Istanbul Asian Side Tour

We meet in Eminönü and  take the local ferry to Kadıköy, on the Asian side of Istanbul.  Ferries are commonly used by the locals as it allows you to wake up and prepare for a busy day, or relax and unwind on the way back home.  You can also enjoy the magnificent view on the skyline of the old city with its world famous icons, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum and Topkapi Palace.

Kadıköy is one of the liveliest neighbourhood of Istanbul after Istiklal Caddesi (Street) in Taksim, Europian side of Istanbul. It is a well worth visiting neighbourhood with its nice cafes, restaurants, fresh fish and fruit markets, shops and antique stores. There is an Opera House from 1920s in Bahariye Caddesi, one of the most modern shopping promenades of Istanbul. While you are strolling along these lively streets, you will also see some of the Armenian and Greek Churches. Moda is a peaceful place to give a break and taste the home-made Turkish ice-cream.

Üskudar is a concervative neighbourhood of the Asian side, totally different than modern Kadıkoy. There are historical mosques from Ottoman period. We visit the one built for Mihrimah Sultan, the daughter of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Local Market of Uskudar is right at the heart of the square where they sell, fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, dried fruits and nuts, Turkish Delight and more.

The walk between Uskudar and multiethnic  fishing village Kuzguncuk is on the shore and among the parks where people enjoy the sea breeze and amateur fishing. Kuzguncuk is off the beaten path of the Asian side and has a minority history of Greeks, Jews and Armenians.

We take the local ferry back to the European side. Our Asian side Istanbul tour ends.