibited, and exhibitions curated by well-known personalities are shown.

Why go?  This unique venue offers a novel experience of viewing contemporary art in a corporate environment. Open to visitors at weekends, it offers a fascinating mix of art and business, enriched with educational programmes and cultural discussions.

39.  Khedive Palace

What is it?  Khedive Palace (Hıdiv Kasrı), dating back to the early 20th century, is an architectural gem in Istanbul's Çubuklu and Kanlıca quarters. This Art Nouveau palace, with Neo-classical Ottoman elements, offers panoramic Bosphorus views from its marble terraces. Nearby, Çubuklu Park provides a serene, less crowded environment for leisurely walks and photography.

Why go?  Visit for a tranquil escape in Istanbul, where the palace's restaurant offers delightful views and dining. The park is perfect for a peaceful stroll, and the nearby Kanlıca quarter is known for its delicious yoghurt and charming architecture.

40.  Miniatürk

What is that?  Miniatürk in Istanbul is a miniature park that displays 1:25 scale models of Turkey's famous landmarks. The miniature park comprises 137 models, including historical buildings from Istanbul, Anatolia and the former Ottoman territories. The park represents Turkey's 3,000-year history and includes replicas of two ancient wonders, the Temple of Artemis and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

Why go?  Miniatürk is a favourite excursion destination in Istanbul for both locals and tourists and offers an excellent opportunity to explore the monumental highlights of Turkey in a short time. The mobile audio guide application in nine languages complements this educational experience.

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22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee has been a regular Istanbul visitor for twenty years and used to run tours in the city. She lives in Turkey.

Coveted by empires across the centuries, straddling both Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the world's great metropolises.

Founded around 1000 BCE, the colony of Byzantium grew into the Byzantine Empire's great capital of Constantinople and after the Ottoman conquest of the city, retained its glorious place as the heart of their empire.

The city (officially renamed Istanbul after the founding of the Turkish Republic) is liberally scattered with glorious remnants of its long and illustrious history, and the tourist attractions here will impress even the most monument-weary visitor.

As well as the big four (the Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar), leave enough time to explore the other sights.

Although many of the most popular and best places to visit are located in, or near, the old city district of Sultanahmet, there is a dazzling array of other things to do throughout the farther reaches of the city.

Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Istanbul.

See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul

1. Admire the Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque

2. explore topkapı palace (topkapı sarayı), 3. visit the blue mosque (sultan ahmet cami), 4. head underground at the basilica cistern (yerebatan sarnıçı), 5. stroll the hippodrome, 6. check out the collection in istanbul archaeology museum, 7. shop in the grand bazaar (kapalı çarşı), 8. admire the architecture of the süleymaniye mosque, 9. sample turkish produce in the spice bazaar (mısır çarşısı), 10. soak up the splendor of dolmabahçe palace, 11. see the frescoes of the chora church (kariye cami), 12. visit the museum of turkish and islamic arts (türk ve islam eserleri müzesi), 13. view the little aya sofya (küçük aya sofya), 14. admire the tilework of the rüstem paşa mosque, 15. walk the ramparts of yedikule fortress (yedikule hisarı), 16. climb up galata tower, 17. cruise the bosphorus strait, 18. take in the art at istanbul modern, 19. visit the historic fatih mosque, 20. view the pera museum's ottoman-era art, 21. stroll istiklal caddesi and taksim, 22. explore the district of üsküdar, where to stay in istanbul for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to istanbul, map of tourist attractions & things to do in istanbul, istanbul, turkey - climate chart.

Highlights: Ancient architecture, deep religious significance, and glittering mosaics

It's said that when the Byzantine Emperor Justinian entered his finished church for the first time in CE 536, he cried out " Glory to God that I have been judged worthy of such a work. Oh Solomon, I have outdone you! "

The Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya in Turkish) was the emperor's swaggering statement to the world of the wealth and technical ability of his empire.

Tradition maintained that the area surrounding the emperor's throne within the church was the official center of the world.

Through its conversion to a mosque, after the Ottoman armies conquered Constantinople, to its further conversion into a museum in the 20th century and its reconversion back into a working mosque in 2020, the Hagia Sophia has remained one of Istanbul's most cherished landmarks.

