The Unforgettable Beauty of Istanbul’s Asian Side
Istanbul is a busy city on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait. It is famous for its lively culture, long past, and beautiful architecture. Most tourists are interested in the European side of the city, but the Asian side is just as interesting. What makes the Asian side of Istanbul so special? This guide will go into that, as well as some of the must-see sights. The Asian side of Istanbul is less crowded and more authentic than the European side.
People from the area adore Kadikoy because it has lots of restaurants, shops, and bars that serve traditional Turkish food. You can also go to Moda, a cool area known for its cool vibe and small shops. Enjoy the lush greenery of Fenerbahce Park or take a walk along the waterfront walkway at Bagdat Avenue for beautiful views.
Whether you’re looking for authentic cultural experiences or breathtaking views, exploring Istanbul’s Asian side is definitely worth your time!
Contents
1. Asian and European side
Istanbul is a city that bridges two continents, Asia and Europe, making it a unique destination for travellers seeking a mix of cultures and experiences. The Asian and European sides of Istanbul are extremely distinct areas of the same city, yet there are certain similarities that form a cultural link between the two. The Asian side of Istanbul is commonly referred to as the “sultan’s side” since it was previously home to Ottoman palaces as well as the sultans’ religious treasures.
What is the difference between European side and Asian side Istanbul?
Istanbul, a city spanning two continents- Europe and Asia, is divided by the Bosphorus Strait. Istanbul’s notable architectural icons may be found on the European side, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet, Beyoglu- Istiklal street, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, the Grand Bazaar, and the Archaeological Museum while the Asian side is more residential and relaxed with green spaces. The European side attractions however can be reached from the Asian side.
2. Visit Historic Sites: Istanbul Asian Side Guide
Üsküdar
Üsküdar, situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, has been a significant settlement since the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. It is home to a plethora of historic landmarks such as mosques, synagogues, and the Yeni Valide Mosque Complex which visitors can explore today. The district’s rich history and architectural marvels make it an ideal destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant past. Some of the other top attractions in Üsküdar include the Beylerbeyi Palace, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, and the historic Maiden’s Tower.
Kadikoy
Kadikoy, which is on the Asian side of Istanbul, is a culture center with a busy coastal walkway, a lively street market, and small shops. The area is famous for its lively nightlife, with lots of bars and places to see live music. In addition to a colorful nightlife, Kadıkoy has a lot of culture attractions, such as art museums, theaters, and art galleries.
At this lively district, people can look at the old buildings and learn about the area’s long past. Kadıkoy is a must-see for anyone coming to Istanbul because it has a unique mix of modernity and tradition. Another great place to find a Turkish breakfast is in this area. We really think you should go to Küff Cafe. If you want to learn more about things to do in Kadikoy, make sure to read our Kadikoy blog!
Bağdat Avenue
In Istanbul, Bağdat Avenue, also known as “Bağdat Caddesi,” is a lovely and beautiful street where you can shop and eat. This street, which goes back to the Ottoman era, has a beautiful mix of modern and old buildings, which makes it a popular spot for tourists. Although the avenue is lined with pretty trees, it has a lot of different shops, restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. There is something for everyone on Bağdat Avenue, whether you want to shop or eat some wonderful Turkish food.
If you’re coffee-lover like us, make sure to try Klar’s coffee while you’re there!
Moda Neighbourhood
Popular in the Kadıkoy area, Moda is known for its stunning views of the water, lively cafes and bars, and interesting street art. There are both locals and tourists in the area, and sunset is the best time to go. Some historical sites can be found in this area, like the Moda Pier, which was constructed in 1911 and is a great place to enjoy the view of Istanbul’s city. Moda is also known for having a laid-back vibe and being a place to get away from the busy city life.
If you want to eat somewhere where you can enjoy both burgers and coffee, Namu Burger is a great choice. People with different tastes can go to this restaurant together, which makes it great for groups of friends. It serves both people who are starving and people who just want a coffee.
