If you're searching for the best places to visit in the asian side of istanbul , you've probably already ticked the Sultanahmet and Galata boxes in your list. Most travelers spend their entire trip on the European side, and while that's where the "big" monuments are usually, they're missing out on the soul of the town. The Asian side, or Anadolu Yakası , is where the real Istanbul lifestyles. It's a little bit slower, definitely healthier, and arguably provides way better foods.
The simplest way to begin your journey is by skipping the Marmaray train once and taking the ferry instead. There's something special about crossing the Bosphorus with a glass of tea in your hand while seagulls chase the boat. It sets the mood for what's to come. Here's a rundown of where you is going to see a different side of this massive metropolis.
Kadikoy: The Heartbeat of the Asian Side
Kadikoy is usually the first halt for anyone crossing over, and for valid reason. It's the cultural hub of the Asian side. If the European side is a tuxedo, Kadikoy is definitely a well-worn buckskin jacket. It's creative, vibrant, and extremely laid-back.
The Fish Market plus Bahariye Street
Once you get off the ferry, mind straight for the Kadikoy Fish Market . It's not simply about fish; you'll discover shops selling baby, cheeses from most over Turkey, pickles, and some of the best European delight you'll actually taste. Just roaming through the slim stalls is a good experience for the senses.
From there, walk up toward the Half truths Statue , which is the unofficial conference point for everybody in the community. Follow the tram tracks up Bahariye Street , a pedestrian-friendly shopping area that's home to the beautiful Sureyya Internet explorer House.
Moda: Where the Local people Hang Out
When you keep strolling past Bahariye, you'll end up in Moda . This is arguably one of the coolest communities in the globe. It's full of third-wave coffee shops, vintage boutiques, plus bars. The character here is very "neighborhoody. " You'll discover students studying in cafes, families strolling their dogs, and older couples seated on the stones by the sea.
Don't leave Moda without visiting the Barış Manço Museum . He was a legendary Turkish rock musician, and his house provides been turned straight into a quirky art gallery that's worth a peek even in the event that you don't know his music. Lastly, grab an your favorite ice cream at Ali Usta—there's usually a range, but it goes fast.
Uskudar: History by the Water
While Kadikoy is modern and edgy, Uskudar feels more traditional. It's one of the oldest residential areas in Istanbul and has an extremely spiritual, quiet atmosphere. It's also the place where you'll get the nearly all iconic sunset views in the town.
Maiden's Tower system (Kız Kulesi)
The Maiden's Tower sits on the tiny island just off the coastline of Uskudar. It's recently been refurbished and looks spectacular. You may make a little boat out to it, several individuals prefer to just sit on the steps along the shore. There are carpets and pads laid out on the concrete steps exactly where you can order teand sunflower seeds while viewing the sun dip behind the Hagia Sophiacross the water. It's a classic Istanbul moment.
The Great Mosques
Uskudar is packed with Ottoman-erarchitecture. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque , right across from the ferry terminal, has been designed by the famous architect Sinan. Another gem is the Şemsi Pasha Mosque , which is best on the water's edge. It's small compared to the giants on the other side, but its location and history make it special.
Kuzguncuk: The Nostalgic Village
Simply a short bus or taxi ride from Uskudar will be Kuzguncuk . This neighborhood is similar to a time capsule. It utilized to be a location where Jews, Greeks, Armenians, and Turks lived side by side, and you may still see that history in the architecture.
The roads are lined along with colorful wooden homes, and it's a popular spot for photographers and TV crews filming Turkish dramas. The main road, Icadiye, is full of cute bakeries and bookstores. 1 of the coolest things about Kuzguncuk is the Bostan , a communal garden where locals nevertheless grow vegetables right in the middle of the community. It's a tranquil escape from the city's noise.
Beylerbeyi and Cengelkoy
Continuing north along the Bosphorus, you'll hit Beylerbeyi . The main attraction here is the Beylerbeyi Palace . While it's smaller than Dolmabahce, it's arguably more elegant. This was used since a summer home for the Sultans and a location to host international heads of condition. The garden is definitely beautiful, and mainly because it's not as popular as the Western palaces, it's seldom crowded.
A bit further up is Cengelkoy , recognized for its tiny cucumbers and its enormous, ancient plane forest. The Cinaralti Family Green tea Garden sits right under that tree plus offers one of the best lake shore views in Istanbul. It's an extremely informal spot—you may even bring your own borek or sandwiches from a nearby bakery and order tea from their website.
Kanlica: Yogurt and Tranquility
If you're willing to travel a bit further north, create your way to Kanlica . This region is famous for its creamy fat free yogurt topped with powdered sugar. You'll see people eating it best by the ferry pier. It's the quiet, upscale neighborhood that feels even more like an angling village than a part of a 16-million-person city. It's a great place to just sit, consume your yogurt, watching the tankers and yachts sail via the strait.
Bagdat Avenue: The Shopping Mecca
If you're in the mood for some serious retail therapy, you have to visit Bagdat Avenue (Bağdat Caddesi). It's a huge, 14-kilometer-long street that runs almost parallel to the Marmara Sea.
Unlike the congested, chaotic streets of Istiklal on the European side, Bagdat Avenue is broad, lined with trees, and very posh. You'll find many methods from high-street brands such as Zara to luxurious labels like Louis Vuitton. There are also plenty of high-end restaurants and eateries where you may take a break. It seems very different from the historical parts of the city—more like Beverly Hillsides than Old Globe Istanbul.
Camlica Hill: The Bird's Eye View
For the absolute best panoramic view of the entire city, head to Camlica Mountain . There are usually actually two hills, Big Camlica and Little Camlica. The big you have been recently revamped plus features the huge Camlica Mosque , that is the largest in Turkey.
The view came from here is insane. You can observe both bridges, the European skyline, and the Marmara Sea. It's a bit of a climb, therefore it's best to take a taxi up, but as soon as you're there, you can wander via the parks and enjoy the fresh air. There's also the new Camlica Tower , which looks like something out of a sci-fi movie and offers an even higher vantage stage if you're not really afraid of levels.
Why should you Visit the Asian Side
People often ask if it's worth the trek across the drinking water. The answer will be always an unqualified yes. The places to visit in the asian side of istanbul offer a much more authentic look at what a lot more like for modern Istanbulites.
You won't get hassled by carpet sellers here. You'll find better costs for food plus drinks, and you'll get to encounter the city in a lot more human speed. Whether you're drinking craft beer in Kadikoy, eating yogurt in Kanlica, or watching the sun in Uskudar, the Asian side has a way of making you think that you're part of the city rather than just a guest.
So, the next time you're in Istanbul, don't simply take a look at the Asian side from across the water. Hop on a ferry, find a seat on the porch, and go discover. You might find that your preferred part of the city isn't to expected it to be.