Address: Aya Sofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet

• Read More: Exploring Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia): A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Ottoman-era finery, sumptuous tilework, and the Harem complex

First built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century, glorious Topkapı Palace , beside the Bosphorus, was where the sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived and ruled from.

The vast complex is a dazzling display of Islamic art, with opulent courtyards lined with intricate hand-painted tilework, linking a warren of sumptuously decorated rooms, all bounded by battlemented walls and towers.

Of the many highlights here, the most popular are the Harem complex (where the sultan's many concubines and children would spend their days); the Second Court , where you can walk through the vast palace kitchens and stand in awe at the dazzling interior of the Imperial Council Chamber; and the Third Court, which contained the sultan's private rooms.

The Third Court also displays an impressive collection of relics of the Prophet Muhammad in the Sacred Safekeeping Room and is home to the Imperial Treasury, where you're greeted with a cache of glittering gold objects and precious gems that will make your eyes water.

To fully see Topkapı Palace, you'll need at least half a day.

Address: Babihümayun Caddesi, Gülhane Park

Highlight: Home to Istanbul's famed domed interior of Ottoman tilework

Sultan Ahmet I's grand architectural gift to his capital was this beautiful mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque today.

Built between 1609 and 1616, the mosque caused a furore throughout the Muslim world when it was finished, as it had six minarets (the same number as the Great Mosque of Mecca). A seventh minaret was eventually gifted to Mecca to stem the dissent.

The mosque gets its nickname from its interior decoration of tens of thousands of Iznik tiles.

The entire spatial and color effect of the interior makes the mosque one of the finest achievements of Ottoman architecture.

A great sightseeing joy of a trip to Istanbul is wandering amid the gardens sandwiched between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia to experience their dueling domes in twin glory.

Come at dusk for extra ambience, as the call to prayer echoes out.

Directly behind the Blue Mosque is the Arasta Bazaar; a great place for a shopping stop as the handicraft shops here sell high-quality souvenirs.

Even if you're not interested in a browse, head here to see the Great Palace Mosaic Museum , which is tucked between the Arasta Bazaar and the mosque.

This small museum displays the 250-square-meter fragment of mosaic pavement that was unearthed in the 1950s here. Excellent information panels explain the mosaic floor's recovery and subsequent rescue.

Highlight: Walking amid this atmospheric, majestic, and columned Byzantine-era space

The Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul's most surprising tourist attractions.

This huge, palace-like underground hall, supported by 336 columns in 12 rows, once stored the imperial water supply for the Byzantine emperors.

The project was begun by Constantine the Great but finished by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century.

Many of the columns used in construction were recycled from earlier classical structures and feature decorative carvings.

The most famous of these are the column bases known as the Medusa stones in the northwest corner with their Medusa head carvings.

A visit here is very atmospheric with the columns beautifully lit and the soft, steady trickle of water all around you.

Address: Yerebatan Caddesi, Sultanahmet

Highlights: Central park area holding relics from ancient Egypt and Greece.

The ancient Hippodrome was begun by Septimius Severus in CE 203 and completed by Constantine the Great in CE 330.

This was the center of Byzantine public life and the scene of splendid games and chariot races but also factional conflicts.

Today, there isn't much of the Hippodrome left to see, except for a small section of the gallery walls on the southern side, but the At Meydanı (park), which now stands on the site is home to a variety of monuments.

On the northwest side is a fountain, presented to the Ottoman sultan by the German Emperor William II in 1898.

Then, heading southwest are three ancient monuments: a 20-meter high Egyptian obelisk (from Heliopolis); the Serpent Column brought here from Delphi by Constantine; and a stone obelisk that originally was clad in gold-covered bronze plating until they were stolen by the soldiers of the 4th Crusade in 1204.

Highlights: Viewing the Sidon necropolis collection, Anatolian sarcophagi, and the Tiled Pavilion

Just a hop, skip, and jump away from Topkapı Palace, and easily visited afterwards, Istanbul Archaeology Museum brings together an array of artifacts from both Turkey and throughout the Middle East, which sweeps through the vast breadth of history of this region.

There are three separate sections in the museum complex, each of which are worthy of a visit.

The Museum of the Ancient Orient displays a collection focused on the Middle East's pre-Islamic art and heritage.

The main Archaeology Museum houses statuary and tombs, including the famed sarcophaguses from Sidon, Lebanon that were unearthed by Ottoman architect Osman Hamdi Bey. Also here, you'll find the Istanbul through the Ages exhibit room, which helps you visualize the city's vast and epic history.