Nostalgic Tram
The Nostalgic Tram is a charming and historic tramway that goes through some of Istanbul’s most famous areas, like Moda and Kadıköy’s center. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to learn about the city’s rich culture history and admire its beautiful buildings. People from all over the world come to Istanbul to ride the tram and enjoy the nostalgic feel of riding an old-fashioned tram while taking in the sights and sounds of this exciting city.
3. How to Get to Istanbul’s Asian Side?
Get to the Asian side of Istanbul without any problems by using any of the many transportation choices available. On the European side of Istanbul, you can take a ferry trip that gives you stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait. You can also take the Marmaray metro line, which crosses both sides of Istanbul. Besides that, there is Metrobus options and cabs that can get you to the Asian side quickly and easily. For more detail about Istanbul’s Transportation system, make sure to read our blog!
Public Transportation
There are many types of public transportation in Istanbul, including buses, trains, and ferries. The system works well and covers a lot of ground. The Marmaray train line goes under the Bosphorus Strait and connects the European and Asian parts of Istanbul. This makes it a great way to get from one side of the city to the other. The Metrobus is another popular way to get around. It has dedicated lanes and is a quick and safe way to get around. It links important spots in the city and is a quick way of getting close to Istanbul’s busy streets. When it comes to getting around the city, both locals and tourists can count on Istanbul’s reliable public transit system.
Ferry Terminal
From morning until night, ferries come and go from the ferry port, which is quite busy location. It is on the European side of Istanbul, close to the Eminonu area, and makes getting to the Asian side easy. You’ll be able to see the beautiful Bosphorus Strait as soon as you get on the ferry.
Apart from these, there are also other ferries that connect the Asian and European sides originating from the Black Sea. With so many options available for convenient transportation, exploring both sides of Istanbul has never been easier.
Taxi
Taxis are an easily accessible mode of transportation in Istanbul and offer a convenient way to navigate the city. However, it is important to negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi to avoid overpaying. For those looking to visit the Asian side of Istanbul, crossing the Bosphorus Bridge by taxi is a great option. The bridge provides stunning views of the city and is one of the most iconic landmarks that Istanbul’s Asian side and European sides have to show.
Bonus: Good walking tours of the Asian side?
Fenerbahce and Bostanci are two neighborhoods on Istanbul’s Asian side. Fenerbahce is known for its parks and beaches, while Bostanci boasts cafes, restaurants, shops, and parks. Visit Fenerbahce Park for stunning views, or explore Bostanci on foot to discover local eateries and shops.
FAQ
What are the top things to do in Istanbul's Asian side?
What is the Asian side of Istanbul called?
What are the benefits of visiting Istanbul Asian side?
- Cultural Variety: Istanbul's Asian region presents a distinct ambiance and cultural identity that sets it apart from the European side of Istanbul. It boasts a diverse array of communities and allows tourists to immerse themselves in the distinctive fusion of cultures that constitute Istanbul.
- Authentic Local Experience: For a genuine local encounter, exploring the Asian side of Istanbul can prove to be fruitful. As compared to the European side of Istanbul, this area is devoid of excessive tourist rush and offers a chance to witness locals in their natural element, thus providing an enriching experience.
- Scenic Views: The Asian sector of Istanbul is famous for its picturesque vistas of the Bosphorus and the European region of Istanbul. Strolling along the shoreline or exploring any of the numerous parks on the Asian side can offer awe-inspiring panoramas of the metropolis.
- Culinary Delights: Istanbul's Asian district boasts a remarkable culinary landscape, presenting an array of local and foreign delicacies. You have the option to indulge in authentic Turkish fare or venture into the numerous international eateries scattered throughout the vicinity.
- Shopping and Markets: On Istanbul's Asian side, there are numerous local markets and shopping areas, such as Kadikoy and Uskudar, where a diverse range of products are available. These include locally made crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.