The museum's third building is the Tiled Pavilion, built by Mehmet the Conqueror, which houses a wide range of ceramic art.

Address: Osman Hamdi Bey Yokusu Sokak, Gülhane Park

• Read More: Exploring Istanbul's Archaeological Museum: A Visitor's Guide

Highlight: One of the world's great shopping experiences

For many visitors, sightseeing in Istanbul is as much about shopping as museums and monumental attractions, and the Grand Bazaar is where everyone comes.

This massive covered market is basically the world's first shopping mall, taking up a whole city quarter, surrounded by thick walls, between the Nuruosmanıye Mosque and Beyazıt Mosque.

The Beyazıt Mosque (built in 1498-1505) itself occupies the site of Theodosius I's Forum and has architecture inspired by the Hagia Sophia.

Entrance to the bazaar is through one of 11 gates from where a maze of vaulted-ceiling laneways, lined by shops and stalls selling every Turkish souvenir and handicraft you could imagine, cover the area.

The various trades are still mostly segregated into particular sections, which makes browsing easier.

Near the bazaar's Divanyolu Caddesi entrance is the Burned Column. This stump (still 40 meters high) of a porphyry column was set up by Constantine the Great in his forum. Until 1105, it bore a bronze statue of Constantine.

Address: Divanyolu Caddesi

Read More: Istanbul's Grand Bazaar: Things to Buy & Shopping Tips

Highlights: Ottoman mosque architecture at its finest and the tomb of Sultan Süleyman I

Sitting high on the hill above Sultanahmet district, the Süleymaniye Mosque is one of the most recognized landmarks of Istanbul.

It was built for Sultan Süleyman I (commonly known as Süleyman the Magnificent; reigned 1520-1566) by the famed Ottoman architect, Sinan, who is responsible for many of the feted Ottoman-era monuments in Turkey including the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne .

The Süleymaniye Mosque's interior, dominated by its soaring 53-meter-high dome is notable for its harmonious proportions and unity of design.

Outside in the tranquil garden area is an interesting Ottoman-era cemetery, which is also home to the türbes (tombs) of the Sultan Süleyman and his wife Haseki Hürrem Sultan (often commonly known outside of Turkey as Roxelana).

Address: Professor Sıdık Sami Onar Caddesi

Highlights: One-stop-shop for Turkish flavors and sampling the country's famed sweet treats

The Spice Bazaar is the place to get your foodie fix of lokum (Turkish delight), dried fruit, nuts, herbs, and, of course, spices.

Much of the money that helped construct it came from the taxes the Ottoman government levied on Egyptian-made products, which is why its name in Turkish (Mısır Çarşısı) means "Egyptian Market."

The Spice Bazaar is one of Istanbul's most popular tourist attractions and at certain times of the day gets ridiculously crowded with huge tour groups from the docked cruise ships.

Try to come before 11am or after 4pm to dodge the crowds.

Just next door to the Spice Bazaar's main entrance is the stately Yeni Cami (New Mosque), which was begun in 1615 and finished in 1663 – that's "new" for Istanbul.

It is worthwhile taking a peek inside while you're sightseeing in the area, as the interior is richly decorated with tilework and liberal use of gold leaf.

Address: Yenicami Meydanı, Eminönü

Highlights: Extravagant palace interiors and manicured formal gardens

The sumptuous and ornate Dolmabahçe Palace shows the clear influence of European decoration and architecture on the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century.

Built by Sultan Abdülmecid I in 1854, it replaced Topkapı Palace as the main residence of the sultans.

Dolmabahçe Palace was also used as an official residence during the founding years of the Turkish Republic, and Atatürk (the founder of modern Turkey) died here in 1938.

The formal gardens are punctuated with fountains, ornamental basins, and blooming flower beds.

Inside, the interiors blend Rococo, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman elements with mammoth crystal chandeliers, liberal use of gold, French-style furnishings, and frescoed ceilings to create a dazzling Turkish Renaissance style of sheer splendor and pomp.

Location: Dolmabahçe Caddesi, Besiktas

Highlight: Home to a famed collection of late-Byzantine-era frescoes and mosaics

Chora means "country" in Greek, and this beautiful Church (originally called the Church of St. Saviour of Chora) lay just outside old Constantinople's city walls.

The first Chora Church was probably built here in the 5th century, but what you see now is the building's 6th reconstruction as it was destroyed completely in the 9th century and went through several facelifts from the 11th to 14th centuries.

The church was turned into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople and became a museum in 1945. In 2020, it reconverted into a working mosque.

The monument is rightly world-famous for its fabulously vibrant 14th-century mosaics, preserved almost intact in the two narthexes and fragmentarily in the nave, and the frescos along the walls and domes.

These incredible examples of Byzantine artistry cover a wide range of themes, from the genealogy of Christ to the New Testament stories.

Location: Kariye Cami Sokak, Edirnekapı

Highlights: World-famous carpet collection; showcase of the wood, ceramic, and stone artistry of the Islamic empires

Housed in the palace of Ibrahim Paşa, who was Grand Vizier for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Ottoman and Islamic art.

The carpet collection on display here is vast and is heralded by textile experts as the world's best.

This is a prime place to come have a peek at the dazzling array of styles of Turkish carpets (along with carpets from the Caucasus and Iran) across the centuries before setting out on a shopping mission to purchase your own floor piece.

There are also exquisite ceramics, calligraphy, and wood carving exhibits ranging in date from the 9th century CE to the 19th century.

Address: At Meydanı Caddesi, Sultanahmet

Highlight: Serene church-turned-mosque amid Istanbul's historic core

Before Emperor Justinian built the Hagia Sofia (Aya Sofya) , he had to test out if the building would work structurally, so he built this miniature version first.

Its original name was the Church of Sergius and Bacchus, but the obvious architectural parallels with the Aya Sofya led to its long-held nickname becoming the building's official title.

During the Ottoman era, the church was converted into a mosque and it still functions as a working mosque today.

Although its proportions aren't as grandiose as others in Istanbul, the building has been beautifully restored and is well worth a visit.

The walk here, down narrow alleyways lined with tall Ottoman-era buildings – some lavishly restored and others creaking their way into dilapidation – is a tranquil respite from central Sultanahmet.

Take the time to have a glass of tea in the Little Aya Sofya's peaceful garden to sustain you for further sightseeing exploits.

Address: Küçük Aya Sofya Caddesi , Sultanahmet

Highlight: An interior of glorious and immaculately preserved ceramic tilework displays

Possibly the most perfectly pretty mosque in Istanbul, the Rüstem Paşa Mosque is home to the most stunningly preserved Iznik tile panels in the city.

Sure the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) may get all the glory, but it's here – covering both the exterior courtyard walls and the mosque interior itself – that you'll find the best examples of these gorgeously intricate hand-painted tiles in blues, reds, and greens.

Even better, as it's less known, you're likely to be able to admire them up close without having to battle any crowds.

Finding the mosque adds to the fun as it's squirreled down a skinny lane lined with market stalls and always bustling with life, near the Spice Bazaar.

Address: Hasırcılar Caddesi, Eminönü

Highlight: Take in the sea views while strolling this preserved section of the city's Byzantine walls

Although it's a bit of a schlep on the suburban train to get out to Yedikule (Castle of the Seven Towers), this commanding fortress is well worth it.

Built in the 5th century by the Emperor Theodosius II, the fortress made up the southern section of Constantinople's defensive walls.

The mammoth arch (blocked up in the late Byzantine period) was known as Porta Aurea (Golden Gate), with doors plated in gold.

When the Ottomans conquered the city, they used the fortress for defense, and later as a prison and execution place.

Yedikule has been restored in recent years, and you can climb up to the top of the battlements for superb views across the Sea of Marmara.

Address: Yedikule Sokak, Yedikule

Highlights: Views of this landmark building from the surrounding narrow alleys, and vistas of the historic city center from the top

The Galata Tower , overlooking the Golden Horn, was built by the Genoese in the 14th century. Today it remains one of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks.

Standing 52 meters tall, the tower was Istanbul's tallest building for centuries. The tower has been restored several times over the years due to being damaged by fire and storms.

Today the observation deck at the top story, and its restaurant, is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for taking in the iconic skyline views of the central old city.

Be aware, though, that it's a super popular sight, so come early or be prepared to queue.

Address: Bereketzade, Beyoğlu

Highlights: Easygoing sightseeing and panoramic city views on one of the world's great straits

For many visitors, a trip to Istanbul isn't complete without hopping aboard a Bosphorus excursion ferry and cruising the city's famed waterway, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

Istanbul's most iconic views are all from the water, and the Bosphorus excursion ferries are all about sitting back, relaxing, and taking in the scenery.

The most famous ferry tour is the Long Bosphorus Tour, which heads from Eminönü ferry dock daily, all the way up the strait to the village and fortress at Anadolu Kavağı, near the northern mouth of the strait into the Black Sea.

Along the ferry cruise there are shoreside vistas of defensive fortresses, Ottoman-era palaces and mansions, and the Bosphorus' bridges.

The Long Bosphorus Tour takes two hours one-way, stops in Anadolu Kavağı for three hours, and then returns, so you need to set aside a full day of your itinerary if you want to do it.

There is also a Short Bosphorus Tour option that operates daily two-hour afternoon sailings from spring to fall. This return ferry cruise heads up the Bosphorus as far as Rumeli fortress before turning around.

Highlights: Leading center for Turkish contemporary art plus trail-blazing temporary exhibitions

Proving that Istanbul isn't just about historic sightseeing, this thoroughly up-to-the-minute art gallery holds an extensive collection of Turkish modern art with an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions, hosting both local and international artists throughout the year.

This is by far the best place in town to get your finger on the pulse of Turkey's contemporary art scene.

As well as the galleries, the Istanbul Modern has a cinema that hosts a program of film viewings and a library.

The galleries are being temporarily hosted in a historic Beyoğlu building while they wait for the completion of this art museum's new permanent home in Karaköy.

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi, No:99, Beyoğlu

Highlights: Historic Ottoman-era mosque and site of Sultan Mehmet II's Tomb

The district of Fatih is home to this important mosque, which sits on the hilltop site of the first mosque built in the city by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, who finally broke through Constantinople's walls, ending the Byzantine era.

The original 15th-century mosque was badly damaged by an earthquake and so was replaced with this grand and imposing building, replete with multiple domes and minarets, in the 18th century.

Being the site of the first of Istanbul's grand imperial mosques to be built, as well as being home to Sultan Mehmet's tomb, it's an important historic building and a popular pilgrimage site.

Location: Fevzi Pasa Caddesi, Fatih

Highlights: Acclaimed collection of Orientalist art and world-class temporary art exhibitions

Istanbul's most famous art gallery is the lovely Pera Museum , which is where art-hounds head to view one of the finest collections of Ottoman-era art in the world.

In particular, the museum contains the well-known paintings of Ottoman artist Osman Hamdi Bey. While the collection also features many other artists who focused their work on the Ottoman world, both local and foreign.

As well as the Ottoman art, the Pera holds a renowned collection of Ottoman-era tile and ceramic work and a vast collection of artifacts from the Ottoman period, as well as pieces from earlier eras.

There's also a program of regularly changing exhibitions, which focus on both historic and contemporary art and often feature some of the international art world's biggest names.

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi, Tepebası

Highlights: Cafe-hopping, a historic tram ride, 19th-century façades, and a dining hub

Pedestrianized Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) is a bustling modern shopping street with a wealth of restaurants and cafés.

The lower end of the street can be reached by taking the world's oldest underground railway (the Tünel, constructed in 1875) from near Galata Bridge. There is also a quaintly old-fashioned tramway that runs along its length right up to Taksim Square at the top of the hill.

From Taksim Square, busy Cumhuriyet Caddesi is lined with hotels, shops, restaurants, and high rises. On the east side of the road, just after the square, is Maçka Park, which is home to the interesting Military Museum.

The area around Istiklal Caddesi is home to many churches and old consulate buildings with ornate facades.

Also nearby is Orhan Pamuk's Museum of Innocence . Pamuk is Turkey's most famous author and the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. This conceptual-art museum is based around the theme of his novel The Museum of Innocence and is a rather bizarre, kooky, and wonderfully atmospheric experience.

Address: Istiklal Caddesi

Highlights : Hillside strolls with city views and historic lesser-seen Ottoman mosques

Istanbul's Asian shore is easily reached by ferry from Eminönü dock across the Bosphorus.

On an islet just off the Asiatic shore stands the 30-meter-high Kızkulesi (Maiden's Tower).

Üsküdar was traditionally known as Scutari and has some handsome old mosques, winding lanes, and weathered brown timber houses (particularly between the ferry dock and the large cemetery).

The town, known in antiquity as Chrysopolis, was one of the earliest Greek settlements on the Bosporus.

It was much more exposed to attack by foreign conquerors than Constantinople, with its defensive situation and strong walls, but it was able to draw economic advantage from its exposed situation – until 1800 it was the terminus of the caravan routes that brought the treasures of the East to Constantinople and onwards to Europe.

Of particular sightseeing interest here is the Atik Valide Mosque, which was designed by the famed Ottoman architect Sinan; and the Çinili Mosque, which contains some beautiful Iznik tilework.

If you're planning to see Istanbul's top tourist attractions, the easiest place to base yourself is Sultanahmet (Istanbul's old city district), which is a short stroll from all the city's major historical attractions. The Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and the Hagia Sofia (Aya Sofya) are all within a five-minute walk, and many hotels in the area have stellar views of these buildings, as well as out to the Bosphorus from their rooftop terraces. A tram line runs through Sultanahmet, and public transport is plentiful, connecting the district with other tourist attractions farther afield.

Another popular place to stay is across the Galata Bridge in the Beyoğlu and Taksim districts. These are both lively entertainment areas in the center of modern Istanbul. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations for sightseeing:

Luxury Hotels:

• In a century-old Neoclassical Turkish building, the sunny-hued Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet is a mere five-minute stroll from the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Hagia Sophia.
• Decorated in Ottoman style, the boutique White House Hotel Istanbul also lies minutes from these major historical attractions.
• For those who prefer to stay near all the entertainment action in Taksim, the Grand Hyatt Istanbul is a great choice only a few minutes' walk from Taksim Square.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The elegant Orient Express & Spa by Orka Hotels is an excellent mid-range option within walking distance of the Sultanahmet historical attractions and Sirkeci train station.
• Also in a prime Sultanahmet location is the Osmanhan Hotel , with beautiful views of the Bosphorus.
• In the heart of Taksim, the Artisan Istanbul MGallery offers contemporary comfort close to Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, one of the city's most famous walking streets, lined with cafes, boutiques, and bookstores.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're traveling on a budget, the boutique Sultans Royal Hotel offers great value for money in the heart of Sultanahmet and is known for its friendly, helpful staff.
• The Walnut Shell Hotel is also within walking distance of all the major monuments that make it a prime Istanbul base, and has rooms brimming with color and character.
• Explore the Main Sights: If you have only a day or two set aside for sightseeing, take the Istanbul in One Day Sightseeing Tour . This walking tour will ensure you see the most important attractions, including the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, as well as others. This is a small group tour, limited to 14 people, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a traditional lunch, and admission to the sites.
• Private Tours: With more time up your sleeve to see the city, and the option to fully customize what to do and what to see, the private Best of Istanbul Tour offers one-, two-, or three-day Istanbul itineraries with a tour guide.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: The Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off BusForUs Tour uses a traditional double-decker bus, which stops at the major sites and allows you to tour the city at your own pace. It's also a great way to get familiar with the general layout of the city. Tickets are valid for one day.

The best time to visit Istanbul is, in general, from late spring to early fall — the months of May, June, July, August, and September.

July and August are peak tourism season and bring the hottest weather with long summer days heralding plenty of blue skies and sunshine — great for fitting in plenty of sightseeing. Average temperatures in the city during this period vary between 20 and 29 degrees Celsius. T-shirt weather carries into the evenings for these months, meaning you can slim down your packing requirements.

If you're planning to travel in May, June, or September instead (which are still considered high season in Istanbul), daytime temperatures are usually thoroughly pleasant. For some visitors, its slightly milder temperatures are preferable to July and August for sightseeing, but you will need to pack a warmer layer to throw on after the sun sets. And, remember to bring along an umbrella, as May and September in particular can bring up to eight or nine rainy days per month.

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The Coast and More Historic Cities: After an Istanbul sojourn, why not hit Turkey's famed coastline, lapped by the waves of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Check out our articles on Bergama and the North Aegean , Fethiye , Antalya, and Kas for inspiration. Turkey has plenty of other historic cities to discover. Konya and Sanliurfa are two of the best and are city guides to these destinations can help you plan your time.

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